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Mid Coast–Parkview Health Grateful Patients
Printed 6/9/2023 from:

Mid Coast Hospital
Mid Coast Hospital Grateful Patients Brunswick, Maine

This page:
www.midcoasthealth.com/grateful/patient-stories/?k=1

Grateful Moments, Grateful Patients. For you or a loved one...Did someone at Mid Coast make a difference in your life? Read and share stories. Visit us at:
www.midcoasthealth.com/grateful
Call grateful at:
(207)373-6585

 

Stories from Patients and Families

Karen's Story: Eyes on the Summit

Knee replacement brought my life back. I have no idea where I'd be today if I hadn't done it.
 
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TODAY'S FEATURED STORY:
Shining Stars

Recently, my husband and my sister have been under the care of the nurses, doctors, and other ancillary providers at Mid Coast Hospital. As a retired medical professional, I want to share how impressed I am, as they, with the loving kindness we have been surrounded by during the past few months.
Recently, my husband and my sister have been under the care of the nurses, doctors, and other ancillary providers at Mid Coast Hospital. As a retired medical professional, I want to share how impressed I am, as they, with the loving kindness we have been surrounded by during the past few months. You all are shining stars. It is with much gratitude to all of you that I share how much I appreciate all that you do.
Judi E.
Whitefield, Maine
 

Incredible Care

We received incredible care from the time we walked into the Emergency Department until she was delivered to the curb to go home.
My mother was admitted to the hospital with severe shortness of breath. We received incredible care from the time we walked into the Emergency Department until she was delivered to the curb to go home. Everyone made my mother feel comfortable: from giving her warm blankets to calling her "Mrs." instead of her first name. The nurses were attentive and genuinely concerned caregivers. The doctors were communicative, patient, and detailed regarding diagnosis and subsequent steps. Thank you so much, Mid Coast Hospital.
Martha T.
Harpswell, Maine
 

Karen's Story: Eyes on the SummitHas a video

Knee replacement brought my life back. I have no idea where I'd be today if I hadn't done it.
 

Hope's Story: Comfortable at Home & Loving LifeHas a video

I love living at Mid Coast Senior Health. This is my home, and I love my life.
 

Grateful for Compassionate Cancer Care

The Mid Coast Medical Group-Cancer & Blood Disorders team always shows a high level of commitment to my care and to me.
One day, I came into the practice crying that I had hit rock bottom. Mikee Spaulding's presence and kind words were very comforting. I appreciate the level of commitment to my care and to me.

I am also impressed by the thoroughness of the Mid Coast Medical Group-Cancer & Blood Disorders team's evaluations. Each time I consult with them, they consistently ask and truly listen to any side effects I may have from my cancer treatments. Action is taken immediately.

With all my heart and soul, I thank you for always doing what you feel is right for me. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for being there through the pain and through the celebration.
Michele O.
Brunswick, Maine
 

Comforted by the Little Amenities

I recently had day surgery at Mid Coast Hospital. I love the little amenities that Mid Coast provides to make its patients comfortable.
The warm blankets I received when I was settling in were very welcoming. Then, the numbing injection I received prior to having my IV line placed made it the most comfortable IV I have ever had. From being able to keep my sleeve rolled down under the blood pressure cuff to the post-operative cup of hot tea with a toasted English muffin, all these little details show just how much Mid Coast Hospital cared about making my stay that much easier. I will always choose Mid Coast Hospital!
Terry S.
Sabattus, Maine
 

Thank You from the Bottom of My Heart

My dear mother was a patient at Mid Coast Hospital in March 2017 and then again in September 2017. She had the best care from the wonderful Doctors, Nurses, CNA, PT, OT, and many others who cared for her. Thank you all for making my Mother comfortable her last days of her life. She loved and spoke very highly of all of you.
Dr. Benton thank you for all you did and your office for the many phone calls I made to try to get answers to help my Mother. You were very professional and patient with me and I will always be? grateful. On the day my Mom passed away I met Dr. Bussone. I will never forget how kind he was to me. I spoke to him regarding my Mother he was so caring. My Mother was so blessed to have these remarkable Physicians caring for her. I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I will be forever grateful.
Kim L.
Topsham, Maine
 

