"My admission to the Cardiac Investigations Unit"

Good afternoon 

I emailed you with my appreciation of the treatment I received at your Heart Clinic in mid April. A few days later, I was taken by ambulance to your Cardiac Investigation Unit with a suspected heart attack.

I fear I am not alone in believing that the function of an ambulance is to transport a casualty to hospital as quickly as possible. Thus it came as a revelation to witness the skilled professionalism of the crew, Jess and James. Their whole attitude was the epitome of calm, quiet confidence which was so comforting to me.

My operation was on the following week and I was discharged the next day and in the time I was with you the treatment I received was again unbelievably good, particularly bearing in mind the pressure the staff have been working under for over 12 months. It was such a privilege to be treated by such talented, professional and cheerful people.

If one characteristic stood out it was the patience that was shown to everyone, but particularly those unfortunate enough to suffer from dementia. I could only admire the compassion which was demonstrated. 

Because I spent time in two wards I met a great many staff and whilst I would love to name individuals, inevitably I would overlook someone who richly deserved a mention. Thus it is easier to cite those whose standard fell below superb --there were none.

Finally, the catering team deserve a mention because in the context of mass catering the food was tasty, varied with plenty of choice and served with humour.