"Medico Stars"

Sometimes There Are Stars

I had a mixture of experiences while in Sydney Eye Hospital before Christmas 2025. Some stuff I’d like to forget, many people I want to remember.

There were too many nurses I saw to remember them all, but they were all the finest kind of people, professional, caring, gentle, with big hearts.

We first met Dr Shiv, from the Gold Coast. I found that he is personable and persistent in search of the right outcomes for his patients. He would help me after my surgery, to help me get home for Christmas.

When I was discharged (the first time) I was stopped as I was walking out the door by Quantelle, who brought me in to Fellow Elishai. Elishai was concerned I might have Arteritic Ischemic Optic Neuropathy, which can take all your sight away. I stayed and was put on heavy steroid infusions for three days and waited for a transverse arteritis biopsy. I wasn’t happy about staying, but the decision was exactly correct.

A month later I met with both Quantelle and Elishai and found them to be extremely personable in addition to highly professional. I like them both a lot.

I think Prof Claire is extremely smart, and has a wonderful sense of humour. She finally explained what they had found and the logical reason for my injury. It was a relief as I had been second guessing everything about my life for a month. I liked her instantly.

Prof Raymond has been at Sydney Eye Hospital for many years. He is calm, has good humour, and talks straight, which I appreciated. He saw me frequently, and tried to let me know what was next. He is also a huge fan of the hospital staff, as one should be. I enjoyed his company.

Obviously there are more good people there, and some associated with the place. My Ophthalmologist, Iain, of Canberra Eye Hospital quickly got me into the Sydney Eye Hospital Clinic to set everything in motion. He has been, and will remain, critical to my care. I am lucky to have him on my team.

And a bit of a shout out for my local GPs. When I really needed some help, Dr Eliza, of Queen Street Medical Centre stepped in as my regular doctor, Dr Lachkan was away. She provided expertise and emotional comfort. As did Dr Lachkan when we linked up a week later.

They are a mixed bag, but all share in the caring they express. They have been my stars.

I guess I have been pretty lucky.