"End of life care"

My wonderful Dad was diagnosed with non Hodgkins lymphoma in November 2024. The doctor we saw was blunt, rude and arrogant, we were initially told he was palliative and there was nothing they could do, despite not having had a biopsy etc. I spoke with another doctor, who was so lovely, reassuring and helpful, advising once a biopsy was done they’d be able to offer treatment all being well.

Ward 3 staff were nice, but one doctor was anything but. Mocking patients who mispronounced medical terminology is not professional. We found this doctor lacking in compassion and care. Their attitude changed when they were with senior medical staff however, and their whole demeanour was completely different.

We then waited 5 days in another ward. One member of staff was amazing- thank you. Dad waited for a biopsy then he was discharged home to await the results with a follow-up appointment at Monklands. About a week later we had to call an ambulance as Dad became really ill, the lymphoma was causing him terrible pain and he was septic. So we were taken to UHM A&E and the care given was exceptional, despite a fire evacuation staff remained calm, professional and prioritised my dad's care, ensuring regular pain relief was given and he was transferred to ward 4.

Most of the staff were amazing, but when one member of staff was on duty the second day, we had just found out he had lymphoma and the medics were discussing treatment options etc so we were all very stressed, upset and keen to help Dad through the next few days. So when this member of staff  was rude, dismissive and completely obnoxious it was awful. They came in, changed over the IV (without washing their hands, telling Dad what they were doing, acknowledge him or his family) I was really angered and upset. My Dad, who was a bit confused and tired due to infection then introduced his wife and daughter, as he liked to chat and express his pride. Without even looking, they bluntly said - we’ve heard this all day, right, that’s you, and walked out the room. My Dad’s wee face will stay in my mind forever. Everyone else had been and was amazing since, but their attitude was nothing less than disturbing. To treat an elderly, confused yet polite, grateful patient, who has just been told he has cancer in this manner is disgusting. The atmosphere in the ward was totally different with their presence and my sister actually called the ward two days later to speak to them. They blamed pressure on the ward etc for their behaviour.

However, ward 11 and ward 15 - how caring is done right. After 6 rounds of chemo he was pronounced cancer free in May. After a short period he declined and it became apparent things were not ok and he was admitted to Monklands A&E and advised lymphoma was present. He had more chemo and was cared for by ward 15 who were absolutely amazing. They were exemplary in how to treat patients and relatives and one member of staff in particular was so kind and helpful. It was never a nuisance for us to call at any time and visits were welcomed with genuine warmth. My Dad has always praised staff throughout his treatments and stays and knew everyone’s names. Thank you for your care, compassion and dedication.

Finally. District nursing team from Udston were also just wonderful. We were so anxious when it was time to withdraw treatment and I really wanted to care for Dad at home. The care and regular call-outs to keep Dad comfortable seemed effortless. Your compassion and skill and care for not only dad but our family eased the terrible pain and we trusted in you all to make things go well, keeping him pain free and comfortable You are a credit to our NHS. Thank you for your care and going the extra mile for us, forever grateful.

Two staff members arrived just as Dad passed and their last offices will be remembered forever. The gentle care and professionalism, you left us better for that alone. We are forever grateful and please know your kindness will come back to you all. Thank you. My Dad was always so grateful and proud of our NHS and especially those who care. He told everyone who cared to listen. God bless.