I arrived at Mary Greeley Medical Center Emergency Department on Saturday, April 20, at approximately 7 a.m. with symptoms of severe abdominal pain. The staff was prompt, professional and compassionate. They diagnosed me with acute cholecystitis (gall bladder) and informed me that I would be going into surgery soon. At that time, other patients began arriving suffering from injuries sustained during Veishea “festivities” the night before. Patient No. 1 suffered a compound fracture and was moved ahead of me. An hour later, I was informed by the triage doctor of another fracture patient who was bumped ahead of me as well. But there was more to come as additional alcohol-related injuries and illnesses were moved ahead of me. After being there for approximately 11 hours, I was taken into surgery. I was informed the next day, that Saturday night/Sunday morning, the staff went through it all over again.

A normal gallbladder surgery is often an outpatient procedure. Other times, a 24-hour stay is required. In my case, I was there two additional days. I can’t help but think the delay I endured waiting for treatment as “more pressing cases” were moved ahead of me had something to do with my need to be hospitalized the extra nights. Needless to say, I am quite concerned about the additional expenses for my extended stay.

Obviously, there was turmoil and disruption in the streets of Ames directly associated with Veishea weekend. The Ames Police, Fire Department and the Emergency Medical Service personnel had their hands full all weekend.

So for the Veterinary, Engineering, Industrial Science, Home Economics and Agriculture Colleges, this conduct is out of control … and it makes you look bad.