"Excellent service, the NHS at its best"

Back on 21st November, I suddenly developed severe floaters in my right eye following a series of flashes a few days earlier. I have a lifelong fear of hospitals and medical procedures, but realising my eyesight was at risk if I did nothing, came to the eye casualty department. I was given a very thorough and sympathetic examination and eventually diagnosed with a retinal tear, which being in a peripheral position, had not been easy to spot. I had been frightened that I would need painful retinal surgery, but immediately reassured that the problem could be fixed with a much less invasive laser procedure to seal the tear. This was performed promptly on the same day. While I would not choose to spend 15 minutes this way, I can honestly say the treatment was not really unpleasant at all and at no time did I feel any pain. The most uncomfortable part was probably the brief stinging sensation from the necessary applications of eyedrops. I have just been discharged after 2 follow up appointments and would like to say many thanks to all the various doctors involved with my case for their professionalism, expertise and caring attitude.

At a time when there has been so much negative publicity about the NHS in the media, my experience has made me realise what a precious resource it is to this country.