Serena’s Story

“In September 2020, I was getting my backyard ready to watch an outdoor movie on our projector. I was carrying chairs from our deck to the lawn and missed one step! I landed hard on my right ankle and knew something was horribly wrong. I did not want to go to the hospital for fear of COVID 19 and being alone on the Emergency Room, since family is not allowed in. But I knew I had no choice.

I suffer from panic attacks and severe anxiety, but I was surprised at how well I was treated by every single person at CGMH. From the lady at the registration desk, to the triage nurse, the x-ray tech and the doctor. Everyone told me it was OK to be anxious and were so sincere and understanding.

Two days later I had surgery with Dr. Koo. Again, I was surprised at how well I was treated in the Day Surgery unit, even the cleaning staff walking through the recovery room afterwards smiled and said – you will get through this. My heart is overwhelmed by the kindness and efficiency of the CGMH staff. I am forever grateful for the work they do and again how understanding they were about my anxiety surrounding my injury and being in the hospital.”