"Deepest respect for the wonderful team of health professionals"

I have recently received treatment at the Centre for Women's Health, Exeter, and write to inform you of the excellent care I received and the system in place which allowed for the speed with which my referral was dealt.

I was referred by my GP in July, given an appointment 3 days later and underwent major surgery in early September.

Every member of staff involved in my care showed professional competence, kindness, sensitivity and understanding during a time when I was feeling very vulnerable and coming to terms with the extent of my unexpected health issues which involved major surgery.  Procedures and and clinical information were explained with respect and summarized into a form I could understand.

Following surgery the biopsy showed no further treatment necessary.  This was a great relief of course, however, in the early days when the outcome was unknown, I had trust that whatever the future held, I was receiving the best possible care.

I hesitate to mention anyone by name; as already mentioned, all the staff delivered an outstanding service, but I was so grateful for the quiet, calm efficient reassurance of the night nurse Dziadza immediately post-op.

With a 3 day discharge following major surgery, the availability of the follow-up service provides a vital link during long term recovery and a very necessary reassurance that specialist nurses can provide answers to concerns and questions that are not apparent pre-op.  In a practical way, I feel this must have advantages in that it is unnecessary to contact the GP surgery, or ignore signs which may lead to needing further treatment; on a personal level, the knowledge that direct access is available to the team involved in my care, and who welcome calls and emphasize "no question in an unnecessary question" has been invaluable in my recovery, and in preventing the whole experience from becoming completely overwhelming.  Again, everyone providing this service combined efficient and thoughtful kindness, but I would mention by name Jacky for her exceptional qualities in these respects.

When unexpected and serious health issues arise, it is a great step to put complete trust in strangers.  I hope these comments go some way in expressing my gratitude for the treatment I received and deepest respect for Mr. Rennison and the wonderful team of health professionals at the Women's Health Centre.

(On a less positive note; the beds are seriously uncomfortable)