Here, you'll find a collection of patient stories -- inspiring, heartbreaking and heartfelt. Stories from everyday people, from famous people, and from people who find themselves famous because of their healthcare story. All help us realize the importance of taking an active role in our health care. We are adding to this page frequently. Check back.

Molly Glassman
Like Molly, many people are hesitant to question their doctor for fear of affecting the quality of care. But this caregiver learned that by asking questions she could keep her aging mother safe in the health care system. Link to story.  (video on Association for Healthcare Research and Quality website)

Nettie Turner
Mrs. Nettie Turner is a 67-year-old Baltimore resident with 11 grandchildren. What she thought was a head cold was a more serious bronchial problem. Mrs. Turner took charge of her own health care, reduced her costs and became a patient advocate. Click here to read her story.

Hugh Estlinbaum
How does a parent find hope and sanity when the doctor says "There is nothing we can do for your child, we've done all we can and we are out of options." This moving story from one Oklahoma family reminds us of the importance of a simple and inexpensive seasonal influenza vaccination. Link to www.alinethatwasdrawn.com  Link to story on Oklahoma's News6.

Evelyn McKnight, MD
An audiologist and mother of three, Evelyn McKnight was battling breast cancer when she learned she had been infected with hepatitis C during her treatment. The reason? Nurses working under the direction of her oncologist had reused syringes to access multi-dose vials of saline used as part of her treatment regimen.
Dr. McKnight is a nationally recognized patient safety advocate and survivor of one of the largest viral outbreaks in American health care history. Dr. McKnight turned her own personal tragedy into a crusade to save lives. Click here to access www.honoreform.org.

Bill Lee
Patient Bill Lee had suffered 10 heart attacks since 2004. He was diagnosed with coronary heart disease and diabetes. After his seventh heart attack, doctors told Bill there was nothing else they could do for him. Bill's reply? "That's not acceptable to me." He became his own advocate and educated himself on how to talk to his doctor. "I think that if I had not started to ask questions of my doctor, I honestly think I'd be dead today." Click here to see Bill's story. (video on Association for Healthcare Research and Quality website)

Collection of Colorectal Cancer Stories
Colorectal cancer is a leading killer, but it is highly preventable. People share their experiences with colorectal cancer and help us understand the importance of a life-saving screen.  Click here.

Collection of Patient and Provider Stories - link to AHRQ website.

Share Your Story

If you have a story about your health or healthcare that may help others and you'd like to share it, please contact us.