The Best Place on the Map

Our reputation for quality care sparked the Rowley family's move

On the move

 John and Joan Rowley believe our attention to detail and friendly smiles set us apart from other hospitals. They feel so strongly about our care, they packed up their belongings and moved to Allentown just to be close to our hospital.

The mountainous landscape, the change of seasons and the friendly smiles of its residents all entice people to move to the Lehigh Valley. But for John and Joan Rowley, none of that mattered more than our reputation for providing quality care.

Upon retirement, John, a junior high school principal, and Joan, a special education teacher, moved from Livingston, N.J., to Lake Wallenpaupack. “That’s when I began experiencing pain in my stomach,” John says, “and the local hospital misdiagnosed an intestinal blockage.” Even though things turned out fine, the Rowleys knew they needed to prepare for the future by moving near a high-quality hospital.

They began doing research and asking their friends and neighbors questions. “We noticed every time someone from the Poconos was seriously injured or ill, they went to LVHHN,” Joan says. “So Allentown was the place for us.”

The couple quickly purchased a new home and started packing. On moving day, while lifting a heavy box, the unexpected happened—John developed a hernia. “I didn’t think I would be going to the hospital so soon,” he says, “but I was immediately impressed with the care I received.”

Only a short time later, John needed care again, this time for a hip replacement. “That’s when we realized we made the right decision to move here,” Joan says. Both were amazed by the amount of information they received soon after the surgery was scheduled. “On the day of surgery, I felt comfortable because I knew exactly what was going to happen,” John recalls.

That sense of security continued in the days afterward. While receiving care on LVH-Cedar Crest’s 5B, John was most impressed by the people he met. ”I’ve been in hospitals where employees have a negative attitude,” John says. “At LVHHN, everyone has a smile on their face. For me, that goes a long way toward healing.”

John found much of the same when he transferred to LVH-17th and Chew for rehabilitation. His physical therapist, Stephanie Cleaver, made a particularly strong impression. “She always had a positive attitude, encouraging me to do my best,” John says. “Even though I was working hard, I felt relaxed with her.”

John’s hard work paid off. Now back on his feet and living an active lifestyle, he says, “I don’t know if things would have worked out this well if we hadn’t moved to Allentown. LVHHN is just as advertised.”

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