The thought of facing treatment for a brain tumour was daunting to MC, a patient at The Princess Margaret. While not an experience this patient ever cares to repeat, MC wrote the following letter; a magnificent tribute to the extraordinary people behind her care at The Princess Margaret.
If heaven had a hospital it would be The Princess Margaret.
Before I started my radiation treatment for a brain tumour, I was terrified. I guess that’s what happens when you listen to stories and advice from people who are not medically trained professionals. When I saw my brilliant neuro-surgeon, Dr. F. Gentili, he had only great things to say about Dr. N. Laperriere and the staff of Princess Margaret.
After finishing my treatments I agree with Dr. Gentili. The level of kindness, support, compassion and caring that is given by all the staff to the patients is extraordinary. It is the standard which all hospitals should aim to reach.
The saying goes: “You never get a second chance to make a first impression.” The minute you arrive at the Murray Street entrance of the hospital, you receive a smile and extended hand of Security Guard, Bill Atkins. Barb Tiano, at the Information Desk, is always there to help and listen. Helen Lemieux at 1B reception is wonderful. The rapport she has with the patients and their families is amazing. The receptionists on 2B, Maureen Savage, Laxmi Khemraj-Balram and Arsham Arzani are kind, friendly and treat each patient with respect. One characteristic of all the receptionists is that they look directly at the person they are dealing with. They make eye contact. I can’t tell you how important this is. They make the patients feel like a human being not just a number. Julie Muller, Dr. Laperriere’s secretary, is pleasant to deal with. She is always ready to listen and provide assistance where she can.
Nancy LaMacchia, is truly an angel. Besides her genius, her manner is friendly and caring. She has the ability to make each patient feel like they are special. Nurse Dolores Dholah is the definition of what a nurse should be: an attentive listener, kind, and there when the patient needs assistance.
The treatment room nine therapists, Kirsten Keeler, Leanne Mak, Chrison Lee and Michael Hoggett are unbelievable. The hands-on approach they give to patients I haven’t seen (unfortunately) at any other hospital. They are knowledgeable, gentle, compassionate and understanding, which is what every patient needs.
What can you say about Dr. Laperriere? He is a remarkable doctor! I am blessed to be his patient. He is a combination of what every patient hopes they have in their doctor. He is a genius with a friendly, down-to-earth manner. When Dr. Laperriere presents information to a patient, the patient can understand what he is saying.
I can’t forget Dr. M. Foote. He is also a great doctor. I’ve never seen a doctor who has such a one-on-one approach with his patients. He always has time to talk to patients. Dr. Foote shows a real interest in each person’s case.
As a result of dealing with all of these people, I believe that Princess Margaret is a very special place. It is a place for hope and miracles.
Yours truly,
MC