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GED student shines as oldest graduate

by Cindy Abole
Public Relations
Seventy-one and still learning, James Island resident Ernest Bailey has made learning a lifetime quest.

Bailey's desire to complete his education had eluded him—until now. After more than 55 years, Bailey has earned his GED certificate. Today, he's more sure of himself—and it shows when he walks with his shoulder squared and his chin up. He's thankful for many things but mostly for the weekly guidance from a handful of dedicated volunteers and co-students at MUSC's Adult Sickle Cell Clinic.

“I'm grateful to many people for their support,” said Bailey, who diligently attended the clinic's GED preparation program on Tuesdays and Thursdays. “Throughout this time, I've received a lot of help and encouragement from so many gracious folks.”

The program is co-sponsored by the clinic, the Disease Prevention and Control Access Network program and the Trident Literacy Association.

Bailey registered to take the GED test at Fort Dorchester High School. The test is not simple. It covers a wide range of basics from general math to pre-algebra, writing and grammar. Typically, the GED is administered during in an eight-hour period with five, 75-minute sections and appropriate breaks. But due to health problems, Bailey was allowed to take the test in two parts—on two separate occasions—with a documented medical permission slip.

The pre-GED preparation and literacy program, which began at MUSC in 1997, has helped dozens of people achieve their own personal goals by helping them discover their full potential. The program continues to receive support from sponsors Dan Hoskins, director of Disease and Prevention and Control Access Network; Daniel Nixon, M.D., professor of medicine, Division of Hematology/Oncology and Dave Neff, administrator, Ambulatory Care Services.

“Everything for GED preparation is being accomplished right here,” said Daphne Wright, Trident Literacy Association director.

“We wanted to show the community that everyone's welcome—Sickle Cell patients or anyone who wants to come," said Chris Y. Brunson, M.D., MUSC Adult Sickle Cell Clinic director. “The program provides education in a relaxed atmosphere.”

In South Carolina, it's estimated that more than 80,000 to 100,000 Lowcountry residents struggle with low literacy skills. The biggest population with needs are individuals between the ages 25-44, with women edging men by a ratio of 2-to-1, according to Wright. MUSC's program supports anywhere from eight to 10 people who come from the clinic's patient base or who live nearby in downtown Charleston neighborhoods.

“We wanted to create a quiet, warm and safe place to learn,” said Thelma Gaillard, adult sickle cell nurse and program coordinator. “Mr. Bailey has been a fine example of diligence, persistence and patience. He's helped to counsel the younger students, even when they are not receptive to learning. He has been a rock of support for many who continue in their learning journey.”

“I've learned what is done here at MUSC is just as important as how the staff provides care for its patients in their outpatients services,” said Bailey.

“Not only are people learning to read and improve their skills,” Brunson said. “They're also gaining valuable self-esteem. As my patients improve their skills, they're able to learn more about their disease and can take a proactive role in their healthcare.”

Not only is Bailey more confident in both his math and writing skills but he's learned to develop a passion for learning. He plans to use this newfound confidence as he begins to enter the job market. “It feels very good just to have the certificate under my
belt,” Bailey said. 

“I'm a big advocate for learning at any age,” Wright said. “Learning is natural for  everyone. From the first week, I noticed a change in these students. They have more confidence now than ever. It's like watching a flower unveil its petals after its been nourished. It's a great transformation!”

“I wish more young people could stick with the program like Mr. Bailey has,” Brunson said. “It shows that you're never too old. He's a great example among others.”
 

Dietary department values opportunities, learning


Miriam Mack-Talbert knows the value of a good education.

With only a ninth-grade education, she’s been in the food service business for more than 20 years. 

Last year, after Mack-Talbert joined MUSC as a lunch and dinner cook with dietetic services, she realized that she was ready for a change. 

Mack-Talbert discovered the on-site GED preparation program which was being held at MUSC's Adult Sickle Cell Clinic. After submitting an evaluation  with the Trident Literacy Association, she enrolled in the program which is located on the sixth floor of Rutledge Tower.

“I love cooking,” said Mack-Talbert. “After so many years in the business, I wanted a career in management but was tired of having doors shut in my face. You can only go so far when you don't have a complete education. You're at a standstill. I learned that the hard way.”

Mack-Talbert attended classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. She received help from Sickle Cell Clinic psycho social counselor Dawn Hall and Trident Literacy director Daphne Wright. She knew she needed help with her math skills. “I felt I was doing well with reading since I regularly read the local paper and other books once in a while.”

Her efforts have been supported by dietetic manager Mike Tierney, Tracy Grant, Joann Howard and others. She is driven by her determination and constant support from her family, husband Gipson and children, Jacquar and Marquisa.

The experience has helped Mack-Talbert gain a new self-confidence. “I've spread the word to others about the benefits of this program,” Mack said. “I tell them it's up to you to find the time that will change your life for the better.”

After more studying and practice tests under her belt, she hopes to be able to follow other successful classmates and complete her GED sometime next year.