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The Angels of TorontoRules can be broken and policies changed. When International Art Treasures Web Magazine began one of the numerous ways we choose to be different was not including any personal notes in the writings, not even in the Editor's Note. As our readers have noticed February's edition is late. Trust me I would have preferred to be at my desk than facing unexpected emergency surgery at the end of January. As one who is notoriously healthy this was my first encounter with the nursing profession en masse and their dedication and compassion shone and deserves only the highest accolades. The doctors were good; the nurses outstanding. To those who enjoy International Art Treasures Web Magazine may I make three suggestions from my experience. First, when in the best of health, I strongly recommend an annual physical. My one and only symptom was extremely minor, just a reoccurring stomach pain; the surgery was extensive. The medical profession came together to try and ascertain the cause. The possibilities were truly endless and it meant multiple tests in a process of elimination. Of great help was my habit of having a yearly physical while in good health. That provided a point of comparison, with the current tests showing markedly different results. Second, listen to your body. The problem I encountered was a simple irritant, often dismissed out of hand as if something I ate disagreed with me. Noticing that it continued I decided it was worth exploration and discussion with my personal physician. On that day he ordered a slew of examinations and tests, including the ones that ultimately disclosed the cause. Third, listen to the profession of angels: The Nurses. Being a patient at a hospital was a new experience and the question of how to heal faster, after the surgery, was predominant for someone who wanted their life back tout de suite. The voices of experience helped not only with the physical suggestions, the more walking one does the faster one heals. I took that to heart and can't count the number of times I lapped the hospital wing where I stayed. It wasn't easy at first, actually it was incredibly painful, but each time it became infinitesimally easier. They also helped with the emotional side affects, each patient reacts differently and requires individual care depending on their own circumstances. They gave just as much TLC as I needed. It continued upon leaving hospital with daily visits from the phenomenal team of home care nurses to check on my condition and of course change the bandages. My health battle is not over, in many ways it is just beginning but it is a battle that I plan to win. To all the medical professionals who saw and see to my care, the nurses, the orderlies, physiotherapists, dietitians and the doctors, they have my thanks. To my readers I appreciate your patience. Returning to the primary purpose of International Art Treasures Web Magazine, art, if you do visit the Humber River Regional Hospital, Church Street Site, be sure to view the Salvatore Gallo landscapes of the surrounding Humber River area. They can be found on the first floor across from the Chapel. |