"It happened today..."

Dear all, I want to share my experience with you.

Having read the reviews prior to my procedure, I nearly cancelled. I then phoned up Mary Stopes 24 hour helpline and spoke to a rather condescending agent who did not alleviate how I felt. Yet and still, I went ahead.

I was 12 weeks pregnant, having been let down by another clinic which I won't go into here, so this was no easy time for me in any way, needless to say, the weeks preceding the termination were agonising, that my decision was final.

I turned up at the clinic, to be greeted by a warm receptionist. I came through, was quickly seen by one of the nurses who had asked me the last time I ate or drank anything. They then asked me to go and join the rest of the ladies in the main waiting area.

I was called to see a nurse to whom I expressed my concerns about the reviews, and about my fears regarding the procedure, who warmly, humanely and transparently explained and soothed me. They explained how hard they all work to ensure that we are all taken care of. And its true; they really do work very very hard, to lighten an otherwise inherently traumatic experience.

By the time I got to the procedure room, I awaited for the general anaesthetic to be administered whilst the anaesthetist and nurse prepared me. At this point I was crying, just because...they sweetly wiped my tears and they held my hand and told me that everything was going to be ok.

Then I woke up, in a comfortable chair, to see other women also recovering, that made me smile to see we all got there, safe and well...we smiled at one another and I was greeted by a nurse and asked if I would like a cup of tea. The after pain is there but its bearable, like a period pain.

I asked to see the Doctor who did my procedure, just for my peace of mind to ensure that everything had gone accordingly to which they came, shook my hand and reassured me. Incredible, experienced and knowledgeable person, in whose hands you will be safe.

This all happened today - I'm now snuggled in bed sharing with you this day. Please don't fear, you will be looked after...I am so relieved and so happy that it is there, in Buckhurst Hill, that I took my procedure.

Thank you to all the wonderful nurses and doctors who helped me through this day, you are doing an incredible job.