"Endoscopy Service experience as an autistic person"

Last week I had to go for an urgent colonoscopy at the Queen Margaret Hospital. This is obviously quite a nerve wracking experience for anyone, but as an autistic person, those feelings were amplified. However thanks to the very lovely and accommodating staff, I was able to stay calm throughout the whole procedure, wait, and general hospital stay. 

I would like to say some thankyous to staff that were particularly helpful as it made the whole process so much easier for me. 

My biggest thank you goes to Lesley who was my main nurse throughout the whole experience. She was so lovely and cheerful, she was really understanding of my needs and just generally helpful. 

I'd also like to thank Kelsey and Shannon who were the nurses who were there during the procedure itself. They were really kind, did a very good job of distracting me throughout the procedure and seemed genuinely interested in the conversations we were having (to distract me). And of course I'd like to thank the Endoscopist Mr Evgenikos. He was so patient and understanding. He made sure to ask me if I was doing okay multiple times throughout the procedure and also managed to make me laugh a little despite my nerves. 

I felt very well looked after by everyone, and managed to get through it all with very little anxiety. I'm grateful to all the staff on shift on the ward that day as they were generally really friendly and helpful, even if they were just passing by. 

My only negative of the experience would be when I first went into the waiting area. My mum was with me to try and help me get through it. We were unsure on how long she'd be allowed to stay with me so she went to get some answers from the receptionist. The receptionist was rather curt with her, in telling her that she couldn't go through anywhere with me, and that made us both uncomfortable.

I understand they may have been having a bad day, and would like to give them the benefit of the doubt. My mum counts as my medical advocate and was just trying to get more information for me on how I would be supported, yet the receptionist seemed rather annoyed at my mum's questions.

I just think there could've been a better handle on things. As after the receptionist passed on our questions, Lesley came over to get me started with everything, and she was much kinder about it all. She explained to me that mum wasn't allowed in with me, but made sure that I knew who was around to help and whatnot.