"Really great experience"

I was sent to Urgent Care and the team were fantastic. Given the proximity to Christmas, I did not want to stay in. The team did their best to get me home, and had me in & out over the course of the week for various tests until the only option was admission & treatment.

From what I understand the Urgent Care Centre is a new concept and for me it worked extremely well. I never had much longer than 2/3 hours to wait and that was from entering to leaving, normally with blood tests & scans in between. It certainly saved waiting in A&E. 

The team were superb. From the minute I walked in, everyone was really lovely. Pauline at reception, who always greeted me with a smile and kind words, especially when we found out I was being admitted over Christmas. Those kinds words while I was having a cry and feeling sorry for myself meant the world. Ben, the ANP who treated me with banter and always kept me comfortable and informed as to what was happening. The registrars were also great, Lex in particular stands out as he saw me so often! They really did make it that little bit lighter. 

My final admission in Feb led to a quick surgery and my praise for those involved with my care is really high. Pauline, who came to see me before she went home that night just to see how I was ( who does that?!) Ben, who made sure I was comfortable, as pain free as possible and had quick access to surgical, and came to check on me the next day. Again, above and beyond.

Then the quick actions of Mr Wilson and his registrars to get me to theatre with little time to think or panic, and with a degree of humour. The anaesthetic team, who did their very best to ease my fears and get me ready - we had 30 minutes, so no easy feat! And the theatre nurses who took me from the ward to the theatre and went above and beyond to distract me, put me at ease, held my hand and played my favourite song as I went under. I wish I knew your names so I could personally thank you. You made a frightening situation much less scary and I am eternally grateful to you for that.

Lastly, Mr Rodger who recently took the time to examine me and explain why I am still experiencing discomfort and eased my concerns. This made a huge difference to me. You listened, you explained and never once made me feel like I was making it up. I truly appreciate your time and explanations. Those park runs are just round the corner!

As someone who has never been ill , never been in hospital, never had surgery before, I am truly humbled and grateful for the kindness and empathy I was shown by those mentioned above. A lot of the time I didn't know what was going on with my health and was worried. This wasn't a situation I ever wanted, nor imagine myself in, but those seemingly little things that may just be part of your job, really make such a huge difference. 

From the bottom of my heart, thank you.