“I’m grateful for the great service you provide. I’m relieved to receive my treatment. Thank you!”

Monica, originally from Michoacán, Mexico, built a life in Brentwood, where she and her husband work hard cleaning homes. She finds joy in cooking, knitting, and spending time with her family. But when persistent pelvic pain made it difficult to stand for long hours, bend, and move, the work she once managed became overwhelming.

It started with an urgent need to urinate and a persistent and heavy pressure in her lower abdomen that worsened with movement. Sneezing, bending, even walking—everything felt different. Uninsured, unable to afford the cost of care, and unfamiliar with the healthcare system, Monica hesitated to seek medical care.

Her family refused to let her suffer in silence. Her daughter took the lead in searching for help, guiding Monica to Planned Parenthood, where an OB/GYN diagnosed her with a prolapsed uterus. But without treatment options available there, Monica’s health issue remained unresolved.

Monica’s daughter did not give up, and her continued search led them to RotaCare Free Clinic in Concord, where another doctor confirmed the diagnosis—this time, with a hopeful next step. Her PCP referred her to our program.

Monica qualified for care and we connected her with Dr. Iram Gul Qidwai, a urogynecologist at Kaiser Permanente Dublin Medical Center. In September 2024, during a Saturday surgery session, Dr. Qidwai and her team performed colpocleisis surgery to treat Monica’s condition. Stepping into a hospital for the first time and facing surgery felt daunting, but with Dr. Qidwai’s reassurance, the kindness of everyone at Kaiser, and the steady presence of her family, Monica knew she was in good hands.

The surgery was successful. Now, she looks ahead with hope. "I'm grateful for the great service you provide. I'm relieved to receive my treatment. Thank you!" Without pain holding her back, she can move freely, work without struggle, and focus on the things she loves.

Story and photo shared with patient’s permission. Patient’s name has been changed.