Kansas City, KS — November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a time to recognize the challenges people face managing this chronic condition. At Pharmacy of Grace, we see firsthand how access to affordable medications and compassionate care transforms lives.
Shelly knows this reality well. After losing her husband and struggling with homelessness, she was introduced to Pharmacy of Grace by a friend. “I started coming here and found out they were way cheaper than anywhere else I had gone. And the staff is so friendly and helpful,” she said.
Before discovering Pharmacy of Grace, Shelly often went without her essential medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, and neuropathy because she simply couldn’t afford them. “I went without my diabetic medicine for a couple weeks, and my blood sugar skyrocketed. I got severely dehydrated and almost ended up in the hospital,” she shared.
Since starting with Pharmacy of Grace, Shelly has been able to take all of her medications consistently.
“I can afford my meds now. I don’t have to worry month to month how I’m going to get my medication. I feel healthier, I sleep better, and my diabetes and blood pressure are under control.”
Pharmacy of Grace goes beyond dispensing medications. Our team provides one-on-one consultations to ensure patients understand their prescriptions and manage side effects. For patients with diabetes, these services are critical: consistent access to medications and guidance on monitoring blood sugar can prevent hospitalizations and improve long-term health outcomes.
Shelly’s story highlights why Pharmacy of Grace exists: to remove barriers to care, keep medications affordable, and support patients in managing chronic conditions like diabetes with dignity and hope. You can watch her share her story here:
Preventing Diabetes
Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise.
Choose whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins over processed foods.
Limit sugary drinks and high-calorie snacks.
Stay active daily – even 30 minutes of walking can make a difference.
Schedule regular check-ups to monitor blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol.
Know your family history and risk factors, and discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Tips for Managing Diabetes
Take your medications exactly as prescribed and never skip doses.
Monitor your blood sugar levels regularly to stay within your target range.
Eat consistent, balanced meals to avoid blood sugar spikes.
Stay hydrated and limit alcohol consumption.
Keep a log of your readings and symptoms to share with your healthcare team.
Attend regular appointments with your doctor, pharmacist, or diabetes educator.
Advocate for support – our Grace Meds program can help make medications affordable and accessible regardless of your insurance status.
https://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Shelly-1.png10801080Pharmacy of Gracehttps://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Pharmacy-of-Grace-Logo-v2.jpgPharmacy of Grace2025-11-07 17:30:012025-11-09 12:09:35Managing Diabetes with Compassion
Kansas City, KS – At Pharmacy of Grace, we are deeply moved when donors not only believe in our mission but choose to see their impact firsthand. Sally and Gene recently came on a tour at Pharmacy of Grace so they could do just that. Rather than waiting until they pass to distribute charitable donations, they are taking the “living legacy” approach: donating to causes close to their hearts while they can see the results and hear the stories of those they have helped.
Sally and Gene
Pharmacy of Grace is honored to be their first “living legacy” donation. Their connection to us runs deep: Gene attended seminary in the very building we now call home, and Sally, a retired RN with a background in behavioral health, understands the devastating effects of going without medication. On a recent tour, she shared that the patient stories we presented gave her chills. “People should never have to choose between food and medicine,” she said.
One of the stories we told them was about Sandra, who came to Pharmacy of Grace during a difficult season of her life. After being laid off from her job, Sandra found herself in a coverage gap: too young for Medicare, but unable to afford her essential maintenance medications. At a traditional pharmacy, one prescription alone would have cost her $50. Here, she was able to get what she needed for a fraction of the cost. Now that she has Medicare, she still fills her prescriptions with us because she knows her choice helps pay it forward and keeps care affordable for others.
The couple’s generosity and Sandra’s gratitude are two sides of the same coin, both rooted in a spirit of giving that ensures no one in our community has to go without the medication they need. For Sally and Gene, living legacy giving means they can be a part of those stories now, not just in memory, and they can witness how their generosity is changing lives.
If you’ve ever thought about the kind of difference you’d like to make as a part of your legacy, consider following their example. Come in for a tour and see how your support makes a difference. There is something profoundly rewarding about knowing your gift is already at work, bringing health, hope, and dignity to your neighbors.
