"Broken leg"

I thought I'd drop you a line regarding a recent stay at Dr Grays, after slipping and breaking my leg (multiple fractures).

The Police and Paramedic/Ambulance crew who attended. Amazing. Sympathetic but at the same time firmly impressing the need for me to do certain things. Pain relief was administered promptly and effectively.

 Accident and Emergency. Can't fault them. They bagged up my possessions safely and had me stable within a few minutes. Then knocked me out quick time, and managed to put a temporary cast on my leg. When I woke up I was ready to go up to the ward with my pain under control.

Ward 6. I can't really offer high enough praise for all of them. From the cleaners who kept the ward spotless to the medical staff who (particularly in the first couple of nights) really looked after me well.

A mention for the food which was really quite good, with a decent selection. I might have been a bit groggy on the second night though, because apparently I ordered 4 desserts (at least one was an apple though!)

    ...but my biggest thanks go to to the surgeon, the anaesthetist, the other theatre staff and x-ray consultants who worked on my leg. It was a long day for them all and I am truly, truly grateful.

Most importantly, every single person I interacted with kept me up to date along the way.

And finally, I know that the whole operation can't function without those that work away in the background and are rarely seen - thanks to them also.

I'm receiving top notch aftercare and well on the mend now. Like you, I'm trying to work through these difficult times. It's much easier for me because I can sit at home on a computer with little risk to myself, so I am in awe of those who work in the NHS.

My only gripe (and it really is a minor gripe - and it's not even the hospital's fault) is the patient transfer from the ambulance into A&E. 'A bit of a bump coming up' I was warned by the medic. The thing is.....a 'bit of a bump' when your lower leg is hanging off is excruciating. And I saw the same thing happen on a hospital paramedic program on the television last night. I have to ask if it's really beyond the means of a building contractor to make a smooth pathway for a stretcher to be wheeled along. Surely not?

But that aside I have to say seriously, thanks again.