News
Brampton Family Physician Quarterbacks Care After Catastrophic Car Accident
Andree Decoste, of Brampton, credits her family doctor, Dr. Christopher Veenema, with coordinating care for her son, David, following a catastrophic car accident in 2019, while also supporting her through challenges of her own.
Thankful for his dedication and care, Andree successfully nominated Dr. Veenema to be recognized by the Ontario College of Family Physicians (OCFP) as part of a campaign to highlight the essential role of family doctors. Dr. Veenema, of Queen Square Doctors in Brampton, is one of 25 family physicians in Brampton and 750 in Ontario being honoured by their patients and the OCFP for the outstanding care they provide.
“What we heard from patients in all corners of the province, including right here in Brampton, is that family physicians are there for patients, providing care when they need it most,” said Dr. Jobin Varughese, President, OCFP. “We are thankful for the dedication and care that family physicians like Dr. Veenema show to patients in our community.”
Andree and her family have been Dr. Veenema’s patients for 15 years and she emphasizes that every appointment she and David, 25, have had with him has been effective. She is thankful that he consistently shows how caring and understanding he is by giving them the time they need to ask questions and access his support. “Dr. Veenema has been amazing,” she said. “I can call him in the morning and get an appointment the same day.”
The accident, a head-on collision with a truck, resulted in David having a left-side stroke, leading to other complications. He was also left with serious damage to both of his legs. Following emergency surgeries, David has required additional procedures to repair ligaments and tendons in his knee. He now requires annual ultrasounds, has weekly physiotherapy and speech therapy appointments and sees specialists regularly.
In addition to any referrals David may need, Dr. Veenema’s office contacts them with reminders prior to all appointments – something Andree says is very helpful.
Andree says that this experience has been difficult for her. In response, Dr. Veenema has supported her mental health so that she can continue to care for her son. “Family doctors are incredibly important for families,” said Andree. “They know your health history, they are there to help you, and they understand everything patients are going through.”