"Compassionate and caring support"

I would like to give my thanks to everyone that was involved in looking after me on Ward 1 Day case surgery Level 2, Treatment Centre.

The receptionist that greeted us in the morning was polite and friendly.

We were then let on the ward and met I the student nurse, who I believe was called Isabelle. She was very kind and made me feel very comfortable whilst she did my observations.

I then met with the nurse Rach/Rachel who looked after me all day. She was absolutely fantastic, she went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable and to keep me updated as much as she could. She was so friendly and made me feel like she genuinely cared. She was lovely to talk to, I can’t thank her enough for everything she did.

Later on in the day, I saw the physiotherapist (I did not catch her name) but she was also very kind and friendly. She took time to answer all of my questions, and explained everything to me in a way that really supported my understanding of the next steps. She also made me laugh, which was a great anxiety relief!

Later on in the day I met my surgeon, Mr. Fernaday. I really appreciated him coming to talk to me. He was able to explain the pros and cons of my procedure, whilst also making me feel very reassured. I really felt as though he made sure I had fully informed consent before signing anything.

My anaesthetist (I did not catch her name) was also very kind and comforting. She reassured my anxiety and took time to listen to me. I really appreciated her being there for me.

I want to thank all of the theatre staff I interacted with too. I did not catch the name but the lady who inserted my cannula really put me as ease. At this point, I was feeling very very nervous. I started crying, and she was amazing at calming me down and reassuring me that I was going to be okay. Her kindness and compassion made me feel so safe in her care. I also want to thank theatre staff, Justin, who also made me giggle and also provided me with comfort and reassurance throughout.

Later on in the day, I was cared for by Vanessa and Andrea. Vanessa was very friendly and a great support. I want to give an extra special thank you to Andrea, who again went above and beyond to ensure my comfort following the surgery. She was so kind to us. I later spoke to her on the phone as I was concerned about something, and she was so informative and reassuring.

There were also many other staff who supported and cared for me whilst I was there, I did not catch everyone’s name but I really do feel as though everyone on the ward had a part to play in making my stay as comfortable and welcoming as possible. It is great to see NHS values in action. I feel so lucky to have had the compassionate and caring support I did.

Thank you so much everyone.