To the editor:

We who live on Whidbey Island are so fortunate (I could say blessed) to have a community based hospital, Whidbey General, in our backyard. I know of what I speak.

Two Sundays ago, completely unexpectedly, I found myself in need of emergency services and the hospital.

The ambulance and emergency fire personnel arrived in short order. All those who arrived were patient and kind, asked questions, while performing necessary tasks and had me in the ambulance and on the way to the hospital with efficiency. Upon arriving at the hospital the emergency room staff was calmly pleasant and efficient.

I won’t burden the reader with details but the next 24 hours I was taken care of in a superior manner. Every professional I met from the doctors, nurses, technicians, food server and maintenance woman introduced themselves, were considerate of my needs, explained their function and showed great consideration.

Our daughter, who has been in the medical field for 20 years, spent many hours with me as I was being treated. She said in her experience she had never seen a kinder, more efficient group of medical people.

No one wants a medical emergency, but almost everyone gets one at one time or another. I am so thankful that I had Whidbey General Hospital available to me and my family. The staff was exceptional. The tests were swift and the results prompt. But perhaps as important as the technical aspects of my visit was the kindness and courtesy of all. This understanding helped me control my anxiety in a difficult and uncertain circumstance.

Don’t be short-sighted when the next hospital bond issue is on the ballot. We have a wonderful service on Whidbey Island. Support the hospital bond issue. It could help save your life.

KATHRYN VON DORAN

Freeland