Watch Sandra’s story here to see how your gifts make an impact on peoples’ lives:
https://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Downard.png7501000Pharmacy of Gracehttps://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Pharmacy-of-Grace-Logo-v2.jpgPharmacy of Grace2025-11-06 17:03:062025-11-07 11:19:53Giving That Gives Back: A Living Legacy
On October 21st, the nation recognizes National Check Your Meds Day, a reminder about the importance of medication reviews. We want to share a story that shows why taking the time to talk to your pharmacist or physician can be life-changing.
Our patient, a 69-year-old woman, came to Pharmacy Grace deeply distressed. She was virtually bed-bound, suffering from severe, persistent body aches that left her exhausted and unable to maintain her normal life.
While filling her routine prescriptions, one of our staff members, Dr. Andi Neuhofel, took the time to listen to her complaints and review her medication list. Andi suspected her long-term statin medication was causing a rare but debilitating side effect.
“Sometimes it just takes slowing down and really listening,” said Dr. Neuhofel. “Even long-term prescriptions can sometimes cause unexpected side effects.”
We immediately consulted her physician, who agreed to discontinue the statin for a trial period. The results were dramatic: within one month, the patient reported feeling the best she had felt in an extremely long time, now fully able to get out of bed and resume her daily activities.
“Once we stopped the statin, she said she felt the best she had in years,” said Neuhofel. “Moments like that remind me why these medication reviews matter.”
On October 21st, we encourage everyone to mark National Check Your Meds Day by reaching out to your care team to review your medications. Don’t assume that new ache, fatigue, or symptom is just “getting older.” It could be a side effect.
If you or a loved one ever has new symptoms, remember this story and talk to your pharmacist or doctor about your current medications. Their clinical insight can be the key to unlocking a better quality of life.
https://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/POG-national-check-your-meds-day.png10801080Pharmacy of Gracehttps://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Pharmacy-of-Grace-Logo-v2.jpgPharmacy of Grace2025-10-20 11:34:422025-10-20 15:57:31Why Medication Review Day Matters
Pharmacy of Grace Founders Honored with Royals’ Buck O’Neil Legacy Seat
Kansas City, MO — It’s the only red seat in all of Kauffman Stadium and it bears the name of a Kansas City Legend. The Buck O’Neil Legacy Seat is reserved for someone in our community who is making a difference in our community.
On Saturday June 28th, 2025, in front of thousands of Kansas City Royals fans at Kauffman Stadium, Pharmacy of Grace founders John and Sara Yost were honored to receive that wonderful recognition.
Those who are given the high honor of occupying the red seat exemplify the compassion, service, and community spirit of baseball legend Buck O’Neil. While Buck was a trailblazer in the world of sports, it was his commitment to people (especially the underserved) that left the most lasting legacy.
For John and Sara, the moment was deeply meaningful. As founders of our nonprofit pharmacy serving uninsured and underinsured families in Wyandotte County, their mission has always been about dignity, access, and grace. Saturday’s ceremony offered the city a glimpse into that work.
“To be honored in Buck O’Neil’s name is incredibly humbling,” said John Yost. “Buck O’Neil gave the commencement speech at my MBA graduation. Since that day, Buck O’Neil and his story has been special to me.”
“Recognition wasn’t the goal when we started Pharmacy of Grace, but knowing that thousands of people have heard our story is amazing!” Yost added that “our story being told to this amazing community gives me hope that Pharmacy of Grace will continue to grow and be able to provide lifesaving medication to the patients we serve.”
“It was both emotional and exciting,” added Sara Yost. “From the very beginning, we believed everyone deserves access to life-saving medications and compassionate care. This recognition brings awareness to Pharmacy of Grace. Acknowledgement needs to go to our pharmacy team and board who work hard every day and continue to grow the vision, helping others live a healthy life.”
Pharmacy of Grace began as an idea—one that started on a mission trip and then evolved over coffee meetings with fellow Resurrection Church members. Board member Liz Sutherlin has been with the organization from its earliest days and sat next to them at the game.
