"Respiratory care. You're all superstars!"

Attended a&e due to problems breathing on Sunday 5 March. The receptionist got me a wheelchair before doing anything then gave me a pen and pad so I didnt struggle to talk. He asked me for my surname and date of birth. He placed me outside the assessment room whilst they moved someone but told me he would keep an eye on me. The sister came shortly afterwards and took complete control of my situation. Within what felt like minutes a small team had assessed my stats then placed me on oxygen, taken blood, gave me steroids, piroton and a magnesium drip. I was moved to the main major a&e section where they told me I had an infection. No idea how they got the blood results back so quickly. They took artery blood to assess my low oxygen level and arranged a chest x ray. They are a 24-7 hospital.

I was transferred to ward 20 and spent 2 nights there before a brief transfer to 22 then ward 24 the respiratory ward. I was quite lucky to have my own room for the rest of my weeks stay

The level of care and attention I received was outstanding. The way they coordinated so many people with their specialist skill sets to look after me was amazing.

The food was a bit too plentiful and I put 3lb on in a week. The puddings were too good to resist.

Everyone who came into contact with me made the effort to call me by my name. The staff genuinely look like they enjoy their jobs and were a pleasure to be around. I've never spent a week in hospital before but they made it the best stay that it could be.

I didn't realise how serious my condition was when I went to a&e and expected to be home the same day. Luckily I was in safe and expert hands when I got there.

Thank you to everyone I came into contact with. You're all superstars!