Because my original coiling was an emergency situation due to my brain aneurysm rupturing, I didn’t get to “experience” Maine Medical Center’s Pre-operative department. They may not have been that extensive back in 2006 either. But, I have to say it’s a terrific group. I didn’t really know what to expect.

I knew they were taking blood, but beyond that, I didn’t know if my Doc had ordered other tests or procedures to be run. They did draw some blood and took my vitals, the nurses gave me instructions and directions, and we had an extensive anesthesia interview. I met with four different ladies during the visit which lasted almost two hours.

Pat Richards, one of the Dr’s/nurse, even went above and beyond the call of duty and tried to get to the bottom of a lingering medication issue I haven’t been able to get straight answers on. She realized it was stressing me out and took it upon herself to find the answers for me. I really, really appreciated her doing that. She didn’t have to, but I knew she’d have the proper authority and medical explanation and terminology that I didn’t.

They were all very well-informed and presented us with several more brochures on what to expect, where to go and what to do before, during and after any surgery. In 2006, we weren’t given any such information before, during or after, so I think they’ve come a long way in educating the patients and their caregivers. There still was no info on aneurysms though, so we’re hoping down the road, we can help change that.

Even though it meant a separate trip down to Portland for us (an hour or so away), Dave and I both felt going through all of this on a day different from the surgery day was very nice. I didn’t have to deal with answering a ton of questions, giving blood and signing forms an hour before the surgery. I’ll get there, meet with the anesthesiologist and the Dr. and I’m on my way. I’ll be drugged…Dave will have the tough part of waiting.

I was very pleased with the level of care by Maine Med when I was there for 20 days back in 2006 and I continue to be impressed with their improvement and care for their patients.  Let’s hope I feel the same way on March 17th!