The Wesley Nurse Ministry
The Wesley Nurse program spans more than 80 sites throughout South Texas and is Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc.'s largest geographic outreach program. The professional practice of the Wesley Nurse is not limited to the physical dimension of medical needs; rather, it includes a mind, body and spirit holistic approach. A key component Wesley Nurses undertake in their communities is providing health education, health promotion and facilitation of resources. We assist individuals and communities in achieving improved health and wellness through self-empowerment and access to healthcare resource information.
While the Wesley Nurse program is a component of Methodist Healthcare Ministries' ecumenical outreach and located within churches, it does not teach a set of denominational beliefs. All Wesley Nurse programs are free, and all members of the community are welcome. Programs are offered to groups or on an individual basis.
Debora Shimek, RN is the Wesley Nurse at the Columbus FUMC, and her office is located in the Family Life Center. She started working as a Wesley Nurse in October 2011. She works with the community and congregation collaborating outreach programs and ministries. She also receives referrals from the LaGrange Tejas Health Clinic, Columbus Lion's Club, for vision assist, and the local Columbus Medical Clinic. She works helping to educate patients on their chronic disease conditions, provides a diabetic supply program to the underserved diabetics, along with helping patients find resources for their medical needs. Free blood pressure and glucose screenings are provided in her office or at other community locations. Currently she is facilitating two sitting exercise classes at Oak Bluff Village, and Courtwood Apartments in Eagle Lake. She also helps the food pantry give groceries to those in need.
Please feel free to call her at her office 979-732-5275.