Below is a letter from Valley resident Jack Grinyer expressing his gratitude for the very special care his late wife, Anne Hansen received during her final stay at St. Joseph’s Hospital. His letter is addressed to the Third Floor staff and all other staff at St. Joseph’s Hospital.

On July 28, 2010 my wife, Anne Hansen, was admitted to St. Joseph’s Hospital in the final stages of her courageous battle with lung cancer. After the first few days we were told she would not be going home. She passed away three weeks later, on August 18, 2010.

At this time, on behalf of my late wife, and myself I would like to express from the bottom of our hearts, gratitude to the palliative care team for the impeccable service they all provided to Anne in her last days. They allowed her to keep her dignity until the end. They made her room as comfortable and closest to a home atmosphere as possible. They serve their motto well.

For me, the constant support and ongoing updates from the staff and making sure my well-being was good during this stressful period was more than beyond their normal duties. So, ladies and gentlemen of the Third Floor, I stand and applaud you all.

As for the other departments of St. Joseph’s Hospital, you are equally entitled to a ‘big congratulations’ for the job performance that is displayed throughout the hospital. People sometimes don’t really understand the total involvement of staff until the reality check that comes when their spouse or close family member is suddenly admitted as a patient at St. Joseph’s.

In appreciation it was a decision I made along with my wife before her passing to do something special for the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation. I, with the help of Steve Hill, Director of Pastoral Care, and Foundation Executive Director, Lynn Dashkewytch, arranged a special tea for all the hospital staff. At this tea I presented the Foundation with a continuing bursary of $500 a year for the next five years in honor of my wife who, for 40 years, was an educator.

It is of great importance that our local community shares what is possible to keep the community united. St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation disburses donations they receive to St. Joseph’s General Hospital to enhance services and support equipment needs for St. Joseph’s.

Community communication and support from the Comox Valley is vital to help meet all needs, and if we all try to have some input success will be achieved.