A Return to Say Thank You
“I think we had the best care possible at Lakeland Regional Health”
Four years ago, Jack Hamilton’s life changed in an instant.
While taking a refresher seaplane course in Winter Haven, Jack survived a devastating crash. After a difficult rescue, he was rushed to the emergency room at Lakeland Regional Health, where he spent several weeks recovering from serious injuries.
This month, on the anniversary of that crash, Jack returned, this time as a former patient filled with gratitude.
Accompanied by his wife, Lynne, and family members who spent many weeks by his side during his hospital stay, Jack came back to Lakeland Regional Health to personally thank the physicians, nurses, and staff who supported him throughout his recovery.
“It was a difficult time, but it was also a powerful time to see how God was one step ahead of us all along the way,” Lynne shares. “Through everything, we felt surrounded by care and compassion.”
Jack and his family met and brought cookies to share with members of the trauma, critical care, and reconstructive teams who played key roles in his care, including Dr. Richard Sontchi, Dr. Stephen Rowe, and Dr. David Straughan.
During their visit, the family also shared lunch in the cafeteria — a place that had become familiar and meaningful during Jack’s hospitalization. They even remembered the outdoor table where they shared countless meals together while he recovered, finding comfort in a routine that helped carry them through a difficult time.
Though Jack was unconscious for much of his early care, he remembers enough to know how deeply his family was supported.
“The staff here are wonderful, and we will always be grateful for everything they did for us,” says Jack.
For Jack and his family, returning to Lakeland Regional Health was an opportunity to pause, remember, and say thank-you — to the care teams, the staff, and the people who helped them through one of the most challenging chapters of their lives.
“I think we had the best care possible at Lakeland Regional Health” says Lynne.
Thank you, Jack and family, for coming back to reconnect. We are honored to be a part of your recovery story.
Lifesaving Care
Learn more about the lifesaving care offered at Lakeland Regional Health:
