"I was so impressed with everything. I stayed in ICU my first night and I wanted to call my dad (who because of his surgery is confined the our house)... they brought me a portable phone that for some reason didn't work... but they helped me up later and with 2 nurses on each side I made my way to a phone outside my room. The nurses on my floor for my regular room knew exactly what to do and when I couldn't wake up (pain pills... gotta love 'em) they acted quickly and I was fine. The radiology department was perfect. I think they finally got them memo to be nice! I was really tired and couldn't stay awake so they leaned the table back so I was half laying so that I wouldn't fall. Then when the Dr. came in to do the test they gently tilted me back up and I took 3 little sips of the stuff... looked at the doc and told him I couldn't do anymore. He quickly said that was ok and even took the cup so I wouldn't have to keep holding it! I was very very happy with the way they treated me. But, the most spectacular part was my anasthesiologist (no clue if I spelled that right). Putting an i.v. anywhere proved to be impossible by the staff. Dr. Breyman wasn't supposed to be the one taking care of me but because I had so many problems I think he was asked to take care of me. I am sooooo glad that it was him! He calmed me down in the "staging" area before we went into the O.R., then when he was unable to but an I.V. in as well they had to run a central line in my chest. I had had no relaxants and no pain stuff, this was my first surgery, and I am terrified of basically anything surgical but, I was so calm. His calm and skill kept me together and for that I will be forever greatful! It wasn't an easy time but with the staff I had, in all stages of my stay, I could not have asked for better care!!"
"I LOVE Dr. Cole! I've only met him once so far but he is already a GOD in my eyes!! He really took the time to explain everything and he even laughed at my jokes. He has a flip chart that shows the stomach before and after surgery. I told him "This is your stomach, this is your stomach on staples"... he thought it was great! He was just so caring and confident I really don't think it's possible to not like him. He is totally awesome! He does take his work very seriously and you will be aware of all the risks and what he expects you to do before, during and after the surgery. He puts a huge emphasis on aftercare and the program that is set up is great. The support group is wonderful! The whole team is great! Overall... I give him a 150+. He is just that good. I think surgical competence and bedside manner are equally important. Obviously you want the best skilled surgeon to work on you but if you don't feel comfortable talking to them or asking for help then their skill is worthless. I feel 100% comfortable telling Dr. Cole anything and I know his skill is the best that I could ask for. Future patients should just keep in mind that the Doc is very busy, as well as his team, so bring a book to read in the waiting room... it can be a little bit of a wait."
