"My husband is treated with respect and dignity"

Husband suffered a stroke and was admitted to Forth Valley Hospital, Falkirk.  Dealt with extremely fast and has been in Acute Stroke ward since. He has had a brain tumour since 2000, had 2 surgeries, radiotherapy and chemotherapy.  Also suffered a stroke a few years ago where only speech was affected. 

Sadly, this time has been much worse. It has been a terrifying experience and with all he's suffered in the  past, extremely difficult for him and the family. He took seriously unwell and doctors again acted quickly. He was sent for a CT scan and had a gallbladder infection. Intravenous antibiotics etc were started immediately.

Next day, consultant Mr French was concerned due to how unwell he was. He had another CT for abdominal and head. Mr French also had Intensive Care assess and on standby. He was extremely thorough and I am very grateful for this.

The Senior Charge Nurse is Nyree, who must be a great leader as she has a fantastic team. You can feel that the staff have a great bond and they work so hard. My husband is treated with respect and dignity. He is encouraged every step of the way!

This whole situation is just horrendous, but the caring staff on this ward have made the journey so far that bit easier. I have shed many tears and have been giving amazing support. The physiotherapists have been behind him and show empathy and care. Even though he's been too poorly for the last fortnight, they check in on him daily, also supporting me too.

I will be eternally grateful for the care the whole ward has given him.

The only negative is, in my opinion, there is not enough staff. With the type of ward this is, personal care must be so time consuming. Also people that require assistance at meal times. I'm sure the staff must be exhausted, though if they are, this is never shown to the patients or carers.