Extend-A-Hand campaign shows the true power of community support | Opinion
Health care access is deeply personal to me. I grew up in poverty and witnessed my mother struggle with debilitating health conditions. Without health insurance, she went years without the care she needed. When she finally received a diagnosis, she couldn’t afford the medications needed to treat her conditions. Every day I saw how the lack of access affected her quality of life, and ultimately, the duration of her life. That’s why I am driven to ensure that no one goes without essential care.
At Unity Care NW (UCNW), our pharmacy serves more than 5,000 patients each year. The number of individuals and families living in poverty continues to rise, and a recent study shows that half of Americans cannot access affordable health care. When people fear the cost of going to the doctor, they put off seeking care — even when, like my mother’s case, their condition is treatable. And when they can’t afford medications, manageable health issues can quickly escalate dangerously.
That’s where the Extend-A-Hand Program makes all the difference. These dollars help to cover costs of prescriptions for patients who otherwise couldn’t afford them. Already in 2025, Unity Care NW has used $33,490 in Extend-A-Hand funds to help 926 patients fill 2,416 prescriptions — including people who were choosing between paying for groceries and paying for life-saving medications.
I see the impact of Extend-A-Hand every day. Recently, a patient preparing for brain surgery was on medical leave, short on income, and underinsured. They couldn’t afford the medications they needed before the operation. Extend-A-Hand stepped in — ensuring they received the treatment required for a safe surgery.
Some days, this work is hard. But our patients give me incredible hope. When you understand the hardships they face and see the relief that comes from simply being able to access their medicine, you understand the power of community support.
Your gift to Extend-A-Hand helps ensure everyone in Whatcom County has access to the medications they need. Please consider donating today.
Lisa Nelson is chief pharmacy officer at Unity Care NW.
This story was originally published November 27, 2025 at 5:15 AM.