"My heart attack experience at Myrtleford Hospital"

Recently, I presented to the hospital in Myrtleford with severe chest pain. I was immediately taken into a cubicle and an ECG was performed, whilst other nurses were quick to get in two cannulas. It was determined that I had had a heart attack (later confirmed to be a SCAD heart attack). Three nurses were involved in my care from the very start. Their names are Lisa, Charm and Liz. A local GP, Dr Bill, was also quickly called in. Drugs were administered for pain and the actual heart attack, and an air ambulance was organised for a medical evacuation to Geelong (we are from Geelong, and Melbourne CCU's were at capacity we gather).

I write today to express my extreme thanks for the high level of professional care that I was given at Myrtleford Hospital. I felt safe and well cared for from the moment I walked in. It was a shocking and very scary time for me (and my husband). All the staff were wonderful. Lisa in particular took the time to talk me through the very scary time. Her caring interactions with me certainly helped keep me calm and understanding of what was going on. I can't compliment her highly enough. I don't have a medical background. A heart attack is such a scary and emotive term. I was also in a lot of pain. Lisa was wonderful.

She also took the time to speak to my husband after I had left in the ambulance, to check that he also was OK. My husband is a not long retired GP. He agrees, I was always in good hands.

I don't think that I'm being overly dramatic in stating that I really believe that the quick treatment at Myrtleford Hospital may well have saved my life. I'll be eternally grateful for the prompt and appropriate care I received that afternoon.

I can only express my heartfelt (no pun intended!) thanks to the team at Myrtleford. 

I am now home in Geelong and feeling quite well. Cardiac Rehabilitation commences for me this week. I am well on the way to full recovery.