May 1st, 2013 marked nine years for Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry. It is sometimes hard to believe and then again, I can’t imagine what else I would be doing. It is so wonderful to be doing exactly what I know God wants from me.

It’s been awhile since I sent out an update on activity. I was so focused on raising money for the van. I am happy to report that I picked up the van on Friday April 12th. It is truly a blessing.

My two clients in nursing homes are doing OK. The man really has not communicated with me much – only in the last couple of weeks has he started calling me again. I met up with him at Winn Dixie and he was able to see my van and actually ride into the back with his electric wheelchair. He was happy about it – but, at the same time, a little discouraged. He was one who I knew would benefit from me having the van. The Social Worker at his facility was not at all welcoming to me when he was admitted. She said she could do everything I offered. So, I backed off. Now he is telling me that she has not done any of what she was supposed to do AND she is blaming the negligence on me. I hope he will allow me to help him now.

The other client who went into a nursing home is having her struggles. That facility has welcomed me with open arms – the exact opposite from the first facility. However, they have had their share of mess-ups. The good thing is that they are quick to take responsibility for their mistakes and rectify the situation. And, I am much more tolerable with someone who is willing to listen and correct. This client is going to have knee surgery. We found out yesterday. She is realizing that if she had allowed me to get that knee checked out almost a year ago when she first hurt it, she may not have ended up in a nursing home. I am feeling the burden of her care. I am the only one that takes her to doctor appointments, gets her to WalMart, and just visit with her. Her son only sees her maybe twice a month. He lives close enough that he could easily see her at least once a week. Her daughter lives farther away – but, she will only come once a month. It is frustrating to see a family at odds with each other. The daughter does help financially. The son only takes. It is pretty sad. And my client is very aware and it makes her sad. So, she calls me daily and expects frequent visits. While she understands that I have others to care for, she is lonely and disappointed in her children.

Another client also seems to be declining. She is 67-1/2 years old. I find myself in a position that I am not happy about. She has done very well for over four years and I know moving to a more restricted environment will be depressing to her. However, she has said herself that she thinks nursing home is not so far away. I am trying to encourage her to continue on and do as much as her body will allow. The one thing that is so hard to go thru is watching someone die from depression. And I am afraid a nursing home may do that to her. I pray that she is able to stay in her house and not have to go into a nursing home at all. She is dealing with Parkinson’s symptoms – primarily a shuffled gait. I really feel bad for her. And she fell last Friday hitting her head and bruising her backside. We ended up in the ER in the middle of the nite Sunday nite because she was having sharp pains in her head. I am happy to report that all went well. But, this is evidence of the need to be hyper vigilant in watching her.

I still work with a 99-1/2 year old lady. She has gotten better about getting out and doing for herself. She is quite capable. You would never know her age looking at her. It has taken over a year to undo some of the damage friends of hers did by questioning her and causing her to doubt herself – even though there was no reason. I am already looking forward to a huge birthday bash for her in September.

I continue to take a man to work-out with a trainer – three days a week. My van is definitely a huge help with him. I can strap down his wheelchair as opposed to trying to pack him into the front seat like a can of sardines. I’ve also been able to bring him to some doctor appointments relieving stress from the family. He is like family to me because he is my best friend’s dad!

I have begun working with a lady that had moved away a year or so ago. I actually helped her move. It seems things declined and she had to move back in with her daughter. She is quite different from before and that is a good thing. We are trying to find a new psychiatrist for her. She is stuck on thinking she needs a certain medication – the problem is you can’t just go to any psychiatrist and tell them what medication you want. Even though she may be right, it just doesn’t happen that way. So, she has been frustrated with that issue. And, add to that, she needs a colonoscopy! That makes two clients and myself all having colonoscopies around the same time. This lady is so aware of all that is happening to her and I feel for her. She thinks she is a burden to her daughter and grandchildren. And she is constantly tell me that she can no longer feel love. How sad. I am hoping we can make progress with her to feel better. I think it is going to take a little time – maybe more than she would like. But, I will press in with her until we get things done.