Always Looking Out for Me

I've had multiple tests done this year. In every single instance, the nurses gave me great comfort, and were always looking out for me.
Thank you so much for that! Thanks for seeing my humanity.
Susan M.
Augusta, Maine
 

Courteous and Friendly

From the minute I walked in the door to the time we left, I felt welcomed.
I had my youngest grandson there today for having his tonsils and adenoids out. I had never been to this hospital before and was worried. But, from the minute I walked in the door to the time we left I felt welcomed, and very pleased with the care we received. Everyone was so courteous and friendly. They took care of my grandson like he was their own. They treated me wonderful and not once did I feel unwelcome. I give big kudos out to all the pediatric staff and hospital staff. Even at the front of the building and the parking lot. As we was walking to our vehicle in the rain, a nice gentleman in a cart stopped to ask if we wanted a ride. I would not hesitate to come back to this hospital and will always put in a good word for you all. THANK YOU all.
Crystal T.
Mechanic Falls, Maine
 

Hospital Staff Went Above and Beyond

I was quickly put at ease by the competent, friendly, and caring doctors and nurses on staff.
I arrived at the emergency room after riding a tour bus three days from Iowa to see the fall colors of Maine. I was very frightened being so far from home, but I was quickly put at ease by the competent, friendly, and caring doctors and nurses on staff. We were amazed at the availability of various test in the middle of the night; that were used as diagnostic tools to be able to quickly assess and diagnosis my condition. Once I was admitted to ICU I was monitored around the clock, which made me feel very confident about the care I was receiving. The hospital staff went above and beyond to organize and help us coordinate my meds, and safe transportation home to Iowa to complete my recovery. I have very fond memories of all the people from Maine we met, and were helped by, during this medical emergency.
Jonell C.
Mount Ayr, Iowa
 

Totally Enamored of Mid Coast Hospital!

I was plagued for years with osteoarthritis in my left knee. Gardening, lawn mowing, and walking the dog were no longer possible without debilitating pain. I am now back to walking the dog, and shoveling snow with ease. I even helped my husband paint our house at the end of the summer. I am totally enamored of Mid Coast Hospital!
 

10 Days After Surgery I Was Back on My Exercise Bike

Before my surgery I had osteoarthritis in both knees. A skiing accident two years ago dislocated my left knee cap and accelerated the arthritic process. It was pretty discouraging to have no quality of life at age 50! Ten days after surgery I was back on my exercise bike. I've lost 10 pounds, and I'm ready now to have the right knee replaced.
 

Outstanding Care

The care and treatment I received during my hip replacement surgery was nothing but outstanding. The surgical team, staff of nurses, and therapists, as well as administrative personnel, could not have been more professional, efficient, and friendly. Your new facilities are impressive to say the least.
 

Knee Replacement

I couldn't be happier. I'm back to teaching karate to kids and I hope to test for my black belt within the year. Frankly I'm just happy to be walking up and down stairs pain-free.
 

Total Right Knee Replacement

After the surgery, I got wonderful care at Mid Coast Hospital The nurses took really good care of me. The therapists were very thorough, explaining how to do all my exercises. I spent a week at Senior Health Center's Bodwell Rehabilitation Center after my hospital stay.
I began having trouble with my knee in 2004. It would swell up and be very painful. It got worse over the next two years. It hurt to stand. I couldn't put any weight on it. At that time I went Mid Coast Medical Group-Orthopedics, and had arthroscopic surgery to repair a torn meniscus.

Two years later, I began having pain again. X-rays showed that my meniscus was now completely worn away. It was time to have the knee replaced.

The doctor explained the surgery to me. Using a skeleton and pictures, he showed me how the surgery would go. He also showed me the artificial knee that he would be using to replace my damaged knee.

After the surgery, I got wonderful care at Mid Coast Hospital The nurses took really good care of me. The therapists were very thorough, explaining how to do all my exercises. I spent a week at Senior Health Center's Bodwell Rehabilitation Center after my hospital stay.

I continue to do my exercises to keep my knee strong. I can go up stairs without pain and take long walks again. I am also back doing my volunteer work at Mid Coast Hospital. I even danced with my grandson at a recent family wedding.
Lenore S.
 

