I would like to commend Ella who took my call for an orthopedic appointment today.

Rukmini and Aedan BaluI hurt my back on Saturday and have been in severe pain since then. However, the earliest appointment that was available to me was on Wednesday.

Ella stayed on the phone with me for about half and hour calling every satellite Duke Medicine office with an orthopedic practice until she found one (Duke Health Center at Southpoint) that could see me today (Monday).

I commend her for her efforts and empathy, as well as her sense of duty to the patient. I had all but given up hope of seeing a clinician and getting some relief for my back, when I got Ella on the phone.

It was especially important for me to take care of my back as soon as possible because I take care of my year-old son and have been unable to even pick him up since the back injury on Saturday. Thank you Ella.