"Exactly what mum needed at a difficult time"

At the end of April, 2021, my 93 year old mother had a nasty fall due to a period of delirium. Fortunately, no bones were broken but her mental capacity was severely affected during a subsequent period in hospital and a residential care home. A referral from my Mother’s GP introduced us to the MHOAT, Hawick, and the CMHN Pauline in particular. 

I and the family were trying to deal with a very distressed Mother whose memory and cognitive abilities were very damaged. As her main carer, this was a completely new experience for me. Pauline came to visit Mother and I and she was duly diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Dementia by the Consultant.  I shall be forever grateful for Pauline’s support ; not only did she spend time with me on the phone answering my questions in a straightforward, truthful manner (which I did appreciate), she also came to my Mother’s home and informed her of her diagnosis in a way which did not cause her any distress. Pauline also, at my request, brought a formal letter with her addressed to Mother detailing the diagnosis but, just as importantly, giving a positive message about being able to remain in her own home.  Given that Mother has a horror of going “into a home”, Pauline's letter has been a source of reassurance - and comfort - for Mum on more than one occasion. 

I have been most impressed with my dealings with the Hawick MHOAT and send a heartfelt Thank You to Pauline for keeping me on a even keel and for being exactly what Mum needed at that difficult time. 

Kind regards