Thanks from our community

Prior to our delivery, my husband and I took part in the Baby Massage and Bath, Breastfeeding, Baby CPR and the Pre-Natal classes offered at TEGH. We found these classes informative and helpful in preparing us for the upcoming delivery. The post natal classes were also helpful in connecting me with other mothers within my community whom I could visit and create "Mommy and Baby" groups with during my maternity leave.

During our delivery, my husband, baby and I all had wonderful care. Upon release from the hospital, our first stop was to receive extra help with breastfeeding at the Breast Feeding Clinic. At the clinic we met wonderful women who took the time to make my husband, myself and our son feel welcome and at ease. We knew we would not leave the clinic until we were successful and comfortable with breastfeeding our son.

I wish to close by letting you know that among my three girlfriends who had children within weeks of each other, the services I received at Toronto East General Hospital were viewed the best out of the group of women. We all delivered at different hospitals and everyone felt that my experience was the best as the care was extensive. So congratulations to you and all of the staff who care for mothers and babies.

The Primaylon Family (Jan 26, 2010)_________________________________________________________________________________________

My name is Eduardo Gaviolli and today I was admitted at TEGH for a colonoscopy. I am writing to thank Dr. Jamie Cyriac, Dr. Emily Mosher and all the nurses who took care of me since admittance until discharge. The professionalism of the TEGH staff has turned even a procedure like a colonoscopy into a positive experience. I am very pleased to be a patient of the Toronto East General Hospital. Thank you very much.

Yours sincerely,

Eduardo Gaviolli (October 10, 2009)______________________________________________________________________________

On Easter Sunday, April 12, 2009, we brought my husband George to Emergency at 2:20 pm. We were seen very quickly by triage and by 4:40 pm he had received a cardiogram, had blood taken, an x-ray and a CT Read. Dr. Adel Alsarraf explained in detail my husband's problem. He spent time with us and answered all our questions and was very reassuring. We were able to take him home the next morning and were provided with instructions for his future care.

The staff at all times were very caring and professional even though they were extremely busy. We wish to especially thank Dr. Lazier for staying past her shift time to complete her examination and answer our questions.

Dorothy Copeland (April 15, 2009)
______________________________________________________________________________

However necessary it might be, no one ever relishes the idea of a visit to the hospital emergency room. When I seriously sliced open my finger during a home renovation project, I headed for the ER of TEGH, since it is our neighbourhood hospital. Despite a waiting room which was overflowing with patients, the staff were respectful and compassionate to all. Though the wait was longer than I might have anticipated, the efficiency with which patients were being processed was evident. The most important factor in my estimation, was that once I actually saw the doctor, the level of care that I received was outstanding. Kudos to Dr. Jamal, whose skill, easy bedside manner and compassion not only began the healing process, but exemplified the spirit of caring amongst the staff at TEGH.

My finger hurts a little today, but my faith in the local medical community is stronger than ever. Keep up the good work.

With sincere thanks, Rudy Koziolek (February 25, 2009)
______________________________________________________________________________

I have been pondering the correct adjectives to use to express my sincere gratitude for the care that I receive from the Toronto East General Oncology Department. The staff, Theresa, Cindy, Euphemia (front desk girls), Cathy, Chris, Amanda, Yee, Christine and Pat (the nurses), are exceptionally professional and caring. I have nothing but praise for them, as they always make me feel as comfortable and welcoming as possible throughout my treatments. I am wholly impressed by the attitude that the entire team displays, as they always avail themselves to me, they are extremely competent, efficient and very accommodating. Knowing that they are there fills my heart when I return for my follow-up visits. Everyone is just as happy to see myself and my wife, as we are to see them. They have become a part of my family.

The Oncology Staff not only provided me with the much needed treatment, but also the support of a friendly, happy and warm environment. At the Toronto East General Oncology Department, the patient is not a number, a patient is cared for with the utmost respect and courtesy, and as a patient I am a part of the health care team.

My diagnosis filled my world with darkness, and the team at the Toronto East General Oncology Department became my beacon of light. I cannot imagine going anywhere else for my care.

Thank you, Remo and Diana Accettone (November 6, 2008)
__________________________________________________________________________________

Our daughter was born at TEGH on September 14, 2008. It was an amazing experience and I would like to express my gratitude to the staff for their professionalism, care and attention.

