Editor: While we realize that our emergency rooms are filled to capacity and the surgery wait lists are long, a recent experience has shown us how very fortunate we are to live in Canada and have the medical system that we do indeed have.
On Jan. 5, our three-week-old grandson was taken into Langley Memorial Hospital emergency, as he was struggling to breathe after having contracted what was thought to be a cold. With infants so young, what can be mild to most can change so quickly, as this had.
The admitting nurse at the desk realized immediately that this was a serious case and fast-tracked him in. At that point, a Dr. Horvath took over. Quick, attentive decisions were made by Dr. Horvath who, after ordering chest x-rays and blood work, moved our grandson up to the pediatric ward.
From then on, he had three brilliant nurses and a pediatrician helping him to breathe. While they worked diligently and with precision and speed, it was determined that he needed to be transported quickly to BC Children’s in Vancouver. The ITT (Infant Transport Team) were called — apparently we have three such teams in B.C. that travel and transport infant emergencies — and to BC Children’s they went.
Once there, our grandson was admitted to the ICU where he is still receiving round-the-clock care from compassionate, knowledgeable and truly amazing health care professionals.
Our grandson is a little fighter and we know he will be fine, but our heartfelt thanks go out to all the doctors and nurses at LMH, especially Dr. Horvath in ER, Dr. Chander in pediatrics, Lynn the nurse and the wonderful head nurse who stayed way past her shift ended saying “It’s OK — my husband of 32 years understands by now.”
We also thank the ITT and all the staff at BC Children’s for not only dedicating their lives to helping others, but for the way that they deal with families at such an emotional time. They are amazing people on every level and we are thankful for each and every one of them.
Pam Erikson,
Langley