“I remember the first time I met with John, when Pharmacy of Grace was just a dream,” said Sutherlin. “We knew the need was great, but it was hard to imagine all the hurdles we would have to overcome. John and Sara never gave up. Sitting in the Buck O’Neal Legacy seat was the perfect form of recognition to honor their efforts. It’s proof of what can happen when you lead with heart.”
The recognition also resonated deeply with the Pharmacy of Grace team members who also attended the game.
“Watching John and Sara’s story on the big screen, in front of that many people, it was powerful. It made me think about how much progress they’ve made with their vision.” said Michael Fink, Vice President of Clinical Operations and Pharmacist-in-Charge.
Pharmacist Brandon Powers echoed that pride: “To see our patients and our purpose recognized in this way—it’s not something you forget. It’s a reminder that our daily work truly matters.”
At Pharmacy of Grace, our team doesn’t do this work for recognition. Their acts of grace often go unseen, except in the tearful thank-yous and grateful hugs from patients who can finally afford the medications they need. That’s what fuels us. But to have that quiet, everyday compassion honored on the big screen at The K was an unforgettable moment, and a powerful reminder of the impact this mission has on our community.
You can see more pictures from the event here on our Facebook page. You can also watch the video that played at Kauffman Stadium here:
https://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Royal-Honor.png7501000Pharmacy of Gracehttps://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Pharmacy-of-Grace-Logo-v2.jpgPharmacy of Grace2025-07-15 13:46:522025-07-15 18:05:19A Royal Honor for POG Founders!
At Pharmacy of Grace, we are honored to be among this year’s SkillBuilders Fund grant recipients. This generous gift, awarded on behalf of the SkillBuilders Fund Board of Directors, will directly support our efforts to provide life-saving medications to women and girls in Wyandotte County living below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
About the SkillBuilders Fund
The SkillBuilders Fund is a private foundation committed to helping women and girls in the Kansas City region realize their full potential. With a focus on education, entrepreneurship, and leadership, the fund supports programs that promote self-sufficiency and long-term success. By removing barriers and creating new opportunities, they are helping organizations like ours build stronger, healthier communities.
You can view this year’s full list of grant recipientshere.
A Growing Need
The need for affordable healthcare access for women continues to grow. In 2024, 63% of Pharmacy of Grace patients were women, a 3% increase from the previous year. Even more notably, the number of prescriptions filled for female patients more than doubled, signaling a rising demand for affordable medication.
We also saw a 5% increase in the number of low-income women accessing our services. These numbers represent more than just statistics. They reflect real people—women who are choosing their health and well-being, often for the first time in a long while.
Pharmacist Kari Duede has seen first hand the joy on a patient’s face when they realize they can finally afford their medication and prioritize their health. “As a working mom, I know how important it is to have support. At Pharmacy of Grace, we are making medications more accessible and affordable, to help women care for themselves, and their families,” Duede said. “When access to medicine isn’t a barrier, women can live fuller, healthier lives, which in turn benefits the community as a whole.”
A Patient Story: Dawn Michelle
Dawn Michelle’s story highlights what accessible, compassionate care can do. After becoming unemployed due to a medical condition, she found herself in a difficult gap without health coverage. Finding Pharmacy of Grace offered her some much-needed relief. Our knowledgeable and friendly team helped her manage her medication costs during an incredibly challenging time.
Even after qualifying for disability assistance, Dawn still turns to us for help. When her benefits don’t fully cover her complex medication regimen, our staff works to find affordable options. For patients like Dawn, this support is more than helpful—it’s life-changing.
Our Community Impact
Many of the people we serve come through our partner organization, Mercy and Truth Medical Missions. As their contracted pharmacy, we help ensure that patients receive consistent, affordable care. Together, we are making meaningful strides toward health equity in our community.
Thank You
To the SkillBuilders Fund, thank you for believing in our mission and investing in the health and stability of women and girls in Wyandotte County. Your support is creating real change, one patient at a time.
https://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/SkillBuilders.png7501000Pharmacy of Gracehttps://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Pharmacy-of-Grace-Logo-v2.jpgPharmacy of Grace2025-05-27 13:10:232025-05-27 13:10:23Caring for Women’s Health: A Partnership with the SkillBuilders Fund
Vaccines are one of the most safe and effective ways to prevent serious illness, yet myths and misinformation often keep people from getting the protection they need. Many people have never experienced a major outbreak of the many, once-deadly diseases that have been eliminated in the United States due to vaccines. As vaccine hesitancy and complacency grows, the risk of re-emergence of these diseases increases.
