"A Breath of Care: Our Visit to Emerg"

It was one of those days no parent ever wants to face—my son was struggling to breathe, and we knew we had to get to the emergency department. The anxiety was overwhelming, but from the moment we stepped into the Alberta Children’s Hospital, something shifted.

A kind volunteer greeted us right at the entrance. With a warm smile and calm demeanor, he gently guided us to the appropriate line and explained where to sit after triage. It may seem like a small gesture, but in that moment of high stress, it made a world of difference. That simple act of orientation helped ground us and made the environment feel less intimidating.

After triage, we didn’t wait long. An emergency doctor came directly to the waiting room and brought us in himself. What stood out immediately was his presence—he didn’t just treat my son; he connected with him. He knelt to his level, made eye contact, and spoke in a way that was both reassuring and respectful. He even took the vitals himself, which added a personal touch that made us feel seen and cared for.

Throughout our visit, the doctor was exceptional. He kept us informed at every step—explaining what tests were being done, what the results meant, and what the treatment plan would be. His professionalism and empathy turned a frightening experience into one where we felt supported and safe.

There was one moment, however, that gave me pause. The doctor brought an oral medication for my son, but it wasn’t labeled. While he assured me it was the correct medication and dosage, it felt like a moment where I had to rely solely on trust. In a setting where there’s an inherent power dynamic and a deep need for urgent care, that lack of labeling introduced a sliver of uncertainty. Clear labeling would have reinforced the transparency and trust that the rest of the visit so beautifully upheld.

Despite that, our overall experience was overwhelmingly positive. The care we received was not only clinically sound but also deeply human. We left the hospital with my son breathing easier—and with hearts a little lighter, too.