Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

ST. CLOUD | When Dr. Romualdo Dator conceived the idea of opening a free medical clinic in Osceola County, Bethanne Smith was eager to contribute. Fifteen years later, she continues to care for patients with dedication.

Smith, a St. Thomas Aquinas parishioner, witnessed the struggles of the working poor firsthand. As a nurse, she saw uninsured patients crowding emergency rooms and Intensive Care Units. Motivated by these experiences, she sought change. In recognition of her efforts, Catholic Charities of Central Florida named her 2024 Volunteer of the Year.

“I was blown away,” Smith said. “I am so humbled and honored because what I do is God’s work. He uses my hands, my feet, my mouth, my ears to help others. To be recognized in this manner is amazing.”

Smith pursued further education to become a nurse practitioner and completed her advanced studies just as St. Thomas Aquinas Medical Clinic opened in St. Cloud in 2008. Despite working approximately 60 hours per week, she dedicated four to eight hours a month to serve at the clinic.

Asked about her enduring commitment, Smith explained, “I feel committed to it. I feel that’s what the Lord wants me to do right now. He gave me the skills and the ability to go to school, learn, and help people. When God gives you a gift, you’re supposed to use it.”

As a cardiology nurse, Smith recounted an incident where she assisted a patient experiencing chest pain from a heart attack by rushing her to a nearby hospital for treatment. During a follow-up visit months later, the patient expressed gratitude for being able to exercise and play with her grandchildren again.

Another instance involved diagnosing appendicitis in a man with acute abdominal pain and ensuring he received timely surgery.

“Just seeing people get back to life and keeping them out of the hospital” is something Smith values deeply. “Many don’t have the money for follow-up visits, so the clinic keeps them on track,” she said.

Smith credits the entire team of volunteers at the clinic for their collective effort: “It’s increased my faith because you see the work of God through other people.” She noted how sometimes unexpected needs arise during patient interactions that allow them to offer spiritual support or practical advice.

Before COVID-19 hit, the clinic served around 1,000 people annually; while numbers declined during the pandemic, they are gradually increasing again. Smith hopes more people will become aware that their doors remain open as she continues serving as board chair and volunteering her nursing skills.

“I just do what God wants me to do and try to do the best I can,” Smith said.

To view a video highlighting Bethanne Smith’s work: https://youtu.be/odG2DyCu7FY.

By Glenda Meekins of Florida Catholic staff