One lady who has been in a nursing home since right after Katrina seems to be doing fairly well. She had a setback and had to give up her walker and use a wheelchair only because of a sore on her leg. However, it does sound like she is about to get back to the walker.

I have also had some smaller, less time consuming, appointments – dropping people off at the doctor, making a run to the bank, etc. And there has been a few business matters. I am now Power of Attorney for three clients. We have had to do some banking things together to get things in order. As of today I do believe all of that is behind us.

I have to admit that my body is moving much slower than it used to be. I’m not 18 anymore and I sure do feel it. I have had my share of medical issues since Christmas. Nothing life-threatening. Really just a pain! I am scheduled to have surgery on my foot on Thursday June 27th. I am hoping for some much needed relief to the pain I have been experiencing in my foot.

As you can see, things do not slow down. I am grateful to God for His provisions in such a mighty way. I ask that you carefully and prayerfully consider a donation to this ministry. It takes about $3,000 a month to run Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry efficiently. At this time I have about $625 a month in regular donations. Please consider being one that helps with monthly expenses. At this time it is urgent as funds are extremely low. Remember, all donations are tax deductible.

Thank you all for your generosity and support.

It is Thursday night, March 28, 2013 – Holy Thursday. The day we celebrate what is known as The Last Supper. Jesus had His last meal with the 12 Apostles. Tomorrow we celebrate Good Friday – the day Jesus hung on a cross and died a horrible death so that we might have life. But, more important than any other holiday we celebrate, this Sunday we celebrate Easter Sunday – the day Jesus Christ rose from the dead, putting to rest the completion of the Gospel.

As I sit here thinking of what a great time of year this is, I am overwhelmed at the trust God has in me to do the things He allows me to do each and every day. And these days it has been very busy.

I have had to place two clients in nursing homes. I have not had to do that in years. I am so happy to report that both seem to be accepting their situation much better than expected. Now I face the daunting task of cleaning out their apartments and making sure they have what they need in the nursing home.

In the midst of this I continue to serve others with doctor’s appointments, Pharmacy runs, and other various needs. I find myself getting frustrated and even impatient with some. My day today started around 9 AM and I did not get home until 8:30. And, yet, I have some who will complain because I did not do something their way because it would take too long. Another being demanding about what I am to do and when and how. A big problem I face on a regular basis is the reality that most of the people I serve do not grasp the magnitude of what I do for them and the sacrifice I make on a daily basis so they can get their needs met. I don’t often get here, and it is very uncomfortable.

As I pause to remember the events that happened over 2000 years ago to secure a place in heaven for you and for me I am reminded of just how much I do not deserve what Jesus did for me. And the reality is that none of us deserve what Jesus did for us. Yet, He did it. And the gift is there for the taking. And I must remember that the people I serve usually do not even know who Jesus is and just what an amazing gift He has waiting for them. So, I must remember that and treat them just as Jesus treated the unbelievers in His life while He walked this earth.

I have been trying to raise the money to purchase a handicapped accessible van. It is something that would be a huge blessing to this ministry. I have clients that have the hardest time getting into my current vehicle. One is too large, two are too small! This van would resolve both those issues. It would also give me the space to be able to evacuate in the event of a hurricane. Last year I evacuated three ladies and two cats. At this point, those same ladies and one cat are still on the list if need. And, there is now a dog in the mix.

I trust God’s faithfulness to provide. At times, I know I step in and try to make things happen when God wants me to rely totally and completely on Him.

Please consider being one who is part of the small group to financially support this ministry. I still need about $10,000 for the van. This does not count the regular monthly expenses. Remember all donations are tax deductible. And God’s word tells us that when we give He promises to bless you ten-fold.

I also could use some help this weekend cleaning out those two apartments. If you can give some time on Saturday, please contact me for the details.

I leave you with the scripture verses that I believe God has charged me very specifically with what I am doing. God bless each of you. May you have a glorious Easter.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for men. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23, 24

It’s Christmas morning, about 5:00 AM – I’m in Winlock, WA spending time with my son and his family. What a joyous occasion to write my last ministry note for the year 2012.

