Hoag’s patient care is already the tops

Michael Leigh

After reading “Hoag intensifies critically ill patient care” (Aug.

21), I’d like to add some kudos to Hoag Hospital and its staff. They

have a great critical care unit, and we’re lucky to have it.

Last April, I was hospitalized in critical care for a nearly

terminal case of pneumonia. I was to be married at the end of May, so

the struggle was especially emotional for my intended, Diane.

The staff, including the wonderfully cheerful and efficient Dr.

Herb Rogove, was simply outstanding in every way. I’m speaking, not

only of the exceptional doctors, but the nursing staff.

While I certainly applaud Rogove’s efforts to keep “a physician

available 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” even the old system he

seeks to improve upon was superior.

My life was saved at least twice by nurses and medical

technicians, even when doctors were not immediately present.

Furthermore, they went out of their way to take care of Diane, who

slept in a chair by my side until I was out of danger.

It was not an exaggeration to say that the nurses and techs became

as dear to us as friends and family during the process of healing.

Diane bought small gifts for a few of the key participants, but we

soon realized that we could never offer enough to compensate them for

their gift to us, my life.

Thanks, guys and gals, and keep up the great work.

* MICHAEL LEIGH is a Costa Mesa resident and an Orange Coast

College professor.