By Frank O'Hagan, North Bay.
As I was being prepared for discharge on Friday, June 5th from the Stroke Ward C1 at the
I want to express my thanks and acknowledge all of those in both the Emergency Department and C1 Stroke Unit for pinpointing the problem- nurses, doctors technicians, therapists, other staff and specialists for what they did and what I have learned and the incredible genuine personal and professional relationships that I have made that gave me the faith and strength to deal with this prognosis.
Thanks to all of them, I now know and understand a great deal more than I did about strokes, my diagnosis-cerebral amyloid angiopathy, [bleeding hemorrhage stroke], and the collaborative efforts and tests with all therapists that ensured I was now in a safe and healthy state to be released.
With all therapists, I was well-informed, introduced, and worked with wonderful therapists on physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech, stroke, and diet. From the moment of my registration to discharge I was both in awe and fascinated by the processes and procedures that were followed both in Emergency and the Stroke Ward that helped to pinpoint my diagnosis.
It would be my hope that as many people could read this letter and be aware as I am now how lucky we all are in this community not only to have these resources as well as all of those who cared for me and others who may or may have been through this and know the stress of this was so much easier to deal with given their support, kindness, and attitudes on how to deal with this and move in such a remarkable professional and personal manner.
There was never a time I felt alone or intimidated but felt relieved with Ct scans or MRI’S and all other daily routines and processes that each day brought me closer to my diagnosis and discharge.
It would be my intent now that all those in the Emergency and Stroke Ward get a copy of this letter to acknowledge what I believe is the recognition and deserving of heroes much like those who stand out in corona virus-19.
As well it is my intent to be sure Shelley Hawton Stroke Ward C1 Manager and Paul Heinrich, CEO all receive thanks on behalf of myself who have been fortunate to experience all of these people and resources and assure those who have been as lucky as I was that they will be in great hands.
As I was preparing for discharge I feel very thankful and lucky as I begin new transitions to my diagnosis knowing at this point there is no known cause or cure. I am relieved to know that the continuation and the support will continue from the hospital given its ongoing partnership linked with other resources in the community and other individual community resources related to stroke.
I look forward to meeting others in the community stroke group and will be pleased to learn and share with them. I hope to be an advocate for stroke and in any way that I can help in advocating and lobbying for the hospital and community for additional funding and/or resources needed to continue the ongoing results and excellent quality of care from all involved.
Finally, if needed I would be pleased if any of my organs especially those around my diagnosis could be helpful in further research after my passing. Many thanks to BayToday as well.
Frank O'Hagan.