It has been a year filled with many blessings. A lot of bumps in the road – but the blessings always overshadow any trials God may allow. For, it is thru those trials that I become a better person and I am drawn closer to my Lord.

Today is the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ. The day God came down to earth and was born of human flesh. He spent 9 months in Mary’s womb and was delivered just like you and me. He grew up and spent a human childhood just like you and me. And then at the age of 30 He began His earthly ministry. Fully God, yet fully man, He served those amongst whom He lived teaching them the Gospel and showing them just how to love.

I have tried over the last 8-1/2 years to do the same. It is impossible for me to accomplish the task that Jesus did. But, I pray that I have at least scratched the surface of showing people what it means to love like Jesus expects to love.

Please consider an end-of-year donation to this worthy ministry. Without you, this ministry would not be here. The need is always great. Anything postmarked before January 1, 2013 will be posted as a donation for 2012.

May you and your family have the best Christmas and the most wonderful New Year. God bless you all.

As we approach the end of the year and the Christmas Season, please consider a tax-deductible donation to this ministry. God has moved in and through Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry in such a mighty way over the last 8-1/2 years. Be a part of God’s great work in and around the Greater New Orleans Area. There is always great need – especially around this time of year when the elderly and disabled have no one to care for them, be with them, help to meet their needs, and just love on them.

Thank you for your continued support and encouragement.

Andre’ Waguespack
Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry
1022 Carrollton Avenue
Metairie, LA 70005

Well, August 8th was the last time I sent out a newsletter. It has been busy. So, let me see if I can give you a re-cap that does not bore you, yet tells you of all that God has been doing in and thru this ministry for the last three months.

The major event that happened in the last three months was Hurricane Isaac. Seven years to the date, I evacuated one 89 year old lady for Hurricane Katrina. That trip was four days and spanned four states. God was in control of that trip and the trip for Isaac was no different. As it happened, I was in Washington State visiting my son and his family. I was not scheduled to return until that Tuesday. The Sunday before, I began having this feeling that I was not where I was supposed to be. One client was quite nervous about the hurricane and was calling me pretty regular. She was attempting to develop an evacuation plan without me that was just not sound. As I prayed about what I should do, I got a text message from Southwest Airlines. I had one chance to change my flight with no added fees. So, that gave me my answer. I immediately went to the computer and was able to change my flight to return on Monday – the exact same arrangements, just a day earlier. I also found out as I was flying home that it was the last flight in or out of New Orleans before the airport shut down for the hurricane. And a big kudos to the pilot – a very nice landing considering the winds had already picked up.

That day as I traveled and people realized I was going back early instead of riding out where I was, people thought I was crazy to be flying into the storm. It was a great opportunity to show people what it means to care with the love of Christ. My place was with my clients and that was where God was getting me – safely.

The next step was finding a place to stay. So, I got on the phone and was able to book a place for myself as well as three ladies and two cats at a hotel in mid-Mississippi. It was far enough inland that if we felt anything it would be minor.

Monday morning as I got up early to finish packing and head to the airport, I accidentally took my night meds instead of my morning meds. Well, normally that would not have been a good thing. But, because I was going to be driving all nite long once I landed, it was God ordained. I needed to sleep on the plane and the meds helped me do that.

So, I landed around 11 PM and picked up three ladies along with the two cats. We headed straight to central Mississippi from there arriving at around 6 AM. We were a little crowded in the car, but we managed. The hotel was OK – we had a few bumps along the way. But, we had rooms for just enough days. As we headed home we all prayed that we would have electricity. Only one did not have power on Friday, but she got it by Saturday evening.

All things considered, I am grateful to God for His provision for that trip. The cost was reasonable and I didn’t kill anyone! LOL!

It has been busy since then too. It seems the Lord has allowed me to get busier these last few months. I have picked up a few new clients. Some are just momentary things – like needing advice on Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, etc. Some take a little more work. I have always said that whatever the Lord allows me to have I will take on. When I need to slow down, He has slowed business down. When it gets busy I trust Him to sustain me physically, spiritually and financially.

