From time to time, Hospitals of Regina Foundation receives a heartfelt message from patients or families whose lives have been forever changed by the care they received at our hospitals. These letters are a powerful reminder of the impact our medical teams have on the people of southern Saskatchewan. They also remind us that our clinical teams rely on the commitment of our donors, volunteers and staff team for the technology and equipment they use to provide the best care possible. The following message from Rikki Hayward of Carnduff, Sask., is one such story. It’s a touching reflection of courage, compassion and the life-saving care made possible right here at home.

Dear Regina Hospitals Foundation Team,

I am writing to express my deepest gratitude to the incredible doctors, nurses, and staff at the Regina General who cared for me and my son, Sonny, during the most difficult and life-changing time of our lives. Our story is one of hope, resilience, and unwavering compassion and it would not have been possible without the exceptional care we received.

In 2023, I was considered a high-risk pregnancy and had undergone a transabdominal cerclage to give my baby the best chance at life. At 24 weeks, over a long weekend, I began bleeding heavily and was rushed to the emergency department. It was there that Dr. Bhargava took me under her care, and we spent a week doing everything possible to keep Sonny safe inside me. Despite every effort, Sonny was born at just 25 weeks and 4 days, weighing only 1lb 11oz. He was immediately taken to the NICU, where he began his fight for life. From the start, Sonny amazed us all. He did incredibly well throughout his 100 day NICU stay, and for that, we are forever thankful to the neonatal team who surrounded him with expertise, technology, and so much love.

While Sonny was thriving, my own journey took a frightening turn. One week after delivering, I was readmitted to the hospital with a severe infection that quickly turned septic. Over the next 36 days, I underwent four CT scans, three major surgeries, and intensive treatment, including a wound vac. Through it all, I witnessed true compassion in action. The staff not only provided extraordinary medical care but also cared for my heart. Being three hours away from home, away from my 2 year old twins, and desperately wanting to see my tiny baby, I was overwhelmed but the nurses and doctors went above and beyond to make it possible for me to be near him whenever I could. Dr. Pooler and the entire team on 6A saved my life. There are no words big enough to express what that means to me and my family. Because of them , I am here today to hold my children, to love my family, and to share this story of hope.

The Regina hospitals are more than medical facilities, they are places of miracles, staffed by people whose dedication and compassion change lives every single day. I will forever be grateful for everything you have done for us. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for giving us the greatest gift, life and time together.