The Fitzpatricks grateful for excellent patient care close to home

Bill and Jean Fitzpatrick are long-time Guelph residents who are enjoying their retirement years. Bill had a career of 33 years at the Upper Grand District School Board. Jean, a former social services worker, keeps connected as a part-time Donor Services Representative for Canadian Blood Services. The lively couple has a penchant for cruises where they meet people and make new friends.

Five years ago, following the biopsy of a small growth on his face, Bill was diagnosed with melanoma. Since then, he and his wife have racked up ‘frequent flyer points’ between Guelph and two hospitals in Hamilton dealing with the disease and its complications including seven surgeries. Bill also stayed more than two weeks at Guelph General in 2017 when a related brain inflammation threatened his life.

Bill now has CT scans three times a year at GGH and the hospital also can provide the MRIs he needs for his cancer care. Bill and Jean say they often have been impressed by the staff at Guelph General Hospital over the years. “Consistently excellent care, seamless co-ordination with the other hospitals, and very positive personal interactions,” are the norm, according to Bill.

If GGH didn’t have the equipment and didn’t connect so well to the specialized hospitals in the region, the Fitzpatricks would have to travel much more frequently to Hamilton or even farther afield. They’re grateful The Foundation of Guelph General Hospital raises funds to make these critical elements of care available locally.

Bill is relieved and happy he can have CT scans and MRIs so close to home while Jean wants people to know, “there are many good news stories to be told about the Hospital.” She says GGH staff show respect and provide high-quality care for Bill—so important when a person is facing a difficult diagnosis.

The Fitzpatricks know from personal experience that their donations and the donations of many others really matter to health care in Guelph.