"True NHS heroes and, moreover, wonderful people"

As my beloved grandma approaches the end of her long life I feel compelled to share our wonderful experience in Ward 54.

Grandma was seen in AMU by her urology doctor when she started to deteriorate. This was fantastic continuation of care and as my grandma was still lucid at this point, she really appreciated the personal touch and familiar face. We were delighted when her care at the end of her life was taken over by the team.

On arrival to 54 we were designated a single room for her. It was a beautiful, spacious and clean room with a lovely view over Kirkcaldy looking onto the beach in the distance.

The nursing care she received in 54 has been second to none. She has been visited by nurses, healthcare assistants and student nurses who have all provided care of the highest level. They have ensured she is comfortable, checked regularly and involved family in the care. We were particularly touched when one nurse told us that they want our grandma to be comfortable, but they also want us to be comfortable too, ensuring that the family had a bed in the room so we can spend time with her overnight. I cannot express in words how much this meant to us to be able to spend the nights with her too. Nothing was ever too much for the team. You have made a very sad time much easier for our family.

Comfort has been ensured by the palliative team visiting daily. Nicola the palliative nurse has had a realistic and compassionate view on managing anxiety and pain for my grandma and this has led to little pain being experienced in her last days. Any pain was managed superbly by the timely ward staff providing breakthrough medications at all hours.

To name a few of the stars who helped us - Linda (a truly wonderful student nurse), Victoria, Nicola, Kit, Javier, Beth and all other doctors, nurses, students and support workers.

We are so aware of the pressures the healthcare system is facing and to be treated with compassion and dignity in such a busy environment shows that you are true NHS heroes and moreover - wonderful people.