I would like to make a few comments regarding the article about the opening of the new St Joseph Mercy Hospital Tower (“North Tower ready to open, Thursday, March 18).

I have worked at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital for 31 years as a registered nurse in various departments. I take great pride in advocating for patients and quality care. Patients are very aware of judging the care they receive.

I disagree with Rob Casalou's comment that patients may not be able to determine the quality of care because of not being familiar with technology. The patient is a health care consumer and very knowledgable about their health care needs and if those needs were provided.

The author commented that hospital officials hope the tower will improve patient care. The tower cannot provide care but can support the environment in which the care is provided. However the heart and soul of the care is not the building but in the dedicated health providers - physicians, nurses and ancillary support staff.

I also felt the description of the services at the salon and spa was extremely insensitive to the cancer patient. It was inappropriate to equate busy employees getting a haircut with patients undergoing a traumatic life-changing event.

I have grown up with St. Joes, witnessing the building of the various health centers and now the new towers. My father had heart surgery and my son was born at St. Joes. I have the tremendous privilege of meeting the most phenomenal brave and inspiring people that have taught me many life lessons and these are my patients.

Elizabeth J. LaForge, R.N. South Lyon