August 23, 2020 - Last Sunday I had a pulmonary embolism. I could not get enough oxygen into my body. I called 911. They were so calm and helpful. The paramedics from Mercy Ambulance were kind, competent, and so welcomed because they brought oxygen and took me to John C. Freemont Hospital. Because the paramedics detected a fever, I was coming into the hospital as a possible Covid-19 patient. The hospital could not have been more ready. They put me in a room removed from the rest of the E.R. with a nurse who was completely gowned, masked, and face shielded. They did a virus test immediately, the results were negative, and they knew that in 20 minutes.

I was impressed with the thoroughness of all the tests they ran. They knew within a short time what was wrong with me. They knew I needed critical heart care and began to look for a hospital they could transfer me to. All hospitals in Fresno and Merced were not taking patients. The search required many phone calls. Eventually Memorial Hospital in Modesto would take me, and I was transported there.

My experience with JFC was that they were ready for Covid-19 and also so very competent in handling critical heart/lung cases. We are so lucky to have this hospital; it’s caring, capable staff, and those people who go out of their way to be supportive. We do not have to be afraid to use the emergency room because we fear the virus. The staff knows what they are doing, and will keep everyone safe.

There will be a sales tax increase on the ballot in November. It’s letter “N.” Because it is a sales tax increase, tourists and all Mariposa County will be chipping in. It is for improvement to the hospital. Vote YES. We need this hospital and it needs repairs or a rebuild.

Pat Stacy
Mariposa, CA