Dear editor:

Recently we were informed of the closing of the Oncology Department at the Powell Valley Hospital because of funding issues. Our hearts sank when we heard this and we confess that we were/are disappointed at those in power who made this decision. While we understand that it was a tough decision, it is also taking away from this community one of the finest doctors along with her amazing staff that PVHC had. These people have been valuable assets and will be very difficult to replace.

Now, those with cancer or blood problems (Dr. Carletta Collins is also a hematologist) will need to go elsewhere, not always an easy proposition when you are older. On a personal note, following post operative blood clots in my lungs and an ambulance trip to Billings ICU, and subsequent release, Dr. Collins quickly recognized that the very expensive and well advertised blood thinner Eliquis was not effective for me and prescribed a very old, but highly effective blood thinner. It is quite possible that she had saved my life for which I will be forever grateful.

A huge Thank You goes out to Dr. Carletta Collins for the time she spent to explain, to console and to treat her patients as the important people she felt they were. You will be missed as well as your wonderful staff. We have friends who feel the same way and we are sure there are many others we don’t know.

We wish all those who must move on the best of luck in their future endeavors and hope that perhaps we will see you again somewhere, not so far away.

Sincerely,

Linda and Bob Graff

Powell