"Deep gratitude to the staff"

After several weeks of ongoing and varied health issues—including kidney stone procedures, a gastroenteritis diagnosis, liver and lung infections, and gallbladder complications—I was most recently admitted to University Hospital Hairmyres. Following multiple visits to A&E, I was admitted to Ward 4, where I underwent a procedure to have a stent inserted to relieve a blockage in my bile duct. I now await gallbladder removal to address gallstones and avoid further complications.

What stood out to me most during this challenging time wasn’t just the treatment, but the people who carried me through it. The nurses of Ward 4 and Ward 5 left a deep and lasting impression on me—not just in terms of their clinical care, but through their compassion, professionalism, and emotional support.

We often get so caught up in chasing our careers and personal goals that we forget the immense value of those who work tirelessly to care for others. The nurses I encountered showed extraordinary patience, kindness, and humanity—not only towards me, but towards every patient, many of whom were in much worse condition. I witnessed moments of profound compassion: comforting grieving family members, calming distressed patients, and simply being present. They never faltered, even when under pressure, and they never lost their empathy. They are the true definition of heroes.

During my stay, I experienced some of the most severe physical pain I’ve ever known. While waiting for various scans and updates from consultants, the pace of progress could be frustrating—but the nursing staff, and even the catering staff, regularly checked in with me. Their support went far beyond medical duties—it brought a sense of comfort and dignity that I truly needed.

In an unexpected turn, my mum suffered a fall while coming to visit me and was admitted to A&E with broken ribs. Being just the two of us, this was incredibly distressing. The nurses not only kept me updated on her condition but arranged for us to see each other once she was stable. She was later admitted to the same ward as me, receiving the same level of exceptional care. That act of kindness meant more to me than I can express.

Following my procedure, I was transferred to Ward 5, where I continued to receive the same thoughtful and diligent care. Some nurses from Ward 4 even popped by to check on me—small acts that meant the world.

While I did notice a gap in communication between doctors and nursing staff at times, I want to be clear that this message is not about criticism. It’s about gratitude. I want to wholeheartedly thank every member of staff in Ward 4 and Ward 5—including the nurses, catering team, and support staff—who made my nine-day stay as comfortable and human as it could be under the circumstances.

You’ve given me not just medical care, but perspective. You reminded me that while my own career is important, there’s so much more to life, and to living meaningfully. I am heading home now to recover, not just physically but with a renewed appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to helping others in their most vulnerable moments.

I hope this message reaches all of you who cared for me—you’ve helped me more than you know.