"I was always at the centre of what was happening"

I wanted to send my thanks to Mr Gibson and his team who were meticulous, empathetic and skilled in the surgery and care during my recent foot operation in Ward 25.

The whole team went above and beyond to make me feel at ease and supported. From Michaela (I think), the smiling nurse who greeted me when I arrived and reassured me ahead of my foot surgery, to Dr Erin, who consented me and showed empathy and humour which was much appreciated.

The general good nature of the whole team who worked seamlessly. The theatre team who spoke positively and reassuringly about the operation. Michaela, again, was just there quietly at my side, answering many questions. She took my glasses immediately before the operation and returned them in recovery. Mr Gibson, who spent time with me before and after the operation being kind, reassuring and humorous. The pharmacist and physio who saw me post-op and helped me get back home quickly.

That evening I had a bleed and phoned Ward 25, where staff nurse Sinead spent time reassuring me in a hilarious chat before suggesting a plan. There was a further six calls between us which only finished when she knew I was being treated by kind, empathetic A&E staff - in particular Dr Lim who came from Ward 25, who after attending to me lined my boot with plastic so the new bandages would not get stained. A charming, easy manner and his skill again gave me reassurance.

I am also grateful for the pre and post-op care I have received with Amanda and her team in Outpatients 3, who spent time giving care to both my foot and me as a whole.

In short I am so impressed and grateful for the skill of my surgeon Mr Gibson and his team, but it’s much more. I was always at the centre of what was happening and their humour and kindness allowed me to experience excellent care.