I recently had a total knee replacement at My Michigan Medical Center Alpena. I would like to inform you of my experience.

First of all, between my wife and myself, we have had 12 hospital experiences (she had eight inpatient surgeries and I have had 1 inpatient and 3 outpatient surgeries at seven different hospitals).

The day started with pre-op information from Dr. Beltinck and the most informative anesthesiologist I have ever had. He explained everything his job entailed and how we would do it.

After surgery, in my room, I was completely surprised by the care and attention I was given. Their pain management was excellent. (I had no pain during my stay). It seemed like someone was in my room every 20 minutes. The nurses and nurses-in-training were all great. I had an ice machine for my knee and someone was always checking it. This level of care passed from one shift to the next until I was discharged.

The therapists were the same; all did their jobs well.

The two times I called for a nurse there was an immediate response. Believe me, I never expected that.

The meals were as good as I’ve ever had in a hospital. When I ordered a meal for a particular time, it was there and hot. Great service from the kitchen.

When discharge time came, everyone signed off in a timely manner; no sitting and waiting for someone’s OK or sitting dressed for an hour.

Let me add this — I am 86 years old and this was my first inpatient stay. What a great impression of a hospital. We are in good hands in Alpena.

I am healing well, thanks to a great surgical team.

Do we have a good hospital? You bet! A great one with great people.

WALT PLOHOCKY

Alpena