"A fall in Margaret River (WA)"

I have been taken pictures at River Mouth beach, trying to find a good spot for the scattering of my father's ashes. Climbing barefoot in the dark on big boulders, I did not pay enough attention and had a hard fall. Apart from being badly bruised I also ripped off the nail of my big toe. On the way back to town I stopped at Margaret River Hospital. I have been to many hospitals during my 75 years life, but this was to be the best hospital experience ever!

The staff I saw was extremely attentive and caring and explained every step of the treatment. I was treated by Dr. James and nurse Nichole. Dr James administered pain relief and tetanus injections and helped with the cleaning of the wound. Nurse Nichole took on the task of removing  painstakingly every single tiny grit of sand from the open wound, after having taken off the nail for cleaning and desinfecting. She was very patient, polite and caring and explained every single step of the procedure in detail. The wound looked clean and healthy by the time she put the nail back on, and explained this would help to protect the new nail while growing.

A few days later I had to drive back to Perth. Nichole offered to change the dressing early in the morning at the end of her night shift, which allowed me to drive back, not only comfortably but also knowing I had a few days time before seeing my GP.

As a special treat she indulged me with a scrumptious homemade Amaretti, which was as good as it comes! Thank you very much, Nichole and Dr. James! Next month I will move permanently to Switzerland, after having lived for 35 years in Australia to be closer to my family. I will remember this (hopefully) last hospital visit with a smile on my face.