When Raymond Boyens first noticed a sore on his foot nearly four years ago, he didn’t think it was serious until about three years later.
“We tried to take care of it ourselves for about three months,” Raymond said. “But it just wasn’t healing, and it started to affect everything. I couldn’t walk far, couldn’t go out with friends, and it caused pain all the time.”
Living with diabetes, poor circulation, and rheumatoid arthritis since age 27, his wound steadily worsened. He saw several specialists in Texas, including his primary care doctor, a podiatrist, and a vascular specialist, before his great-niece Leesa Christensen, a surgical technician at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC), encouraged him to come to Iowa for care.
“Leesa came down to Texas, saw my wound, and took me back to Iowa for care,” Raymond said. “Once I got to the Wound Care Clinic at MRHC, I finally felt like it was going to be taken care of.”
Under the care of Wound Care nurse Kendra Tiefenthaler, RN, BSN, and the MRHC wound‑care team, Raymond underwent six weeks of IV antibiotics and daily cleaning and dressing changes for the wound.
“The care team was extremely helpful,” he said. “The attention I was given was the best thing about the care, and how the doctor and team listened and answered all my questions.”
After several weeks of dedicated treatment, Raymond’s wound fully healed. “The day my wound was healed, I was very relieved and happy,” he said. “I went from using a walker to being able to walk without any assistance.”
Diabetes and Wound Complications
Raymond’s story is a good reminder of how diabetes can complicate even a small wound. Individuals with diabetes are at higher risk for foot-related complications such as neuropathy, vascular disease, and ulcers, according to Tiefenthaler.
“These complications are the leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations in the U.S.,” she said. “Early intervention from a wound center is key to preventing those outcomes.”
November is National Diabetes Awareness Month, an important time to highlight the risks, warning signs, and prevention strategies for diabetic foot complications. You may be at risk for a foot ulcer if you notice changes in your feet, including:
- loss of feeling
- a tingling or “pins and needles” sensation
- pain when walking or resting
- sores that won’t heal
- thick or dry scaly skin
- stains on socks or shoes
- new calluses
Simple daily habits like checking your feet, wearing shoes that fit well, and using light-colored socks can help identify issues early and prevent serious complications.
“Diabetes affects blood flow and nerve function, two key factors your body needs to heal,” emphasized MRHC Specialty Clinic Director Elaine Macumber, RN. “Don’t ignore even the smallest wound because a small cut can become a big problem if you have diabetes. Proper wound care and blood sugar control are your best protection.”
Today, Raymond is grateful for his renewed independence. “I can walk on my own again,” he said. “The team at MRHC really knew what they were doing, and they gave me my life back.”
About the MRHC Wound Care Clinic
The Wound Care Clinic at MRHC provides advanced treatment for chronic and non-healing wounds, including diabetic ulcers, pressure injuries, and surgical wounds. Recently recognized with a Center of Excellence Award by RestorixHealth, the clinic’s dedicated team uses comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans to promote healing and prevent complications. To schedule an appointment, call (712) 655-8100.



Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to announce that the Wound Care Clinic has received two outstanding achievement awards from RestorixHealth. They are the recipients of the Clinical Distinction Award and Excellence in Patient Satisfaction Award.






“I’m so thankful I was able to go to MRHC for wound care since it’s located in my hometown,” said Manning resident, Jeanne Kerkhoff. “I was immediately impressed by Kendra’s genuine concern for my care, her efforts to get answers and help me, along with Dr. Luong’s attention and ongoing wound care treatment. The best thing about the care I received was their genuine care and advocacy,” she shared.