THANK YOU

Reader thanks medical professionals

I am writing to express my gratitude to Moses Lake's medical professionals. A few weeks ago, I went to Pioneer Medical Clinic's Urgent Care thinking I had experienced a severe asthma attack. Dr. John Louden tested me for problems typical for someone of my age (25) and lifestyle (I'm a ballet teacher and dancer): anemia, thyroid problems, heart anomalies, etc. Finally, he and the nurse, Russ, tested me for something less common in a patient like myself: pulmonary embolisms. The results surprised them, perhaps, as much as they did me: blood clots in my lungs so extensive, they couldn't tell me how many there were. Immediately they sent me to Samaritan Hospital, where I spent the next five days.

During my hospitalization, I was attended by a fantastic team. Each nurse treated me like I was the most important patient in the world, meeting needs as small as refilling my water bottle, and as big as helping me through a panic attack, with compassion and good humor. Thank you Courtney, Shellie, and Sandra for your sweetness, Dennis and Alex for making me laugh, Mariam and Shawn for chatting, and Mari for your maternal touch. Dr. Brown was so personable, and he ordered the blood test that divulged the cause of my embolisms. Dr. Singh made sure I was thoroughly tested before I left the hospital, and carefully advised me about my condition.

I've always taken doctors and nurses for granted. It's their job to save lives. My recent experience showed me a group of people who go beyond diagnosis and treatment of disease. Their diligence and care are more than professional; they are exceptional. Thank you again and again to every person who helped take care of me, and especially to the doctor and nurse who, by discovering my embolisms, saved my life.

Naomi Hanvey

Moses Lake