The Patnetts have no friends here. They have no means of transportation. Hogan's mother, who is disabled, lost her wheelchair en route from New Orleans to Southern California. Hogan's father suffers from emphysema and has struggled to deal with the new climate.
"It pains me every time I see my parents," Hogan said. "They've lost everything.... They still feel displaced, but I don't want them to go back."
EASING THEIR PAIN
Two Newport Beach physicians are making it easier for the couple to stay. James Berman and Sasha Thomas of Newport Beach Medical Associates are providing free medical care to the couple.
Berman, who serves on the Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian board of directors, announced in September that he and his colleagues would accept hurricane evacuees as patients at no charge. He said physicians have a duty to give back whenever possible.
"This was a major catastrophe. You want to help people who are in need," he said. "It wasn't a problem for me to reach out."
When Hogan heard about the offer, she knew her parents were perfect candidates: They are on a fixed income and were without medication after having to leave their home abruptly.
Berman and Thomas, both internists, began seeing the Patnetts in mid-September and have checked up on them every few weeks since.
Thomas said helping the displaced couple has been a rewarding experience.
"At this time, it's hard for either one of us to leave," Thomas said. "This is a way for us to help from here, by making sure they are comfortable in their new surroundings."
JUST IN TIME
