GRATITUDE: For responders and health care professionals

On Nov. 29, early in the evening, I felt I had the early stages of a heart attack. My wife immediately called 9-1-1. The dispatcher was calm and professional helping my wife stay calm while answering all his questions.  

The EMTs, who arrived very quickly, were also calm and informative as one of them questioned me and ran some tests. While he and I were undecided whether I should go to the hospital, my wife made up our minds and we were off in the ambulance. 

Everyone at Kootenai Health Emergency Department was calm, professional and answered my questions to the best of their ability and authority. They had great senses of humor and tolerance (I can be a wise-ass, so I’m told). The next day, I was administered more tests, including a stress test. Again, the staff was professional yet friendly putting me at ease. As it turns out, this was not cardiac-related but is a medical mystery, an undecipherable anomaly.  

While I cannot remember the names of all who took care of me, they know who they are. They are the best! 

With Respect and Affection, 

CHARLES L. FARREY

Hayden