"Excellent care - Thankyou so much"

A student nurse was waiting for me to arrive on the 11th November to prepare me for my surgery.

I met the anaesthetist, and then the surgeon, both explaining the procedures clearly.

In recovery I was in the care of a lovely nurse who was also thoughtful enough to call my husband to reassure him all was fine.

Once on ward 16b the great care continued and nothing was too much trouble to the nursing staff.

The staff were all well briefed with the condition of each patient, and instilled confidence when administering treatment. I was visited by the surgeon 24 hours after my surgery and saw other doctors several times before being discharged on Saturday 14th November.

The care shown to two elderly and somewhat confused ladies, was humbling, particularly when being verbally abused on more than one occasion. They were gentle, patient and reassuring with them, never insisting on any procedure or medication.

I also had an excellent experience in the dermatology outpatient clinic. I was called by the doctor before my appointment time, and was both in and out very quickly.

Last year I also had to visit the hand therapy clinic for several months. Again the appointments run so smoothly, you cauldron rely on being in and out when expected.

I feel very lucky to have experienced Stoke Mandeville possibly at its best and I do know that A&E is another matter.

Knowing the NHS is at full stretch makes these experiences all the more amazing, for which I am eternally grateful to one all.