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Publications & Resources > The Standard > June 2005

   Last modified: June 6, 2005

In Praise of Nurses

The College welcomes letters commending outstanding nursing care. Accepted are original signed letters from the client/family member or an original signed letter from the facility/agency with a copy of the author’s letter, and the author’s approval to publish it.

Letters may be condensed for publication.


June 26, 2004

Yesterday I finished my final course of chemotherapy for Aden carcinoma of the lung at the Toronto Sunnybrook Regional Cancer Centre. On first diagnosis, I thought would be the end of me. It wasn’t and it won’t be!

From my first meeting with staff I knew that this was not going to be a scary experience. I encountered the most pleasant people in a place where heartbreak prevails. The courtesy, empathy and compassion that are exhibited day-in-and-day-out by your staff are heart warming and exemplary.

I especially want to single out the oncology nurses who took such good care to insert the needles in the right place and who were solicitous, helpful, compassionate and friendly. I cannot thank you enough.

I left the clinic yesterday feeling extremely well and very hopeful.

Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for making me feel so grateful to be alive, and for knowing that people like you exist.

– Virginia Stoymenoff
   Toronto

 

August 23, 2004

I would like to acknowledge the excellent nursing care my late husband Gordon J. Wood received at Valleyview Home for the Aged in St. Thomas.

My husband resided at Valleyview for a two-week period of respite care prior to his death earlier this summer.

The individualized nursing care, home-like atmosphere and the genuine concern by nursing staff towards clients and their families made his stay hospitable and comfortable.

In these times when we hear the vague stories about the negative state of our health care system, it is a pleasure to have come across a group of health care workers who deliver such exemplary personal care.

On behalf of my family, I’d like to convey a sincere thank you to the staff of Valleyview Home for the Aged.

– Carmen Wood, RN
   St. Thomas

 

November 1, 2004

My daughter recently gave birth to our granddaughter at Sunnybrook and Women’s College Health Sciences Centre in Toronto. I was in attendance for the occasion as a labour coach along with the new father.

I would like to commend the two nurses who cared for her: Kuen Tan, RN, and Joanne Huizinga, RN. Kuen was the admitting nurse who guided us through the first few hours. Her friendly manner and professional skill helped to alleviate our anxiety, and we were able to proceed with confidence.

At the change of shift, Kuen handed us over to Joanne. I was impressed with the professional way this was done. Joanne quickly established a good rapport with my daughter and she carried on wither own special encouragement and suggestions. As the hours went by, and a hard labour continued, Joanne made sure that other members of the health care team were aware of the situation. In the end, a C-section was necessary.

We were all included in this process. Joanne accompanied us, assisted in the operating room and looked after my daughter and granddaughter in recovery. As soon as Sandra was able, Joanne helped her with the first breast feeding. Her teachings made this a very positive experience, and I credit this to my daughter’s continuing success with breast feeding. Our wonderful new granddaughter is thriving. It is with pleasure and pride that I submit this commendation of Kuenand Joanne — both fine examples of my profession.

– Joan Ferguson, RN
   Etobicoke

 

December 15, 2004

On November 23, 2004 I underwent a bowel resection at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto. The nursing care I received was excellent. I felt the medical team went above and beyond the call of duty.

There are five nurses that I must single out as being extra special and in need of recognition. Karen Witkowski, RN, and Natalie Catelli, RN, both helped me to come to terms with and handle my ostomy.

Karen knew I was terrified of surgery and took the time to be with me and calm me down during the admission and pre-op process.

Both Karen and Natalie worked with me closely. Their calm professional manner coupled with respect and concern for me as an individual made the difficult transition to having and managing an ostomy surprisingly easy.

Winnie Lo, RN, Janice Azan, RN and Opal Pascoe, RN were critical to my recovery. Opal got me up and moving the day after surgery. I was less than a cooperative patient that morning; however, Opal made it happen. Winnie and Janice worked with me through some very difficult movements during my stay.

Their good grace and professionalism provided me with confidence. While Winnie and Janice are diminutive in physical stature, they are giants inpatient care.

These five people represent what is best in the nursing profession and I could not let this occasion go without bringing my thoughts to your attention.

– Fred Metter
   Thornhill

 

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