CLEARLAKE, Calif. – Westamerica Bank has donated $1,100 to St. Helena Hospital Clear Lake’s wound care and lymphedema program to cover out-of-pocket costs for a number of patients who could not otherwise afford treatment.

“This generous gift will make a tremendous difference in the lives of these patients,” said Director of Rehabilitation Services Ron Ryskalczyk.

“Most people who come to our program have prolonged or chronic conditions, and for many of them the out-of-pocket costs can be a significant burden. Too many patients choose to forgo treatment due to the expense. This gift will provide bandaging supplies and compression stockings for 18 current lymphedema patients who would otherwise struggle to afford treatment,” said Ryskalczyk.

Lymphedem causes increased fluid buildup in the tissues, leading to chronic swelling. If effective treatment is not initiated, lymphedema will worsen, resulting in pain, dysfunction and eroding quality of life.

St. Helena’s Lymphedema Management Program offers the most advanced lymphedema treatment available.

The center’s Wound Care Program is also emerging as one of the top wound care clinics in the region, specializing in hard-to-heal wounds resulting from a wide array of conditions such as chronic vascular wounds, diabetes, venous stasis ulcers, and surgical or traumatic wounds that have failed to heal.

For many patients, getting outpatient wound care or lymphedema treatment provides pain relief and a return of hope and independence.

“We see a big difference in people once they begin therapy. Many come in afraid they’re going to lose their leg or they have resigned themselves to the pain which leads to loss of dignity,” Ryskalczyk said.

“On behalf of our patients, St. Helena Hospital Clear Lake’s Rehabilitation Services Department is very grateful to Westamerica Bank for this donation,” Ryskalczyk said. “In addition to minimizing hospitalizations, assistance with these uncovered costs makes lifelong successful management of lymphedema a reality for these members of our community, and this is very much appreciated.”

There also is an ongoing need for donations to continue treatment for current and new patients throughout the year. “This is one area where even small donations can have a large impact on the lives of people in the community,” Ryskalczyk added.

For more information or to make a donation to any of St. Helena Hospital Clear Lake’s programs, please call 707-995-5678.