Editor:
Many times in the letters to the editor section I have read complaints about the shortcomings and lack of accessibility to medical services here in B.C. My experience has been totally the opposite.
During my recent and first heart attack on April 28, a friend in Vancouver happened to phone me at this crucial moment and called 9-1-1. This set in motion everything that saved my life - from the ambulance crew that took me to the new St. Mary's Hospital emergency room in Sechelt to all the telephone calls to Vancouver and Victoria that led to an emergency helicopter transport to the Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria. All this took place inside 12 hours. It was truly amazing!
After only two days at Royal Jubilee Hospital and some further tests, I underwent open heart surgery and received an astonishing five coronary bypasses. I spent two weeks recovering in hospital from this and received only the best of care from the nurses, the surgeon, the anesthetist, the wonderful social worker and pastor who brought me a lot of comfort and the delightful physiotherapist.
I spent a further three weeks recovering at my daughter's home on Vancouver Island. I am now home again on the Sunshine Coast, and every day I have renewed strength and enjoy my chance of living again.
What happened to me can happen to anyone. Be assured the help is there when you need it.
Thank you from the bottom of my healing heart to all the dedicated people in our health care system.
Elizabeth Koll, Secret Cove
