A North Bay doctor has been recognized by a patient for her efforts on the job.
Janis, a grateful patient recalls that she was in the unfortunate position of needing emergency care twice this past year.
"The second being life-changing for me," recalls Janis.
"On November 5, I was holding the ladder for my husband as he pruned a branch off a White Pine. As “luck” would have it, I looked up just as the branch fell and struck me in the eye."
She feels Dr. Vanessa Ellies, from the Department of Surgery at the North Bay Regional Health Centre went above and beyond to help.
"Dr. Ellies had to arrange for childcare so she could attend to me in person," Janis said.
"Her manner was caring, positive, calming, and professional. I started to feel optimistic that I would have a good outcome. She removed eight pieces of bark from my eye, glued a small cut on the upper lid, examined the cut on the outer corner, and checked the condition of the conjunctiva.
"She kept me informed all the way and was gentle in her care, apologizing every time she did something that might hurt."
Janis said the caring physician reassured her in every way possible.
"I left the hospital feeling much calmer and more optimistic that I would see again with that eye," she added.
"I have been so impressed by the treatment I received from all the people I encountered during this ordeal. We are so fortunate to have Dr. Ellies servicing our community. I can’t thank her enough for saving my sight and my sanity. My sight has returned to 20/20. I view my sight differently now; it is not to be taken lightly or for granted. I am forever grateful to Dr. Ellies for her excellent care and positive outcome."
This exceptional physician went above and beyond for a patient at North Bay Regional Health Centre, inspiring a Grateful Family donation to the Foundation.
The Golden Heart Award is given through the Grateful Family donation where a staff member, physician, volunteer or department is recognized by a patient or a patient's family.
Those honoured through the donation are recognized at staff meetings through the hospital's social media and are awarded a golden heart badge for their name tag.
