On my first-ever visit to Dr. Van Wijk’s rooms, I arrived way early because I had come from Fochville and was concerned about the traffic.
For about two hours, I had the humbling experience of observing the treatment of patients and colleagues who passed through consulting room 204.
“Dit is alles reg oom ons probeer more weer, ek is hier van half 8 af. Enige tyd wat oom pas en al vat dit die hele dag dan is dit ook ok.”
“Phone me tomorrow, let me speak to Dokter, and let me phone your medical aid.”
Linda put a smile on everybody’s face but was also genuinely concerned because I might get home after dark.
.
I was admitted on Friday, 25 October 2024, for an overnight stay in the Urology Hospital because of a minor procedure that Dr FJ Van Wijk had to perform on me.
From admission to the ward, theatre, after theatre, during the night, early morning, and my final stop at the pharmacy, I was treated with kindness and respect.
My apologies for not getting the names of the personnel I would like to mention.
The lady bringing the tea, thank you for my hot cup of tea and your big smile.
The lady delivering my breakfast, thank you for returning with my breakfast a couple of times because I was busy with Physiotherapy.
The Staff that prepared the food. That was the best hospital food I have seen and eaten.
The cleaning lady, Thank you for not making the lady feel embarrassed. It was a scary moment for her.
Thank you to the male nurse who patiently waited in the passage for the lady to change into her theatre gown on Saturday morning.
She was late because she was nervous, and the Sister took the time to put her at ease.
Thank you to the Sister who allowed the lady to go and say good night to her husband, who was in a different room, but gently reminded her to put on her nightgown.
They have been married 51 years, and it was important to her to say goodnight to him.
The Physiotherapist, Elizabeth, you are like a ray of sunshine and a hoping ball combined. Your passion for equipping your patients with knowledge and understanding speaks volumes about the person you are.
Ena Lethabo Klaas, May you succeed in your studies and become the healthcare professional you intend to be. You certainly are an asset to South Africa’s healthcare and the Urology Hospital.
I want to pay my respects to every person working together to make this hospital exceptional.
I believe you make a difference without realizing your impact on others.
You elevate the standard of patient care in South African hospitals.