I think it's great that TEGH strongly encourages breast feeding. It would have been that much more difficult for my wife and newborn baby to begin breast feeding, had it not been for the support we received at TEGH. Mother and child are enjoying the special bond that is established by breast feeding and my daughter will definitely have a better start to life because of this and the nutritional and health benefits of mom's breast milk.

Best Regards, Greg Odero-Jowi (September 20, 2008)
___________________________________________________________________________________

I have a story that must be told about one of your nurses who exemplifies the meaning of a "community hospital".

I was at the East York Farmers' market when I began to pass out. I was with a neighbour (who is a 4^th year nursing student). As she was trying to contact 911, her brother-in-law approached a nurse who had brought one of your patients to shop at the market. That nurse was Patricia. She helped me and my friend while we waited for the paramedics. She was amazing, professional and warm. I keep remembering her trying to keep me from becoming unconscious, covering me - comforting me and generally providing good old fashoned nursing care!

But that's not all Patricia did! When she finished her shift, she came down to emergency to see if I was okay. I was so touched when I saw her face and understood the full extent of her caring and dedication to people and the community. What an amazing person.

She then told my friend Erin what a wonderful hospital she worked for and was lobbying for her to apply to TEGH when she graduates! It is no wonder that a wonderful nurse works for a wonderful hospital.

Susan (August 27, 2008)
_________________________________________________________________________________

I would like to extend our thanks and appreciation to Dr. Edsel Ing, the nurses, and staff of G6 unit for the excellent care and attention afforded to me on May 9, 2008.

I came for my ptosis surgery at 6:30 a.m., suffering from extreme pain due to an accident the previous day that badly injured 2 fingers on my left hand. The nurses acted quickly to help me ease my pain with great care and concern.

I will never forget the wonderful acts of the nurses and staff of this unit; their courtesy, kindness and friendliness which I have never experienced in any other hospital in my whole life.

Joven Escuadro (May 10, 2008)
__________________________________________________________________________________

I am writing to express a heartfelt thank you for the care you have given to my family. Firstly, my father Dennis Steen, is receiving excellent care from Dr. Simone, thoracic surgeon and the team at East General. My father has cancer and they have been working diligently to ensure he is given quick tests and results. I know he has told me that physicians have even called him at 10:00 pm to organize tests for him for the next day!

I work with the elderly and all too often we see care that makes one feel that they are a neglected part of our community. My father�s treatment has restored my faith that there are many wonderful, talented specialists who indeed do value people, of all ages, and recognize that families and loved ones are counting on them to do their best. My father feels so much better, as do we, knowing he is in the best hands.

This past Friday I took my son in for x-rays as he had injured his knee skating. A gentleman x-ray technician and doctor in fast track were so very kind to him. All was fine; though I was informed a pediatric orthopaedic specialist would review the x-rays. I did not think much of this as I assumed someone would take a quick peek at the results since Josh was okay. Last night (Sunday), a gentleman called to tell me the specialist had reviewed the x-rays and that I should get my son in (though it was not urgent) to see his pediatrician as there may be a bone cyst on his knee. Though it is not serious, I am so pleased to see that the staff at East General are so thorough and diligent.

Andrea Macina (February 11, 2008)____________________________________________________________________________________

My name is Victoria Turner and I have been meaning to write you ever since my son was discharged about 5 months ago...but time has not permitted.

A few days prior to Easter, my 2 week old son was admitted to the 7th floor pediatric unit. Our stay lasted 3 weeks as we were treated for Bacterial Meningitis. Every day I counted my blessings for not only being a Canadian and having access to the best in medicine, but your staff (nursing and doctors alike) were incredible. We were fortunate enough to have been looked after by the most hard working, caring, thoughtful and respectful people. Every single one of them demonstrated these qualities.

My delay in writing you does not reflect on the sincerity behind this letter, but I felt that no matter how much time passed, your staff on the 7th floor, peds unit, deserve the recognition. I'm sure I'm not the only parent sharing these sentiments, and hopefully not the only one relaying the message to you.

Victoria Turner (October 4, 2007)
_______________________________________________________________________________

I would like to extend a heart felt thank you to Desmond and your emergency care team that cared for my son, Samuel on Sunday evening, September 16th. Samuel, who is four years old, was brought into the hospital for a badly broken arm after a fall at home. Desmond and the triage team attended to Samuel immediately upon arrival and fast tracked him through triage. Empathetic to the pain my little guy was in, he acted as our guide and advocate through emergency care and ensured that Sam was as comfortable as possible while waiting to be seen by the doctors. Desmond took it upon himself to ensure that we were cared for all along the path instead of handing us off to another professional to sit and wonder what the next step was. Seeing the same face pop in and out during our time in emergency was particularly reassuring to Sam. I have never experienced anything quite like the care we received from Desmond and the rest of your emergency care team. It sets a very high standard for all hospital emergency units.

