Story written by Uxbridge Hospital Foundation.
How an exceptional experience at Uxbridge Hospital convinced one grateful patient to give back
A visit to the hospital is rarely something people look forward to. Whether you’re feeling unwell, awaiting a difficult diagnosis, undergoing a complex procedure, or simply being a source of support for a loved one, walking through those doors can be overwhelming.
However, for Katie, an Uxbridge resident, it was the kindness and talent of the team at Uxbridge Hospital that put her at ease.
A self-proclaimed anxious individual, Katie made an unexpected visit to the Emergency Department one Monday morning. From the moment she walked through the sliding doors and into the lobby, she was greeted with friendly faces and reassuring support.
“My first interaction at Uxbridge Hospital was with the volunteer at the welcome desk, who immediately quelled my anxiety,” says Katie. “She was so warm and reassured me that I would be taken great care of at the hospital. It was exactly what I needed to hear at that moment.”
And as Katie was guided down the hall towards the Emergency Department, those first comforting impressions introduced her to exactly the type of compassionate care she could expect throughout the rest of her visit.
“From the doctors to the nurses to the support staff, everyone at Uxbridge Hospital was so efficient, professional, and, above all, kind,” says Katie. “I felt heard and cared for, and they genuinely prioritized my well-being. I know it might sound strange to say about a hospital, but it truly was just such a lovely experience, one that made me appreciate what we have right here in our own backyard.”
Exceptional care like this was something Katie had long come to expect from her local hospitals, having lived in downtown Toronto for most of her life before settling in the Uxbridge region. And now, after falling in love with the area, its many nature trails, and the incredible people who bring an undeniable community spirit to Uxbridge, she says she is struck by how that spirit has carried over into the patient experience.
“I know it might sound strange to say about a hospital, but it truly was just such a lovely experience, one that made me appreciate what we have right here in our own backyard.”
Katie, grateful patient
“The staff here make you feel like family, taking the time to listen to your concerns, understand your needs, and support you through every step from treatment to follow-up,” says Katie. “And even with Uxbridge’s small community feel, its connection to a larger hospital like Markham Stouffville Hospital, with access to more specialized care and resources, means our community can feel confident that every level of care will be available to them when they need it.”
With this in mind, Katie reached out to Uxbridge Hospital Foundation directly. Motivated and inspired by her experience, she wanted to see how she could get involved — and convince others to get involved — in the future of her community and their beloved hospital.
“I’m a strong believer in giving back to your community, however you can,” says Katie. “And it doesn’t matter if it’s by donating your money or your time. If you live here and agree that having a reliable hospital in our community is important, I encourage everyone to find a way to support it, too.
“Uxbridge Hospital gave me a sense of calm and hope during a difficult time, and I want to do my part to help continue this good work long into the future.”
A growing toolkit to serve our patients
The generosity of donors like Katie is vital to securing the equipment our team needs to deliver exceptional integrated care to our patients.
Here are examples of just some of the lifesaving tools and technology that your support is bringing to Uxbridge Hospital:
Tonopen Avia Tonometer
A handheld, calibration-free tonometer measuring intraocular pressure (i.e., the fluid pressure inside the eye), which is essential in diagnosing and managing conditions like glaucoma.
ESR Automated Analyzer
A measurement device that quickly and accurately assesses the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, signalling inflammatory or autoimmune conditions, infections, or other medical issues.
Medrad Stellant Power Injector
A device used during CT scans to inject contrast dye into a patient’s body, helping doctors see detailed images of organs and blood vessels more clearly.
A version of this story appeared in Uxbridge Hospital Foundation’s holiday 2024 newsletter Our Community. Your Impact.