"Wonderful care from A&E to Ward 25"

I took my 12yr old daughter to A&E on 20/12/17 at 9.30am with suspected appendicitis. Paeds A&E was exceptionally busy however, staff were kind and had time for us and explained everything. We then waited for the Surgical team to assess Tilly and waited for an USS and bed on Wd 25. The Surgical team came and again explained everything in detail (after apologising for the delay as they were so busy) and I’m sorry I can’t remember any names (they all used My name is..or had visible badges) but when your child is in pain..your memory goes out the window!! I felt very reassured by staff. We went up to Ward 25 about 5 hrs later..did I mention it was busy? Staff were completely uncomplaining!! We were welcomed to the ward and she was promptly tucked up in bed and then we were whisked to USS by a lovely female porter (the male one who bought us back was equally fab). The ladies in USS were reassuring and considerate and went out their way to reassure Tilly and explain what they were doing..Back on the ward we waited for the team to review and hopefully decide the plan. Surgical team came back again and were happy it wasn’t appendicitis and we needed a review by paeds. (Paeds were busy with an emergency). After being 9 hrs nil by mouth, they bought her food and offered me refreshments and just that simple offer of a drink meant the world. Finally, about 8.30pm the paeds registrar came and checked Tilly over and was happy for her to go home..11hrs later, we were very tired and a little irritable but staff jollied is up, made us laugh and sent us on our way home to celebrate her 13th birthday the next day...

Just to add on that I’m a midwife at Kings Mill and have been proud to work there for the last 15 years. Nobody knew I was a midwife, we didn’t receive preferential treatment..but I saw 1st hand the kindness, the professionalism, the outstanding care from each person we met that long day in December...Tilly had a fab 13th birthday, although it was spent in bed.. I’d like to take the opportunity to thank each and every person for her care that day..#nhsandproud