IN Sept. 2001, we had our first encounter with the CNMI Medical Referral Program. At the time, my wife was pregnant with twin daughters who had a long way to go until their due date in mid-January. After numerous problems with the pregnancy, she was sent to Kapiolani Medical Center in Honolulu. She delivered our daughters less than 34 hours after her arrival.
Our daughters weighed less than 2 pounds each and were extremely premature. The smaller of the two girls passed away after 11 days due to severe prematurity. Her sister spent 81 days in the intensive care at Kapiolani. She was discharged in December, but was required to stay in Honolulu one more month due to medical follow-ups. My wife and daughter finally arrived back on Saipan on Jan. 17, just about the time she should have been born.
Not being familiar with the referral program, we had no idea what to expect upon her arrival in Honolulu. What we found there was exceptional. All members of the staff of the Marianas Hawaii Liaison Office were professional, knowledgeable, helpful, supportive and caring throughout her stay. We were impressed with the level of assistance provided by their office for myself and our family. We would especially like to thank Anthony Benavente, Betsy Pastor, Eddie Villanueva and Rita Woody for their support and assistance in bringing both of our daughters home. We cannot thank the Liaison Office enough for all they did. They made a horrible ordeal a little easier.
We would also like to thank Dr. Ramsey and the nurses and midwives of the CHC labor and delivery ward, especially Losana, for their care and support prior to my departure. Since our arrival back on Saipan, my daughter has received outstanding care and treatment from Dr. Peter Untalan, Dr. Kometani, the nurses and staff of San Antonio Clinic, Carmen Kaipat, the nurses of the CHC pediatric ward, CDAC, and Dr. David Khorram and the staff of the Marianas Eye Institute. We also need to thank Donald Camacho of the Government Health and Life Insurance—his advice and guidance were exceptional. Finally, thanks so much to all who have cared for, and prayed for our daughters and our family.MELVIN & RACHEL TEREGEYO
Sadog Tasi, Saipan
