"Thank you to GWH's A&E, SAU, Orthopaedics and..."

I wanted to say thank you to all the people who helped me and treated me last week when I came into A&E with a serious spinal condition.There are too many for me to recall all their names but hopefully they'll recognise that I'm referring to them.

 

The A&E doctor who escalated my case to the SAU and listened to me with sympathy as I had an attack of anxiety. She was very kind and reminded me that I need to take care of myself in order to take care of the people that need me (I'm seeking carer's support now).

The A&E nurses, especially the one who did my ecg and had a chat with me about the ups and downs of single parenthood and pets and well, life in general. Amazing how a few minutes of conversation can remind you that you're not alone whatever situation you're in.

The SAU nurses who made sure I was comfortable and looked after even though they were extremely busy. In particular the surgeon who stayed on an extra 2 hours to make sure that I and the other remaining patients were seen and who was back at work 8 hours later to do another long shift. He gave me some good advice about asking for help with my caring responsibilities and I've since asked friends and family to support more which they're doing. The oncall surgeon who explained what was going to happen over the next 24 hours regarding my back injury. I felt very looked after the whole time. The oncall consultant who assessed me and referred me for surgery.

The surgeon whose amazing skills fixed my back and prevented any permanent damage from happening (thank you so much). I feel ten years younger. 

The pre op nurses and the anaesthetist who took all my pre op nerves away with their skillful bedside manner.

And of course the nurses and other staff on the Aldbourne Ward who made me so comfortable during my stay. I was lucky enough to have my own room and I left feeling strong and rested and ready to recover fully at home.

When I arrived at A&E I had more going on than my physical injury. I was not in a good way physically or mentally. I left hospital much stronger in both aspects because of all the people who helped me at the hospital. I'm now in a much better place to look after myself and the people I care for. 

Words aren't enough to say how grateful I am  (although I have written a lot!).

Thank you from me and my family.