"Extremely positive experiences of Bowel Cancer services"

Having never had an overnight in a hospital, I needed the services of the Ulster Hospital this past year in a big way thanks to bowel cancer. Initially in A&E followed by the RACPC and then GI surgery, treatment on Ward 5c and then in the MacDermott Unit.

I wanted to comment on the extremely positive experiences I have had through all this.

The RACPC seems to run extremely proficiently, and I was treated so well. What a fantastic service to have available!

Following my diagnosis of cancer I was scheduled for operation very quickly with Mr McAllister and Grace. I can't speak more highly of them and the colorectal nurses. I felt fully informed at all times. I had my Macmillan Move More person giving me exercises right away! The 'prehabilitation' approach to cancer is such a good idea.

For my stay in Ward 5c, I can say that I was treated like a person and not just a patient. That approach continued in the MacDermott Unit, in fact that has been the case with all my treatment and this is the highest praise I can give really. To get treated professionally AND with care is wonderful. So my maximum thanks go to all the staff involved, including the porter wheeling me out of the ward, and the MacDermott 24hr help line.

I am sure there are many difficulties and problems in running such a Trust, but the leadership should be proud of the way the hospital performs its difficult work, and has continued to do so during the pandemic including all the disruptions of site works and relocations.

Thank you from a grateful recipient of all the hard work and dedication.

I am sorry that I dont have the names of all the people involved.