"Excellent initiative for severe ME patient"

I am extremely grateful to the ambulance crew who transported me from home to SWAH. I have severe ME, Fibromyalgia, POTS, hypermobile joints and massive sensory issues due to these conditions. 

 Any travel outside of the home is via A&E ambulance and extremely problematic with massive increase in symptoms, worsening of symptoms afterwards and can cause relapses in health.

Upon assessing me before leaving the paramedic had suggested she try a 'vacuum mattress'. In over a decade of needing A&E ambulances for transport no one has ever tried this. It kept my body still, greatly limiting the unwanted, uncontrollable & painful movements that usually accompany transport. I also needed to use much less entinox than usual as a result of her idea.

Seeing my ear defenders the paramedic had asked my son about sensory issues or autism. She was extremely kind and understanding, even trying to limit light during journey. (Not as easy with newer ambulance and automatic light sensors). We both agreed a hospital passport would be extremely useful if used to relay information.

After arrival at SWAH I was very disoriented but heard an excellent handover to staff including problems with light, noise and movement. The paramedic also explained I like to keep lanyards on me (one has instructions about speech and language therapy aids so this was essential). Although confused I had recognised her voice at one point and before leaving the paramedic ensured my bag was clipped onto the lanyard I had so I could access my belongings allowing me to contact my son. Please pass on my gratitude to this lady. 

It's horrible having to take an A&E ambulance off the road for a transfer or journey because entinox and pain relief is needed. The paramedic could not have done more to help or had a better understanding of my needs.

Thank you.