"Gold stars all round!"

I just want to award loads of gold stars to the team involved in my recent cataract op at the Princess Alexandra Eye Pavilion.    All the upfront info sent out beforehand was helpful and an easy read.  The big lettering on the hospital signs is great too.  But perhaps I could suggest one addition to the Patient Info post op leaflet by adding “do not use eye makeup for 4 weeks.”  This would be useful info, for even though I’m an older person I still like to glam up a bit!

I was, of course, very nervous  beforehand, but thanks to the team, and my fellow patients, I needn’t have worried.  And now have no concerns about having my second cataract op.  I am so glad I grabbed the chance of a last minute cancelled appointment so it’s all done and dusted before Christmas.  And I’m pleased to say that my eye is steadily improving thanks to you all.  

I am also well impressive by how the team managed the large number of patients seen on Tuesday.  I don’t know how you cope so well with these kind of numbers all year round.  And am even more impressed by how you do this in such an old, run down, well past its sell by date building.   

So a big thank you to everyone I met on Tuesday who made sure that I didn’t feel scared out of my wits or like a widget on an assembly line! 

All the friendly, helpful and efficient nurses just finishing their night shifts and those starting their new shifts in Ward 2 

Dr S Madill, Dr Saxby and all the other members of the Cataract Surgery Team – sorry didn’t get all your names as couldn’t make out your name badges and no time for introductions

Staff Nurse Elaine – who was extra kind, helpful and patient with all my questions and concerns and made sure I got safely into a taxi for home afterwards
Joanna for getting me a cosy blanket when I started chittering in the freezing  waiting area on Floor 5 before my op – and yes, I know that there’s not a lot anyone can do about the cold air …. the cheery lady with her lovely smile and very welcome trolley and cups of tea, biscuits and sandwiches
     Dr Armbrecht for referring me for a pre-op cataract assessment appointment in the first place and      last, but not least, all the behind the scenes people I’ll never meet who help make things run smoothly.

You all definitely deserve a custom built, more user friendly work place so I do hope you won’t have to wait aeons for the new Eye Hospital at Little France.   Or indeed, for the second lift @ PAEP to be mended! 

With many thanks again and very best wishes for a Happy Christmas and a peaceful and happy 2020.

Gold stars all round!