"Thank you for saving my arm, it could have been so much worse"

After being admitted to the GRI with a Strept A wrist infection, I was transferred to Ward 47 where I recieved the most amazing care.

It was one of the most frightening experiences of my life as I watched the severe swelling and redness travel rapidly from my hand to my upper arm. I had never felt so unwell and scared. During my stay on the ward I underwent three surgeries over four days to have my wrist washed out.

I suffered from severe anxiety and a panic attack during this time and the staff were so supportive and they did there best to reassure me that I was in the best place, which I was. The consultants and surgeons came to see me regularly, and the high standard of care that I received was greatly appreciated. The nurses were always available and were always so willing to help, whether it was for pain relief or someone to cry on! The other staff members such as the domestic staff, auxiliary nurses and health care support workers were also very friendly and so helpful. I spent two weeks on IV antibiotics to help fight the infection with help and advice from the amazing team in the microbiology department and the pharmacists who had the task of deciding which antibiotics would work best to fight the horrible infection as I have a penicillin allergy.

I also wanted to say thank you to all of the theatre staff, I was petrified and in tears everytime I went for each wash out and the staff once again were so supportive. So thank you to the amazing staff that helped me especially the consultants, surgeons, doctors and nurses within the team in Plastics, and also the Orthopaedic consultants and doctors who took over my care towards the middle and end of my stay in the GRI. I am now recovering at home and undergoing lots of physio locally. Thank you for saving my arm, it could have been so much worse. I am truly grateful for all of your efforts.