"EXCELLENT PRACTICE AND COMMUNICATION."

I went there at short notice for a Mastectomy and Biopsy. Its a scary op to undertake. Due to the staff at all levels being introduced/introducing themselves, their roles and making time to listen to any concerns or questions rapidly reduced any nerves I had. They gave a time frame for procedures, what to expect and why they did it. Hospitality came and took my food orders from a menu in my room. I met my operating consultant and anaesthetist before going down, (through out from admission to discharge checks were made as to my ID, operation etc). As I was prepped I was introduced to the other operating staff who told me exactly what they were doing and why - the anaesthetist told me what he was giving me, by this time I happily went off to my op.

I came round in the recovery room, they took note of readings and pain relief, soon after I was taken to my room, the care continued, food, drink, 2hrly checks, pain relief all through the night. I rang the bell a couple of times to go to the loo, it barely rang before someone came and assisted me. My breast cancer nurse was brilliant - thankful she had a sense of humour too. As I said to her 'if it wasn't for the fact I've had me tit removed, I would of thought I was on a mini-break'.

I came to this unit via RUH, at this point I wish to thank them too, they work in unison with BMI, I'm grateful for all the timely kept appts and tests and communication during this difficult time.

They gave me insightful info for recovering after the op.

Without all the information/communication/interaction from both RUH/BMI I don't believe I would be recovering as well as I have. My drain for left breast was removed 3 days after surgery, I maintained the exercises and regular pain relief which has gradually reduced over the last week. Since my op other issues of wheezy chesty coughs have stopped and also the need to sleep every day - med sleep is different.

I'm currently looking forward to my post op consultation; I don't know what the future holds by way of treatments, but I do know my experience has left me with positive energy to go through the next leg of this journey.

For all those in my position or different, requiring surgery via the route I have been through; its top notch and your recovery time will be reduced.

Again my thanks and best wishes to all levels of staff from RUH to BMI - I think you have delivered outstanding service to people like me. I would also like those with concerns about their health, especially lumps and growths, not to listen to doomsday news about not being seen - there's a fantastic team of people waiting out there who will aim to do their best for you. I'm glad I didn't wait longer.