In a blink of an eye ... life as we know it can change. No time. No control. Suddenly and abruptly, you place your trust in the skills and knowledge of the medically trained.

On January 19, 2011, Deborah Booth of Claremont had her life jolted into a new reality as she was hit head on by a driver allegedly fleeing police.

"In a matter of seconds my lower leg was crushed," recalled Booth. "I was in an ambulance on the way to the emergency department. I remember many things about the accident and subsequent care, but the details that stand out were so important to my immediate needs and long term healing."

"I am a very positive person, and it's equally important to me to have positive people around me. Dr. Houde was wonderful. He explained my care plan, the need for a plate in my leg, and relayed such a caring optimistic attitude. The anesthetist was amazing, too. I remember thinking how his calm, soothing voice matched his job. He explained everything to expect before, during and after surgery. He was right on."

"My in-patient stay in the renovated rooms was definitely conducive to healing. I remember the natural light streaming in, lots of room for my visitors, and the nursing staff as highlights. There were times when I was almost able to forget about the injury and enjoy the good cheer of my visitors."

"The nursing staff was amazing. I'm not sure if it's a medical protocol or just at your facility, but the fact that the nursing staff works a 12-hour shift meant that I had consistency in care each day. Nurses who learned my needs and preferences upon arrival were the same throughout my stay. I wasn't constantly reminding medical people about my needs and preferences as I have witnessed in other facilities."

"I remember waking up at 3am, rolling over to grab a drink, and finding it was fresh, cold and with ice! Someone replaced it during the wee hours of the morning without me even asking. This was the norm not the exception."

"My most vivid memory came at day 3 after surgery, when the effects of heavy medication wore off. In the middle of the night, incredible pain had set in, the reality of my situation hit me in a wave of emotion, and it showed to the nurses I had called to help me to the bathroom. After assisting me, she stood in front of me as I struggled to be strong and said, 'And now I'm going to give you ...' I thought she was going to say 'more medications'. Instead, she leaned in and said, '... a hug', and then she supported me as I sobbed through the tears and grief."

"In hindsight, my healing process began the moment I arrived at VRH. Feeling 'cared about' as well as 'cared for' is something I will always remember. And, it's why I recommend our local community hospital to everyone I know."