Iria Owen, originally from Illinois, moved to Washington, DC, two years ago. In that short time, she says that she’s completely changed her life for the better with the support of her doctor.
Iria discovered Community of Hope and was introduced to Cleopatra McGovern, MD. Iria had spent 12 years in unending, debilitating back pain that previous doctors dismissed as normal aging. But Dr. McGovern knew nothing was normal about constant pain and immediately acted to support Iria. She was diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis, a form of arthritis, and finally able to begin treatment. Reflecting on her experience, Iria shared, “Dr. McGovern has been totally supportive in any way I need. She listens to me and gives me advice.”
“This past year, I’ve not only gained mobility, but I’ve also been able to live pain-free compared to before. She saved me,” Iria says with gratitude. “Nobody else has been so helpful, accepting, and willing to help me; that just means so much to me! It is hard to put into words.”
The level of safety and understanding with her provider made Iria feel comfortable when she chose to begin hormone replacement therapy to support her transition, six months ago. “I was nervous at first, but I knew I could trust Dr. McGovern and she was cool from the start,” says Iria. “All of the staff was respectful and non-judgmental, which is important when you’re going through such a major change.”
As she continues treatment for her spine and her new transition, Iria is optimistic about the future. She has undergone four surgeries in the past year and experienced smooth recoveries. “It’s basically made it so that I can walk again.”
With her newfound movement, Iria is looking forward to getting back into the things that bring her joy. Iria’s passion for music, movies, and hiking fuels her hope of returning to her hobbies. “I’m hoping to slowly get into at least walking for a hobby again,” she chuckled, recalling her love for hiking in Illinois before moving to DC. She’s also looking forward to volunteering with animal rescues.
“I’m hoping to have a better life physically and health-wise, and I know as long as I’m living here and going through Community of Hope, all of my needs will be met.”
Reflecting on her journey, Iria concluded, “I didn’t think that would be possible before with all the pain, but now I believe it might be a thing I can do. Anything is possible with Community of Hope.”
Community of Hope has proven to be a safe place for Iria, demonstrating our commitment to providing the best care to everyone. Through the dedicated care of staff and providers like Dr. McGovern, Iria’s story is a testament to the profound impact that compassionate and equitable healthcare can have on individuals’ lives.