Total Left Knee Replacement

My post surgery stay at Mid Coast Hospital was wonderful. I am really impressed by the high level of nursing care I received. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.
I was plagued for years with osteoarthritis in my left knee. Gardening, lawn mowing and walking the dog were no longer possible without debilitating pain. When arthroscopic surgery and synovial fluid injections failed to relieve the pain, I followed a friend's recommendation and consulted Mid Coast Medical Group-Orthopedics.

They discussed the pros and cons of surgery and the related risks with me. I was given reading materials to help me understand what the surgery and post surgery experiences would entail. I felt very well prepared by the time I went into the hospital.

My post surgery stay at Mid Coast Hospital was wonderful. I am really impressed by the high level of nursing care I received. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

I was walking pretty well by the time I returned home and needed only a couple of weeks of further physical therapy.

I am now back to walking the dog, and shoveling snow with ease. I even helped my husband paint our house at the end of the summer. I am totally enamored of Mid Coast Hospital!
Allison C.
 

Total Right Hip Replacement

In the hospital, I had a private room on the new Medical/Surgical Unit. It was as comfortable as home. My care team was caring and attentive. They were very attentive to my husband, too, whenever he was with me.
Prior to my surgery I had been experiencing pain in my hip for over a year. When it got so bad that I couldn't even bend over to put on my socks, I knew I couldn't put off the surgery any longer.

From the first appointment with Mid Coast Medical Group-Orthopedics, they put me at ease. Preparation for my [hip replacement] surgery proceeded at my pace. There was no push to have me undergo the surgery until I was ready. Everything went very smoothly.

In the hospital, I had a private room on the new Medical/Surgical Unit. It was as comfortable as home. My care team was caring and attentive. They were very attentive to my husband, too, whenever he was with me. I was told every day who would be caring for me. The nurses, aides, and physical and occupational therapists explained everything that was going to be done so that I felt very comfortable in their care. I had therapy every day, sometimes 2 or 3 times, so that my recovery progressed very well.

Now I can walk without pain. I am back to exercising and lifting weights. If I had known it was going to be this easy, I would have had the surgery done a long time ago!
Joan G.
 

Right hip replacement

Following my surgery, I felt like a new person. The discomfort was mild compared to the pain I had been in before the surgery. My physical therapist, Donna, was excellent. She looked out for me, working with me every day, encouraging me when I got frustrated, beyond anything I could hope for. She was my lifeline.
I developed arthritis in my hip three to four years ago, but like most guys, I guess, I figured I could live with the pain. My doctor and I talked about "doing something" each time I saw him. Finally, he told me, "When you can't stand it anymore, let me know." When I could no longer run and was limping with every step, I knew it was time to go to Mid Coast Medical Group-Orthopedics

The doctor went over the hip replacement procedure with me, explaining very thoroughly what would take place, and how long it would take to be rehabilitated after surgery. Mid Coast Hospital provided me with packet of information and a website to look at to learn more.

Following my surgery, I felt like a new person. The discomfort was mild compared to the pain I had been in before the surgery. My physical therapist, Donna, was excellent. She looked out for me, working with me every day, encouraging me when I got frustrated, beyond anything I could hope for. She was my lifeline.

After my discharge from Mid Coast, I continued to do all the exercises I was asked to do. Within a week I was driving my car, and before long I was back to weight lifting and playing racquet ball twice a week.

As far as I am concerned, hip replacement surgery is a miracle of modern medicine. I feel great.
Earl T.
 

Total Replacement of Both knees

My surgeries were performed two weeks apart and went very well. I got excellent care at Mid Coast Hospital and at their Bodwell Rehabilitation Center between and after my surgeries. Now I no longer need my walker and can walk without pain for the first time in 5 years.
Before my surgery I was in constant pain. I had to move in with my daughter, because my mobility was so limited, I could no longer live alone. I couldn't walk or do household chores, yet I was reluctant to have surgery, because I didn't know any of the doctors in the area. When the pain got bad enough, though, I contacted my doctor in Farmington, and he recommended I go to Mid Coast Medical Group?Orthopedics.

The staff was very friendly. They explained everything that would happen before, during and after the surgeries. Even though some of my friends thought I was crazy to do it, I decided to have both of my knees replaced.

My surgeries were performed two weeks apart and went very well. I got excellent care at Mid Coast Hospital and at Mid Coast Senior Health's Bodwell Rehabilitation Center between and after my surgeries.

