"Fantastic experience"

My daughter, who has additional needs, was needing day surgery. Prior to the surgery date a member of staff from Ward 15 called me to ask if there was anything they could do to make my daughter's experience and stay more comfortable. This really put our minds at ease ahead of the procedure. 

On the day, we arrived in Ward 15 to warm and friendly staff members. They came and introduced themselves and explained everything to ourselves and our daughter. The cleaner offered to put a DVD on and made sure we were OK. The nurses, Claire and Mel, were an asset to Ward 15. Heather, the anaesthetist, was also fantastic. She first chatted to me in private as to not upset my daughter, then sat down with my daughter to explain her role and what will happen at theatre. Mel walked down to theatre with myself and my daughter and was there for support for me too.

In theatre, Heather was excellent. She spent time to explain the machines and talked about interesting stories to distract my daughter. I never had the chance to thank Heather after the operation - so thank you for being so wonderful, your story about your colleague wanting to be a spaceman really stuck with my daughter.

The porter, Joe, was also great. He made my daughter laugh and was also there to bring her back from her operation which was nice as he was a friendly and familiar face.

After the operation, the surgeon, Dr Livingstone, made us aware of what happened and the follow-up needed. She spoke to us in terms we understood and took the time to reassure us parents and our daughter too. After surgery, staff nurse Claire was fantastic. She checked on us and was so friendly and kind. 

Overall, what could have been a really traumatic experience, was in fact a really positive one. This is no doubt due to the care and attention that all members of staff put in during our time in Ward 15. Thank you to each and every one of you!