There is Always a Path Forward for those Seeking One Out: An HSNT Patient Story

In 2020, Ashley found themselves in need of medical care after a hospitalization that required multiple blood transfusions. Referred to Health Services of North Texas (HSNT) for follow-up care, what Ashley thought would be a routine healthcare visit quickly became something far more meaningful.

“When I first came to HSNT, it felt like going to another home,” Ashley recalls. “I had no idea how much I needed that level of support.”

Shortly after arriving at HSNT, Ashley was introduced to a medical provider who had an immediate impact on their life. Though this provider is no longer with HSNT, their influence still resonates deeply with Ashley. "They were the first one to really see me for who I am," Ashley says. “They made me feel understood, like I could talk about anything, including things I had been holding back for years.”

It was about a year after Ashley began receiving care that they were connected with Jean Grey, a therapist at HSNT. "I started with grief counseling, but it grew into everything counseling. Jean has been a constant source of support,” Ashley shares. “She’s helped me through grief and so much more. Whether it’s dealing with mental health struggles or life’s challenges, Jean has been there.”

This support from Jean has been timely as the past few years have brought significant grief into Ashley’s life. Over the course of four years, they have attended nine funerals. “I was overwhelmed by loss,” they explain. One particularly challenging moment stands out for Ashley. “I was in the waiting room, and a song came on that reminded me of someone I had lost. I just lost it. When I went into my session with Jean, my blood pressure was all over the place, and I told her what had happened. It was someone I had known for 21 years, my first love. She passed away, and Jean helped me process it all.”

In addition to the mental health support, Ashley also found a dedicated medical provider in Tami Barton, FNP, who has played a role in managing their physical health. “Tami is incredible,” Ashley says. “She doesn’t just focus on my medical needs—she listens to everything I’m going through. She’s been a critical part of my care, and I feel like she’s always in my corner.”

Through all of this, one of the most transformative aspects of Ashley’s journey at HSNT has been their decision to begin transitioning. As a queer individual, Ashley had known for 14 years that they wanted to transition, but they hadn’t felt financially capable or supported in their environment. That all changed at HSNT, where Ashley finally felt secure enough to take the next step. “If you’re 18 and you’re wanting to start transitioning, talk to your doctors. They can either point you in the right direction or somebody here can be the direction,” Ashley says.

As Ashley reflects on their life, they have a powerful message for anyone who might be hesitant to seek care or struggling with their mental health: “It does get better. It takes a while, it takes a lot of work, but it gets better,” Ashley shares. “Talk to somebody—don’t hold it in.”

Having faced their own mental health challenges, including time spent in mental health facilities after multiple suicide attempts, Ashley knows firsthand how difficult it can be to find hope. But they also know that reaching out for help can make all the difference. “Don’t think drugs, alcohol, or death are the only options. There’s always something else,” Ashley advises.

For those considering transitioning, Ashley offers words of caution and encouragement: “If you want to transition, do your research. Don’t just dive in without looking—you don’t want to hit 3 feet of water where you think there’s a deep end. Talk to someone, whether it’s a counselor or a provider, because there are people who genuinely want to help.”

Ashley’s message is clear: no matter how dark things might seem, there is always a path forward, and there is always support available for those willing to seek it out.

You Can Make a Difference for Patients Like Ashley

Your support helps patients like Ashley receive the compassionate, comprehensive care they deserve—whether they are navigating grief or managing their health. By donating to Health Services of North Texas, you ensure that more individuals in our community have access to the vital care they need, regardless of financial circumstances.

Visit our donation page to support patient care today and make a lasting impact on lives like  Ashley’s. Together, we can provide hope, healing, and a place that feels like home.