"excellent care after being diagnosed with bowel..."

On the 4th September 2017 I had a colonoscopy in the Endoscopy Unit at Basildon Hospital. Unfortunately, I was diagnosed with bowel cancer (this was found by having a routine 2 yearly bowel screening offered by the NHS). I had a choice of having my surgery and treatment at Basildon or going to Southend. I chose Basildon.

From that day on I have had the most amazing treatment throughout. I was referred to a colorectal surgeon who performed the operation successfully on 19th October. I had MRI and CT scans and blood tests during September. The service and care I received were second to none. The colorectal nurses were always there for me when I needed questions answered.

My surgery went extremely well due to the expertise of the surgeon and after my operation he kept a close eye on me with care and consideration. Unfortunately, I had to have an ileostomy which I am hopefully having reversed soon but the stoma nurses are always on hand to help with anything I need.

I was a little unfortunate as I had to have 3 months of chemotherapy but was in the excellent hands of another Consultant and the chemo unit at Southend and I cannot sing their praises enough. Again, the care and attention given to me was outstanding.I am luckily now free of cancer but not without the help of all the wonderful people in Basildon and Southend.

Some people may knock the NHS. Not a bit of it. I speak from experience and I think we are lucky and privileged to be treated by dedicated people doing their best for us.

Thank you to my surgeon and staff who gave me such positivity. I couldn't have done it without you.