If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, staying up to date on vaccinations is especially important.
Why Vaccines Matter for People with High Blood Pressure & Diabetes
Research shows that people with chronic conditions are at a higher risk of complications from vaccine-preventable diseases. For example:
The Flu: Individuals with diabetes are three times more likely to be hospitalized from the flu.
Pneumonia: People with hypertension have a higher risk of serious lung infections that can lead to hospitalization.
COVID-19: Those with high blood pressure or diabetes face a significantly higher risk of severe illness and complications from COVID-19.
Let’s talk about a few of the misconceptions about vaccines.
Myth #1: Vaccines are Only for Children
Fact: While vaccines play a crucial role in childhood health, they are just as important for adults, especially those with underlying health conditions. Certain illnesses, such as influenza and pneumonia, can be more severe in adults, especially adults with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes. Staying vaccinated reduces the risk of serious complications, hospitalizations, and even death.
Myth #2: If I Manage My Condition with Medications, I Don’t Need Vaccines
Fact: Even if your blood pressure or blood sugar is well-controlled, these conditions still weaken your immune system and increase your vulnerability to infections. A simple cold or flu can escalate into something far more dangerous, such as pneumonia or sepsis. Vaccination provides an extra layer of defense, reducing the likelihood of severe illness.
Myth #3: Vaccines Can Make Me Sick
Fact: Some people worry that vaccines will give them the illness they’re meant to prevent. However, vaccines contain either inactive or weakened viruses that cannot cause the disease. While some people may experience mild side effects, such as a sore arm or a low-grade fever, these symptoms are far less severe than the actual disease itself. Additionally, the “sick feeling” you experience is actually your body learning how to fight the disease.
Myth #4: Many ingredients in vaccines are dangerous
Fact: Many of the ingredients in vaccines that some people are concerned about occur naturally. They are included in vaccines in lower concentrations than are found in our daily food intake. Formaldehyde is essential to human metabolism and energy building. A pear contains 60x more formaldehyde than is found in any vaccine. Polysorbate 80 is a stabilizer in many vaccines and in many foods that we consume every day, such as peanut butter and ice cream. Aluminum helps boost the immune response to vaccines. Higher levels are found in breastmilk, fruits, vegetables, and meats because it is the 3rd most abundant element on earth.
Which Vaccines Should You Get?
If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, here are some key vaccines recommended by health experts:
Flu vaccine (annually) to reduce the risk of severe influenza complications.
COVID-19 vaccine (as recommended by health authorities, including booster doses) to protect against severe illness and hospitalization.
Pneumococcal vaccine (one-time, usually at age 50+, with possible booster for certain individuals) to prevent pneumonia and bloodstream infections.
Shingles vaccine (two-dose series, usually recommended at age 50+) to lower the risk of painful shingles outbreaks.
Tdap vaccine (once every 10 years) to protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough).
Vaccines Offered at Pharmacy of Grace
We offer vaccines at Pharmacy of Grace in KCK Monday through Friday 9am until 3pm. Shawnee vaccinations are available Monday/Wednesday/Friday from 9am until 3pm (but may require advanced notice since vaccines are mostly stored in KCK)
Flu vaccine – available for walk-in patients anytime
COVID-19 vaccine – currently still have walk-in availability (call to verify)
Pneumococcal vaccine – available for walk-in patients
Shingles vaccine – call to verify availability
Tdap vaccine – call to verify availability
Take Action: Protect Your Health Today
Your health is worth protecting. If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider about which vaccines are right for you. Vaccination is a simple yet powerful way to stay healthy, avoid hospital visits, and continue enjoying life without unnecessary health risks.
https://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/POG-Vaccines-3.png10801080Pharmacy of Gracehttps://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Pharmacy-of-Grace-Logo-v2.jpgPharmacy of Grace2025-04-13 11:59:502025-05-04 17:11:55Debunking Vaccine Myths: Why People with High Blood Pressure and Diabetes Need to Get Vaccinated
March 26, 2025 (Kansas City, KS) — Pharmacy of Grace is proud to share our 2024 Annual Report, highlighting the continued growth and impact of our work in providing affordable medications and essential healthcare services to our community.
