"Fast diagnosis and referral to Addenbrookes "

I am writing to express my appreciation and gratitude for the care I have recently received at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital.

Late last year I was referred to a neurologist at the N&N for investigation of ongoing, but not severe, symptoms. After a thorough examination he seemed reassured there were no underlying conditions but responded to our concerns by referring me for a brain scan, “to put your mind at rest”.

I was telephoned within a week of the scan by the consultant who told me I had a benign meningioma; I was given an appointment at clinic the following day and an immediate referral to Addenbrookes Hospital, being seen by their top surgeon within the next two days. The tumour was removed at Addenbrookes on 7th January and I initially recovered well and was discharged after a week. However an infection necessitated a re-admission to Addenbrookes and a further operation on 16th February to remove infected matter. I was subsequently transferred to the Norfolk and Norwich, Heydon Ward from where I was quickly sent home under the care of the Aylsham Suite, for 4+ weeks of twice daily antibiotic infusions.

Aylsham suite is a most wonderful facility with a fantastic team of staff. The care I received there over the past six weeks with twice daily observations, dressing care, the infusions and blood pathology, together with continued support from the neurology team, was very reassuring. The ability to provide such services on an out-patient basis is game-changing and I am sure my mental and physical health would have deteriorated greatly with further prolonged hospitalisation.

Please pass on my appreciation to the neurology team, and to the staff on the Aylsham Ward. And to you, and the executives for leading a good hospital with ground-breaking research and treatment initiatives. I have been very fortunate to have had such good treatment and I know I am not alone.