"Teamwork at all levels"

Two weeks ago, I had bypass surgery at the Golden Jubilee National Hospital (GJNH). On the day of the operation, I was given a pill at 6: 00am and woke up some ten hours later in Intensive Care (planned). Next day, I was moved to the High Dependency Unit and from there to my own Ward. A week after the operation, I was allowed home. In the interim, the work of the doctors, nurses, physiotherapists and ancillary staff was an object lesson in teamwork and patient care. By day 5, they had me motivated and able to walk around 50 metres and climb a half flight of stairs. Pain was manageable, thanks to medication.

Before leaving, I acquired one of the best patient publications I have ever read. It is published by the GJNH and entitled, 'Cardiac Information Guide'. This is surely a model for Hospitals through the United Kingdom to study. I have commented separately to GJNH on aspects of it.

GJNH provided me with two exit letters, one for my GP and the other for my area team of District Nurses. The day following my homecoming, I was visited by the District Nurse and the following day had a blood test (to check haemoglobin levels) and an examination of the surgery for possible infection (none). The transition from Hospital to local GP services was complete. Yet to be added to the list of support services (pending) is the Forth Valley Royal Hospital Rehabilitation Team.

It is now 15 days since the operation and this morning, I walked about 500 metres in the fresh air. After my angiogram, the Consultant advised that I 'would have a better long-term future if I undertook bypass surgery'. I am glad that I followed through on that advice and that we, in Central/West Scotland, are served by such a world-class, integrated National Health Service. My personal thanks go to all who have taken my thus far and will take me to full-recovery. Ifeel confident in my treatment and in the future. I hope that my experience will encourage others to undertake a similar journey, as necessary.