Larry Hildebrand
Dear sir:
On Monday, Nov. 10, my mother entered La Verendrye General Hospital in Fort Frances after suffering a sudden, massive stroke.
Sadly, she succumbed to this condition five days later on Friday, Nov. 14.
Needless to say, this was a terribly difficult, painful week for my family. To compound the situation, we found ourselves in a town that wasn’t home, relying on the kindness of others to see ourselves through this very sad occasion.
Naturally, friends and family, from both near and afar, provided much-needed support, but it was the extraordinary compassion displayed by strangers, namely the staff of the hospital, that gave us the freedom to be with mom for the entirety of her final days.
The nurses of St. Andrew’s Ward took great care of mom’s physical needs while, at the same time, being fully attentive to the needs of the surviving family members.
Although there was only one patient, the nurses had to deal with four other individuals who were suffering from a great deal of pain; pain that only can be treated through professional service, thoughtful words, timely visitations, and acts of true kindness.
Similarly, the staff of the Food Services department ensured that, when our energy was waning, light snacks and refreshments were available to sustain us throughout our vigil.
Dr. Nelson also displayed genuine compassion through his attentive concern, and his ability to suspend his busy schedule to sit and share time with the family.
In fact, all staff that we encountered went well beyond the professional dictates of their calling to provide excellent care for mom, my father, my brothers, and myself.
People of Fort Frances and area can find comfort in knowing that, should you find yourself in a similar predicament, you will be well taken care of by a team of skilled and compassionate professionals.
Many towns should be so lucky to have this level of service.
Sincerely,
Larry Hildebrand
Sioux Lookout, Ont.
(On behalf of the
Hildebrand family
of Nestor Falls, Ont.)
