The following letter was addressed to Sylvia Jones, MPP, Mayor Ed Crewson and Cholly Boland, CEO of Headwaters Health Care Centre

Re: concerns re the closing of Shelburne Hospital

This will be a very sad day for residents of Shelburne and surrounding residents if our Shelburne Hospital closes.

This was and is a very well run hospital, and for me it was my life saviour. If it hadn't been for the compassionate care, love and rehabilitation, I believe, truly, that I would not be here today. The RNs and staff helped me overcome many obstacles and to undertake Physio rehabilitation for myself and many others. It is a facility not only for rehab but for others to spend their final days in comfort and with privacy.

We are aging population here in Shelburne, who need this facility for x-rays and blood tests and a clinic with a doctor look after the aged and the young.

You are suggesting facilitating these people with needs in Orangeville Hospital, but don't you think that it would be much wiser to give these beds to people who are on a list for other emergency treatments and surgeries and whose stay is short term?

I can't see that there would ever be the rooms to keep longterm patients as they say that there isn't enough space now, and that they also close down rooms on weekends, if possible, to save money.

I am not putting down the Orangeville Hospital, as I, too, stayed there and had nothing but the best of care, but believe me, they hardly have time for regular duties, never mind caring for people who are bedridden or have to be assisted in personal care, or for those that may have suffered a stroke and need help with brushing their teeth or hair and to clean up messes that can't be helped by the very sick.

I watched and received all of this necessary care at the Shelburne Hospital, along with many others who can vouch that they had tremendous care for themselves or for their loved ones, and yes, some did pass on, but others, like me, flourished.

Create this facility into a place where you could also receive other tests and inoculations for what ever reason.

It is not the most lavish institution, but it certainly accommodates patients and meets their needs for palliative care and rehabilitation.

Come on people, let's get together and sign these petitions that are being passed around and we can make a difference.
Joan A. Ferguson
Shelburne