"A great weight has been lifted"

I was in Hairmyres hospital for a bone marrow test. I was so afraid of having the test that I hadn’t slept for ten nights before going in.

When I got there, I got in the lift and thought that I would happily pay not to go through with the test, I was so afraid. I really did not have to worry. When I was taken, I was looked after by Margaret, Gillian, and Jane, all of whom were absolutely fantastic. They told me to take my time getting ready, then they went through what the procedure would involve, and reassured me that I would not be in any pain. They didn’t rush me, and they offered me help and encouragement at every step of the process.

I was still frightened as the procedure was taking place, but Gillian reassured me and encouraged me throughout, and before I knew it the procedure was over. I can’t say it wasn’t uncomfortable, but I was never in pain the way I thought I would be.

The procedure was over so quickly and handled so well that I couldn’t believe that they had finished. They let me lie down for half an hour, then made me a cup of tea and offered to help me get dressed.

When I returned to my husband, he said he couldn’t believe that I had had it done!

All I can say is that Ward 18 is fantastic. I hadn’t smiled for five days prior to the test, and my husband couldn’t believe that I was smiling when I came out! Thank you Gillian, Jane, and Margaret for your expertise and your encouragement. I feel as though a great weight has been lifted from my shoulders!