"Staffed by an excellent array of professionals"

One of the GPs at the Old Forge surgery referred me to the Rapid Chest Pain Unit who assessed I had stable angina, a condition both my parents had. I was invited to have a Cardiac CT scan and was subsequently contacted by the Rapid Angina Nurse Specialists, Michelle (missed call) and later by her colleague, Christopher, to explain the diagnosis and future treatment as appropriate.  Chris reiterated the diagnosis and what course of action to take if the pain deteriorated.

 I experienced the sort of pain I had when exercising both at night and at rest over the next few days. My wife reminded me that the nurse had stated to access urgent medical attention if my condition worsened. We took that advice and went to Craigavon Area Hospital A&E.  I was examined within minutes and assessed by the duty doctor, he referred me to the cardiologist, Dr Reddy who agreed I should be admitted for an angiogram.  The staff on the busy A&E department were as attentive as they could be and I was admitted to the Cardiology ward.  I cannot thank all the staff on that ward enough for their patience, diligence and professionalism.  Went to the Cath Lab, a state of the art facility, also staffed by an excellent array of professionals, for an angiogram during which I was fitted with 2 stents.

Had it not been for the concerns of the Rapid Angina Nurse Specialists I may have suffered the same demise as my late Dad who died from a heart attack aged 62.  Many thanks to all the teams of people involved in my care, I am so grateful.  Thank you, NHS!