Please pass along my thank you to Desmond and the rest of the team.

Donna Ince-Brown (September 21, 2007)

________________________________________________________________________________

I am writing this letter to bring to your attention the wonderful care my husband received at TEGH during a recent stay and to commend the excellent care his nurses gave. My husband was hospitalized from August 3-11, 2007 in the ACC2.

I would like to mention how pleased my family and I were with the care he received. All of the staff from the medical triage nurses to the unit staff were very professional and helpful. My husband's nurses were excellent.

My daughter, son and I took turns staying over night with my husband. All the staff were very helpful and ensured we were as comfortable as we could be under the circumstances. I felt compelled to write this letter as my family feels the care we all received was outstanding. Please keep up the good work with all your patients.

Yours sincerely,

Mary and Leslie M. and Family (August 2007)
______________________________________________________________________________

I want to express my appreciation for the wonderful care I received during my recent stay at TEGH. I would appreciate if you would kindly pass along my thanks to Dr. William A. Appell, Emergency Department Doctors & Nursing Staff, B2 Wing Doctors and Nursing Staff and an extra special thank you to Nursing Attendant, Bill Bristow, whose professionalism and kind understanding while transporting me for tests, to my room, etc., helped to comfort me and ease my anxiety.

In today's environment, many are so quick to criticize, however, never take time to compliment when it's deserved. Well, your staff certainly deserves credit and I simply could not miss this opportunity to send my thanks and best wishes to the staff at TEGH. They treated me with respect and made my stay as pleasant as possible, given the circumstances.

Sincerely,

Donald H. MacMillan (July 17, 2007)_______________________________________________________________________________

I would like to express my appreciation for the care and concern I received on June 26 when I had to be taken to the East General emergency because of an eye problem. I feel so fortunate that I went to the East General.

Upon my arrival I was taken back by the large number of people who were in the waiting area and the ambulances that just kept arriving. I ws immediately approached and assessed and within a very brief time taken into an examination room. A nurse came in immediately and told me they were very busy, but I would be seen as quickly as possible and reassured me not to worry. The doctor on duty (Dr. A. Helman) examined me - reassured me not to worry and and called the opthalmologist on duty to see me.

The department was a hive of actiivty and yet I was treated from the time I entered with courtesy, kindness and efficiency. I must offer my sincere thanks to all I encountered that afternoon. They all deserve a hearty round of applause!

Yours sincerely,

Ruth R. (June 26, 2007)___________________________________________________________________________

I am writing to ask you to extend my appreciation to members of your staff who were involved with my care when I had cataract surgery at your hospital. I am a patient of Dr. Charlotte Wedge, my surgery went well and I am recovering nicely.

From the time I arrived about 7 am until I left each person with whom I was in contact was a credit to your organization. Upon arrival I was greeting by an older lady volunteer who guided me to the proper locations within the hospital. This wa a really nice touch and certainly started my day on the right foot. Then, from the clerical lady in admitting to the nurses and porters in the ophthalmology suite, all were friendly, competent and efficient. I can say without exception everyone did their job in an exemplary fashion.

Yours sincerely,

Neil R. (June 20, 2007)
_______________________________________________________________________________

I have recently returned home after spending 3 weeks at Toronto East General Hospital under the excellent care of Dr. Oakley Smith and his associates.

I would like to thank all the staff in admitting, surgery, recovery, ICU, catering, and the nursing staff of the 5th floor F wing for their attention, care and support during my stay at the hospital. If I were to mention names, I know that I would neglect to include someone.

Yours in appreciation,

Dick Willows (June 8, 2007)
______________________________________________________________________________

I wanted to take a minute to thank the staff who were involved in the care of my 18 month old son, Zack last week. It was a brief stay, only 24 hours, but as disturbing as it was to have our child admitted with an illness, we were very comforted and impressed by the professional, compassionate care demonstrated by everyone we came in contact with.

First, the staff in the Emergency department, the triage nurse who�s name we never knew but who�s experience and expertise was much appreciated when she was called upon to help start Zack�s IV� nurse Christina and Dr. Sem who really took the time to explain everything in a truly caring and compassionate way.

