"Human kindness and empathy"

I injured my ankle while abroad last year running so firstly experienced the hospitals there... which I would avoid at all costs!

Injury hadn’t healed after 3 months so had MRI privately in Magerafelt which confirmed serious ruptured ligament amongst other things. Had surgery in London as I knew the wait time would be few years here and as active runner/hiker couldn’t wait for sake of my mental and physical health. Surgery was a success, we hope!

But post-op been experiencing severe pain and swelling in ankle and calf. Went to Altnagelvin A and E... shambolic chaos and dirty, over 9 hrs waiting toilets not cleaned once, and no care or concern whatsoever from medical staff.

I left at 4am with infection ruled out, and eventually more bloods taken to rule out DVT. But no other advice. In pain and disillusioned.

Returned today to Omagh Minor Injuries to request an ultrasound as pain still extreme and swelling. It looks and feels like the Ritz in comparison and despite being busy, every single person, from reception, to triage, to nurse, to x Ray staff and finally to the medical practitioner, were incredibly thorough and most of all empathetic and kind.

I’ve ruled out a few things but most of all felt supported. Well done Omagh ..you really should be proud of yourselves.. for me it’s back to my consultant but at least now with some additional information to provide. Thank you 💚