"Cheerful, dedicated and professional team"

My father came in to the Cardiac Day Care Unit at the ARI (Ward 401) to have his pacemaker and defibrillator removed and a new, smaller pacemaker re-attached earlier this month. Having previously decided that he would never go back to the ARI due to some traumatic memories, he was persuaded by Dr Affolter, the cardiac consultant, to take the op as a day visit. The battery was running out and dad was fully prepared just to let it run out. I should mention that Dr Affolter's request to specifically see dad in Elgin, breaking his journey to a clinic in Inverness, was a significantly important factor in dad's decision to change his mind: we truly thank him for that.

An 8am start at the ARI when my parents live in Lossiemouth, and in mid-February, is always going to be a bit of a challenge but I got them through the night before and dad was duly delivered to a busy waiting room in Ward 401 at 0740. Every member of staff that we met from then until we left at about 1800 was amazing. Cheery, helpful, caring, smiling and engaging - and patient, as my father's NHS hearing aids are sadly not able to help him much. Everyone we met who helped dad that day could not have been more caring and I would swear that some of the team almost shed a tear as they saw him being wheeled out, waving, at 6pm back to the car.

My mother and father are not able to complete this form online so have asked me to give my message to the team in Ward 401 via this recommended route... thank you. Thank you all for the care, love and attention which you gave to dad and mum, and clearly give so freely every day to people who enter your Ward with the highest of expectations for a better life. It was clear that, during our visit, not all operations go as expected, and the compassion and re-assurance shown by the team was as evident for those who would have to come back again as it was for those who, like my dad, will not need to return.

Given the pressures which all staff are working under, we are lucky to have such a cheerful, dedicated and professional team in Aberdeen to look after those who need your help.

Thank you all.