The staff in the x-ray department who had to strap our little guy into that restraint for his chest x-ray in the wee hours were so kind, and their cheerful, professional demeanour really put us at ease under the circumstances. Routine stuff for them I�m certain, but they treated all of us with such kindness.

The paediatric staff, Dr. Popovic and Dr.Perlmutar, as well as the nursing staff on the 7^th floor, were pleasant, professional and compassionate.

Zack is on the mend from his bout of gastroenteritis thanks to the compassionate care of your staff. I apologize if I got some names wrong but I hope you can share with your staff how much their efforts were appreciated.

Catherine, Nick and Zack (April 2007)___________________________________________________________________________

I am writing to tell you about one of the best medical doctors that I have ever encountered - Dr. John Abrahamson. I ws taken to the TEGH ER on Jan 15th with chest pain, breathing problems and serious muscle pain. Several hours later I was lucky enough to have Dr. Abrahamson arrive in the ER to see me. Almost from the outset it was clear from his professional manor, demeanour and thoroughness that he is one of the most competent physicians that I have met. Not only did he show an immediate keen interest in me and my condition, he made me feel that he really cared and wanted to help. Not being anything other than just your average person and being treated as a special case has greatly impressed me and should anyone who cares about how patients view their health care providers.

I can only hope that this kind of dedication and care in a physician be recognized for what it is: excellence. In addition, I would like to praise the efforts, care and professionalism of the nurses in the Medical Triage clinic and in particular nurse Healther McDougall who is every bit as dedicated and compassionate as Dr. Abrahamson.

Thanks for your care

Daniel G. (Jan 18, 2007)

_______________________________________________________________________________

Last week, Tuesday October 17, I was taking my mother-in-law to TEGH for a regular doctor's appointment. It was a miserable day and in our walk from the public parking lot to the entrance, she fell. Upon picking her up I asked her if she was okay to which she responded yes. Going up to the reception area, I noticed her left eye drooping to which I immediately thought of a stroke. I hollered for help and a wheelchair and one was brought immediately and I asked to have her escorted down to the emergency department. Within 15 minutes, she lost consciousness and we discovered she had a massive stroke with very, very little chance of survival. In the end, we respected her wishes and removed the breathing tube which was replaced by an oxygen mask and she passed away peacefully on Wednesday October 18.

I cannot express enough the amazing treatment we received from the very start of our visit at TEGH. While in the Emergency Department awaiting the diagnosis on my mother-in-law, the Nursing staff and Respiratory staff went above and beyond and the kindness and caring they showed our whole family passes any kind of treatment that I have ever received.

In particular, I wish to express my sincere thanks to one of the most thoughtful, kind and unbelievable doctors I will ever have the opportunity to meet, Dr Marcus Kargel. He was present in Emerg and took his time 3 or 4 times in total, to explain her test results and where we stood at all times. When the decision was made to remove the breathing tube, he was able to move her and the family to the ICU in a room where her family could be with her. It is not too often that one gets this kind of care from people anymore. He allowed my mother-in-law to pass on with dignity and with her family beside her. I will not forget, nor will my husband as he relays this doctors amazing care to all friends and family. We also had this exact same care from the nurse we had in the ICU, Betty McQuay. She was a treasure.

When you go through such a totally unexpected time like that, it is nice to know that there are people like Dr Marcus and Betty still around and the world needs more like them. Please pass along our thank you to all and let them know that their dealings with us made our pain and our loss that much more bearable.

Maureen S. (October 2006)

_____________________________________________________________________________
Over the past month both my wife and I have been either a patient in the emergency department, or in day surgery. We both were very impressed with the volunteers we met-and were assisted by-when we were in the hospital. Whether it was walking us from Triage to the right spot in emergency care, or in answering questions in the day surgery patient / visitor waiting area, we experienced nothing but a positive, caring approach.

So: big kudos to the volunteers and to those who manage this program. We really appreciate it.

Sincerely,

Clark and Nadia W. (August 2006)________________________________________________________________________________________

Friday morning, July 14, 2006, at 4:00am I entered the hospital with severe stomach pains which turned out to be a kidney stone. I was immediately processed and taken into emergency. The overworked ,and probably very tired nurse, whose name was Wendy, and the triage nurse took care of me right away. The doctor, whose name I unfortunately can't remember, and the intern saw me right away. Pain killers were given to me and tests were started. I can't thank the doctors and nurses enough for the care I received. It was done with care and compassion. Thank you to all that helped me through this.

