August 23, 2002

Below is a thank-you letter sent to James J. Mongan, MD, president of the MGH, from a family member of a patient who received care here.

Dear Dr. Mongan:

I am writing to bring to your attention the high standard of excellence that exists on Phillips House, floor 22 (Ellison 22).

A member of our family was admitted to Phillips 22 on Sept. 11, 2001 and again on June 11, 2002. During our first visit, we were impressed with the excellence of the staff and asked to return if possible. Ten months later, we noticed that even higher standards had been achieved – obviously through hard work on the part of the entire staff.

The most important element present was the teamwork we witnessed. There is respect that translates into a genuine, consistent effort by all to help each other. Caring and competency are the results.

Specifically, we noticed a sense of urgency that brings immediate help when requested by patients. The physical therapy service is delivered in a most timely and excellent manner. We also noticed great improvement in the quality of the food, and also it is delivered in an improved time frame.

We are reluctant to specify names, as we know we are omitting many great people, but we thought that Donna Jenkins, RN, was doing an outstanding job as floor supervisor. The fabulous nurses that we knew were Patty Ryan, RN; Nancy Mermet, RN; Linda Ryan, RN; Musu Wahkor, RN; and Shauna Coccoli, RN.

We appreciate so very much the enormous help that all Phillips Floor 22 staff gave to us during the long surgical procedure.

 Sincerely,

Judy A. Paige and Francis U. Paige
Marblehead, MA