Meet Kathryn Chambers
Your donation has an impact on patients like Kathryn in our community.
Hello! I’m Kathryn Chambers.
Do you remember during those hazy days this summer when North Bay was covered with smoke from the forest fires in our region? It was difficult for me to spend time outside and stay active because I found it so hard to breathe. My husband and I have called North Bay home since moving here as young adults and I can’t recall another year when the smoke was that thick.
Why am I telling you this? Because the smoke is the reason I ignored some early warning signs that I was having a heart attack. I am beyond grateful that I finally listened to advice and sought care at my local hospital, the North Bay Regional Health Centre (NBRHC).
At the time, it was difficult for me to process that something wasn’t right with my body. Our family has always lived a healthy and active lifestyle. Raising two sons in North Bay, we had the incredible opportunity to embrace everything our region has to offer. We enjoy running, skiing, kayaking, biking, and of course hiking. A heart attack was the furthest thing from my mind!
Many people don’t realize that heart attack symptoms can present very differently. I didn’t experience arm or back pain. I just felt pressure in my chest, and I was so tired. One day it felt like I had been punched in the chest – I even abandoned my hike and went home – but again, I blamed it on the smoke from the forest fires.
It took a week before a family friend convinced me I needed to seek medical attention, so I headed to the Emergency Department at NBRHC. Even still, I didn’t think it was anything serious. I am so glad I listened to my friend’s advice and I am grateful for the care I received.
When I arrived I was triaged and assessed as ‘urgent’. At this point I started to realize that it was more serious than I thought. I was immediately hooked up to a heart monitor. It was confirmed – I was having a heart attack.
Everything afterwards was a blur – it all moved so quickly. I still can’t get over how efficient, professional, and knowledgeable the Emergency Department staff were. They kept me calm and helped me feel at ease throughout the whole ordeal.
By early afternoon, I was transported to Sudbury. I had surgery the next morning. The entire process from beginning to end felt efficient and streamlined – the system seemed to work like clockwork.
As the holiday season approaches, I am reminded of the immense gratitude I have for the incredible team that cared for me at my local hospital. This is why I donate.
Prior to this experience, I felt invincible. The reality is, you never truly know when you’re going to need hospital care – a heart attack wasn’t something I thought would ever happen to me.
In the spirit of love, light, laughter, and health – I’m asking you to please consider giving the gift of health this holiday season by making a contribution to the NBRHC Foundation. Your donation stays local, directly benefitting patients in our community – our family, neighbours, local business owners and more. You are helping purchase advanced medical equipment ensuring our hospital can support us all if and when we need care.
Your donation will have an impact, and it’s easy to donate! Simply fill out the enclosed form and mail it to the NBRHC Foundation using the prepaid envelope. You can also call the Foundation at 705-495-8125 or make your donation below.
Your gift will make a difference in the lives of patients in our community – I am living proof of that!
Wishing you, your family and friends, a bright and happy season and a 2024 filled with joyous memories.
Kathryn Chambers
Grateful Patient
P.S. Saying thank you goes a long way, but making a donation has an impact on everyone. Please give generously this holiday season.