As I have reviewed my calendar for the last three months I am amazed at all the appointments that took place. And I am certain that a lot of activity took place that is not specifically marked on the calendar. Often a client is in need and I squeeze in something without putting it on the calendar. In looking at the calendar I have had at least seven or eight doctor appointments with clients every week. On top of that I have made many pharmacy stops as well as a several grocery runs. I have also had at least three appointments a week with people to help with various needs as it relates to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Food Stamps, apartment applications, and many other issues. So, putting this in words is astounding to me that God has done so much in such a short amount of time.

I thank each of you who take the time to read thru this newsletter and get this far. Your faithfulness, prayers and financial support are needed and greatly appreciated. As we get into the holiday season – one of my favorite times of the year – I ask that you prayerfully consider a donation to this ministry. Funds have gotten low and the need is always great. Donations are tax deductible. As you contemplate your Christmas giving please consider giving to an extremely worthy and needy cause.

Thanks again for your prayers and support.

I often have to remind myself that not everyone sees things the way I do. Everything I think say and do is thru eyes of faith. I live my life with the faith that I am in God’s will. If something is a little difficult it is because God is sovereign over that situation and I must trust Him to carry me thru.

So, when I take a 99 year old lady to a doctor’s appointment, I trust Him to guide and direct our way. Despite her anxiety, I trust Him to be sovereign over the situation and to lead me in the best way to minister to her. When she is lonely and does not want me to leave, I trust Him and entrust her to His care. I have the faith that He will give me the words to say that is best for that situation.

When I take an elderly gentleman, who has had a stroke and is paralyzed on one side, to an appointment I trust God to protect us – both him and myself. Thru the walk to the car I trust God to keep him from falling. When he has to step up or down I trust God to keep us safe. When I have to help in some way I trust God to give me just the technique that is best for this man that he might accomplish the task safely.

When I have to comfort a lady who is riddled with anxiety and depression because of a medication side effect – I trust God to give me the words to say that will best comfort her. I know it is God at work when 15 minutes later she is much calmer and her affect is totally different. I know it is Him who works in and through me to accomplish this task. It is my faith in Him that guides and directs my every move and every word I say to her.

When I have to push a lady to independence I trust in Him to be my guide in every thought action and word as I encourage her in what I know she can do. When change needs to take place I trust Him to be the One to make that happen in His time and not my own.

When a lady decides she is going to drive herself to an appointment instead of letting me bring her (as we planned) I trust God to give me just the words to say to her that she might realize it was a bad idea. I trust Him to help me help her. I trust Him to allow the relationship to grow so that she might hear from me about the One who can take her places she cannot imagine. I have faith to believe that God is the One who is ultimately driving us all to our eternal destination. And I have faith to believe that He will put the words in my mouth. I have faith to believe that He will draw her to Himself in His time and according to His will.

When I help someone apply for Social Security benefits or VA Benefits or Medicare or Medicaid or Food Stamps or so many other agencies that are so difficult to maneuver thru – I trust Him to guide each and every situation. Each individual is unique – created by God, designed to glorify Him in all they do. I trust Him to guide my words that, as I help thru application processes, I might also show each one that God is the most important thing that they need in their life. God has graciously gifted me in the knowledge of swimming thru these different agencies so that I might share my faith with them. Ultimately, the goal is always to show Jesus to any and every one I serve.

It is by faith and for Him that I continue to serve in the way that I do. God has blessed me with improved physical health. I faithfully push forward that I might serve more and thus introduce more to Jesus Christ.

All this takes money. It is what I call the “necessary evil” of this ministry. A few weeks ago I expressed a need for $2,000. I received about half of that. I ask that you prayerfully consider how you can be a part of this ministry by giving an offering. As it is a new month, there is a new need for $2,000. Even if you can only afford $5 – God will bless your giving. And Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry will be blessed by that $5.
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:4-8

The Lord continues to be gracious and kind to this ministry. It still amazes me and I stand in awe of His provisions and the work He allows me to do.

