Dear Editor,

If we have a right to complain we have an obligation to say thanks when things go right.

The present medical situation in B.C. makes it too easy to blame dedicated doctors, nurses and others doing the best they can to cope.

My wife had an on-going cough for some time. Her condition deteriorated. I finally called 911. The responders were top-notch, took her vitals, asked appropriate questions, put on an oxygen mask. Note those two words.

Off they went to Emergency. Two days later she called, said she was being released. Things did not improve. Another week and things did not improve. At 2 a.m. I realized it was critical.

I drove her to a different hospital. She was taken in, a nurse took the information, and checked her previous chart. An intern asked dozens more questions.

I was quite insistent about having a home oxygen tank. He noted it on his pad. At 9 a.m we were so tired we were barely awake. He said 鈥淲e鈥檙e taking her for X-rays and a blood test, you should go home. We鈥檒l call you.鈥� About two hours later, I received the first of four phone calls from a nurse. She said 鈥淚 am with your wife.鈥� She asked many questions.

Twenty minutes later she called again, more questions and said 鈥淥ur test shows your wife鈥檚 lungs are functioning at 95 per cent, she does not have a lung problem. She does not require use of an oxygen tank. She has been using the puffer improperly, she is swallowing instead of breathing it. I showed her how to use the puffer, she is breathing well.鈥�

The fourth call. 鈥淵our wife is in the release section. You may pick her up.鈥�

It鈥檚 hard to believe the change.

She has renewed energy, not as much as months ago but a major improvement. Thanks to a team that took time to analyze her condition, ask questions (of her and of me), zero in on the real problem, and find the solution.

The members of Peace Arch Hospital Emergency team did an outstanding job. You are much appreciated.

Ted and Ann Campbell, Fernridge

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