"Care of my mum"

My mum was admitted recently to AU1. She had lung cancer and had several admissions over the last year. She had been told there was no further treatment a year ago and also her choice not to receive further treatment was respected. On this occasion she knew her condition had deteriorated and wanted to spend one more night at home.

The ambulance crew that attended that morning were amazing with my mum and daughter. My daughter had stayed overnight with her gran this time. They showed care and compassion and even returned to AU1 later on that day to see how my mum was doing. To me that showed that they absolutely care about their patients.

In AU1 the staff were so welcoming to my mum, introduced themselves and showed such kindness. The nursing auxiliaries even made us laugh at such a worrying time. This gave us good memories to keep. I wish I could remember their names. Mum was transferred to ward 43 that day.

Well, what more can I say? The staff were absolutely amazing, soon as we entered the ward. They ensured my mum was settled into the room and explained the next steps of her admission. The staff got another bed in the room so I could stay with my mum. It meant so much to be beside my mum and just be there for her. Staff were so attentive to my mum and took time with her, ensuring she had everything she needed. They gave us the privacy to take care of my mum also but were there when we needed them.

When my mum needed pain relief they were on it. Not did they just look after my mum but also showed so much kindness to myself. Toast and tea was much appreciated during the night. Even a hug meant so much to me. The staff showed kindness, care and compassion in my mum's last few days of life. There was a nursing auxiliary, Kendal, who also advocated for my mum in an unexpected situation and dealt with this is a professional manner ( I thank her so much for this). This gave my mum the dignity and respect she deserved.

My heartfelt thanks to Lindsay, Laura, Kendal, Tom , Karen, Shona - there are more staff members but I unfortunately can’t remember their names. We appreciate every single person involved in my mum's care. They made such a sad time more accepting by how much care they showed. The memories of my mum's time at end of life will last a lifetime for us.

Although a very sad time it was a positive experience. The staff should be so proud of themselves. Never change who you are, keep smiling. If there are days you find that hard then just remember the difference you do make to your patients and families. ❤️