"Kind and friendly care for triple bypass heart surgery"

After an angiogram at Doncaster Royal Infirmary to investigate a heart problem, I was told that I needed to stay in hospital as I needed urgent surgery.

After 1 day at Bassettlaw I was transferred to Northern General in Sheffield. The kindness of the staff of Chesterman 4 ward did much to allay my fears and helped me cope when I felt overwhelmed. Before the operation people from various departments came to see me to explain all that was involved before, during and after the surgery. A man from Sheffield Open Heart Club called by to share his positive experience with me.

Mr Briffa, the surgeon, and two anaesthetists came to see me on the day before surgery and explained things very clearly. I wondered how I would be treated as for religious reasons I refuse blood / blood products. I was treated with the utmost dignity, kindness and respect. I knew I would be in the best of hands.

The operation was a success. The scars are very neat and are healing quickly. I cannot fault the care I received while recovering. I was just amazed at the kindness and friendliness of not only the nurses but all the staff and helpers.

Pain can make people behave in strange and difficult ways and yet the nurses dealt with each situation with kindness and patience. All this has been good for my heart too. I was able to go home five days after surgery and I am progressing well.