Did you ever know that you're my hero?

SooToday.com has received the following letter from loyal reader Nancy Murphy in Prince George, British Columbia, concerning the recently-announced earlier-than-anticipated retirement of Dr. David Walde.

This SooToday.com file photo shows the local oncologist with one of his patients, Mayor John Rowswell.

************************* I am a cancer survivor.

I would love to take credit for this, but the reality is, I just sat back and endured my tumultuous ride, while Doctor Walde and his fabulous staff worked tirelessly to heal me.

Dr. Walde is a hero in my eyes.

He treated me and my cancer – my emotional wellbeing was part of the package.

Not once did he turn me, my complaints or side effects away.

He made me comfortable and actually listened to what I had to say.

I was treated with dignity and respect at all times.

The survival rate after my last bout with cancer was in the single digits and not once would he allow me to give up.

Dr. Walde and his attitude gave me hope.

Many trips were made to the hospital in the 2.5 years I lived with my cancer.

On many occasions I had to be hospitalized.

Sometimes, I was not only on a different floor, but in a different hospital, which made it extremely difficult on Dr. Walde and myself.

Not once did Dr. Walde miss a round, forget to see to my needs or utter any complaints.

He worked tirelessly from early morning and late into the evening.

It was not unusual to see him before 8 a.m. and after 10 p.m.

Cancer problems do not occur, conveniently, from 9 – 5, yet whenever I encountered a problem, the solution was found.

Dr. Walde deserves to have a wonderful retirement.

His wife, children and grandchildren have sacrificed their family lives, so people like me can enjoy their own family lives.

The manner in which Dr. Walde is leaving should shame the people who run the hospital.

Dr. Walde has worked tirelessly with many personal sacrifices to see that the people of Sault Ste. Marie are given the very best care available anywhere.

I truly believe he has succeeded in this endeavour.

I am under no illusions that I walk this earth today because of his dedication to a dreadful disease.

Dr. Walde does so with the dignity, energy, enthusiasum, caring, and grace.

I wish him all the very best in a long and healthy retirement.

Nancy Murphy Prince George BC

************************* Full SooToday.com coverage of this story

Fed up with hospital administrators, Walde walks On Dr. Walde's departure and the cancer bunker City Council expresses concern about hospital situation You speak for all of us, Dr. Walde I'll tell you this, Dr. Walde Our mom will enjoy Christmas because of you, Dr. Walde You're my hero, Dr. Walde!