This past year, we saw a significant rise in the number of patients we serve, particularly those facing financial hardship. More than 64% of our patients live below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level, up from 53% in the previous year. We also saw a major increase (7,110%) in vaccinations for uninsured and low-income patients because of the strategic expansion of our immunization program, ensuring greater access to preventive care.
Every number in this report represents a person whose life has been changed through access to life-saving medications and care. We are incredibly grateful for the support of our staff, board, donors, and community partners who make this work possible.
Thank you for being part of our mission to advance health equity in our community. Together we’re #MakingMedsMoreAccessible
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Kansas City, KS — Pharmacy of Grace is honored to announce the Dr. Gary L. Grunewald Legacy Advanced Community Pharmacy Rotation, named in memory of an esteemed educator and mentor who devoted more than five decades to the training and development of pharmacists and medicinal chemists. Pharmacy of Grace is founded and staffed by many of his former students, and this is a wonderful way for us to honor his memory. Pharmacy of Grace hosted an event Thursday November 7th, 2024 to unveil a plaque and officially name our student rotation program in his honor.
“Dr. Grunewald was more than just our Medicinal Chemistry professor; he was a genuinely kind person who always made time for his students, said Michael Fink, Pharmacy of Grace Vice-President of Clinical Operations and Pharmacist-in-Charge. “You’d often see him around Lawrence, especially at KU sporting events, and always with a friendly smile. I’ll always remember him fondly.”
Pharmacy of Grace founder John Yost also remembers that despite being vision impaired, Dr. Grunewald would perfectly draw chemical structures on the blackboard. He was a significant influence in his field of medicinal chemistry, but also had a positive influence on students’ lives, smiling and greeting them in the hallways. “He taught hundreds of future pharmacists and trained many PhDs who went on to have a significant impact on drug development and research,” said Yost.
Dr. Grunewald has already left a remarkable legacy at the University of Kansas, where he joined the School of Pharmacy in 1966 as one of the pioneering faculty members of the Department of Medicinal Chemistry. We continue to honor his memory through this student rotation program, which will continue to inspire future students. Pharmacy of Grace dedicated the plaque in honor of Dr. Grunewald at an event Thursday November 7th.
Dr. Grunewald was more than a professor—he was a leader and a mentor who influenced the pharmacy world on a national scale. His impressive list of accolades speaks to his commitment and expertise. He served as national chairman of the American Chemical Society’s Division of Medicinal Chemistry, was recognized as a Distinguished Fellow of the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists, and became a Fellow of the American Chemical Society. His induction into the ACS Division of Medicinal Chemistry Hall of Fame highlights his profound impact on the medicinal chemistry community. In addition, Dr. Grunewald was a founding board member of the Medicinal and Bioorganic Chemistry Foundation, a nonprofit organization devoted to educating medicinal chemists.
Upon his passing in 2023 at age 85, Dr. Grunewald’s legacy lived on through the creation of the Gary L. Grunewald Charitable Fund, established through his estate with the Douglas County Community Foundation. This act of generosity continues to support efforts that reflect his values and dedication to pharmacy education, including the work being done at Pharmacy of Grace—a pharmacy proudly founded and staffed by many of his former students. The Dr. Gary L. Grunewald Legacy Advanced Community Pharmacy Rotation is a testament to his vision and his enduring influence on the profession.
Goals of the Rotation Program
This rotation offers an enriching experience for future pharmacists, aligning with the values Dr. Grunewald embodied throughout his career. The program’s objectives include:
Patient-Centered Care: Students will collaborate with patients to create comprehensive, evidence-based care plans that consider social determinants of health, cultural beliefs, and health literacy. These plans will be monitored and adapted to ensure effectiveness and affordability.
Interprofessional Collaboration: Participants will work as part of a multidisciplinary healthcare team, sharing medication-related expertise and communicating effectively with other health professionals to address patient needs.
