"They kept my family well informed"

Admitted to the ward after having a stroke causing loss of speech and swallow. It was evident this was not going to return any time soon and I felt terrified, anxious, emotional and alone. I was trying to communicate with my family and feeling extremely frustrated.

Every single member of staff I saw within B21 were amazing, helpful, supportive, understanding. A few of the student nurses stood out also and would do well in this department including Emily, Courtnay and a young gentleman whos name I never caught, however he usually covers the ICU but was helping in B21.

Caroline the dietician kept my family well informed as did Anna the Speech and Language therapist. Paul came to check I could manage my tube feeding and also taught my daughter what to do also in case I need support from home.

Every nurse and Doctor went above and beyond with not only the care for me, but also support and information to my family. No question from them was to much and they kept them well informed of my care and progress.

I am home today, 11 days from admission. I do have a feeding tube and still cannot talk, swallow or use my mouth, however, I know I am not alone. Many care in community aspects have been set up and we will continue to work on hopefully getting these functions back.

I know my tube is life support and I am grateful the nurses continued to encourage me even after several painful failed attempts. I am still scared, my family are too. Its frustrating for us all when I cannot be understood easily. Talking, eating and drinking is very much taken for granted.

Thank you all in B21 Acute Stroke Ward FVRH.