Ron H.
_____________________________________________________________________________

I was fortunate enough to convalesce at your wonderful hospital the week of April 23, 2006. At first I went to emergency where the staff treated me with dignity, respect and care. I remember a nurse named Pauline who impressed me with her care-giving skills.

I was taken to B2 and couldn't ask for better care. It was a WONDERFUL recuperative experience for me. The nurses (Ruby, Sally, angela, Bulla, Elaine and others) were terrific. Jennifer, the social worker, couldn't help me enough, as well as the home care lady. The staff became a family I never had. I was touched by the excellent care and as I write this letter, it brings tears to my eyes. Iwould be remiss in not mentioning the doctors, especially Dr. Gupta, he made me feel so at ease. The dietitian and kitchen staff were also wonderful. I just loved my recuperative experience at the best hospital in the Toronto area. A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THE NURSES, THE SOCIAL WORKER AND EVERYONE ELSE WHO WORKED ON FLOOR B2.

Teresita (Teri)
___________________________________________________________________________

I would just like to take the time to express our gratitude to everyone who works at TEGH in your maternity ward.

My wife recently delivered a wonderful and healthy baby boy on March 4th and with the help of your terrific health professionals it was a great experience! Everyone was very helpful, friendly and took really good care of us.

Please pass on a very special thank you to Mary Estrela who was great getting us to and through the delivery and Hilary (sorry I didn't get her last name) who took care of Crystal throughout the night and into the early morning. Both were great and should be recognized for their extra effort and dedication.

Sincerely
Carlo, Crystal and Evan
_____________________________________________________________________________

I cannot find words to express my appreciation and thanks to the doctors, nurses and medical personnel who literally kept me alive at a very critical time at Toronto East General Hospital.

Father Adams
_______________________________________________________________________________

"I am writing to thank you and your staff for your outstanding assistance during the recent Legionnaires outbreak at Seven Oaks. In the early days of the outbreak, when no one was sure what we were dealing with and the patients just kept coming, we needed assistance. Toronto East General Hospital stepped up, offered to help, and agreed to take patients. It was heartening to all our staff to realize that we were not alone, and that our neighbourhing hospitals were more than willing to do whatever they could to assist. It is wonderful to be reminded that there are so many individuals and institutions that truly put the needs of patients first, and for that, we thank you."

Hume Martin, President & CEO, Rouge Valley Health System
_______________________________________________________________________________

�I would like to express my heartfelt thanks and respect for those hospital staff and professionals who saved the lives of my cousin and her baby on June 14^th recently. After hearing about and researching the complication she experienced, our family believes it is nothing short of a miracle that they survived.

It would appear to me that the individuals involved in their care possess immense skill and competence that was obviously demonstrated on that day. It astounds me to think of the activity, quick reaction and careful thought that must have been required in a few short moments�we have been truly blessed by those responsible for our being able to see Karen, Sarah and their family enjoy all that comes with the arrival of a new baby.�

Barbara and Family
__________________________________________________________________________

The people who work at TEGH are diligent in providing efficient service, are fast to respond to immediate needs, are compassionate, care for people's feelings, and are encouraging and cheerful. I would emphasize that this is not meant for one strata of personnel. It encompasses all, which includes the Emergency personnel, the Surgeons and Interns, the operating room staff, the pain relief services, the dietitians and the nurses of B5, who under the direction of Val proved to be 25 people of outstanding merit. It does not stop there because I interfaced with many other cheerful, encouraging people such as the diagnostic equipment operators, porters and the people who cleaned my room and delivered my meals.

When I compare my experience with the way the media speak of the health care system it seems that the press should analyze TEGH to really get the truth before they expound. A big thank you to ALL your staff. Keep on doing the same. It works.

Sincerely,

Harold E. Ford (September 27, 2007)________________________________________________________________________________

I showed up at Emergency with a severe pitbull bite on my right pinky finger � ended up with multiple fractures, sutures, etc. I have to say, I received amazing health care while I was in your emergency room. The two male nurses on duty were excellent and funny . The clerk who called OHIP for my health card number, took extra time to ensure I got to the minor treatment area as I was a little in shock after the attack. She was very friendly.

Once I got into the treatment area, I was immediately checked by Dr. Kumar who sent me for Xrays. Once back from Xray, Dr. Kumar provided first rate care � irrigated and sutured the wound, as well as informing me of dog bite issues. What a great physician! Sue, the orthopaedic technician, was also excellent.

I left at 8:30 pm feeling I had first rate care at your hospital!

Gregg