In October 2023, The Advocate wrote about Rachel and Raedynn’s story, and the editorial board published this editorial about the Rise Up program. When Rachel Hernandez learned she was pregnant, she was struck by a strong combination of emotions. She was excited about becoming a mother and entering a better chapter of her life, but…
At St. Francis Primary Care Clinic in Calhoun, nurse practitioner Cynthia “Sam” Pippins has become like another member of Joy Dickey’s family. In recent years, Pippins has become a trusted medical provider for Dickey, her husband, children, other relatives and even friends. “She’s so sociable and good at what she does. She treats you like…
When Scott LeJeune started feeling fatigued, he thought he was just pushing himself too hard. The married father of five and owner of several Acadiana grocery and convenience stores had a busy schedule that always kept him on the go. When the tiredness worsened and he began experiencing shortness of breath, LeJeune knew something else…