Recently I was visiting and assisting my father of 98 who was recently in the Albert Lea Medical Center and is now receiving therapy at St. John’s Lutheran Home.

I have served many years as an educational administrator and realize that many more people write letters criticizing those trying to provide services. Certainly, it is important to get feedback; however, it is important to look for the positive and let it be known. That is the purpose of this letter.

I spend a lot of time visiting people in hospitals and nursing homes in the Phoenix area. Too many times people are treated like objects. It was great to see firsthand the beautiful facilities at the Albert Lea Medical Center-Mayo Systems and St. John’s Lutheran Home. Also, I experienced many members of the staff at both of these facilities who were extremely personal and at the same time very professional.

I know that organizations do not function without good management and leadership. It has a lot to do with how employees are treated and trained. So I have sent thank you letters to the CEO of the Albert Lea Medical Center and St. John’s Lutheran Home, but I also want to share my thoughts with your readers.

I hope the people in Albert Lea realize how blessed they are to have facilities like these and, more importantly, the people to provide the services necessary to make everything come together so those who are hurting and suffering from medical issues are able to receive the respect and help they need.

I was also impressed by the facilities and services at Knutson Place. Even though I grew up in Albert Lea, I never thought that I would consider moving back in my latter years. However, because of what I experienced at the medical center, St. John’s Nursing Center and Knutson Place, I place my name on a waiting list to live at Knutson Place in the future.

In case some of your readers may not know me, I was the one with the black hat playing the piano at the medical center and St. John’s a few weeks ago.

Paul D. Christiansen

doctor

Mesa, Ariz.