Great hospital, city the place to be for help

This letter is to thank and acknowledge your great city for the medical care that you provide and support. On Dec. 23, I was admitted to the Emergency Department at Providence Regional Medical Center Everett due to pain in my legs and lower back. I live in Eastern Washington. Earlier in the day I had an appointment at a hospital in Wenatchee, only to be sent home for another month before I could see the surgeon. I had an appointment for consultation with Dr. Sanford Wright set for Jan. 3, 2012.

We have four children and although I was in pain, we headed to the greater Seattle/Everett area to Christmas shop. I no sooner checked into my hotel room, and the pain and numbness began to intensify. I called Dr. Wright's office and spoke with his nurse. She advised me to go to the emergency room and tell the ER doctor to advise Dr. Wright, while in surgery, that I was in the ER.

I was amazed how kindly and quickly the staff responded. That very night I began the process of what would be a back surgery. During the six days I spent at Providence I was treated with such kindness, caring and respect. I will never forget. The local community of Everett and surrounding area are so fortunate to have this type of staffing and experience. Thank you all for not telling me to take more pain pills, but to take care of the problem. I know what doctor, hospital and city I will use in the future.

With great respect,

Bonnie Stell-Hickman
Oroville