Tiffany Miller's Journey to Healing: A GBCHC Patient Story

On October 23, 2024, I became a new patient at the Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic (GBCHC), and I truly believe that day changed the course of my life.

Before coming to GBCHC, I was in a dark place. My diabetes was completely out of control—my blood sugar levels were always high, and I had no access to proper treatment or medications. I’m also a below-the-knee amputee on my right leg. The amputation was the result of complications from cellulitis and unmanaged diabetes. I didn’t have insurance, couldn’t afford a prosthetic, and felt like every door was closing on me. Depression had taken over. I felt hopeless and alone.

From the moment I stepped into GBCHC, I was treated like a human being—not a number, not a burden, but someone worthy of care and compassion. I was seen by Dr. Khilanani, and she wasted no time getting me started on medications to stabilize my diabetes. She also referred me to the clinic’s case manager, the very same day.

That case manager didn’t just listen—she acted. She helped me apply for financial assistance through the Limbs for Life Foundation, and to my surprise and overwhelming relief, I was approved that very day. I also received my diabetes medications immediately, without having to worry about how I would pay for them.

Since then, I’ve kept all of my appointments, and I’m proud to say my diabetes is now stable. Best of all, I received my prosthetic. I can move again. I can live again.

I truly don’t know where I’d be if I hadn’t found GBCHC. This clinic gave me more than just care—they gave me my life back. The staff are angels in my eyes. They’ve treated me with love, respect, and professionalism, and I’m forever grateful. Thank you, GBCHC, for standing by people like me—those who need it most.

Volunteer Spotlight on

Emma Cismas

Emma Cismas started volunteering at the Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic two years and a half years ago as a medical scribe. Now, as she gets ready to start at Weill Cornell School of Medicine this fall, she reflects on how her time at the clinic has shaped her understanding of healthcare.

"I began volunteering at the Gary Burnstein clinic and quickly realized the impact I could have as a premedical student," Emma says. She noticed gaps in the clinic's administrative processes and decided to help streamline document management. Her work kept volunteers properly credentialed and the clinic compliant with regulations, creating systems that made patient care run smoothly and will continue to benefit the clinic long after her departure.

But her role didn't stay confined to administration. One day when the clinic was short-staffed, Emma used the phone translation service to help a Spanish-speaking patient feel comfortable and understood. With more than 70% of GBCHC patients speaking Spanish as their primary language, this kind of resourcefulness was invaluable.

Looking back on her whole experience, Emma has gained perspective that will serve her well in medical school. "Holding both patient-facing and administrative roles has shaped my understanding of the systemic barriers patients face in accessing care in Michigan, and has reinforced my appreciation for the incredible role that free clinics play in addressing these gaps," she reflects. 

We are so grateful for everything Emma has done for the clinic during her time with GBCHC. Good luck at Weill Cornell School of Medicine! 

More Than a Card Game: The Story Behind Hands That Care

What started as a simple solution for non-golfers years ago has become one of our most successful fundraising events. Hands That Care, a canasta event held every June, began when Dana Burnstein and friends wanted to include everyone in a golf outing fundraiser for the clinic. Since many of the women didn't golf, they started a card game with 56 players and lunch as part of the day. That small addition has grown into something amazing.

Now chaired by Marilyn Kohen, this volunteer-run event keeps expenses minimal, so nearly every dollar raised goes directly to patient care. This past June, Hands That Care raised $29,500 with 180 card players.

Cumulatively, the event has raised $160,603 for the clinic, and it reaches nearly full capacity each June. "It's become a happening," Dana shared. "People don't want to miss it."

What drives this level of commitment? Dana puts it simply: "When the clinic began more than 20 years ago, we served 15 patients a week on a Thursday night in just 2,000 square feet. We've grown to provide thousands of appointments every year.

The space is state of the art with 7,000 square feet. Patients are all treated with dignity. Their prescriptions and visits are covered. Dental is free. Patients are amazed because they pay nothing. The clinic is an amazing place."

She's grateful to everyone who has made this event so successful. "Hands That Care donates unrestricted funds that help keep the clinic's doors open every year. I owe this to Marilyn and the ladies who support this event."

Her advice for others considering similar fundraising efforts? "Go for it! If you have people and volunteers committed to creating it, your idea would be welcome."

Thank you to Dana Burnstein, Marilyn Kohen, and all the women who make Hands That Care happen year after year. Your generosity makes our work possible.