“I was having the worst headache of my life. My husband and I were going to Italy in a week and I just wanted to make sure it wasn’t anything serious. After taking medication I was given a CTA scan, which revealed a brain aneurysm. I thought it could be life-threatening, but my kids scoured the internet and told me that I couldn’t be in better hands than with Dr. Rafael A. Ortiz. He explained the whole procedure and made it seem like, ‘I’ve got this.’ Everything went great during the surgery and after. For somebody who isn’t comfortable going to a hospital, I felt very cared for. I don’t think I could have been in any place better in this entire country – and we even made it to Italy!”

Ever since I gave birth to my son Jack almost a year ago, I’ve actually been trying to think of the best way to put into words how I feel about the exceptional care I received from Laurie Bell, my nurse. Jack’s delivery wasn’t easy. He was a C-section baby and had fluid in his lungs when he was born, so he ended up in the NICU for a day. I also felt so sick from the anesthesia after my procedure. It was all a lot to handle for a first-time mom, but my husband and I both appreciated Laurie’s compassionate care so much that we still talk about it. We are endlessly grateful.

My story begins on Sunday afternoon, July 2, 2023, when I started having abdominal pain. My husband Stephen took me to our local Urgent Care facility, which told me to rush to a hospital for a CAT scan. Residing in New Rochelle but remembering what great care our grandchildren were given when they were born at White Plains Hospital’s NICU unit, we knew where we were going for the scan. I was doubled over in pain, but we experienced the greatest care and concern from the Emergency Room staff as soon as we arrived. With it now 4:30 pm on a holiday weekend, I did not know how long I would be in pain, or even if the CAT scan could be performed.

My husband and I were so impressed with the speed and efficiency provided to us; everyone had their roles perfect and in sync with each other. My scan confirmed a diagnosis of diverticulitis and revealed a perforated pouch. I was admitted that evening and am currently under treatment with IV and antibiotics.

I am so grateful for all the staff that has been taking care of me during this holiday weekend. I am grateful for all those who have been involved in my stay, and Stephen and I would especially like to thank the team who are taking care of me on the 5th floor under the leadership of Ms. Kerri Sommer. I know that we will get this event under control!

Having undergone the first leadless pacemaker implementation to occur at White Plains Hospital, I can affirm its ease, Dr. Wang popped it in and that was it…Going forward, I felt fine!

When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 50, I knew I needed to find a surgeon who not only had outstanding clinical skill, but a caring and compassionate bedside manner. I found that in Dr. Preya Ananthakrishnan, Director of Breast Surgery at White Plains Hospital. When I met with her, I got this feeling that came over me—this warm, peaceful, good feeling about this doctor. I walked out of there educated. I knew my decision without being scared out of my mind. I knew I was in the best of hands.

Gastric sleeve surgery has given me a second chance in life and the support and the staff at White Plains Hospital is what I attribute to my success.

As I lost the weight, I gained energy, health and a positive attitude. This was not an easy decision, but one I wish I would have done long ago. The support of my family, friends and the staff at White Plains Hospital is what I attribute to my success. Losing 110lbs has made life more enjoyable and ultimately has helped me to physically and mentally tackle my MS issues.