You're not getting older, you're getting better!

To you, Yale-New Haven Hospital, I salute your 175 years of dedication, commitment, humanitarianism and medical superiority. In this constantly evolving world, your contribution to humanity has been immeasurable.

You are many faces to many people, and your doors welcome all people. You have been my lifeline for all of my 57 years. Through happiness, tears, joys and fears, you have been my companion—dependable, resourceful, compassionate, and caring. You have caressed me at my birth, agonized with me over my mother's cancer, cried with me at her death, celebrated my daughter's birth, anguished with me at my husband's heart surgery, and comforted and supported me through my own heart surgery.

I celebrate and applaud Yale-New Haven Hospital's community of people that make it all work: skillful talented doctors whose outstanding reputation and commitment to excellence dominates the world's medical fields; nurses, whose invaluable knowledge and strength create a healing environment; and volunteers, who give endlessly, unselfishly and tirelessly. There are so many more people: security guards, cafeteria workers, maintenance workers, etc. Each one contributing with smiles, guidance, and touches of kindness.

This is the family at Yale-New Haven Hospital: people of compassion, excellence and courage. We, the citizens of Connecticut and the world, proudly admire and respect your commitment to the human race.

Yale-New Haven Hospital, good luck and God bless your next 175 years. May you always be guided by righteousness, vision and respect for all of mankind. Remember, "You're not getting older, you're getting better."

Thanks for the memories.

Elaine Leary
Clinton, Conn.