I met a lady this week that I know the Lord would have me tell you about. She is one of those people who thinks the entire world is out to get her. All the doctors are evil. She has had 30-something caregivers and every one of them either stole from her, abused her or tried to kill her. She wants to sue an attorney and has called 50+ attorneys and no one wants to take her case. She thinks everyone is in conspiracy against her. I have not had to deal with anyone like her in a while. It was an interesting visit. As I listened to her all I could think of is “What is it that I can do for this lady?” I did ask her that question. She is looking for a doctor that makes house calls! She has a 14 year old dog that is on his way out of this world and she refuses to leave his side. She takes him everywhere she goes – when she does leave the house. So, in my heart, I know that the only thing I can do for her is pray for her. I was glad for the opportunity to at least try to be there for her. I was also glad for the opportunity to see just how I would respond in a situation like that.

Unfortunately, it is all too common that people have unrealistic expectations. I firmly believe that another all too common problem is people’s preconceived notions about how things should be or how things work. All too often I have to un-do something that someone has said about Social Security or Medicare or Medicaid or some other benefit program. Things change a lot. And in the last year or so there have been a lot of changes in Medicaid and Medicare. But, I am blessed to be able to keep up with these changes and try to steer people in the right direction.

I have had some milestones recently and there are some milestones to come in the near future.

I lost another client in June. Patricia Benson went home to be with the Lord on June 5th. It was a privilege to work with her and her daughter over the last five years or so. I am also always honored to be a part of someone’s last days. And I had that with Pat. As she entered Hospice, I was able to be there with her and be support to her and her family for those last precious days.

My best friend’s mother passed away just 10 days ago. While I knew she was ill, it still was hard to hear. I have been close to that family over the last 25 years. So, it was hard for me to see them hurting so – especially his dad.

And this only reminds me of the short time my own father has left on this earth. I spoke to my sister today about my dad. He has been non-responsive since Monday. Today they removed his feeding tube because his body is not processing food properly. I’ve known he has been declining for a while. The reality of the eminence of his death is hard to swallow at this point. But, I rest assured in God’s Divine Sovereignty over his life and I trust in Him to make all things come together for His good and according to His purpose.

I am working with a lady who is trying to get on disability. It has been tedious for her. She is one who has heard a lot about the process. Even recently a cousin tried to tell her she should qualify for something when she does not. As in the past I had to get on the phone with this guy to question what he is getting so I could explain the difference to her so she could understand better. It is frustrating for someone to be in the position she is in. She has absolutely no resources. Her siblings are helping some. She had surgery recently and is recovering from that. I am certain that the Lord is trying to help her to see that she cannot do it all on her own and it is OK to be dependent on someone else. Ultimately, she needs to recognize her need for the Lord in her life and that she needs to be dependent on Him and Him alone. I pray that the Lord would use me in her life to open her eyes to see Him clearly.

I continue to work with a few other people – the same for three or four years now. Some more recent. I do a few doctor appointments weekly. I set up medication for one lady. I have successfully pushed one lady to more independence. It was not an easy task. But, it was for her benefit. And I am glad she is finally a little more independent than she was a year ago.

While I thoroughly enjoy “serving” – there is a balance. If I serve to the point of making someone dependent on me, then I do them an injustice. So, I try hard to be there for people while also helping them to succeed to the best of their abilities.

I continue to minister to some in my church. That focus tends to be a little different – but, nonetheless an area the Lord has me working. It is a joy to help people seek out benefits and avenues of help and also help them get back on their feet. As one who has been there in the past, I am always humbled as the Lord uses me to minister to someone who is walking in my old shoes.

And, the part of this that is my least favorite – asking for money. But, it is a reality of this ministry. God has called me to serve in this way. And He has called me to be dependent totally and completely on Him for my provision. He has used many of you to that end. So, I ask you all again to consider a donation at this time. Remember, all donations are tax deductible. There will be expenses incurred over the next month that will need covering. While there is a small amount of funds in my account, it is getting low. I am asking for $2,000 to cover the month of July.

