When I experienced pain in my abdomen this spring, I knew immediately it was a kidney stone.
I’d had surgery for a similar issue before… but as you can imagine, I was very nervous to visit an emergency department during the COVID-19 pandemic. Shortly after I stepped through the doors of Cambridge Memorial Hospital (CMH), my worries subsided.
CMH continues to be a pillar of our community. I often say that our hospital has been part of some of the best — and worst days of my life. From the birth of my son Jonathan (Jon) to saying goodbye to my father and father-in-law, many important moments of my life have taken place within the walls of this hospital.
During my first visit to our new emergency department, I was relieved to see the many preventative measures CMH was taking to keep everyone safe and I appreciated the speed at which I was seen. Based on my personal history, I was not surprised when the results of an ultrasound didn’t detect any abnormalities. But when my pain continued to worsen a CT scan was done and it showed that I had a large 7mm kidney stone. Both tests were vital to my diagnosis and shortly after the scan, the team at CMH recommended emergency surgery.
Our new hospital has been open for almost one year and renovations to existing older sections have begun. What many people don’t realize is that it is members of our community — people just like you and me — who help fund all equipment, including essential diagnostic imaging equipment in our new and, soon to be renovated wing.
Will you consider becoming one of these generous people by supporting the Trees of Caring campaign this holiday season and help us reach our $200,000 goal? Every light you purchase will contribute to funding life-saving equipment for our new wing.
My husband David and I have always been there for each other. My spring visits to emergency during the pandemic were no different — as he sat patiently on a lawn chair outside the hospital. You can imagine what went through our minds when we realized that I needed surgery and wouldn’t be going home with him that day.
The team at CMH did an amazing job of helping me feel calm and safe. My kidney stone was removed at 10:00am and by 5:00pm, I was at home resting in the comfort of my own bed.
I’ve seen the full spectrum of care within our hospital — including when they saved my husband’s life following a heart tumor diagnosis several years ago. I feel confident knowing CMH is here for whatever health challenges we may face in the future.
The Trees of Caring campaign holds a special place in our hearts. My mother-in-law has set an example through her support of CMH and my son honours her with a donation each year.
On cold winter nights, the trees and lights in front of CMH lift my spirits. These lights are a reminder that our community has helped me and my family many times.
I hope you will consider making a donation in support of Trees of Caring today.
Every light you purchase this holiday season will go towards ensuring that CMH has the equipment and technology to offer all of us what we need, when we need it most.
This year who will you honour?
Warmly,
Jane Herring
Grateful Patient
P.S. Remember, hospital equipment is funded by people like you and me. Make your donation to Trees of Caring and honour someone special today.
