A Very Nice Man

Last night Elaine and I were visiting at the hospital again. When I was in the lobby, waiting while Elaine parked the car, my Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) specialist saw me and came over with a big smile on his face. I used to see him regularly for trach changes and other examinations, but in the last year things have been going very well with my trach and I haven't had to see the ENT specialist.

When the doctor came up to me last night he said "I haven't seen you for a long time." I told him that I have been doing well with no trach problems. He said "But I have missed you." He did not remember Elaine's name and said "And how is Mrs?" He is very friendly person, originally from South Africa, and always has a smile and makes you feel good just talking to him.

In the past when I have gone to the hospital for an appointment with him, when I said which doctor I was there to see the woman at admitting said "Oh he is such a nice man." And the nurses also said to me that he is a very nice man. And when he was examining me he took the time to explain everything to Elaine and I, as well as showing nurses who are in training. No wonder the staff at the hospital like this doctor so much. Some specialists are just short and "crusty" when they talk to the patients or staff. But this specialist is so good. Last night as the ENT specialist was leaving he told me to call him any time and he will meet me if I need a trach change and my regular RT is away.

Each time when I have visited at the hospital I have seen nurses who remember me from being in hospital in 2007. Last night I talked to one of these nurses who was so happy to see how I am doing. They are so glad that I am just there as a visitor and not a patient. And so am I.