Patient Testimonial

When Charlotte Caston, 54, first began experiencing bouts of nausea and persistent abdominal discomfort, she didn’t think much of it.  She chalked it up to working long hours in healthcare in Ville Platte and kept pushing through her busy days.

Everything changed after an unexpected fall sent her to the Emergency Room in her hometown of Oakdale.  While evaluating her injuries, including a few broken ribs, x-ray images revealed what Charlotte described as a “huge gallstone.”  The symptoms of nausea and abdominal pain now made perfect sense.

Her primary care physician sent a referral to general surgeon, Dr. Brooks Lowrey, at Opelousas General.  Given the size of the gallstone, Charlotte was immediately scheduled for surgery.

Charlotte recalls her same day surgery experience as “awesome.” From admissions and guest relations to the surgical team and recovery, every staff member left a lasting impression.  Though she admits she was extremely nervous, the calm atmosphere of the hospital and the warmth of each greeting helped ease her fears the moment she walked in.

Despite countless physician interactions working in healthcare, Charlotte was deeply moved by Dr. Lowrey.  She describes him as “personable”, “never rushed”, “thorough”, “completely focused on me”, and “genuinely kind”. 

Now fully recovered and feeling great, Charlotte says she “wouldn’t hesitate” to return to Opelousas General for any future healthcare needs.  In her words, “OGHS is a top-notch hospital.  I cannot offer one suggestion for improvement.  My entire experience was excellent.”