"Outstanding care"

My father began experiencing slurred speech, facial droop, and weakness in his arm on a recent Tuesday morning. Sadly, he did not recognise these as the symptoms of a stroke and hoped his condition would improve. By the Thursday morning, he contacted his GP, who immediately advised him to call 999. Within an hour, an ambulance crew arrived to assess him and transport him to Wishaw General Hospital.

Despite his speech being difficult to understand and causing him frustration, the ambulance crew showed remarkable patience and compassion, allowing him the time he needed to communicate. They also took the time to call me directly, explaining the situation clearly and reassuringly, which I greatly appreciated.

Initially, my father was hesitant about going to hospital, particularly given the recent negative press around long waiting times at Wishaw. However, despite multiple ambulances ahead of him and a very busy department, he was taken into a cubicle within 30 minutes of arrival.

The team in Wishaw A&E could not have been more attentive. My father was amazed at how quickly his blood tests and scans were completed and how promptly he was seen by a doctor. Nurses were in and out of his cubicle regularly, checking on him, offering support, and making sure he had everything he needed. Their presence and care gave both him and our family a huge sense of reassurance at such a frightening time.

Within just six hours of calling for help, he had been transferred to the stroke ward and was receiving the specialist care he required. From admission to discharge, the staff in Ward 11 were outstanding. The nursing team, doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and pharmacy staff all worked together seamlessly, not only providing excellent medical care but also ensuring my dad felt listened to and supported.

One of my father’s priorities was to return home as soon as it was safe to do so, and the team worked collaboratively to make this happen. Thanks to their efforts, he was safely discharged by the Monday. Throughout his stay, the Ward 11 staff also kept me fully informed, which meant so much to us as a family.

Despite the immense pressures facing the NHS—staffing shortages, bed pressures, and negative media coverage—the care, compassion, and professionalism of the staff at Wishaw shone through. My father even remarked that although A&E was “bursting at the seams,” he felt as though he was treated like a VIP. From ensuring he was comfortable, to providing meals, to responding to every request with kindness, the staff made him feel valued and respected.

On behalf of my father and our whole family, I want to express our heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in his care—from the ambulance service, to the A&E team, to Ward 11. At every step, he received the highest standard of care, delivered with compassion and dignity, and for that we are truly grateful.