Entry FeedOne thing I am very thankful for is that I live in Toronto, with arguably the best children's hospital in the world in my backyard.
I had some minor surgery there when I was twelve, and it was pretty great then. It has become even better since.
Every month I donate to SickKids. It is easy to set up, and it just comes off my credit card. I treat it almost like an insurance policy - I hope that if I do this, I may never really need their services. Quick - touch wood!
Today my niece had a minor surgery there. She is home and recovering now, and we are praying for her.
We have been to SickKids with each of our children for something.
Son One went for tests as an infant. Have I ever mentioned that he was the loudest baby ever? I am sure that the technicians have recovered by now.
Son Two was born just after SARS. When I took him I got to see some of the new protocols in action. I actually ended up meeting the Head of Infection Disease, and it turns out all he had was influenza A.
Daughter's visit to SickKids was the only disappointing experience. We were there six hours, bumped from emergency to urgent care, and left with a pamphlet on what to do when you child has a fever. Turns out they missed the white spots all over the inside of her mouth - strep throat.
I try to use our health care system properly. Urgent care for injuries. Emergency for severe, unidentified illness. Doctor or walk-in clinics for suspected infections or other minor illnesses. I stopped calling telehealth years ago when the only advice I got was to see a doctor within 24 hours if nothing changes.
SickKids is a great hospital, treating kids with all sort of wild and crazy illnesses from all around the world. It gives me a great comfort knowing how close I am to the best children's doctors, and the best treatment facilities for my kids. Thank you Sick Kids.