"Exemplary treatment and care in the Sussex..."

Seven weeks ago I underwent open heart surgery to replace a faulty mitral valve.

It is a major procedure but at every turn I was given the best possible care by the cardiac team on Level 7. I have nothing but praise for them.

I was admitted with a warm welcome and made to feel comfortable and less anxious about the forthcoming operation.

The surgical team did a brilliant job: the wound is neat and has healed beautifully and the heart is pumping as it should.

The cardiac intensive care team was exceptionally kind and caring, not to say highly skilled. Nothing was too much trouble, whatever my needs, day or night.

It is obvious that the team is highly professional and works well together. They carry out life saving and life enhancing work, week in, week out, with great compassion.

I cannot thank them enough.

With so much talk about the financial and staff pressures on the NHS it was a great relief to see this unit functioning so well. Bravo!