"She was a great source of comfort and support"

In August 23 I was admitted to Forth Valley Royal Hospital and during my (almost) 6 month admission I was in ICU/ITU twice (for 21 then 10 days).

During this time I experienced a whole lot of emotional trauma (as well as the obvious physical aspect). I was at deaths door twice and had unimaginable nightmares that seemed incredibly real and traumatic. I believed I was dead or “in limbo” in these dreams and that a higher power was making a decision on whether to let me live. I begged and begged for my life so I could see my children grow up.

When I became conscious again, I genuinely believed I was dead for a number of days and had hallucinations (including insects on walls etc) and thought I could hear nurses planning on harming me. As you can imagine this is not something that goes away!

Throughout my recovery both in ICU and on the ward, Emma was a great source of comfort and support. She gave me various coping techniques that I still use to this day. She comforted my immediate family during the times that seemed hopeless and was key in the process of pushing for my return to ICU in November - this could have been what saved my life. 

Emma was incredibly kind, empathetic, approachable and went above and beyond in making sure I was mentally coping with everything that was going on. We continued our sessions on my return home to continue with my recovery there. We discussed the best tools for my mental healthcare in the future and I will use these whenever my mind slips back down a rocky road.

It’s so clear to me that Emma loves and is dedicated to her job and she cares deeply for her patients. I will never forget how amazing she was to me and my family and will be forever grateful that she became involved in my recovery. I cried a lot when she discharged me - in a good way though!

Emma is a wonderful Psychologist and an asset to the NHS and FVRH. Thank you!