"My GP journey"

Just over a year ago, I was experiencing a few niggling issues that were affecting my well being: fatigue, unusual tiredness, aches, stomach upsets in my eyes, a lot of symptoms associated with long-covid.

I'm wary of self diagnosis so I had several appointments with a doctor at Nethergate Medical Cantre. I felt listened to and confident that the doctor's professional and caring approach would come up with an answer, and solution, to my issues. Lots of diagnostic tests failed to show anything definite or sinister and I believe it was put down to long covid. So, this was my new normal; could've been worse but with long covid being a relatively new medical condition there was little I could other than to accept and make the most of it.

Fast forward to Spring this year all these annoying issues increased in severity following another unwelcome dose of Covid: short of breath, joint and bone pain, uncharacteristic  headaches, night sweats, poor sleep, stomach cramps and general malaise were starting to get the better of me...the smallest of effort was leaving me exhausted.

Off to the the GP surgery again. As with the previous doctor I saw, I felt my issues were given professional and caring consideration. More diagnostic tests which only revealed minor anaemia which didn't account for my poor health.

The doctor then arranged for a CT scan to be carried out...my goodness did the NHS go into overdrive, it appears the radiologist pressed the cancer button. From scan to the doctor contacting me was just over 48 hrs. The doctor explained that something that was known about in 2016, a nodule, had grown in size and a referral would be made to Ninewells Hospital respiratory unit. 

I've previously posted about my experience of the respiratory unit, which has been at times frightening but extremely positive.

This little story has been made to highlight the absolute professionalism shown by the two doctors and to express my gratitude for getting doors so swiftly opened to help in curing this unwelcome probable cancer.

GPs and the NHS seem to get some bad press these days but my experience shows that when you really need the help it's there to fully support you and cannot be faulted.

To all those concerned in my story, a sincere and genuine thank you!

Spelling and grammar mistakes? Sorry, but I've just had a session of dealing with a bunch of demons that have taken up residence in my head...their marching orders are being written!