"Without these people I would not be here"

April 2005, my lung collapsed. Admitted to Northern General hospital – had a drain fitted – 2 weeks later it was removed.

Still had pain and short of breath – had tests for the next 12 months. It was decided to have keyhole surgery for lung decortication (Chesterman 3). Results were not good. So it was decided to have open surgery in June 2006.

Had to go back in hospital for the next few months when I kept feeling ill (hospital staff were excellent, they looked after me very well). The next few years were unpredictable and painful. Kept having tests, started to lose a little weight – stomach sickness resulted in having my bladder out.

Finally in January 2012, I had clagett’s procedure surgery, leaving a cavity quite large as 3 ribs and 1. 5pints of puss was removed. This had to be pack 3 times a week by district nurses. This procedure is still going on but only twice a week now.

Infection developed in the top of my shoulder – CT scan was needed – so chest drain was fitted. Had to be flushed daily until puss was removed. This lasted a month.

Weight loss continued through these programmes. Went down to 7 stone 2lbs, treatment continues.

Special thanks to consultants Mr Hopkinson and Mr Rao and Sisters Jane Wile, Jo and two sister Ruths (I love them) and all district nurses who still treat me.

Without these people I would not be here. Thank you.