Editor's note. Ms. Norrie writes this as an open letter to Paul Heinrich, Administrator, North Bay Regional Health Centre and Staff
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To the editor:
In light of the many negative comments and perceptions currently, regarding the Health Care System in North Bay, I felt it was absolutely imperative that I share our family’s story.
My husband Jim was very ill with 4th Stage Lymphoma. He was a patient in the North Bay Regional Health Centre from April 10th to April 25, 2024, and from June 15th until his death on July 5, 2024.
He was cared for at home in between hospitalizations with help from the Ontario Health at Home staff. Every staff member who came to our home provided skilled and professional care. Our Family Physician and an Oncologist/Hematologist from the Northeastern Cancer Centre provided medical care with skill and compassion during this time. Family and friends provided much-needed support.
He felt well cared for during his hospital stays. He used his excellent sense of humour to quickly establish contact with the staff, which they enjoyed and reciprocated. Any family concerns or questions or any changes regarding his care were discussed with us. The family felt welcomed as part of the HealthCare Team.
He was treated like a person with a history. A person who had contributed to the community. His work ethic and conscientious attention to detail was evident as a Contract Inspector for thirty years while employed by the City of North Bay. He loved to talk about his work history with the staff. He was a person who loved his family immensely and unconditionally. A person who had friends for life. He would talk about his love for his family and friends whenever he had an opportunity.
The doctors, nurses, housekeeping staff, the dietary staff, the laboratory staff, and all staff who met my husband, provided exemplary care. They were constantly professional while coping with multiple stressors and most suffered deep fatigue that not many people have experienced.
North Bay should be grateful that we have such a fine facility, caring staff, and an excellent Health Care System when you need it.
The family is so appreciative. We will never forget. Please share this letter.
Sincerely,
Sheryl Norrie
North Bay
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