"An experience which would stay firmly in my mind"

After being fast tracked through the overpopulated and density of the NHS waiting list. I find myself somewhat amazed and pleasantly surprised of the somewhat quirky but most efficient Selection process of becoming an exclusive member of this demanding and Rigorous operation. What team of hand-picked expert; professionals have managed to put together such a successful product.? Which includes selection packaging branding and time appreciation. I think even sir allen sugar would’ve been happy to give the thumbs up on this challenge ..I found my stay in the kings college hospital over the next few days, an experience which would stay firmly in my mind.

It was the big day; A little bit of excitement and a glimpse of curiosity was spinning through my mind. I have to say “ i wasn’t really nervous”, since having talked to the surgeons and basically get an a overall feeling of the set up, I felt quite relaxed about what was going to happen.

Going down for the operation on a bed from one point of the hospital to another, I was accompanied by staff members. Reality was kicking in, this is it the big day I’ve been waiting so long for.

No messing around, as I was pushed into theatre, ready or not. All I remember next is staff around me, checking equipment, checking procedures, and doublechecking things, which seemed at the time a bit OTT. The next voice I heard, I was approached by the anaesthetist, and after a small but reassuring conversation with him, A few questions were delivered to me and after confirmation of who I was and that I was happy with everything, The next thing I know is nothing.

If I had to be honest awakening from the operation was probably just as quick as being anaesthetised. My memory although quite vague on what really happened next. I can only remember being offered oxygen and an holding hand for reassurance. The face mask which they used didn’t agree with my mental state at that time, I found it very annoying and comfortable. An alternative pipe was used at the base of my nostrils, which was very comfortable and relaxing. One can only presume that I must’ve fell back asleep because the next time I woke I was back on the ward I’m back in general population, job done.

 Looking around the ward I found it quite daunting, everywhere I looked, I could see people in the same situation as I. It reminded me of a clip from the movie ET .. where they are trying to bring him back round as he is slowly fading.

My next initial thought was, Wahoo, I’ve come through the other side. It must be all downhill from here? Not quite.

 After a very uncomfortable, hot , noisy and sleepless night, I eventually managed to get a power nap in. Lights come on at a certain time of the morning preparing everyone to be evaluated by the morning duty surgeons.

 Unfortunately not having much to do apart from people watch and trying to figure out what the day has in store for me .I watch very curiously and try to start to analyse this undisclosed system of how everything is categorised and put in some synchronised order to what happens to the patients at least for that day.

 Everybody has a role to play within the team, everybody working towards the same outcome and solution...

 Over the next few days, this was going to be part of the morning ritual which we were all going to be a part of, whether I liked it or not.

For most of the patients, including myself, this was when I was going to be rewarded,” yes you’re doing well, let’s get more creative and start moving around out of bed “.

 This would lead to, going to the toilet on my own, showering, and even the odd trip to the tv room. As the days progressed, I became more proficient, and confident to your ability of handling normal tasks once again ..

 For me, I had to find the inner strength and persistence, maybe a little bit of anger and frustration, which helped me through to the point where I was released back home ..

 Being back home, it’s great for all your comforts and gadgets ( sky, own bed, nice shower and coffee maker) some of the things we take for granted, when not available ..This also gave me time to reflect, on the past week and what I had actually experienced at the kings college hospital.

 Many people go on and say the NHS is in serious trouble, this maybe so, I think whether we talk about the past, present or future of this organisation things always change in time. I think from what I experienced on a day-to-day basis, I was given help When I needed it most, and loving care was there for those who at their weakest ,just needed a bit more reassurance that everything was going to be alright .

To all of the staff of this great legacy, To all of the surgeons, who without, there determination and passion to keep this organisation functional.. ”well done sir”

A lot may say, Well they are getting paid good money for this job they are doing. A lot may say , that this is the path they chose in life.

For me, I can’t see why anyone would want to work ridiculous hours, unsociable hours, stress related duties, just for money... your body can only take so much, I am living proof. Well, the good thing is at least they are working in the right place for the right treatment, if needed!

Good luck to all who have visited the NHS , Past ,present and future. Give a little thought to the hard-working people that have to cope with you and me.