"The Silver Service of NHS care at The Walton..."

What an amazing hospital. Small enough to really care and expertise second to none. During each visit I was greeted with friendly, helpful and encouraging staff and volunteers. They provided directions, helped with administration and offered a friendly face and some one to chat to when I was feeling nervous or anxious.

I attended a pre-operative assessment and was treated by each member of the nursing team with the utmost courtesy and respect. They provided a lot of additional information about my forthcoming operation and were able to answer any pending questions or concerns that I had.

When I was admitted to Chavasse Ward I was greeted by a volunteer who accompanied me to the ward and introduced me to the reception staff. My appointed nurse greeted me and showed me to a comfortable Day Room while I waited for my bed to be prepared. There are only four beds in each bay which is great because it is a small enough space to get to know your fellow patients but large enough to have your own space when you need it. It was great to have my own TV, storage cabinet and wardrobe. I was no sooner in my bay when the tea and coffee trolley arrived!

On the day of my operation I could not have asked for a more friendly, reassuring and supportive team of dedicated staff. From the porter who arrived to take me to theatre to the recovery team when I came out from surgery, everyone was brilliant. They all introduced themselves, explained what they were doing and why they were doing it. They chatted with me to keep my mind off the operation as I am naturally a very anxious person. My surgeon came to see me before the operation in the reception area, again in the pre-theatre room, in the recovery room and the next day on the ward. Who could ask for better care?

Back on the ward I was supported to be as active as possible. Even when staff were rushed off their feet, I never felt like an inconvenience. They were patient and supportive in my recovery and made sure I had everything I needed to control my pain and help me get back on my feet. It is clear that this isn't just a job to them, it is a vocation.

There wasn't a single member of staff that didn't go that extra mile to help and support me. The staff (from the doctors and nurses to the tea ladies) don't stop from the minute they come on their shift to when they leave and yet they always seem to have time for you (and a smile on their face).

I am so grateful to everyone, thank you.