Melissa Belli

For The Oregonian/OregonLive

Belli , M.D., is a family physician at a community clinic in Cornelius. She lives in Portland.

In recent weeks, the conversations I hear from patients and across the community have shifted in unmistakable ways. Parents tell me they no longer feel safe driving their children to school. Others ask whether it’s risky to pick up groceries or fill a prescription. Many are staying home unless absolutely necessary. This fear is not just reshaping daily routines — it’s undermining health.

I am a family physician in Oregon, writing in my personal capacity about what I see in my exam rooms and what my patients share with me. What I am witnessing now is unlike anything in my career.

Even before the recent surge in activity by Immigration and Custo

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