From Rock Bottom to Resilient: Marco’s Journey to Better Health

A few years ago, Marco DeSanza was in a dark place. Struggling with his health, and burdened by weight gain and depression, he didn’t see a clear path forward. “I was in a bad place... I wasn't healthy at all, really didn’t care,” Marco shared. But at the urging of his aunt, he came to the Clearwater Free Clinic. That first step changed everything.

At the time, Marco’s A1C was 9.6—a clear sign of unmanaged diabetes. Today, it's closer to 5.1. “I never missed an appointment, but at first, I wasn’t really buying in,” he admitted. “Then I started taking my medications properly and it all changed.”

Over the years, the Clinic didn’t just help him manage his diabetes—it addressed multiple complex health issues, from hernia and prostate surgeries to gallbladder complications. “You guys fixed that. You fixed everything,” Marco said. “I don’t know that I’d be dead already, but you definitely added a decade to my life.”

Marco credits the Clinic’s comprehensive, compassionate care with transforming both his physical health and outlook on life. From quick appointments when heart palpitations struck, to being able to “pee like a normal person” after a successful prostate procedure, Marco never takes the Clinic’s responsiveness and quality of care for granted. “If I ever have a problem, you guys are right there.”

He’s also completed the Clinic’s Healthy Living Program and jokes that he could “probably teach the class now.” As for his experience with dental referrals, lab work, and radiology, Marco says it all runs “right in, right out. Never waiting. I almost feel guilty. You guys have got it down.”

To donors, Marco offers a heartfelt thanks: “If I had anything to give, you'd get all of it. I can attest that the money is being well spent. As much as I love elephants, I’d give the money here.”