Now I no longer need my walker and can walk without pain for the first time in 5 years.
Irene W.
 

Bilateral Knee Replacement

The care I received at Mid Coast Hospital was fantastic. The nursing staff was wonderful. My two therapists, Donna and Buffie, were the best.
I really waited too long to make the decision about having my knees replaced. I spent years in constant pain, taking ibuprofen every few hours just to get through the day. As a delivery truck driver, I was constantly stressing my knees, climbing in and out of the truck, moving pallet-loads of products. Every time I pushed in the clutch to change gears, I felt pain, like a knife, rip through my knees. My primary care physician finally convinced me that I should see Mid Coast Medical Group-Orthopedics and talk about surgery.

From our first meeting, the doctor put me at ease. He and his team took x-rays that showed I had severe rheumatoid arthritis. He immediately put me in touch with a rheumatologist to help me get my disease under control. Once I did that, they were ready to operate on the first knee.

Each of my surgeries, three months apart, was a little longer than most, as they had to do some bone repair and cyst removal in addition to the joint replacement, due to my long untreated rheumatoid arthritis, but I came through both of them fine.

The care I received at Mid Coast Hospital was fantastic. The nursing staff was wonderful. My two therapists, Donna and Buffie, were the best. The pain management was very good. Whenever I got too uncomfortable, I was able to get immediate relief with just the push of a button. Quite frankly, the pain after the surgeries was mild compared with the pain I experienced before my surgeries.

I finished up my physical and occupational therapy at Coastal Orthopedics after my hospital discharge. I went from having 87% of knee flexion before surgery to 117% of flexion after surgery and rehab.

Now I am back to work, delivering 20-40 thousand pounds of products each day without any pain. Before my surgery, I was 56 years old and felt like I was 76. Now at 58, I feel like a 40 year old. Knee replacement surgery was the best thing I have ever done for myself.
Joseph M.
 

Total Knee Replacement

Once the decision was made, everything progressed very smoothly. There were no surprises. The surgery and my hospital stay went without a hitch. I got really wonderful nursing care, and physical and occupational therapy.
Before my surgery I had osteoarthritis in both knees, with the right worse than the left. A skiing accident two years ago dislocated my left knee cap, tore the ACL and a lot of cartilage, and accelerated the arthritic process. Because I was only 49 years old, the doctor was reluctant to replace my knee. So I embarked on a year-long course of treatment that included arthroscopic surgery to remove cartilage, injections, and physical therapy to keep the muscles around the knee strong. Following physical therapy, I continued with the exercises the therapist had given me, but the pain did not abate. My knee often swelled up and was so painful that I couldn't walk the dogs, go grocery shopping or climb stairs.

It was pretty discouraging to have no quality of life at age 50! The team at Mid Coast Medical Group-Orthopedics and I talked over my options and decided that total knee replacement was needed.

Once the decision was made, everything progressed very smoothly. There were no surprises. The surgery and my hospital stay went without a hitch. I got really wonderful nursing care, and physical and occupational therapy. I was able to come home with crutches, and able to put weight on my knee. Ten days after surgery I as back on my exercise bike. I've lost 10 pounds, and I'm ready now to have the right knee replaced.
Carrie S.
 

A Sincere "Thank You"

I recently had some cardiac evaluation studies at Mid Coast Hospital. The first person I talked to was the receptionist Debbie. She was friendly, professional and did a thorough intake.
Following that, I had a echo-cardiogram by a technician named Christopher. He was also friendly and caring, and did a thorough exam.

We need more people like both of them in the healthcare profession. People who know me will tell you that I speak my mind and from it comes a sincere "thank you" to both of them.
Elly C.
Harpswell, Maine
 

Exceeded My Expectations

I recently spent a week at Mid Coast Hospital. In what was an extremely painful week for me, there was much goodness that came from the experience.
First of all I wouldn't have met all the wonderful people that I did. Everyone exceeded my expectations and I felt as though I was actually receiving some special treatment.

From food and maintenance to the doctors and nurses and the whole team, I was overwhelmed with the very apparent camaraderie and team work. I do understand that these are chosen and highly trained professionals, however at Mid Coast Hospital, everyone that I met was definitely a cut above! And now, I am home recovering with the help of CHANS Home Health & Hospice, and I am equally impressed. All exceeding my expectations.

