Six Years On, A Grateful Return to Damansara Specialist Hospital

Six years ago, 12-year-old Finn Van Den Heuvel was rushed to Damansara Specialist Hospital after a dirt bike accident left him with a broken femur. Now, nearly 18, Finn has returned, not as a patient but as a young man, to revisit the ward, reconnect with the people who cared for him, and say thank you.

“I remember being in so much pain and feeling very scared, but I also remember how they comforted me, talked to me, and made me feel less afraid. Seeing them again now feels really special,” Finn said.

His mother, who had stood by him through every moment of fear and hope, admitted the return was emotional. “Six years ago, I walked these halls in shock and fear. Today, I walk them with relief and gratitude. Meeting the same people who treated Finn, and showing how well he has recovered, it feels like we’ve come full circle.”

It was here that Finn underwent surgery led by Dr Johan Ahmad, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Damansara Specialist Hospital. The injury was severe, but the treatment required even greater care because Finn was still growing. “A femur fracture in a child must be repaired, or it will affect mobility for life,” Dr Johan explained. “For Finn, we used an elastic nail that stabilised the bone without disturbing growth. Once the bone united, the implant was removed.”

For Finn’s mother, those moments of decision remain vivid. “Hearing that your child needs surgery is terrifying. But Dr Johan explained everything clearly, the risks, the reasons, and how they would protect Finn’s future growth. His calmness and honesty gave me strength.”

Finn’s recovery was long, involving weeks of hospital care and months of physiotherapy. Yet what the family remembers most is the kindness that surrounded them. “The nurses were incredible,” his mother said. “They distracted Finn when he was in pain, and the physiotherapists encouraged him every step of the way. They truly treated us like family.”

Reuniting with Dr Johan and the team, Finn expressed his gratitude. “I’m thankful I got better, and I’m grateful for everyone who cared for me here. They didn’t just fix my leg, they made me feel safe.”

For Dr Johan, the reunion was equally meaningful. “Seeing Finn return after six years, healthy and thriving, is a privilege. His journey is proof of what can be achieved when expert care and compassion go hand in hand.”

What was once a place of pain for Finn and his mother has now become a place of fond remembrance. Their return, marked by hugs, smiles, and snapshots with the care team, turned a difficult memory into a story of strength, healing, and gratitude.

At Damansara Specialist Hospital, our commitment to Care for Life means helping patients move beyond treatment towards healthier, stronger futures. For more information or to consult our specialists, contact +603-7718 1000 or visit kpjhealth.com.my/damansara

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