We all have felt the anxiety--a loved one has a medical problem and must go to the hospital. It is a helpless feeling to leave your loved one in the care of strangers.

Recently, my wife of 32 years had to have back surgery. The surgery would result in several days' stay in Mary Washington Hospital.

I was apprehensive not so much about the surgery, because we knew we had a great surgeon (Dr. Berlad), but because of the two days' stay in the hospital. We have not always had the greatest experience with overnight stays.

From the start, I was surprised. My wife was placed in 2 South. The women and men who staff 2 South were great. They were so attentive to my wife's needs that it was truly amazing. We were kept informed of everything they were doing and why they were doing it.

A cadre of caring, competent, and professional caregivers staff 2 South. I can't remember all their names but I can and always will remember how well they treated my wife, Loretta.

Bravo Zulu 2 South: Job well done.

Patrick Behm

Spotsylvania