"Fantastic Staff and Excellent Medical Care"

To my shame, as an Englishman in his fifties, I'd not been to Scotland until 5 years ago, but fell in love with the country and have returned almost every year since

Towards the end of a lovely holiday by the lochs, an insect bite in the back of my left knee, inflicted on the first day, suddenly erupted; resulting me in being seen by a GP on the Black Isle, and then by A&E at Fort William before being admitted onto Ward 11 at the Glasgow Royal at the end of June.

The oral antibiotics prescribed by the GP, and the IV form at Fort William had little effect and the swelling continued to increase with my leg and foot becoming seriously swollen and inflamed from cellulitis. However, the symptoms were much worse than would be expected just from a bite, so Professor Brodie prescribed an additional IV antibiotic with an anti inflammatory, together with an ultrasound scan to check for a burst cyst, DVT or any other complications. Since the swelling continued but the ultrasound showed no issues, an x-ray was ordered, but fortunately also showed nothing unusual. However soon after the antibiotics kicked in and the symptoms began to subside and I was discharged 5 days later. One of the staff commented that they are surprised that the Scottish Military don't capitalise on the potency of their indigenous insect population, since they arguably have the potential to be the most effective weapon known to man, and their use in the fight against terror should be vigorously explored.

My enduring memory of Scotland alongside the beauty of the lochs is the amazing work of the staff at the Royal I experienced during my 5 day stay. It was a pleasure to be treated by Professor Brodie and his team of doctors; I was grateful for, and impressed by their professional thoroughness. The ward staff were brilliant; in addition to dealing with the demanding challenges of their profession in their stride, they remain cheerful and professional, often in the face of ingratitude, rudeness, and abuse.

I would like to pay particular tribute to the cheerful professionalism, good humour and care of staff nurses Clare Donaldson, Sarah Jane McQuillan, and Michelle Seaton, which particularly shone out in their respectful and kindly care of the elderly ( a good indicator of quality care ); but also to Margaret CaIrney, whose radiant smile brightened up the ward every time she brought the tea round.

A big Thank you from a grateful patient.