Letter from Craig to Toronto Western Hospital

Dear Sharon,

It is now 6:41am and I have just arrived home from Toronto Western Hospital's emergency department, yet again. I've had no sleep, so please bear with me.

The reason I went (against my better judgement, might I add) was because after my appointment at the Hand Clinic, my cast was so tight that it caused a severe welt (upon removing the cast, even Dr. Lee/Li said, "wow that's bad"). This despite my going to the Hand Clinic this afternoon where I was once again told everything was okay and the numbness would go away when the cast comes off 3 weeks from now. I was told to keep the cast - even though they didn't even bother to remove the tensor bandage to check on the broken plaster or my numb finger underneath.

On a slow, late night, we waited 4 hours to see a resident, 4.5 to see a doctor.

If need be, please see my ER records for verification of the times and condition of the skin and original cast. (for original letter see: March 3, 2008)

While I appreciated Dr. Lee's attempt to fix the cast and my discomfort (finally a doctor who tried to make me feel comfortable), I no longer feel comfortable seeking any further treatment from UHN. I will be seeking care at an alternate hospital where I will ask for a second opinion on the numbness in my finger. I hope with this new finding of ineffective and painful casting you can appreciate my concerns.

Please be advised I will be following up with the appropriate agencies as is needed.

Most Sincerely,

Craig Rigden
--- Lansdowne Ave
Toronto, ON M6H4K3
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CC: Dr. Robert Bell