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Ongoing excellent care

Posted By Gacesa258

"Ongoing excellent care"

About: Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh at Little France / Gastroenterology Victoria Hospital / Clincal Oncology Victoria Hospital / Colorectal Unit Victoria Hospital / Medical High Dependency Victoria Hospital / Rapid Cancer Diagnostic Service (RCDS)

(as the patient),

It is now 3 years since I was diagnosed with colorectal cancer. I had my operation in Victoria Hospital - Surgeon was Mr Ekatas. Prior to my operation I was introduced to the Oncology Nurses and assigned under Nurse Wendy. I had quite a long recovery post op in HDU and Ward 44.  The care I received during my time in the hospital was excellent even though Mr Ekatas was leaving to learn robotic surgery in Singapore.  Through all the time leading up to, during and post surgery the one constant was Wendy.  After discharge I had Dr Clive as my Oncologist and together they have been fantastic. Taking me through a very traumatic time during chemotherapy when I had an extreme reaction to the Oxaliplatin. I have attended all my appointments and Wendy has been on the end of the phone when I have felt down or concerned about my next MRI and CT scan results. As I said above, I am now at the 3 year mark with a CT scan due soon and then follow-up with Dr Clive mid November.  I count myself as being very fortunate to have been looked after by Wendy - she never minds when I call her and helps calm me when I have been anxious.  

Separately, I was referred to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary under Professor Harrison as I had some anomalous spots on my liver. These reduced over the years and was discharged by him late 2024.  I had a support nurse - her name was Olivia. Again, the support I received from them was also excellent.

I am not sure if it is possible to give Wendy some sort of recognition for the kind manner she has with me and I am sure I am not the only patient who feels this way about her.

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Responses

Response from Murdina MacDonald, Lead Cancer Nurse, Cancer Services, NHS Fife 3 weeks ago
Murdina MacDonald
Lead Cancer Nurse, Cancer Services,
NHS Fife

Submitted on 30/10/2025 at 15:14
Published on Care Opinion at 15:14

Dear Gacesa258

My name is Murdina Macdonald. I am the Lead Cancer Nurse. Thank you h for sharing your experience of care. Thank you for taking the time to write such a thoughtful message. It’s clear that Wendy has provided exceptional support throughout your journey, and I’m delighted to hear how much her care has meant to you.
Recognising and valuing the contribution of our cancer nurses is so important, and I will make sure Wendy receives your feedback and her team as it’s important that we celebrate the dedication and kindness that underpin excellent nursing practice. Your words will mean a great deal to her.
Please accept my very best wishes for your upcoming CT scan and follow-up appointment..

Warm Wishes

Mudina

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Response from Mariska Vernon-Stroud, Patient Experience Team Lead, Patient Experience Team, NHS Lothian 3 weeks ago
Mariska Vernon-Stroud
Patient Experience Team Lead, Patient Experience Team,
NHS Lothian

I gather feedback from patients to recognise good practise and supporting improving services in NHS Lothian.

Submitted on 31/10/2025 at 09:40
Published on Care Opinion at 09:40

Dear Gacesa258,

Thank you for taking the time to share your story. It is so encouraging to read about the care and treatment you've received from individual staff and services working together. I will ensure your story and feedback is share with the named staff at Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. They will be delighted to receive it.

I wish you all the best and I hope all is positive at your upcoming CT scan.

Kind regards

Mariska

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Response from Kendall Ovens, Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist Team Lead, Colerectal Nursing Team, NHS Fife 3 weeks ago
Kendall Ovens
Advanced Clinical Nurse Specialist Team Lead, Colerectal Nursing Team,
NHS Fife

Submitted on 31/10/2025 at 10:17
Published on Care Opinion at 10:17

Hi Gacesa258,

Firstly thank you so much for taking the time to provide such valuable and kind feedback. I am Wendy's manager and I see first hand how dedicated she is. I have ensured that she has seen your feedback and I know how much it means to her.

It is lovely to see the recognition Wendy has been given.

All the best with your upcoming appointment and scans. I look forward to meeting you then.

Kendall Ovens

Lead ACNS

Colorectal Nursing Service.

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