"Great staff at Gynaecology Ward - Level 11"

I experienced serious complications 3 weeks after a full abdominal hysterectomy (open surgery) and bi-lateral cystectomy (removal of a cyst from each ovary). This resulted in a very frightening experience which involved a major infection and internal bleeding, with eventual rupture that lead to my stitches bursting open.

The ambulance crew were amazing, and got me safely from the top floor of my home, in the middle of the night, into the ambulance with minimal fuss and pain. They were calm, polite, and really reassuring. In RSCH A&E Majors department, they were the same: polite, calm, and made me feel safe again.

Eventually, I was admitted to Level 11 Gynaecology Ward, Thomas Kemp Tower, where the staff were exceptionally kind, competent, gentle and professional. In particular, Ward Sister the doctor were incredibly diligent, thorough, professional and compassionate. I would want all staff to follow their example - the best balance of professionalism along with a great bedside manner and humane understanding. When you are experiencing such fear and unknown future, what you need to feel is reassured and safe, and that was how they made me feel. I will not forget what they did for me during that frightening time. The last thing I wanted, frankly, after major open surgery, was another stint in hospital. But I left Level 11 feeling enormously lucky to be alive and very well looked after.

Once I was discharged home, I was given great care at the GAU every 2-3 days, for wound dressing and follow-up nursing care. They always had time for me, they were always polite and helpful - even during their busiest times. They are an incredible bunch at Level 11, and very hard working.

Thank you to all the nurses, the ward sisters, nursing assistants, and the registrars. But particularly, the day-to-day ward staff who managed my pain, anxiety, answered my call bell in the night, helped me shower, helped me walk, and got me back on my feet again. I won't forget what you all did for me. Sorry it's taken such a long time to write this - life is busy!

I am, 6 months on, back at work and slowly re-building my health. I can swim again (carefully), cycle (again, slowly, I'm getting there!) and hope to be able to run again some time in 2018.