As always thank you for your prayers and considerations.

“The LORD bless you, and keep you; The LORD make His face shine on you, And be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

God has been so gracious to Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry. When I think about His provisions, I am overwhelmed. When someone talks to me about worry and anxiety wondering where the money is going to come from for something, I have to point out that for over eight years I have been walking in faith and trusting in God’s provisions. And I have never been in want. As the years have gone by, I am blessed with abundance and much more than I could even imagine. As things get tight I am always reminded of just how tight it was when this all started eight years ago. He is so faithful and I am humbled.

I work very closely with three different families. Two ladies are very needy and require a lot of my time. I also work very closely with the daughter of a lady dealing with a lot of health issues. Although there are lots of similarities, there are very marked differences. And I am grateful to God for the “variety.”

I also continue to work with a few people who need me on occasion and not so frequently. I continue to work with many people applying for various benefits. I have the privilege of applying for benefits for my father. On a regular basis I hear people tell me how complicated and confusing all this stuff can be. I am quick to give God the credit – it is truly a gift to be able to swim through and navigate all the ins and outs of the various agencies related to healthcare and benefits.

Each day is a challenge to balance out serving those God entrusts me to care for and all the administrative duties required to keep up a business. On top of that, I am Power of Attorney for one client and I have to take care of all her bills and business as well.

About six weeks ago I commented to someone that I had not had time to send out a Ministry Update. He quickly reminded me that ministry was most important. I am reminded of Mary and Martha. I have to remember what is important and trust God’s provisions in the other areas that get put on the back burner.

Donations are needed at this time. Funds are low and there is an abundance of bills to pay. Please consider a donation at this time. No donation is too big or too small. I am most humbled by the donations I receive from those who have so little and yet feel so inclined to give. There is a need for about $2,000 to carry ministry work through the month of June. (Before I could even send this out I received a $1,000 donation – Praise God!)

God bless you all and thank you for your prayers and contributions.

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8

On May 1st – just two months from today – it will be the eight year anniversary of Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry. While many of you have been around since the beginning, many of you have not. Consequently, you may not know how this all got started. So, this month’s update will be my story and how God drew me to start this ministry.

I had been working in healthcare for over 15 years. The last job I had before starting Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry just did not seem like it was what God wanted me doing. However, when I started that job, I knew it was where He wanted me to be at that time. As I began to seek out other options no doors opened. In fact, there was a clear message in the fact that NO doors opened at all. I knew I was qualified and yet God would not even allow a phone call or an interview.

So, on January 1, 2004, I began a 40 day fast – specifically to seek the Lord and His will for my life. I read the book “The Purpose Driven Life” in conjunction with the fast. I had read the book before, but found it would be the perfect daily meditation to go along with my fast. For 40 days I fasted and prayed for God to reveal to me just exactly what He wanted me to do with my life in service to Him.

At the end of the 40 days I did not have a clue as to what was next. In March 2004, God began to work in my heart a willingness to follow Him wherever He led – no questions asked. Then I received a message from Him that I will never forget – He told me (thru scripture) that I had to quit my current job before He would show me what was next. (I was making $40,000 a year!) Not wanting to be disobedient, but still wanting to be sure I heard Him right, I did what I call “the Gideon thing.” I asked the Lord to give me confirmation of His word through others in my life. So, I called my best friend – fully expecting her to respond that it was very unreasonable to quit working without financial security. She did not. She encouraged me and told me that if I was sure God told me to quit, then I needed to quit.

Of course, I couldn’t leave it at that. So, I asked God again to confirm it through someone or something else. I spoke to the pastor at the church I attended at the time. Again, I expected the same response. Again, I was encouraged to follow where God was leading me.

“One more time, Lord” was my next statement. (This all happened in one day.) At the time, I had a couple of small books on my desk – there were short Bible Meditations. I picked up one and read the next meditation – full confirmation of what I needed to do.

