"The team were amazing"

As a sufferer of IBD I regularly have to have screenings of both Sigmoid and full Coloscopy procedures. My previous colonoscopy a number of years ago was very difficult and traumatic experience that I wished never to repeat. The person performing the procedure at the time was harsh and abrasive which caused excruciating, continuous pain and I was not given additional pain relief or sedative despite requesting them. Sufficed to say, I remembered every single moment of that procedure and the trauma left made me feel extremely reluctant to have this again (despite knowing it is in my best interest).

I have just had another full Colonoscopy, and the team were simply amazing. They listened to my issue with previous trauma and completely took this onboard... both the nursing team and the consultant gastroenterologist. They all took reassuring steps to help with my anxieties and the ongoing reassurance was amazing. The procedure went ahead without any issues, pain or recurrent trauma. I cannot express how grateful I was for this to be so comforting and supported as a patient (mainly being listened to). The professionalism was amazing but also the way I was made to feel at ease through. I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to the team: Dr Heron & staff nurses Athina, Mhari, Becky and Gemma.

You have reinstalled my belief in person-centred care and patient focus.