"First Class Breast Care Services"

I am pleased and grateful to be able to write this encouraging review of my experiences with Walsall Manor Hospital.

I live in Coventry and I chose to move to this hospital from University Hospital Coventry for treatment for breast cancer. This may seem a surprising as travel is longer, however it is the best decision I have made since my cancer diagnosis. I was very disappointed and disillusioned by my treatment at Coventry due to lack of empathy, poor communication, mixed messages and believed that my opinions were not important. I felt that I was just a number, part of a big medical machine.

After recommendation by my sister, I asked my GP to refer me for second opinion to Walsall Manor. She had been so impressed by the skills of her Consultant Breast Oncoplastic surgeon, (now based at Walsall Manor) for her own breast cancer surgery.

From the first visit I felt safe and cared for by all the friendly staff, especially the Breast Care team. The surgeon listened patiently and understood me. At last I believed that my views and choices mattered.

My surgery was carried out with amazing urgency, within days of arriving at Walsall Manor. I faced this without anxiety, everything was carefully explained. My stay in hospital was comfortable, staff attentive and the environment peaceful, clean and comfortable. I am so appreciative of the skills of the surgeon and the Breast Team. I am delighted with the results of the surgery. The aftercare has also been excellent. My surgery site has been carefully monitored and pathology results communicated to me without delay and in a clear manner by the Breast Care nurse.

I rarely write reviews but have been moved to recommend Walsall Manor so that others may benefit. Some other positive points are:

• The hospital environment feels spacious, yet clinics are private and unlike the “cold clinical” surroundings I had been used to.

• At all points it is clear that the patient matters, there are comments boxes everywhere and posters to make you feel welcome.

• I have never been made to wait for long periods, if there is a delay it has always been explained to me.

• The staff have been friendly and helpful throughout. I have felt respected and cared for.

In conclusion, I know that no one wants a breast cancer diagnosis. However, if this happens to you or your family member you can be confident that you will be dealt with in an exemplary way at Walsall Manor. I have directed friends to the helpful self-examination video on your website. My grateful thanks to all concerned, well done to all involved!