On the afternoon of Sunday, May 1, 2011, my mother was transported to Methodist North by ambulance from the assisted living facility in which she resided. From the information I received from the assisted living nurse I thought she was being admitted due to low blood sugar. However, upon my arrival I was informed my mother’s condition was much more critical and her time on this earth was down to hours.

Learning such devastating news is hard under any circumstances, but the wonderful treatment shown to both my mother and my entire family by every member of the ER staff in attendance that afternoon lessened the blow. I am full of appreciation for the compassion and the professionalism exhibited. My special praise and thanks to Nurse Shirley who symbolically held our hand through the long and tedious hours and made certain our mother was taken care of until she passed away. From the clerical staff at the check-in desk to the attending physician, each individual wore the face of kindness and understanding and seemed to grieve our loss as deeply as we did. My observations indicate this high degree of consideration was not displayed just for my family but for everyone entering the ER.

I know there are many times when you feel you have a thankless job compounded by difficult individuals, but let me just say that your organization has earned my sincerest admiration for taking such excellent care of my mom for the very last time. My family and I will never forget the kindheartedness displayed by the medical professionals at Methodist North, especially Shirley, and I ask that you share my thoughts and thanks to Shirley and the entire ER staff.