AFI V. AYITEGA

A PROFILE OF RADIANCE, CONFIDENCE, AND GRACE

When Afi Ayitega moved to the Bay Area in 2016 to reunite with her sister, she carried with her a lifetime of neglect of her physical and mental health. Growing up in impoverished conditions in the West African nation of Togo, Afi had never had the benefit of regular medical care and over many years had suffered from multiple heath disorders, including severe hypertension, weight and mobility issues, and debilitating depression that “clouded everything” in her life.

On her arrival in California, recognizing that Afi needed immediate medical attention but didn’t speak English or have medical insurance, her sister brought her to the Order of Malta Clinic for help. There, Afi found a home and the hope, care, and encouragement she needed to take charge of her health and her life.

Afi credits God and the entire Clinic team with empowering her to make the changes necessary to vastly improve both her physical and emotional well-being. With Dr. Samuel Dong, Dr. Vona Lorenzana, and Dr. Thomas Wallace looking after her primary medical needs, Afi collaborated with Lynn Loar, LCSW, on taking the steps to improve her mental outlook. With her encouragement, Afi took it upon herself to learn to speak English, acquire new computer skills, improve her diet and eating habits, and start exercising. “Mrs. Lynn helped open my mind to all possibilities,” Afi says. “I knew I could do anything with Christ and the Clinic beside me.”

“Afi’s journey with us is unique and inspiring, and her transformation has been remarkable,” notes Clinic Manager Anne Brussok, DM. “When Afi first came to us, she could barely walk. Now, she is a passionate swimmer who is eating well and exercising regularly.” An anonymous Order of Malta donor funds Afi’s membership at the local YMCA, and she is an active member of her local church community.

When an unexpected medical emergency required a multi-day hospital stay, Afi recognized that securing full-coverage medical insurance was important for her future. With the support of her Clinic team, Afi successfully navigated the state’s complicated Medi-Cal application process and was recently approved for full-scope, state-funded insurance coverage, making her eligible to see a permanent primary care provider.

While Afi will no longer have to rely on the Order of Malta Clinic for her medical needs, she plans to visit often and is considering volunteering to share her story with other patients. “The Clinic is like a home to me and I can never say goodbye,” she says. “The care here is awesome, and I am always so happy to see my Order of Malta family. I will forever have many friends here.”