"Renal Care and ICU in Portsmouth"

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I underwent five years of haemodialysis because my first kidney transplant failed having given 25 years of faithful service. Finally I underwent a dual kidney transplant in January of this year. The first transplant had been as simple as changing a car battery, absolutely no problems. This second transplant seemed doomed. Quickly I became very ill as a reaction to the new antirejection drugs with complications too many to list, none of which could have been predicted. What is important is not that I became ill but the treatment that I received to repair the damage. Whilst nobody would want to be on the critical list, the best place to be so ill would be in a hospital such as Queen Alexandra's in Portsmouth. After three trips to ICU I am qualified to say that the facility, treatment and staff are all exceptional. All my visitors were impressed too. Despite what one hears about financial restraints limiting hospital treatments, nothing was stinted, initially to stop me dying, and then to restore me to such a condition that I was strong enough to return to the Renal Wards. It goes without saying that the medical care was highly professional, but equally important was the very great attention that the staff paid to me, the patient and my carer's emotions at such a highly charged time. They invariably ensured that we understood what the treatments were, what they were for, and the prognosis. They were kind. Whilst the first requirement of any doctor is that they know their stuff, never underestimate the importance of simple humanity. And this department had it in spades. Similarly the Renal staff could not have been more attentive or caring while slowly working through my difficulties. Whilst as an inpatient and outpatient I enjoyed not only world class renal treatment, but also understanding, patience, kindness and good humour. I am slowly recovering but the best thing is that, despite all my difficulties, owing to the staff's professionalism and care, the transplanted kidneys are functioning well. In conclusion, stay well. If you can't do that ensure that your hospital of choice is as good as Queen Alexandra's.