"My first visit to hospital at 68 years old"

Having had pain and bloating in lower abdomen for over two weeks I went to ED at Craigavon Hospital on Friday. From the start I was treated with dignity and politeness. All staff were friendly and informative.

At 68 yrs of age this was my first visit to Hospital. I was frightened but was put at ease by excellent staff. Doctor explained everything including the CT scan I got. With results back he explained clearly the next steps and arranged for me to be admitted to Ward 1 West.

There I was looked after by wonderful staff who cared for me and made me comfortable and reassured me at all times.  All tests and procedures were explained fully and results explained by surgical and nursing staff. The food was good, the whole ward kept hygienically clean and every member of staff from all depts were helpful and friendly.

I was discharged when well again and letter and information all explained fully to me. From  what appeared at first to me to be a terrifying ordeal, I emerged 4 days later reassured that if I ever need to go back, I will be well and sympathetically cared for.