Stories that Shaped Us…
Dr. Adeyemi Fatoki, founder of Great-Heights Family Medicine, recently shared the unforgettable story of Iya- a patient whose life and struggles have left a profound impact on his practice and perspective. Below is the story in his own words:
“A Patient’s Journey: Trust, Courage, and Tragedy”
Iya was a remarkable woman in her early 60s, referred to my clinic by her daughter, Omo. Omo, who was also my patient, struggled with addiction to opioids, amphetamines, and methamphetamines. Omo’s life was fraught with nonadherence to treatment and repeated encounters with the criminal justice system. When she returned to the clinic under pressure from her probation officer to create a treatment plan as an alternative to incarceration, the complexity of their relationship came to light.
Iya’s story was one of resilience, but also profound vulnerability. She had suffered the loss of both legs in a tragic accident years earlier, an event that initiated her dependency on opioids. Despite her hardships, Iya carried a radiant spirit. She trusted me deeply, often expressing her gratitude and joy with a hug and a glowing smile, even after enduring long waits to see me.
During one of her visits, Iya confided in me about her strained relationship with Omo. It was not an easy conversation. Iya trembled and broke into a sweat as she described how Omo, who was being paid to be her caregiver, neglected her duties and exhibited cruel and manipulative behavior. Iya was terrified, yet she entrusted me with her pain, her voice quivering as she spoke.
This wasn’t the first time I had encountered Omo’s destructive influence. In our small community, word traveled quickly. Patients who associated with Omo often experienced setbacks. One young woman, who met Omo at work, tragically overdosed soon after their friendship began. Another couple, stable on medication-assisted treatment (MAT), relapsed into methamphetamine use after befriending her, a struggle they have continued to face for more than two years.
Knowing this, I approached Iya’s situation with caution. I introduced communication strategies rooted in the community reinforcement approach, gently encouraging her to discuss her concerns with Omo. Iya’s reaction was visceral—she hyperventilated, sweat pouring as fear overtook her. She ultimately agreed to try, trusting my guidance. To support her, I scheduled a follow-up just a week later, hoping to build on her courage.
But that follow-up never came. A few days later, I was devastated to learn that Iya had passed away. Rumors suggested an overdose, with some claiming that Omo may have supplied the drugs. Iya’s drug tests had occasionally revealed unusual results, further fueling speculation.
Her death haunts me. I can’t help but wonder if my encouragement to address the issues with her daughter contributed to her untimely demise. Did I inadvertently place her in a situation that overwhelmed her? It’s a question I grapple with to this day.
Iya’s story is a stark reminder of the complexities inherent in addiction medicine. Patients like Iya trust us with their deepest fears and vulnerabilities. That trust is sacred, but the responsibility it carries is immense. Her life and death underscore the delicate balance of providing care in an environment shaped by trauma, addiction, and difficult family dynamics.
Iya’s memory pushes me to continually reflect on my practice and to honor the trust my patients place in me. While I cannot undo the past, her story strengthens my resolve to approach each patient with compassion, caution, and unwavering dedication to their well-being.
About Dr. Adeyemi Fatoki and Great Heights Family Medicine
Dr. Adeyemi Fatoki is the founder and owner of Great-Heights Family Medicine with locations in Calumet City and Ottawa, IL. He specializes in Medication Assisted Recovery, using all FDA-approved medications to provide comprehensive care for individuals with substance use disorders.
At Great Heights Family Medicine, patients receive:
• Supervised Medical Detox: Expert care to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
• Flexible Outpatient Addiction Therapy: Options designed to meet patients’ unique needs.
• Treatment for alcoholism, opioid addiction, and other substance use challenges.
Contact Great Heights Family Medicine
📍 Calumet City Office
1473 Ring Road
Calumet City, IL 60409
📞 Office: 708-862-8156
Start your recovery journey with a team committed to compassionate, patient-centered care.
A Lasting Reminder
Iya’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the complexities and responsibilities inherent in addiction medicine. It underscores the profound trust patients place in their providers and the delicate balance of offering guidance in the face of trauma and adversity.
Dr. Fatoki and his team at Great Heights Family Medicine are dedicated to honoring that trust, continually reflecting, and providing care with compassion and unwavering commitment.
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