Patient Stories

Alexandra Kroetsch’s Story

“I will survive” Courage, strength and teamwork saved a woman battling a deadly infection caused by the H1N1 virus. On the day Canada officially entered the second wave of the H1N1 flu pandemic, Alexandra Kroetsch could barely breathe. Initially diagnosed with pneumonia, the 27-year-old nanny and musical performer was admitted to RCH on October 23rd, … ( more » )

Carol Thorpe’s Story

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“Close to being a miracle” Ron Gale and Carol Thorpe are happy to be gettingmarried, thanks to the life-saving interventionsperformed by Dr. William Siu and Dr. Navraj Heran. In April, 2010, Carol Thorpe, a healthy 53 year old woman, had a sudden stroke. A CT scan at her local hospital showed she had a massive … ( more » )

Saving Curtis Zanussi

A Trauma Patient’s Tale Able to breathe on his own, his condition improving,Zanussi proposed to girlfriend Kerriwhile still in the Critical Care Unit. Curtis Zanussi was almost buried alive, but quick-thinking rescuers and a determined trauma team at RCH saved his life. Curtis was literally hovering between life and death when he arrived at Royal … ( more » )

Tim Delesalle’s Story

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“The care was immediate and unconditional” Tim Delesalle was a healthy, active 57 years when he had an acute heart attack in May 2010. He had just returned from a run, when he collapsed at home. His wife Karen and her two daughters were at home and immediately administered CPR. Within minutes, paramedics were on … ( more » )

David’s Story

More than a Miracle “They call me the Miracle Man,” said 60-year old David Woo, who is still recuperating from life-threatening injuries when he was hit by a car last summer. After a charity dinner, he was walking across the street to where his car was parked. The restaurant was just blocks from his long-time … ( more » )

Don’s Story

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With only days to live, RCH gave a new lease on life. As Don Higginson jokes with friends and co-workers, it’s easy to see why he is an office favorite and cherished husband and father. His energy and enthusiasm are even more precious to them because it all nearly came to a sudden and tragic … ( more » )

Larissa and Abbey’s Story

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It was supposed to be one of the happiest times of their lives. Larissa was 29 years old when she and her husband Vaun had just found out that they were expecting their first child. They were absolutely thrilled and looking forward to starting a family. But only one month after finding out that she … ( more » )