"A life changing surgery"

Last September I met with my consultant at the QEUH to discuss the recent Botox that I had been receiving. I was getting this to try and help with the spasticity in my leg and arm after suffering a stroke in 2022.

Unfortunately after three attempts we agreed that the Botox was not making enough difference, and I thought this was it—that I’d be the same for life. Until luckily I was referred to Prof Lo. From the very first consultation with him, I knew I was in safe hands, and it was clear from even the greeting I had from reception what a team they have at GRI plastics.

After the initial consultation, we all agreed that the operation would go ahead, but I was warned that I might not see a huge difference—hopefully just enough. Even on the morning of the surgery, Prof Lo told me I would wake up and everything would look the same, but I still had faith and wanted to go ahead.

I was quite nervous on the morning of the operation, but I take my hat off to everyone involved in getting me prepped for putting up with my terrible jokes and still managing to keep me at ease. The operation went well. When I came round, I was really surprised at how I felt, and again I was attended to hand and foot for pain relief and plenty of great food!

Prof Lo wanted me back on my feet promptly, so I was lucky to have a great physio who made this happen—quite easily, I might also add! Straight away I could tell my walking had improved, more than I imagined. On day two, I was lucky enough to be allowed home.

The pain did eventually kick in and has been really hard to deal with sometimes, but the difference it’s made to my walking and ability to get around outdoors has been life changing. I am yet to see Prof Lo for a check up, but so far so good, and I really hope to be lucky enough to have the same experience with my arm in the future.

This review is really just to let you know how my experience went and to thank each and every one involved during my journey at GRI plastics. You are a great team and are a complete credit to this ever-challenging NHS. I for one don’t know where I’d be without you. Hope to see you all soon.