To the Editor:

I recently had an unexpected stay at Tobey Hospital for abdominal pain. I went to the ER on a Monday evening. They were busy treating other patients, but took my information and did the usual vitals. I sat there as patiently as I could considering the pain I was in. My wife went to notify the nurse of an increase in pain and the nurse took me into ER.

After all the tests they did, a they determined that it could be an internal blockage. I was brought up to the second floor for observation. My stay on the second floor lasted a week.

The care I got from the staff on the second floor was, to say the least, outstanding. Everyone from the team leader, nurses, nurses aides, students, and housekeeping staff was awesome.

I know this might sound strange that a person could enjoy a stay in a hospital, but I did. You could see the professionalism, care for the patient, and the great personalities they all had. Every time someone came into the room, they would always ask how I was doing and if I needed anything. I was going through a rough time with this, but the staff would try to keep me informed and upbeat.

On Thursday morning, one of the nurses had come in to do her rounds and found I was in a lot of pain. She did everything she could think of to relieve my pain, but to no avail. She was in contact with the doctor about my situation the entire time. The genuine concern this woman showed for my wellbeing I felt was above and beyond. The concern the staff showed me was amazing. I went in for surgery later that day for a hernia. I spent a few more days there before being released.

Nowadays, the people at a hospital who treat you don't get the recognition they deserve. I know they did not get into this career for the accolades, but I could at least do this to show them what an outstanding job they do. I have had a few hospital stays in my life, but nothing compares to the care and treatment I received from the staff on the second floor at Tobey Hospital.

Phil Cleveland