Petaluma Valley Hospital’s emergency team turns near-fatal cardiac event into a story of survival and gratitude

Ron and Sandy Fetter were attending their nephew’s wedding when Ron started feeling unwell and had difficulty breathing. Though he made it through the event, his condition worsened overnight. Alarmed, the family called for an ambulance.

Upon arrival at Petaluma Valley Hospital’s emergency department, Ron’s blood pressure was dangerously low at 60/40. As doctors assessed his condition, Ron’s heart stopped. The emergency department team immediately began resuscitation efforts.

Sandy vividly recalls the terror of seeing a Code Blue called and realizing it was for her husband. “I see that they are clearly all in Ron’s room,” Sandy says. “So, we take a breath. We’re holding each other, we’re praying, we’re crying, and we know something really bad is happening.”

When they learned he had been resuscitated, their relief was immense, though Ron’s condition remained precarious.

Patrick Lally, M.D., one of Ron’s treating physicians, took time to connect with the family on a personal level. “What was so incredible about [Dr. Lally] and all of the staff was that they made us feel so special, like we weren’t just a number,” Sandy says.

“I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for Petaluma Valley Hospital,” Ron says. “I think that’s what’s so nice about a community hospital — they’re going to do everything they can to help you out and help your family.”

Months later, Ron is recovering well. He and Sandy remain profoundly grateful to the Petaluma Valley Hospital staff who saved his life and supported their family through a frightening ordeal. Their experience illustrates the vital importance of having high-quality emergency care close to home.