The Editor, Sir:

I am writing you on my recent experience in Jamaica. I came on August 23rd to be with my mother who was due to have surgery on August 25, which did not take place until September 4 2006.

I must say the experience coming home was nerve-racking, I was in shock to see how older and sick Jamaicans are treated, with no respect and consideration. KPH, where she was due to have the surgery was in a deplorable condition. It was cockroach-infested, a dump in the worst part of Canada looks better, the ward where she was had a roof that was leaking and windows broken, cockroaches are crawling all over these sick people.

I cried, I cannot believe our national hospital is in such a state. The nurses were very rude, not all of them ... but I certainly understood the reason why, they had no paper towels to wipe their hands, no fridge to get a cool glass of water, their working conditions were quite stressful. I had to purchase one of the drugs which was used for surgery which cost $11,495. I did not mind as this is my mother, but what about those who do not have any family members to help them?

To enter the hospital, there was security with army personnel standing outside. I was very scared as they paraded around with their guns. The security at the door, they were rude and did not display any professional behaviour; I certainly understood the reason behind taking the cellphone, but digging down in my purse was too much.

Willing to share photos

I was able to take my camera into the hospital whereby I took pictures of some of the listed conditions. I would certainly like to pass these pictures on as I want others to see what I am writing about.

I would not want to be in an emergency situation and be taken to the Kingston Public Hospital, it is a grave place to be.

I am not only complaining of the situation I would certainly like to find out if the KPH has any charitable organization that donations can be given to.

I am, etc.,

CHARMAINE ROBERTS

rbrcharmi@aol.com

Canada

Via Go-Jamaica