For Gigi, Care Means Finding a Path Forward
July 24, 2025
Gigi’s path to recovery began with a place to heal
Glenda “Gigi” Locke almost died of kidney failure after four years of homelessness. To save her life, she was placed in a medically induced coma. The Central Health system stepped in when she woke up, sending her to respite care to help her recover.
Through Central Health Respite Care, Gigi met Riva Perez, her case manager
Riva helped Gigi start her journey back to health and housing, but Gigi hit a roadblock shortly after they started working together: she was denied the coverage she needed to find more permanent housing. This setback discouraged her, causing her to revert to old habits and push her care providers away.
But Riva didn’t give up on her
Riva believed in Gigi’s ability to keep going and advocated to keep her in case management. When Gigi decided to continue her journey, Riva was happy to pick up where they left off.
With renewed purpose, Gigi began pursuing care more aggressively. She met with providers across the Central Health system to get her health back on track.
If you live in Travis County and are uninsured you might be eligible.
Visit centralhealth.net/map/ or call 512.978.8130 to apply.
Gigi went to 27 appointments in seven weeks
Her determination to make big changes meant she now had the proof she needed to re-apply for coverage. And this time, she got it—then used it to get an apartment.
Her drive, along with the support of Riva and the entire Central Health system, brought Gigi to a life of better health and stable housing. In her words, she’s “a regular person” again.