Response after attack

Press, 14 November 1977, Page 18

Response after attack

Sir, — Earlier this week your paper reported an attack on me by a patient. Fortunately, such an occurrence is rare enough to be news. I have been completely’ overwhelmed by the good wishes and help of family, friends, neighbours, staff and patients. In such a situation I was able to appr :iate the kindness and efficiency of medical, nursing and St John Ambulance staff, both at the psychiatric and the general hospitals. In a few days I expect to return to work. In particular, I was touched by a magnificent gift of flowers and fruit from other patients and staff in the special care ward. I appreciate that for some this represented much of their weekly incentive money. It was cheering to receive letters of good wishes from former patients, now recovered and living happily at home, many years after having received treatment. I would like also to extend my sympathy to the family of the unfortunate man involved, and I thank everyone for their concern and help. — Yours, etc., (Dr) AUDREY HARRISON, Psychiatrist, North Canterbury Hospital Board. November 12, 1977.