LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Having just read “Gift of the Heart” [Feb. 11] regarding the wonderful

nurses at Hoag Hospital, I felt I must write what that story means to me.

I had open heart bypass surgery at Hoag way back in 1974 and have had

five granddaughters and six great-grandchildren born there. I am familiar

with the wonderful care offered by the nursing and support staff.

Over New Year’s and again from Feb. 5 to 9, I was a patient in the

Cardiac Care Unit. I was having severe problems with my heart and

kidneys.

I was deeply touched by the story. And to see one of my darling,

caring nurses, Josie Lo Coco, in the photo with that story melted my

heart.

During my time in the Cardiac Care Unit, I was attended by so many

RNs, charge nurses, orderlies and support staff that it was impossible to

learn all their names. However, all of them were outstanding in their

care for me. Without exception all brought a warm aura of light into the

room as they entered, smiling and greeting me by name.

[They were] efficient to the nth degree, very careful of how they

worked on me, all the while giving me encouragement and confidence that

all would be OK.

So many of them hugged and kissed me on the forehead or cheek (I am 87

years of age and felt like a grandpa to them, I guess). Holding my hand

while they gave me instructions was so warm and confidence-building in my

time of worry and stress.

My cardiologist, Dr. Neala Hunter, was also like a breath of fresh air

when she came into the room. [She] held my hand as she checked me over

and updated me on [the] procedures that were to follow.

It is impossible to say an adequate thank you because when I think of

their kindness to me, my eyes fill with tears of happiness.

I promised them I would be back to visit and personally repeat my

thanks for their wonderful attitude of warmth, love and care.

From the deepest recesses of my mended, wounded, badly worn heart, I

say a hearty God bless them one and all.

LEONARD M. McNUTT

Costa Mesa