Letter: Las Vegas angels earned gratitude

Thursday, Nov. 4, 1999 | 9:27 a.m.

First, there were the paramedics who transported my husband from the Golden Nugget to Valley Medical Center. Their professionalism and general concern were very assuring. We thank everyone at the hospital: the E.R. doctor and nurses, the nurses on the floor and the volunteers. My husband received excellent care. The extra kindness helped make the best of a difficult situation.

I especially want to acknowledge the staff in CCU. It was most evident that they were a competent group of people. Not only did we appreciate their medical expertise, but the warm smiles, the pats on the shoulder, the hugs, their patience with my myriad questions, were such a comfort. When my husband left CCU, we felt we had left friends behind.

I would also like to express our appreciation to Drs. Ahmad, Balarajan, Borremeo and their colleagues. With persistence and knowledge, they were able to diagnose and treat my husband's condition. They earned our utmost confidence.

Last, but not least, I express my heartfelt thanks to the management and staff of the Golden Nugget. They went way beyond what might have been expected. The management held the room. The security staff was so very helpful the night my husband became ill. They attended to the rental car. They contacted the airline and informed them that we would not be on our scheduled flight.

The staff provided transportation to and from the hospital for me. The bell captain and his crew graciously picked up and delivered dry cleaning. All of the staff continually expressed concern for my husband's well being.

We have returned to Louisville safely, soundly, and in reasonably good health. We do know that there are many angels in Las Vegas. My family and I will always remember them and be eternally grateful.

SHIRLEY M. RUCKRIEGEL