So, on April 1, 2004, I gave a 30 day notice to leave my job. I had no other job lined up. And, I had no idea what God had in mind. What I did know was that I had to do what God called me to do.

Within two weeks of that 30 day notice, God revealed to me what He wanted me to do. As it all began to unfold, it became clear to me what He wanted. As I had served so many throughout my life, God was now calling me to full time service. I was to start a non-profit specifically devoted to serving the elderly and disabled. I was not to charge for this service and accept donations only. The Lord showed me that as I was serving people dealing with healthcare issues, they should not have to pay someone just to figure out how the system works.

Many people thought I was crazy to quit my job with no prospect of income. (Many people still think I’m crazy today for how I do not charge for what I do.) About two weeks into the ministry, an agency called me to come work for them. They said I could do exactly what I had planned to do – under the umbrella of their agency. I would be on salary and would be allowed to pursue my plan just as I was developing it. It was a true test. One thing that God had made clear to me was that people needed someone to go to who was not affiliated with any agency – someone that would give them information without trying to convince them to use a particular company. There was no way I could accomplish what God wanted me to accomplish if I was working for an agency that provided a lot of services that people would be looking for.

I had a friend who helped me develop all the things necessary to start a non-profit agency. Every day he would call me and give me a list of things I needed to do. I got the book “Non-profit for Dummies.” That helped me put together my application to the IRS for non-profit status. It also gave samples of various documents I needed to put together. Some people were negative about being able to achieve non-profit status without difficulty. Because God was in control, I was approved within a few months!

God sovereignly ordained the first people who would serve on the Board of Directors. Each one accepted the challenge and opportunity to serve.

Things fell into place as only He could have made it happen. I attended a health fair in May 2004. Many seniors attended and gathered my information. From that event came my first referral. From there, everything snowballed. It was amazing to be at work serving people and seeing how many were being helped.

I still do not charge for what I do and I refuse to do so. God would have to make it crystal clear to me before I would change that. He has provided for me and those I serve exponentially over the last eight years.

The services I provide include, but are not limited to: Help people apply for Social Security Disability; Help people apply for and access VA Benefits; Help people apply for Food Stamps; Help people apply for Medicaid; Help people seek out options in healthcare – this could mean finding a particular type of doctor, a type of hospital service, home health, physical rehab services, medication options (pharmacy benefits, applying for free medications from pharmaceutical companies); Help people apply for Medicare, Medicare Supplements, Medicare HMO’s, or Medicare Pharmacy plans… The list could go on and on. I take people to the doctor to be support and hear what the doctor says in order to repeat it back properly. I pick up medications from the pharmacy and set out medications in pill containers. I have Power of Attorney for two different clients. I help with budgeting and making decisions about what is the best step to take concerning a particular medical situation. People are looking for someone they can trust to tell them the truth and help them receive information and process it appropriately. God uses me to be that person.

I have served hundreds of people over the last eight years. Most of them are close to poverty and could not afford to pay a dime for my services. Many have given me $20 here and there. Those donations are priceless to me. Some have the financial resources to donate. In each of those cases I always tell the individual that it is up to them to decide what to donate.

So, I ask that you consider a donation to Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry. All donations are tax deductible and go to a most worthy cause. I had to buy a new car recently. The expenses that have resulted from that purchase will net approximately $600 extra needed monthly. That is above the already $2,000 + expenses. You may mail donations to the address below.

It is my prayer that you are all blessed with the grace of God abundantly. May your lives be filled to overflowing as His grace pours forth. It is in His name and by His power and His might that I continue to serve.

Andre’ Waguespack
Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry
1022 Carrollton Avenue
Metairie, LA 70005

Well, it has been busy since January 1 – but, as usual, never a dull moment here at Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry.

I was blessed with being able to move into a larger apartment two weeks ago. It feels like forever ago. But, my house looks like I just moved in – still lots of boxes to unpack. It’s hard to believe I had all this stuff in that little apartment. But, I am also blessed with many friends who have stepped up to the plate to help me.