For me personally, it gave me some personal time to reflect, meditate, pray, or whatever word describes best how to become healthy again. Thank you.
Penny M.
Orrs Island, Maine
 

Thanks to Thornton Hall Assisted Living

I wanted to follow up to let you know how thankful I am for all your help to get my mother an apartment as fast as you did. And to let you know that she is slowly improving thanks to all the wonderful help at TH [Thornton Hall Assisted Living]!
We had a doctor's appointment yesterday and she has gained over 5 pounds since moving into her apartment! She still has a ways to go but I am optimistic given her new environment and all the help she has available to her. As I think I told you, I had to take a significant amount of time off work to care for her in early June. If I hadn't done that, and if we would have had to wait much longer for an apartment, she probably would have landed in the hospital because she was getting to the point that she would was just staying in bed all day and would not eat or take her meds. It would have been so hard for me to continue caring for her much longer - I think your efforts played a part in saving her life, literally.
Karen
 

Nothing but Praise

Absolutely the best treatment this morning in the Emergency Department.
Starting with admission, admission nurse, Dr. Sampson and finally Nurse Paula. All staff were very professional and caring. I have nothing but praise for everyone. You are the Best!
William V.
Bath, Maine
 

Like No Other Place

Thank you all at Mid Coast for all you have done for me, showing warmth and caring at all times for the patients.
Especially all the people associated with Dr. Chase's office. You all have shown me nothing but kindness and support like no other place I've ever been in. Best to all who have helped me get better.
Bradley H.
Freeport, Maine
 

A Sense of Security

I brought my girlfriend to your hospital a couple of times for an evaluation. Right from the get go the entire staff was very friendly and caring.
The security personal went well beyond to make us feel comfortable and relaxed in such a stressful time. Every one was great and caring. When I had to leave, I felt a sense of security, as I knew she was in great hands. When I was able to visit the Behavioral Health department was outstanding and I couldn't have asked for better staff. A lot was one-on-one treatment and that's a plus in my book. That tells me you all actually care for your patients. Thank you!
Ken P.
South Portland, Maine
 

Best Hospital in the Midcoast

I have had a week long stay here and have NOT had a bad experience here.
I have had a week long stay here and have NOT had a bad experience here. All the staff, too many to name, have been great. I could not have asked for better staff. I would recommend anyone to this hospital. I want to say thank you to everyone. This is the best hospital in the Midcoast. Thank you and keep up the great work.

Rita B.
Walpole, Maine
 

What an Amazing Group of People

I am so grateful to every single person I encountered during my labor and delivery at Mid Coast.
As one of the most - if not THE most - important days of my life, it has been etched into my memory as a time of joy, laughter, kindness, braveness, and teamwork! I did not have an easy labor by any means and am certain that my memory of it would be much less positive if it were not for all the nurses, docs, etc. who cheered me on and helped me proudly bring my beautiful daughter into the world. Special thanks to Dr. Anderson for always making me feel heard and giving me such great care throughout the entire journey. What an amazing group of people there is up in labor and delivery!
Ashley L.
Topsham, Maine
 

Singing the Praises of Mid Coast Hospital

My deepest thanks to the staff of the ER and the Cardiac ICU and every other department that supports them. I was brought in by ambulance last Thursday and I hadn't been in a hospital as a patient since I was 7 years old...almost 60 years ago.
I was terrified but everyone was so caring, professional, and efficient and everyone had a good sense of humor, all of which put me at as much ease as possible under the circumstances. My ICU nurses, David, Zac, Michael, and Michael, were just wonderful. The discharge case worker was amazing and with the cardiologist made gargantuan efforts to work with my insurer on covering the new prescriptions. I have been singing the praises of this hospital and staff since my discharge...to anyone who will listen. Thank you all from the bottom of my healing heart.
Cheryl W.
Freeport, Maine
Stories are provided by patients, family members and friends of Mid Coast. If you have a concern about anything written, including inappropriate, inaccurate or copyrighted materials, please contact the Public Affairs Office (207) 373-6052 or email publicaffairs@midcoasthealth.com as soon as possible.
 

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