"A strong sense of a community working together for the best"

I have Parkinson’s and have lived alone since my husband died 8 years ago. In September 2020. I suddenly felt a sharp, tearing pain from beneath my right  hand ribs to my left groin. My only relief was to lie facedown on my bed and try to massage the area. I decided to try 111 and the very pleasant person who responded said that she was going to send an ambulance to my address. I was amazed at how quickly they arrived; I was still in my nightwear!

The two male paramedics were professional, kind, patient and explained procedures etc very clearly. The pain was beginning to recede, but they advised me to have it checked and wait patiently while I got ready and bribed the act to come indoors.

Arriving at CUHospital, I was led to a cubicle through a spotlessly clean area, everybody en route was kind, polite and efficient. In the pleasant cubicle, I had my temperature checked and details checked, again efficiently and pleasantly.

A charming young doctor Will, appeared, with a student and together they examined and questioned me. I could not fault their attitude, professional, caring, genuine, the list of positive words is endless! Everybody involved in the tests that followed were equally delightful and efficient. I felt like smiling and waving graciously as I was wheeled around on my bed to X-Ray and Scan departments Nurse Danielle kept an eye on me and provided a sandwich and drink just as I was beginning to feel hungry!

Eventually Dr Will explained that a tiny kidney stone had been found, making its way out, as well as some constipation. He gave me some advice and was so clear and thorough that I couldn’t think of any questions. Nurse Danielle bought some laxatives and checked that I was happy to go home, which I was.

Obviously, I would prefer not to have needed to come, but I can’t imagine a better place to be in the circumstances. There was a strong sense of a community working together for the best, cleaners, admin, porters, medics, everyone, Covid-aware, but nothing draconian or frightening. Thank you all so much: a shining example of our wonderful NHS. I sincerely hope that the Government and society will remember what we owe you and support you in every way possible.