EYE OPENER
Nicest doctors and nurses of Iloilo Mission Hospital
The Iloilo Mission Hospital is already in Philippine history as the first hospital in the country to have graduated the first three graduate nurses in the Philippines in 1909. Actually, Felipa de la Peña joined Iloilo Mission Hospital at 10 years old then located at Amparo St., now Ledesma-Fuentes Sts. in Iloilo City. From 1901 to 1906, Felipa single-handedly assisted Dr. and Mrs. Hall plus other registered American nurses and doctors. No native girls wanted to join the hospital as they were afraid of the white Americans as “witches.” In 1906, two other girls who decided to enlist as nursing students were Nicasia Cada and Dorotia Caldito.
My 20 days at the hospital was both melancholic and delightful. Surgeon Estella Sendino Flores single-handedly conducted the operation. An expert surgeon, Dr. Flores graduated at the West Visayas State University with flying colors. She was ably assisted in the operation by Dr. Rodelyn Almeniana, Dr. Julia Mabunay, nurses and personnel.
Dr. Flores, an amiable lady, made my stay at the hospital meaningful. She was always in my hospital room to regularly check the progress of my operation. Indeed, the charismatic administrator of Iloilo Mission Hospital, Dr. Elmer Pedregosa, is lucky to have surgeon Dr. Estella Flores. Dr. Julia Mabunag also visited me regularly and encouraged me to get well fast and eat nutritious food. Dr. Joefil Acosta, heart specialist, gave an inspiring get-well visitation. The nurses at the fourth floor station played a vital role in my speedy recovery. Dr. Lorena Ning de Leon, pulmonologist/lung specialist, also contributed greatly to my speedy recovery. She is an amazing and graceful doctor whose patients are thankful to her.
The hospital was fully booked when my daughter requested for a room. Many patients love to stay at Iloilo Mission Hospital because the doctors and nurses are all-time helpful and courteous. Though some people are hesitant to bring their patients to the hospital due allegedly to high room bills. The services and facilities plus the charisma of hospital personnel will compensate for the alleged high bills. Even the free ward is full and allows excess patients to bring folding beds.
Yes, my three-week stay was full of God’s grace and mercy as I prayed regularly for my Lord’s presence in my room and heal my sickness. Praise God and thank you doctors, nurses, and personnel of Iloilo Mission Hospital!
