They were there - when every second counted...

I want to share a story that reminds me why the care at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital means so much to me and my family.

It’s not a story about big headlines or dramatic moments. It’s about skilled hands, thoughtful decisions, and the kind of compassion that gives families something truly priceless: more time together.

My mother is 96—sharp, practical, and fiercely independent. After a lifetime of looking after herself, she had recently moved in with me so I could provide a little extra support. Then, one winter evening, everything changed. She became suddenly and seriously ill.

Trusting my instincts, I brought her to Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital. From the moment we walked through the doors, we were met with kindness, attentiveness, and—most importantly—people who took the time to listen.

A careful review of her tests uncovered something much more serious than we had anticipated: a bowel obstruction, caused by scar tissue from a surgery more than 60 years ago. It was rare and hidden—something that could have easily been missed.

But it wasn’t.

From an attentive resident in training to the experienced physicians on call, the entire team acted with precision, collaboration, and compassion. One decision after another led us to the operating room, where we met Dr. Jain, the surgeon on call.

Dr. Jain and Dr. Holliday in surgery, joined by a student physician—demonstrating the precision, teamwork, and compassion that gave one family more time together.

He was calm, honest, and incredibly kind. He explained the risks with such clarity and care. After listening carefully, my mother looked him in the eye and said with quiet confidence, “Just tell me when it can be done.” Dr. Jain smiled and replied, “We’ll be ready in just a few hours.”

It was well past regular working hours, but there was no hesitation. The team simply did what needed to be done. The surgery was a complete success.

Today, my mom is back home—and nearly as strong as she was before. We’re breathing easier. We’re still laughing around the dinner table. And we’re deeply grateful for every moment we still get to share with her.

At so many moments where it could have gone differently, it didn’t—because every person, from a young resident to a seasoned surgeon, took the time to care.

That’s why I’m sharing our story. Because care like this doesn’t just happen. It’s made possible by a community that invests in it.

At the Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital Foundation, they work every day to ensure that our hospital’s physicians and healthcare teams have access to the tools, technology, and training they need. While government funding covers the basics, it’s our generosity—yours and mine—that helps keep care exceptional and responsive.

A gift in honour of a doctor or healthcare professional is more than a tribute—it’s a powerful investment in the future of local healthcare. Your donation supports life-saving equipment, continuing staff education, and patient care enhancements that benefit us all.

Yes, everything seems expensive these days—especially healthcare. But I’ve learned that some things are just worth it.

Please join me in celebrating the extraordinary commitment of our medical teams. Make a gift in honour of someone who made a difference in your care or the care of someone you love.

— Eleanor Darke

Grateful daughter