"Sincere thanks"

After calling my GP surgery for an emergency appointment I was rushed to LRI A & E by ambulance. My memories of the day are few and far between, but I do remember having it explained to me that I was suffering from a life threatening condition which required immediate surgery. I woke in the intensive care unit to be told I had suffered a perforated bowel and peritonitis. Emergency surgery had been done. After a few days in intensive care I was moved onto ward 22, where my recovery got under way. I am in no doubt that my illness was immediately life threatening, and that the actions of all involved were responsible for saving my life. My GP surgery recognised the potential severity of my symptoms and arranged for a paramedic and ambulance. The paramedic and ambulance were so fast to attend that I was unaware they were even on the way. I was delivered to the A&E dept where my assessment was immediate, thorough and compassionate. My emergency surgery was performed immediately, thank god for such skilled and dedicated staff. The staff of the Intensive care unit were wonderful, caring not only for me, but treating my frightened son and my elderly parents with care and kindness. They broke the news of my condition to me in a kind & informative way. It's not easy to be getting ready for work in the morning and by nightfall have a colostomy. I had no idea I even had an illness. After being moved to ward 22, my recovery was assisted by a team of consultants, doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and many more. Despite the obvious shortage of staff and resources, I was treated with unfailing kindness, respect and care. Please, pass on my grateful thanks to all involved, I know I will require further surgery at a later time, but I am not as frightened as I would have thought. I trust in the skills and dedication of the staff. Thank you all.