In the midst of a health crisis, April Eskew found herself in the hands of Hector Dox, M.D., cardiothoracic surgeon and member of the medical staff at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.
His expertise and compassion guided her through a challenging ordeal, according to a press release from PBRMC.
What appeared to be a case of the flu quickly escalated into pneumonia, leading to April’s admission to Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center via ambulance. The infection was severe, forming a pus-filled sac behind a lung that demanded immediate attention.
“Dr. Dox explained the gravity of the situation with honesty, and his compassion meant the world to me,” said Eskew.
In the operating room, Dox addressed the infection head-on. His approach involved physically accessing April’s lung to remove the threat, a procedure she mentions with gratitude.
“Dr. Dox said the infection was so thick it was like sucking molasses through a straw, so he had to go in with his hands,” April added. “He did exactly what he said he was going to do, and from the moment he entered the room, I knew he was someone I could trust.”
Throughout Eskew’s experience, Dr. Dox’s compassion was a constant source of comfort, according to the patient. From the initial consultation to follow-up visits, “his care and reassurance were unwavering,” easing her anxieties.
For Eskew, Dox’s presence was crucial. Without his expertise, Eskew might have faced a transfer to another facility, adding inconvenience to an already challenging situation, according to PBRMC.
“The timing of it all — me getting sick the very week Dr. Dox started at PBRMC — it was meant to be,” Eskew said. “I hope to never have to see him again, but for me to say bye to him had me in tears. He and his nurse are an exceptional team.”
Looking ahead, Eskew is eager to embrace life’s simple pleasures, like “sitting in the sunshine.”