LETTERS: EXCELLENT HEALTH CARE

To the editor:

Make no mistake. God is good -- in spite of us. The latest manifestation in my life came through Southeast Missouri Hospital.

In October I was referred to a Dr. Miller in oncology for radiation therapy. Dr. Miller received me with professionalism laced with tenderness, compassion and personal care. His staff followed his lead. My discomfort as a result of the treatment itself is minimized because of their kindness.

I had occasion to be taken by ambulance to the emergency room in the middle of the night. The ambulance crew made me as comfortable as possible under the circumstances.

Dr. Draper, the doctor in charge, put me at ease immediately by making me laugh. Then he proceeded to examine, X-ray and whatever else was necessary to be sure he was approaching the proper problem. His staff carried out his orders with warm professionalism.

I should mention I am a guest in the guest house for a most reasonable fee. Here, Peggy looks after the homemaking needs. I must say she not only makes this guest feel at home and comfortable, she has a bubbly, effervescent personality that reminds one of a schoolgirl. I arrived at the guest house one day, and there, sitting outside my door, was the single most beautiful bouquet I have ever seen. There being no card, I called wonderful, beautiful social services, who has set me up here and tried to fulfill my every need. I was informed that the bouquet had come from marketing. I do hope my gratitude was passed on to the proper source.

On Dec. 11 I was admitted to Southeast Missouri Hospital for a minor surgical procedure. The same spirit I had encountered for the last few weeks prevailed. I was convinced by the staff on that wing that my comfort and well-being were at the very top of their agenda.

There was a young man named Travis who was outstanding in his display of care and compassion. He would flash a smile without effort, giving the patient the idea that he really cared. This attitude was also shown in Jean Bloodworth at midnight in ER and a nurse who gave me personal care whose name I was too busy to get. Florence Nightingale would be very proud of them.

The names are too numerous for me to have remembered, but this experience shall never be forgotten. I shall remember with gratitude respiration therapy and its director, the maintenance department and Meals on Wheels.

I arrived at the guest house the morning of Dec. 23 and was surprised to find a small, fancy shopping bag that held all of the goodies you would hope to find in your Christmas stocking, fruit and candy included. The other gifts were opened Christmas morning. There was a card, clearly addressed to me, with an uplifting message but no benefactor.

May God bestow his richest blessings on the administration at Southeast Missouri Hospital and all of the hard-working employees who carry out the day-to-day routine of making life a little more comfortable for the rest of us.

LILLIAN E. THOMPSON

Poplar Bluff