HEALTH CARE: Three shining stars

Christmas came early for me on Dec. 21 during a follow-up appointment in Kootenai County with Dr. Kate Kuhlman-Wood. She performed surgery on my right hand on Dec. 6 and was quick to recognize a separate complication not related to the surgery. This was only the second incidence of this condition she had witnessed.

She immediately referred me to Dr. Michael Ludwig, neurologist for an EMG as well as Robert Swider, OT for evaluation and treatment. Both health care professionals received me from her office in under one hour to facilitate an early return to the Lewiston area. This minimized after dark travel in severe winter conditions.

My wife and I have a combined excess of 70 years of employment as registered nurses. A consequence of this is that we interact with a number of health care workers who share our utter disbelief that we were seen, evaluated, treated and sent on our way with further plans for follow-up care.

All three professionals created no delays and offered only expressions of optimism and hope. We felt as though we had fallen into a Norman Rockwell painting or had been part of a Marcus Welby, MD episode.

These three represent a culture of caring that is indeed rare in our current health care environment. They are immensely appreciated by my wife and me and as well; should be recognized and appreciated by those in your community for the outstanding services they provide.

STEAVON HORNBECK

Lenore