We've always appreciated the fact that Polson has a fine hospital in St. Joseph Medical Center and the wide services offered by Western Montana Clinic, and the round-the-clock service provided by Polson Ambulance Service.

But we never really realize how fortunate the community is to have these services until a situation arises where we have to use them.

About 3 a.m. Tuesday of last week the occasion arose for me. The ambulance took me to the emergency room at St. Joseph where they provided immediate attention, then transferred me to a hospital room where nurses and aides kept a close eye on me. Dr. Dennis Probst, who directed the ER treatment (although I wasn't aware of it at the time), did a couple encouraging follow-up visits during my hospital stay.

While I didn't feel like eating very much in the hospital, I was impressed with the meals — lunch and dinner were piping hot and well presented. Breakfast was basic but adequate.

And as I reflect back on the experience, I realized what special persons doctors, nurses, aides, and ambulance crew members really are.

The effective ones are dedicated, compassionate, patient, forgiving and caring. Every day brings different situations, some extremely unpleasant. And some of the people they treat can be extremely difficult.

My thanks to all of the medical team, emergency responders, and staff personnel.