Our Creator is always near and hears our prayers, though I will admit at times I’ve had my doubts. This past week, I had a mental meltdown of epic proportion because my Small Fiber Neuropathy with Autonomic Dysfunction is once again progressing at an alarming rate like it did in 2010, 2017, and now in 2024.

I’ve been to Avera St. Mary’s Hospital ER several times this year for recurrent acute cellulitis ulcers. This last time, it was because lymphatic fluid was pooling in my already severely swollen right leg. I went in because there was a thick dark purple line of lymphatic fluid from the inside of my right leg from my ankle to my hip. I was demanding they do further tests, but the ER doctor insisted there was nothing they could do for me.

St. Mary’s “hospitalist” came in and also indicated there was nothing they could do for me. He said they weren’t equipped nor qualified to manage my care and stated that they “didn’t have a phone a friend option.” After that, he suggested I move closer to medical centers that have doctors qualified to manage my care. Then the ass told me that I should totally follow up with my primary, which he knew from my records it was Lower Brule IHS.

St. Mary’s Hospital is well known for discriminating against Native Americans living in the area. They aware that all three reservations in central South Dakota are roughly about an hour to hour and a half or so drive with good road conditions. They also know the limited capabilities of each IHS facility. They run the absolute least number of tests possible before discharging Natives and telling them to follow up with their PCP. They are also well aware that probably at least 75% or higher do not have the means to get back to their reservations for continued care.