A Journey of Care: Chanel’s Story

For Chanel, healthcare has always been about trust and consistency. A lifelong resident of Denton, Texas, Chanel has been coming to Health Services of North Texas (HSNT) for over five years. Her journey with HSNT began with a well-woman exam but soon became a regular support for for her ongoing health needs.

“I’ve always had great experiences here,” Chanel shares. “The wait times are never too long, and the doctors take the time to listen to me. I never feel rushed.”

One of the most pivotal moments in her healthcare journey came when she met one of her providers. For years, Chanel struggled with painful, recurring boils. She had no idea what was causing them until she was diagnosed with hidradenitis suppurativa, a genetic chronic skin condition that causes lumps and abscesses. “I had no clue what was happening to me,” Chanel recalls. “I thought they were just boils, but he figured it out and got me on medication. Knowing what it was changed everything.”

Beyond her skin condition, Chanel has turned to HSNT for other health concerns, including pneumonia and smoking cessation. When she expressed her desire to quit smoking, Richard Easton, PA-L, provided her with a plan, adjusting her medication as needed and ensuring she had the right support. “He really listens,” Chanel says. “When I told him I wanted to quit smoking, he made sure I had the right tools. He even gave me something to help me sleep since one of the medications made me too energized at night.”

Chanel’s commitment to her health is something she takes seriously, especially given her family history. “My dad has hidradenitis too, but he never wanted to get treatment,” she explains. “And my mom has rheumatoid arthritis, but she avoids going to the doctor. I’ve learned how important it is to stay on top of my health so that I don’t find out something too late.”

As a mother of two, Chanel has also turned to HSNT for her children’s care. Her son sees Dr. Schulman, and although her daughter was previously with another provider, Chanel is working to transfer her care to HSNT as well. “I want them to have a doctor they can trust,” she says.

Through every step of her healthcare journey, Chanel has remained a strong advocate for her well-being. Even when faced with the fear and embarrassment of medical conditions, she pushes forward. “I avoided well-woman exams for years because of my hidradenitis,” she admits. “It felt embarrassing, but I knew I had to do it. Taking care of yourself is so important.”

Her advice to those hesitant to seek care? “Just put the fear aside. Your health is more important,” she says. “It’s always worth getting checked out.”