"I'm immensely grateful for all the staff"

After having a positive qfit test but no obvious symptoms I was advised by my GP to have a colonoscopy. It wasn't the procedure I was really apprehensive of, it was the wait of about a week before the appointment of not knowing what would be found.

It's always the worse you fear, I didn't search anything online as that's a whole can of worms but just read the information sheets I'd received from the hospital and questions I'd asked the nurse on my phone call.

Apart from being in hospital 25 years ago having my second child, I could thankfully say that my only 2 experiences of hospital admissions was to the maternity unit.

So I was naturally apprehensive, probably more so before admission as it's the not knowing both on procedure and results.

Stepping into Gemini Ward my fears quickly calmed as I was greeted by a smile from the receptionist.

My nurse that checked my information prior to the colonoscopy was professional while still being able to keep me calm and reassured I was in safe care.

Waiting on the ward I was able to settle and nice to talk to other patients, once called I walked into the theatre with a nurse who told me what to expect through the doors and who else I'd be seeing in the room.

I was introduced to the surgeon and other nurse and asked if I was still happy to continue and that I was in control of any decision of my treatment.

I was intrigued to see the inside of my colon and other organs my own personal tour !!

I was kept informed of all findings and action that would be undertaken and on completion of the colonoscopy was thankfully relieved that no further investigation or treatment required.

Taken back to recover with a most welcome cup of tea and biscuits before given after care to home.

I can honestly say that I'm immensely grateful for all the staff at NDDH, from cleaners through to surgeon as I appreciate they all played a vital role in my day admission, care, compassion and still the human touch from a smile to a genuine concern for my well being.

Thank you all