“My son had surgery at Speare Memorial Hospital and I can’t say enough good things about our experience! We received an excellent level of care, knowledge, and professionalism — Speare is an all-around five-star hospital. They were so gentle with my son and took extra measures to make sure he was comfortable and happy during the whole experience. The staff members also made my husband and I informed about everything there possibly is to know of the procedure and made us comfortable with the entire experience. There is not a doubt in our minds that if a family member ever needs another surgery or procedure this is the place it needs to happen! We are truly grateful for the level of care and the compassion they showed our family!”

Westley had ear problems from the time he was born. He had earaches and would grab at his ears. His parents, Angel and Jeff, tried everything. They felt like they lived in the emergency room, primary care office or walk-in clinic. They thought perhaps he had just built up an immunity to all the antibiotics, but then they saw a specialist and learned that Westley had fluid buildup in his ear.

They were happy to have an answer but nervous about the resolution. He needed to have surgery to insert an ear tube. The operation would relieve his pain, but it involved making a tiny incision in his eardrum to insert the tube. Jeff had a good experience at Speare the previous year when Dr. Gennaro operated on his shoulder, so they felt comfortable with Speare. They were not disappointed.

Angel says they not only found the nurses and anesthetist Steve Ball skilled, but especially kind. Westley was able to hold his toys and wear his pajamas during the procedure, and Steve held him in his arms like he was his own child. Westley started feeling better right away after the operation and has been having a great time on their family farm since.

Update from Mom

“A year after his surgery, Westley is doing fantastic! He started school as soon as he turned 3 in April to help him catch up with other children his age. He goes four days a week, and it has helped him with his communication, speech, fine and gross motor skills. His ear infections are almost non-existent now. His breathing has improved, as well as his hearing since his surgeries. Overall he is a much healthier and happier boy!”

Click here to learn more about the surgical services available at Speare.  Surgical Services cares for pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients.