"Professionalism in Addressing My Symptoms"

After being diagnosed with Kidney cancer that had mestisized to my lungs, lymphnoids and spleen, The professionalism of my team of Dr's came together. I was asked to go on Immunotherapy, and it was mentioned that there was a lot to learn about this drug so, to be prepared for unexpected side effects. My body had accepted each of the 4 treatments extremely well, and I was doing incredible until.....

The drug had created a toxicity in my own immune system and some of my organs were going into failure.

I was transported to Oilfields hospital by EMS, looked at by 3 different Dr's, and cared for very well although, it was a mystery as to what was wrong with me. The 3rd Dr was persistent in talking to the Arthur Child about my condition but due to a communication breakdown, I was not sent there and no conversation happened between my oncologist and the Oilfields Dr. I was transported to Foothills Hospital with the belief that I had a bad virus or bug and was put in isolation. During a 6 hour stay it was determined that because of the immunotherapy drug, I should be sent to the Arthur Child. Still under isolation for 6 more days, the ball really started rolling. With the help of Dr Piyumi, Dr Mahoney, and Dr Flynn, it was determined that although there was damage to some organs, I was going to make it and after 10 days, 3 hospitals, and a very caring nursing staff on the 9th floor of the Arthur child, I was sent home.

Downfalls: 

I do think better communication between the Arthur Child and the Oilfields would have contributed greatly to achieving the end result of being sent to the Arthur Child in the first place.

There are no TV sets in the Arthur Child, so if you are isolated to your room for six days, with only your cell phone, it becomes a very long stay

Praises:

Full credits to Dr Schaub at Oilfields, and Dr's Piyumi, Mahoney and Flynn at Arthur Child for their professionalism in addressing my symptoms and taking immediate action.

The nursing team on unit 95 at the Arthur Child floor was second to none.

I have spent very little time anywhere near a hospital prior to this event and always wanted it to remain that way, as all you ever hear are the terrible stories about our Health Care.

We do have our issues and I hope things get worked out, but I can tell you that I am very proud to live in Alberta and to have had the support and care that I received.

For those who don't understand the importance of a family Dr. 

Dr Drybrough was very instrumental in recognizing the symptoms leading up to the discovery of the diagnosis

Thank you so very much to My Health Care Professionals