Pharmacy Operations: The rotation provides practical experience in fulfilling medication orders and overseeing pharmacy operations, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws and regulations.
Professional Development: Students will create and implement a plan for continuous professional growth, emphasizing lifelong learning and professional integrity.
Foundational Skills: The program focuses on cultivating professionalism, strong communication skills, and a deep understanding of foundational pharmacy knowledge—qualities Dr. Grunewald instilled in all his students.
Pharmacy of Grace is deeply proud to carry on Dr. Grunewald’s legacy through this rotation. It is a fitting tribute to a man whose life’s work was dedicated to improving the profession of pharmacy and supporting the next generation of healthcare professionals. His impact will continue to resonate for years to come, as students who pass through this program uphold the same high standards he championed throughout his remarkable career.
Here are a few photos from the event. The entire photo album from the event can be found here on our Facebook page. Make sure to like and follow us, and help spread the word about Pharmacy of Grace.
Dr. Gary L. Grunewald Charitable Fund Board of Trustees (from left to right):
Tim Caldwell, Dan Flynn, and Mike Rafferty
Gene Hotchkiss (former Senior Associate Dean of the KU pharmacy school) and wife Kari.
From left to right back row: POG VP of Clinical Operations/Pharmacist-in-Charge Michael Fink, Trustee Tim Caldwell, POG Co-Founder John Yost
From left to right front row: Trustee Dan Flynn, POG Co-Founder Sara Yost, Trustee Mike Rafferty.
The event included unveiling the plaque that marks the official naming of the Pharmacy of Grace rotation program in honor of Dr. Gary L. Grunewald.
Dinah and Apurba Dutta (students of Gary, interim chair and associate professor Department of Medicinal Chemistry, University of Kansas.)
Watch the video from our event here or on our YouTube page:
https://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Grunewald-Blog-Post.png7501000Pharmacy of Gracehttps://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Pharmacy-of-Grace-Logo-v2.jpgPharmacy of Grace2024-11-08 14:12:332024-11-10 17:23:16Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. Gary L. Grunewald: The Advanced Community Pharmacy Rotation at Pharmacy of Grace
Kansas City, KS — Imagine waking up every day, battling an unseen enemy that drains your energy and clouds your future. For millions of Americans, this is the reality of living with diabetes.
Diane Marquez knows this struggle all too well. She was struggling with constant thirst, fatigue, and sleepless nights. It wasn’t until she found herself in the hospital with a blood sugar level of 500 that she realized the truth: she was diabetic. “This was my wake-up call,” she said. She knew she needed to take charge of her health.
Recognizing Diabetes Awareness Month
November is Diabetes Awareness Month and at Pharmacy of Grace, every day we see the burden that the cost of diabetes medications can place on patients. Our mission is to alleviate some of that stress by ensuring those in need have access to affordable insulin and medication. We aim to help diabetes patients avoid the difficult choice between purchasing life-saving medication and providing groceries for their families. Our goal is to ensure that all patients can prioritize their health, in an affordable and stress-free way.
Since January 2024, we have dispensed 2,197 diabetic prescriptions to 564 patients. Of these, 1,695 prescriptions (77%) went to 465 patients (82%) living below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). More than half of those prescriptions (57%) were for patients living in extreme poverty (100% below the FPL.)
Understanding Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes
In people with Type 1 diabetes, the pancreas doesn’t produce insulin while people with type 2 diabetes produce insulin, but their bodies don’t use it properly and over time may also produce less insulin. Those with type 1 must take insulin injections or use an insulin pump every day to survive, while type 2 can be treated with lifestyle changes like exercise, weight loss, and a healthy diet, as well as medications. Both type 1 and type 2 can lead to serious complications, such as heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, and vision loss.
Why is insulin so expensive?
Drug costs are higher in the United States than in any other country. There are a few reasons for this:
Limited competition that makes up 90% of insulin sales
Manufacturing process
Lack of pricing regulation
Generally, prices for drugs decrease within 20 years, but for insulin, prices remain as high as 100 times the cost of production, according to Yale School of Medicine.
