"Excellence in Cardiology Care, Ward 1E, Whiston…"

I was unexpectedly admitted to Ward 1E earlier this month, diagnosed with Heart Block and had a six day stay culminating in discharge after being fitted with a Pacemaker.

All the members of staff involved in my treatment, whether medical, domestic or administrators, were excellent and the overall ethos was very much focused on patient care.

The period I was in was during the COVID 19 Lockdown Period when no visitors were allowed to even enter the ward. All staff made a terrific effort to make everyone feel personally cared for. The operation went very well and all staff involved in it came to see me afterwards to check out my situation. I loved the role of ‘Horse Whisperer’ as a member of staff talked to me quietly during the potentially tricky and uncomfortable parts of the operation which was under local anaesthetic.

Over the period of the stay, attention to detail was evident and it was always clear what the next step was. In addition, the domestic arrangements were first class with very good food, extremely clean environment and a friendly, professional team approach by all staff.

I wish to thank the whole team for their efforts which were first class.

In addition, as no visitors were able to come in, TV, radio and telephone services were made available to patients at no cost. This was invaluable in keeping spirits up.

There were a number of very ill patients who were shown great respect and personal care whilst those of us more mobile were given opportunities to socialise amongst themselves and talk in a friendly manner with staff without disturbing the most ill. This ensured that all patients were given the most appropriate care avoiding stress and worry.

I am very grateful to the whole team and wanted this to be recognised. The professionalism and kindness blended with great skill and a sense of humour made my stay as good as possible in a ward dealing with life threatening conditions.

Thank you from the bottom of my newly-mended heart!