"They explained clearly what would be happening"

I arrived early in the morning for day surgery to have a tiny lump removed from right breast. (This had been discovered from the results of my routine mammogram in February.)

I was taken to the Day Ward very promptly and admitted efficiently by pleasant and helpful staff who put me at my ease.

I was first on the list to be operated. Apart from the nurses who were completing the necessary forms and providing me with hospital garments, I was visited by the Surgeon and the Anaesthetist who explained clearly what would be happening regarding my operation and asked if I was happy to proceed.

The waiting time passed very quickly and I was wheeled round to the theatre. I have had two operations in 2019 and am always amazed to be put under the anaesthetic and then find myself waking up back in the ward for a cuppa, a sandwich and the happy moment when I was told I could go home.

It was all very smooth and all the nerves and apprehension disappeared.

The NHS does not receive enough praise for the work that they do on a day to day basis. I was impressed by the way the staff dealt with so many patients but putting each person at their ease and helping us to negotiate a scary experience by their calm and pleasant manner.

I don't have any criticism of this visit...except for the number of times their patients has to repeat their name, date of birth and address even though I know there is a valid reason.

On a lighter note, I was reminded that I am not the young woman I picture in my mind when, because I am 70 - had to take the competence test!