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"I have not enough appreciative words"

About: Ophthalmology / Eye Casualty and Orthoptics Ophthalmology / Ophthalmology Ward 28 Outpatients Services / Eye Outpatients diagnostic unit [EODU] Outpatients Services / Glaucoma Outpatients

(as a service user),

My ocular lens dislocated last October. I have had so many eye appointments in Eye casualty, RVH EEDU dept, the Matter and the glaucoma clinic, I have not enough appreciative words to compliment every Dept staff that had provided such brilliant, professional and empathetic Services to me 

Dr Stewart, Dr Dowlut and Dr Gerard Reid, I cannot thank them enough for all their pre operation care, the actual operation (which they co-ordinated together) and the post operation care, so diligent, caring and compassionate. My operation was quite complex and they all played their individual part, I felt very assured going into the operation

Ward 28, all staff were amazing, so approachable even though i could see how busy they were throughout the day and during the night, so genuinely caring, from the ward staff to the brilliant theatre staff. I was so nervous and they were so patient and calming.

I get quite annoyed when I hear people with petty gripes about the NHS, so quick to be critical but never to appreciate and say thank you to the staff who, from my experience, go beyond what they are paid to do. 

I felt compelled to write this and it actually doesn't even truly express what I would like to say. THANK YOU!

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Responses

Response from Laura Reut, Ophthalmology Assistant Service Manager for Macular and Glaucoma Services, Ophthalmology Mater Hospital, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust last week
Laura Reut
Ophthalmology Assistant Service Manager for Macular and Glaucoma Services, Ophthalmology Mater Hospital,
Belfast Health & Social Care Trust
Submitted on 25/09/2025 at 13:35
Published on Care Opinion at 13:35


picture of Laura Reut

Dear Stesamger,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a heartfelt and thoughtful reflection of your experience. Your words shine a light on the very best of what compassionate, skilled, and dedicated care looks like, and it is so uplifting to hear how supported and reassured you felt throughout what must have been an incredibly difficult time.

It is clear how much the professionalism and kindness of Dr Stewart, Dr Dowlut, Dr Gerard Reid, and the wider team meant to you—not only in the technical aspects of your surgery, but also in the genuine care and humanity they showed. The way you describe their approachability, patience, and calmness is a testament to the impact they had in helping you feel safe and cared for.

You have beautifully reminded us of the importance of compassionate care and how the recognition of such efforts can mean so much. Your story will no doubt encourage and inspire the staff you have mentioned, as well as others who read it.

Thank you again for sharing this—it is not only an expression of appreciation but also a powerful reminder of the extraordinary difference empathy and dedication make in healthcare.

Wishing you all the very best with your continued recovery and ongoing care.

With warm regards,

Laura.

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Update posted by Stesamger (a service user)

Thank you Laura and I hope my words can ne passed onto all staff,

Once again Thank you all so much!

Response from Laura Reut, Ophthalmology Assistant Service Manager for Macular and Glaucoma Services, Ophthalmology Mater Hospital, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust last week
Laura Reut
Ophthalmology Assistant Service Manager for Macular and Glaucoma Services, Ophthalmology Mater Hospital,
Belfast Health & Social Care Trust
Submitted on 25/09/2025 at 18:20
Published on Care Opinion at 18:20


picture of Laura Reut

Dear Stesamger,

I just wanted to know that your kind words have already been shared by the Assistant Service Manger who covers Eye Casualty and EODU, and that all the staff are very grateful for your lovely feedback.

With warm wishes,

Laura.

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