Diabetes patients struggle to afford their life-saving medication because of these factors. Diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate in the United States, and according to the CDC’s (Centers for Disease Control) National Diabetes Statistics Report for 2022, cases of diabetes have risen to approximately 37.3 million.
“If I can afford it, I can stay healthy.”
With the help of a dietitian, insulin, and Metformin, Diane began to learn about proper nutrition and how to manage her condition to be there for her grandchildren. “Listen to your body,” she advised. “Once I started listening, I started loving myself.”
She praises Pharmacy of Grace for helping her be able to afford her medication on an on-going basis. “Pharmacy of Grace is so worth it because I can afford it, and if I can afford it, I can stay healthy,” Diane shared. With support for both uninsured and underinsured patients, Diane emphasized, “If you are underinsured, check out Pharmacy of Grace. They’re very knowledgeable and hand-held me through the process with every form and answered all my questions. Their customer service isn’t just a 10; it’s above and beyond. Everyone is here to serve the patient.” Diane’s journey shows the importance of accessible healthcare and reminds us that sometimes, the first step to healing is simply asking for help.
At Pharmacy of Grace, we’re determined to help those in need and proud to have created affordable plans for uninsured and underinsured patients. Support our mission by donating or spreading the word about our affordable insulin through our Grace Meds Program. Help diabetes patients in need today.
https://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/POG-Blog-Post.png7501000Pharmacy of Gracehttps://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Pharmacy-of-Grace-Logo-v2.jpgPharmacy of Grace2024-11-05 16:04:232024-12-13 20:20:55Diabetes Awareness Month: Because of Pharmacy of Grace “I can Stay Healthy!”
Kansas City, KS — At Pharmacy of Grace, our mission has always been clear—making life-saving medications accessible to everyone, especially those who are uninsured or underinsured. We believe that no one should have to choose between their health and their finances. Today, we’re excited to share a special opportunity that will help us make an even bigger impact, and we need your support to make it happen!
Thanks to a generous $50,000 1-to-1 matching gift challenge from the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, every donation made to Pharmacy of Grace from now until the end of the year will be doubled! That’s right—every dollar you give will be matched, dollar for dollar, up to $50,000.
Here’s how it works:
A $50 donation becomes $100.
A $500 gift grows into $1,000.
And $1,000 turns into $2,000!
This matching gift challenge gives us the chance to raise $100,000 in total—funds that will directly support the patients who rely on us for their medications. But we’re on a tight deadline. We have until December 31st to raise the full $50,000 and unlock the entire match. Every dollar counts, and we’re counting on supporters like you to help us get there.
Your donation, no matter the size, will go twice as far in ensuring that vulnerable members of our community can get the medication they need. Whether you’re able to give today or closer to the end of the year, your contribution will have double the impact, helping us continue to serve those in need.
At Pharmacy of Grace, we like to say we’re “Making Meds More Accessible.” With this matching gift challenge, we have the opportunity to take that mission even further, and we can’t do it without you.
The William G. McGowan Charitable Fund has, since its inception, maintained a vision to impact lives, to create sustainable change, and to empower future generations to achieve their greatest potential. The Fund brings that vision to life through grant-making efforts in three program areas: Education, Human Services, and Healthcare. They prioritize programs that have demonstrated success, have measurable outcomes, plans for sustainability, and aim to end cycles of poverty and suffering.
Resolute in the belief in the power of partnerships or collaborative efforts to maximize impact, the Fund embraces opportunities to work with other partners across their key program areas, looking for funding opportunities that share their philosophy and exploring the possibility of joint projects with other nonprofit organizations.
The Fund is managed in accordance with values deeply held by its benefactor, William G. McGowan. Among these are ethical leadership and the belief that every life has equal value. For more information, please visit https://williamgmcgowanfund.org.
https://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/PoG-Matching-Grant-1.png10801080Pharmacy of Gracehttps://pharmacyofgrace.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/08/Pharmacy-of-Grace-Logo-v2.jpgPharmacy of Grace2024-10-16 16:09:362024-10-31 10:54:35A special opportunity to double your impact when you give to Pharmacy of Grace!
Let’s talk about a few of the misconceptions about vaccines. 
