"Hospitalisation for myself & my wife"

My G.P., Dr.Hill, called for an ambulance when she visited me and I shall be eternally grateful that my wife, who suffers from dementia was admitted to the hospital as well.

After various examinations including X Ray at almost mid-night, I was moved to Fortescue Ward. Dr Reynolds came to see me and discussed my problems and treatment, which made a refreshing change from my previous sojourn in hospital when the doctor would not speak to me at all.

It would be unfair to single out individuals among the nursing and other staff in the ward; suffice it to say that their patience, kindness, respect and cheerful dedication were exemplary. One lady, whose name I have forgotten, was marvellous to my wife and other patients by taking them to the Day Room where they would be stimulated by quizzes, games and so on and by having lunch together.

Ten days later I was moved to South Molton Hospital and my wife was taken to a Care Home, Torrington, from which she walked out. The staffing numbers were insufficient to oversee the patients I was told, so my wife  was taken back to the Fortescue ward, where she still is, and as far as can gather being just as well cared for as I was.

I stayed in South Molton about three weeks, during which time I was having antibiotic infusions. Again, the staff were caring, dedicated, and friendly and the food was good too.

However, I was dismayed that in both hospitals so much time was spent in writing in forms. On two occasions when I needed attention urgently, all the nurses were outside the wards writing instead of responding.