Skip to content

Grateful for health care

Letter writers appreciate the care they received from health professionals.

Editor:

It is so long since I have written a letter to the editor, I don’t know where to start.

My topic is the medical system. Contrary to public opinion – often exaggerated by the press – I believe we have a system, with all its warts, that is very good.

Yes, our emergency rooms are crowded and noisy, our waiting times are painfully long and, unfortunately, a few serious ill do fall through the cracks, and people do get angry. At times I have become annoyed, and my wife has to remind me that they are doing the very best that they can.

Recently, I was taken to Peace Arch emergency with a serious heart attack. Yes, I had to wait two days for a bed, but the dedicated care that I received from doctors and nurses – both male and female – was exceptional. Space doesn’t permit details, but there never was any unkindness, always a smile and even the odd banter of humour.

Eventually, I was transported to Royal Columbian Hospital by ambulance at 7 a.m. for a 9 a.m. surgery. Unfortunately, one operating machine was down and several emergencies – seven or eight – took precedence. However, surgeon and staff worked overtime and got to my surgery at 10:10 p.m. that night.

When I left Royal Columbian by ambulance, it was close to 1 a.m., and they still had another surgery to perform. I arrived at Peace Arch about 2 a.m. to find the nursing staff anxiously concerned. I think they missed my corny Saskatchewan jokes. My eldest spoiled the fun when he said, “Sorry, ladies, but this flirtatious old fart has been married to the same woman for over 50 years.” Upstaged!

Thanks to the dedicated doctors and nurses, I am still here. They were marvelous.

Really, I think we belong to a generation of whiners. Nothing is perfect; Hollywood only exists in our brainwashed imaginations. My wife wants to get buried in her wedding dress and wants me to sing at her funeral! Now, that’s Hollywood.

Brendan Hopwood, Surrey

• • •

A severe health crisis compelled me to seek restoration to normal aged health.

The emergency at Peace Arch Hospital were detailed and professional in diagnosing my medical needs and admitted me.

The doctor was clear and prudent in explaining what would alter my way of life to maintain complicated older health. The harsh reality was more than counterbalanced by the kind and compassionate services by the many nurses who tend my needs.

Having become accustomed to the push and shove of modern life, this was a refreshing reminder that there is nobility and concern for others in the young of the nursing profession. It has made me a better person.

The cultural diversity of staff proved our government right in transforming Canada into a multicultural-society nation.

O’ Canada, what a wonderful and universal health care we enjoy as your citizens. Wise were those who fought and passed it into law.

Thank you. Yes, Virginia, there really is goodness in this world.

Terry Miller, Surrey