A Letter of Recognition | To the Ophthalmology Center of Shanghai General Hospital: Your Dedication and Commitment Have Brought Light and Hope to Patients

https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/ssk-B6fxezsnrncXZ0hzYg

In the frontline work of Shanghai General Hospital, countless touching stories unfold every day.

A successful resuscitation, a challenging surgery, or even a simple reminder or a warm smile—each of these moments, in the eyes of patients, transforms into deep gratitude. These emotions are often put into words, forming heartfelt letters of appreciation.

The protagonists of these stories, through their dedication and actions, embody the noble ethics of modern healthcare professionals and showcase the compassionate spirit of Shanghai General Hospital.

This time, we come to know you through these letters.

Dr. Chen Hui | Department of Orbital and Oculoplastic Surgery

"At a time when our family was in utter despair and helplessness, we held onto one last shred of hope and booked an appointment with Dr. Chen Hui. Despite the challenges of advanced age, total blindness, and dilated pupils, Dr. Chen and his team boldly developed a treatment plan and successfully performed surgery. Our gratitude knows no bounds—Dr. Chen and his team not only saved a person but also saved an entire family."

— Mr. Lu, husband of the patient

Ms. Mao had been suffering from Wegener’s granulomatosis, a rare disease, for a long time. In early 2024, her condition suddenly worsened. Though she received timely treatment, she was left completely blind as a result. Since June 2024, her family had taken her to various hospitals in search of a definitive diagnosis, but all efforts were in vain.

When Ms. Mao’s family was on the verge of despair, they placed their last hope in Shanghai General Hospital, consulting Dr. Chen Hui, Director of the Department of Orbital and Oculoplastic Surgery. Upon examination, Dr. Chen and his team discovered that her optic nerves were completely obstructed by fibrotic granulomas, leaving no light perception. Despite the complexity of her case, the team refused to give up. With a profound sense of responsibility and mission, they repeatedly discussed and refined a surgical treatment plan with the patient’s family.After more than four months of relentless efforts, Ms. Mao finally regained some vision—she can now perceive light and shadows, and her visual acuity continues to improve.

In a letter of appreciation, her family wrote:

"This is nothing short of a miracle. Despite the challenges of advanced age, total blindness, and dilated pupils, Dr. Chen and his team boldly developed a treatment plan and successfully performed surgery. Our gratitude knows no bounds. They not only saved a person but also saved an entire family. We are deeply grateful that Shanghai General Hospital has such an outstanding team of doctors—highly skilled, compassionate, courageous, and dedicated to restoring sight to those in need."

Editor: Cai Shishi, Department of Publicity and Spiritual Civilization