"Different hospital but equally outstanding care"

Earlier last week I shared my story on Care opinion, complimenting the staff at Queen Margaret Hospital in Dunfermline. You were gracious enough to publish my story.

In an emergency situation, it became necessary for me to be re-admitted to hospital last week - this time to Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy. The ambulance drivers, Angela and Dave, were supportive, friendly and totally committed.

All the staff whom I met over four days, were so professional and caring. Being a second invasive operation for me in three days, I was somewhat apprehensive, but the nursing staff (and I must have met a couple of dozen) were very reassuring and the theatre staff, the Anaesthetists, the Urology Consultant demonstrated the outstanding service being provided by NHS Fife.

Naming individuals can be invidious especially when there are teams at work, but I trust that all those working with Siobhan, Kath, Ellie, Morgan and Mr al Jaafari will accept reflected glory.

However, I have to make a special mention of Dr Ayers who performed my prostatectomy. From the moment that she took time to describe the procedure pre-op, to the time going into theatre, to her post-op attention on subsequent days, she exuded confidence and warmth, and made a lasting and indelible impression upon me. Not only does she have the intelligence and huge talent to become eminently successful (she is already well on her way) in her chosen profession, but she has, in spades, what many albeit able people, lack - namely communication skills and an open and friendly personality and demeanor which clearly endears her to patients. A real indicator is that the nursing staff all talked fondly of Dr Ayers. NHS Fife should be aware of the gem that it has in that young lady!

Two Fife hospitals for me within a short period : even in these difficult times, both showed the resolve and professionalism of their staff. It is all too easy to moan and be negative, but the powers to be should appreciate and recognise just what they have, from not only highly talented doctors but also totally dedicated nursing staff, many of whom would describe themselves as just ordinary people. Far from ordinary, in my opinion!