"Thank you for all you did for me - Western General Hospital Edinburgh"

I was admitted for spinal surgery to Ward 33 in March 2011. All I can say is that the staff from the domestic staff right to the consultant who performed my surgery could not do enough to ensure that I was looked after properly. This is such a busy department, with frequent emergency cases admitted from all over, but the staff were very efficient and re-assuring. My pain control was very important to them, and whenever the buzzer was pressed it seemed no problem to deal with whatever problem a patient was having. I will admit it appeared some patients do test the patience of the staff, but everyone appeared to be treated with the same care and respect - difficult when so busy.

I was very worried about having to have my surgery, but within a short time of being admitted my worries were understood and the staff did their best to make sure I understood what would happen and what to expect during recovery.

In a time of major cuts to nhs funding and staffing levels, this department and ward are a shining example of quality care. I feel extremely lucky to have been a patient in ward 33. Thank you for all you did for me - my life is much improved already!