I feel compelled to write this letter to the editor with both sadness and anger that Mayo would do such an injustice!

I was born and raised in Albert Lea. Naeve Hospital was a big part of my life. When I was in high school, Dr. Sidney Whitson was my doctor — until the day he retired. He delivered my babies, did my surgery, did surgery on two of my children, even came to our house one afternoon when my husband had a nose hemorrhage that would not quit. He was our doctor, but he also was our friend.

I have had several doctors since then that I felt were my friend and really cared about my healthcare, but they were not allowed to spend much time with their patients — consequently, they left Albert Lea. I think 15 minutes was the limit. It became a business, not a patient/doctor relationship.

Years ago, I worked as a nurse at Naeve Hospital in the chemical dependency section with the adolescents. It was the same floor where I delivered my babies years earlier. I loved working there, and I loved the people I worked with.

Later on, I became involved with hospice for 12 years. They are such an important part of any hospital. Dedicated, comforting people!

Now, I’m in my 80s and in poor health. I feel like the rug was pulled out from under me. I don’t drive anymore, and it’s not comforting to know you have to go to Austin or Rochester for help! There is great comfort in knowing you have your own hospital run by people you know and feel safe with.

I guess old people aren’t very important anymore!

I pray for the workers at Mayo in Albert Lea and hope they get the justice they so deserve.

As for me, if I have to travel, it will be to Mason City’s hospital/clinic.

Dorothy Boettcher

Albert Lea