For more than five decades, Arnprior Regional Health has played a central role in Lynne Zander’s life. A long-time resident of Arnprior, Lynne speaks with deep gratitude about the quality of care she’s received and the enduring relationships she’s built with the staff.

Her first experiences with ARH were for relatively minor health concerns—mainly allergies that surfaced after settling into small-town life. But even those early visits were eye-opening. Coming from the fast-paced, often overwhelming environment of city hospitals, Lynne immediately noticed a difference. There was a calmness at ARH, a sense of order and professionalism. Staff treated her with kindness and respect. She never felt rushed. And doctors like Dr. Ranson and Dr. Morrison made it clear that her questions and concerns were welcome.

Over the years, ARH became a trusted constant during more serious health issues. When Lynne developed a severe viral eye infection—one that could have escalated into meningitis—the emergency team responded quickly and decisively, administering IV antibiotics that likely prevented a much worse outcome.

She remembers another moment clearly: a bad reaction to a flu shot. Dr. Ranson immediately directed her to emergency care. It wasn’t just the medical intervention that stuck with her—it was the staff’s proactive, reassuring approach. Even during a panic attack, Lynne says, the nurses were by her side right away, offering calm support and steady hands.

At one point, Lynne faced overlapping medical and mental health challenges. It was a difficult period, but what stood out most was how the staff treated her throughout—with compassion, patience and quiet confidence. Whether she was in the operating room, an exam room, or waiting for test results, someone was always there to help her feel grounded.

Over time, Lynne moved through nearly every department at ARH. Emergency, radiology, surgery, physiotherapy, heart and diabetes clinics, workshops—you name it. In every corner of the hospital, she encountered the same level of commitment and care. Staff members remembered her name. They took the time to explain things clearly. And no matter how busy they were, they treated her with dignity.

That lasting impression of kindness and competence inspired Lynne to give back. For more than 20 years, she’s volunteered at the hospital and nursing home, entertaining patients and residents and helping to lift spirits. It’s been, in her words, “one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

She’s also worked closely with hospital staff during her volunteer time and has seen the same dedication behind the scenes. Whether supporting long-term care residents or helping in day-to-day programs, she says the ARH team is made up of people who genuinely care about their community.

For Lynne, having a hospital like ARH close to home has made all the difference—not just in moments of crisis, but in day-to-day health and well-being. It’s a place where expertise meets empathy. And it’s part of why she proudly calls Arnprior home.