Daughter grateful for care shown to her mother

The following letter of appreciation was sent in from half way around the world . . .

On behalf of my mother and family members in Canada, I would like to thank the team members of the Emergency Department at Richmond Hospital for the care and treatment they provided to her.

My mother injured her foot during a family wedding. Like the majority of senior citizens who pride themselves on “soldiering on” and ignoring minor discomfort, she didn’t seek treatment until several days later when her foot swelled up to such a degree that she couldn’t walk.

The newlyweds took her to the Emergency Department and she was seen by Dr Mildred Wong who examined her thoroughly.  My mother was very grateful that Dr Wong took the time to explain the care management plan to her, which included resting her foot, getting an intravenous drip, taking mild analgesics and taking a course of antibiotics, if required.

Two days later the swelling subsided but my mother didn’t follow Dr Wong’s instructions fully  because she went shopping. This resulted in her foot swelling up once again. The newlyweds presented my mother to the Richmond Hospital Emergency Department and again met Dr Mildred Wong.  Dr Wong advised my mother not to commence the course of antibiotics but to continue to take the mild analgesic and she also said that a CT scan of her foot would be arranged.

I was so very relieved to receive the long distance phone call from Vancouver that the CT scan didn’t show any abnormality.  My mother informed Dr Wong that she has been losing weight and her sleep has been disrupted by having to urinate several times a night.  Dr Wong suggested that my mother follow up with her family doctor so they could make referrals to a dietician and a urology appointment.

I retired from a hospital in Australia after working there for over 16 years as an administrative officer,   I therefore have a better understanding of the importance of teamwork and showing empathy to patients. I would like to thank the Richmond Hospital Emergency Department Team, especially Dr Mildred Wong and the Diagnostic Imaging Department for their care and treatment of my mother.

With sincere thanks and warmest regards.