When Rick Lewall first collapsed on his kitchen floor, he thought he'd fainted. He was packing up to head to the trailer, and had no idea what had happened; then, moments later, he fell again. This time, he called out for his wife, Carlene, who called 9-1-1.
When Rick arrived at Delta Hospital’s Emergency Department, nurses and doctors sprang into action. He'd flat-lined, so they immediately called a CODE BLUE, administered a clot-busting drug, and gave Rick life-saving resuscitation all within minutes. It turned out a massive blood clot had migrated from his leg into his lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism.
“The care and attention I received at Delta Hospital was outstanding,” Lewall reflects. “You get into the hospital and you're surrounded by the best.”
Because Delta Hospital was only minutes away, and his medical team acted so quickly, Rick is back enjoying life with his family – Carlene, their two children, and their five grandchildren. At 79, he’s healthy enough to travel to Japan with his grandson this year.
The ability to continue providing this level of care, however, requires access to vital medical equipment and other essentials for Delta Hospital, Mountain View Manor and Irene Thomas Hospice patients.
Support Delta Hospital Campus of Care and build a healthier, stronger community
Today, it’s more important than ever to come together in support of Delta Hospital – the heart of the community. Travelling to another site takes time, time you definitely don’t have in an emergency. Having accessible healthcare services close to home relieves stress for patients and families.
After Rick’s recovery, he personally delivered gift baskets to the ER staff who saved his life. He also supported the hospital with a generous donation through last December’s holiday wish list.
"Your donation today will help Delta Hospital’s Emergency Department provide critical care for people in their moments of need and strengthen health services offered all across the Delta Hospital Campus of Care – we can't do it without you," says Lisa Hoglund, Executive Director of the Delta Hospital and Community Health Foundation.
Essential equipment on Delta Hospital and Community Health Foundation's spring wishlist include:
- Blanketrol(r) III System, $25,600 – Controlling a patient’s temperature is crucial, especially in emergencies. This sophisticated set of water-filled blankets can reduce, raise or maintain a patient’s temperature – a critical tool for treating and supporting elderly patients during a summer heat dome, for example.
- Two trauma stretchers, $12,000 each – Seriously ill or injured patients must be transported quickly and safely. A high-tech trauma stretcher does just that, but also offers 360-degree access and a complete view for X-rays, an integrated scale for accurate medicine dosing, an integrated IV pole transport device, and more – features that help medical teams deliver critical care without lifting the patient.
To learn more and donate securely today, visit dhchfoundation.ca