To Those Who Evaluate the Services of Sycamore Hospital, Miamisburg, Ohio:

I would be remiss if I did not share with you my thoughts about my stay at Sycamore Hospital this past March 26th through 31st.

I am an unusually healthy 87 year old woman whose last long-term stay in a hospital was 49 years ago following the birth of my seventh child! I was anticipating that this emergency would be a simple over-nighter at the most.

However, the very efficient and personable physician who checked me over and ordered my cat-scan (a first ever) - convinced me that it would be wise to be observed for several days and treated for my acute diverticulitis - because of the possibility of more critical consequences were the microscopic puncture to become enlarged or the infection were unabated.

I was treated with the utmost care and concern. From the people in the Emergency Room - Dr. Mezu who checked me in and out - to the nurses and their assistants on the floor - all were highly professional. They also reported regularly to my primary care physician and my gastroenterologist - consulting with them as needed.

I have learned in my 87 years that people treat you in relation to the way you treat them. Since I am a woman who was given a generous sense of humor, I was treated in kind. Not being one hospitalized for very serious reasons - nor multiple problems - I took care of myself as best I could, being connected by various 'hoses' to my feeding tree! (Incidentally, those would make great Finch Feeders - but I couldn't talk them out of one). One of the highlights of my visit was a nice looking young male nurse who offered to help me off with my gown (and disconnect my hoses) so I could take my bath - I haven't had such a great offer since my darling husband was a young man making me a similar offer. Even the lab people responded with humor when they needed my blood, but I assured them I had already given at the office.

Seriously, I would bring to your attention a young nurse named Stacie who was on duty two of the days I was there and was the nurse to sign me out. She was so outstanding and professional in everything she did - and had a smile that would light up the world. A very young graduate of Wright State University, she personifies what nursing is all about - thorough and caring - she represents you well - as did all the nurses I met.

Thanks for an interesting week - and getting me back on my feet.