Elmendorf emergency room receives kudos Published Oct. 6, 2009 ELMENDORF AIR FORCE BASE, Alaska -- I've always been impressed with the quality of treatment of my family has received from all the caring professional at the 3rd Medical Group and this visit was no different. Recently, I took my 10-year-old son to the Elmendorf emergency room. He was in severe pain that didn't go away after an hour, so we made the trek from downtown. Since he was not necessarily in a life threatening status, I was fully prepared for a long afternoon in the waiting area. Senior Airman Richard Hamby met us and handled our initial improcessing efficiently and courteously. After quickly evaluating the situation, he told us it would be a few minutes until screening. Only 20 minutes later, Capt. Kevin Monagan handled our screening triage. He was very empathetic toward my son, and did his best to keep him comfortable while assessing his condition. He was kind and compassionate, exactly what you'd expect from a medical professional. To my surprise, he did not send us back to the waiting room, but instead took us to an exam room. Once again expecting a long wait, it was only 10 minutes before Maj. (Dr.) Shannon Faber came in. She immediately established a rapport with my son (both gymnasts), and directed the inquires toward him rather than defer everything toward me. I thought she showed a great regard for the patient, even though he's "only" a child in pain. As she examined him, she put him at ease while continuing to search for the problem. In the end, a quick diagnosis led to the alleviation of his acute pain and quick conclusion of our ER trip. Total time: less than 60 minutes. Result: pain free, happy 10 year old. Please relay my sincere thanks and appreciation to your ER team.