“I know there are people who believe our health care system is broken,” says Steve Allanson, “but I don’t believe that to be true. You guys have shown me and my family so much compassion. It almost makes me cry.”

A frequent traveller and avid soccer player, Steve is a happily married man. Employed in the construction industry, he has spent time in hospitals as part of a crew — not as a patient. And then, in March, he was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

The news came as a shock, but Steve isn’t one to dwell on the negative, says lifelong friend Susan Harrison-Salt. Steve and Susan grew up together in White Rock and Susan just happens to be a patient services manager at VGH.

“Steve is a big-hearted, fit and spiritual man,” she says. “If anyone could pull through this, he could.”

Compassion counts

On the eve of his discharge after surgery, Steve is all smiles and full of praise for his care team, including Drs. Westerberg and Gooderham.

“I’ve travelled a lot in Central America, and I know we are so blessed to have the facilities we have,” he says. We have the equipment and the expertise, but we also have compassion, and that’s essential, too.

“It can be overwhelming for patients and families,” he explains. “You can put on a brave face but you don’t always know what’s ahead, and you’re family is worried sick about you.”

Thinking back to his time in the Neuro ICU at VGH, Steve recalls how quick, polite and professional staff were — even in the middle of the night — to his requests for more medication post-surgery. “I felt safe and I felt cared for, and if I or my parents have ever had a question, people would take the time to answer or find someone who could.”

Road to recovery

“I believe we are given gifts in life and opportunities to use those gifts to the best of our abilities,” says Steve. “The doctors, nurses, physiotherapists — everyone I’ve come in touch with — have accomplished that for me, and that’s a blessing.”

Today, Steve and Susan are looking forward to many more years of good times. His tumour is benign and while his journey isn’t over, Steve and everyone who loves him have reason to celebrate.

“I’m excited — I can play soccer again in just another six weeks,” he says with a wide grin.