"Thank God for the NHS"

My story started in January 2007.

Feeling very poorly and short of breath, I called at Handforth Health Centre where I was seen by Dr Shipston. He immediately ordered a chest x-ray. On seeing the x-ray he wrote a letter for me to take to A&E Wythenshawe Hospital.

I was so poorly that I was immediately admitted.

My husband, had lost his mother the previous night. He was in bits and was heard sobbing “my mother is in the Chapel of Rest but my wife looks worse”. I believe my prognosis was poor.

Thankfully, I had most wonderful care on Wilson Ward and effective treatment prescribe by Professor Woodcock. All disciplines gave their best and empathy.

I was later diagnosis with sarcoidosis so in time was referred to dermatologist Dr J. Ferguson, rheumatologist Dr P. Sanders and cardiologist Dr N. Brookes.

I was in hospital for a few weeks with pneumonia and needed re-admission a few weeks later.

I have had the very best treatment under the leadership of Professor Woodcock. I have had regular reviews, test, scans and outpatient appointments for the past 8 years. I attended Professor Woodcocks clinic today. I was able to inform him of my improved physical health and emotional wellbeing.

My walking aids have now been stored away. I go swimming every week (20 - 30 lengths), joined a singing group, help my husband in the garden and happy to invite people here for meals. Friends and family are amazed with my improved health.

Having been diagnosed with sarcoidosis, I will have to attend outpatient departments in the future. So re-assuring - so no problem.

I thank God for the NHS, for specialist who have improved my quality of life, for listening and for their empathy. I don’t know what my future holds but this day, I feel well, happy and at peace.