While I continue to be annoyed by many health problems, I do believe it is getting better. This week, I have been able to accomplish more physically than I have been able to do in a very long time. Although, from time to time, my body is quick to let me know I have gone too far.

God has been gracious to me as well as to the clients I serve. I am still trying to catch up with work – between moving and being sick, a lot has slipped thru the cracks. However, a lot has been accomplished as well.

I have the misfortune to be involved in helping a family sort out the possible wrongful death due to nursing home negligence. I do not want to put out names. I certainly do not want to be guilty of slander. However, I am very saddened by these events and the necessity of my having to help this family with this particular issue. This gentleman was very young – there is no excuse for this happening.

I am helping a neighbor deal with some medical issues. I helped him get disability last year. Now, he has some major problems and is in need of someone like me to help him swim through the system to get his needs met. This gentleman is one of those who gets on disability but has to wait two years for Medicare to kick in. Yet, his monthly income is too high for Medicaid. There is a huge gap in the system that leaves a lot of people in a hard position when it comes to healthcare. Here in the Greater New Orleans area, the only option is the Charity system. Unfortunately, it is not an easy system to work through. There are some Medicaid programs that will help temporarily. Again, you have to know the system to know what to apply for. That is where I come in. All too often, people go without because they don’t know where to turn. Even many healthcare professionals do not know how it all works. (I think I’m ranting here – evidence of the frustration of dealing with so many people who have very little place to turn.)

I am also working with a young lady who has been forced to face a life she did not choose for herself. At 24 years old, her husband left her when she was one month away from delivering their third child. She has been blessed beyond anyone’s wildest imagination. God has provided an apartment for her – at a great discount. He has also provided a job for her. We both know it is only by God’s design that she got this job. She has very little experience. She has a High School Diploma – no college. And yet, she has been hired as a Shift Supervisor for Rite Aid. And very close to where she lives. She has been approved for Welfare – although this will be temporary because she got a job. The system will pursue getting child support from her husband – so, she will not have to hire an attorney. God has blessed this family over and over. I am honored to be a part of His great work in their lives.

I have begun to work with a new client – a 98 year old lady who looks 78! And she is so adorable. She is only on two prescription medications – and one is eye drops! We have been to a few appointments together and she is such a joy to be with. This lady still socializes so much – one card game event lasts until 3 or 4 in the morning! She often comments “I must be getting old.” And I realized this week that her birthday is the same as one of my favorite clients who died a few years ago. It’s almost like God gave me someone else to take her place.

I have finalized closing the book with a client – I needed to return some funds sent to me to use for her expenses. I am sad about this. I am particularly sad that a professional (social worker) evaluated this lady last year in the spring and chose to tell my client rumors that went around several years ago. False rumors that she had no business sharing with this lady. It was unprofessional and it added to the already difficult situation before us with this lady. I struggle with this because I was not able to help this lady. And I struggle with whether or not to confront this social worker for what she did.

I continue to be counsel for a friend who had to put her mother in a nursing home. I am happy to be there for her as she sorts through the system with that particular facility. I am also happy to be available for her to just vent when she is frustrated or to assure her that she is not crazy. It is hopeful that the nursing home placement is temporary. But, God is gracious to provide for their needs at this time in their life. And I am grateful to be able to witness God’s working in and through their lives.

I could probably list quite a few more examples of God’s using me to intervene in someone’s life. Every day is a new day filled with hope and God’s grace that covers me as well as the lives He entrusts to my care. And I am so honored and humbled to be the one He has chosen to minister to these people. Healthcare Solutions – A Christian Ministry is the dream of a lifetime. And I would not trade this life for any other. Thank You God!

In closing, I ask that you consider a financial donation to this ministry. Funds are really low – donations have been low for a few months. As you are filing taxes and you get a refund, please consider donation a portion of that refund to God’s work in and through this ministry. It takes over $2,000 a month to efficiently run this ministry. At this point, there is only $550 in regular monthly donations. The rest comes from individual donations throughout the year. Please note the address change below.

Thank you all and God Bless each one of you.