"Fantastic people, fantastic care, fantastic..."

I was rushed in to North Tees University Hospital on Tuesday 18th September 2018 with severe spinal pain.

I experienced intolerable lumbar pain at home and was attended by a paramedic. He quickly assessed my condition and administered gas and air to relieve my pain. He called an ambulance which quickly arrived and transported me to North Tees. I was placed on ward 33 at around 0200hrs. An MRI scan was arranged for early the same morning. Following the scan, there were two surgeons at my bedside within 20 minutes.

My condition was explained and options discussed. I opted for a discectomy as one of my discs had prolapsed and was pressing hard against my sciatic nerve. The procedure was arranged for 0830 the next morning. In the meantime I received excellent pain relief and excellent care.

After the operation the surgeon visited my bedside once again and I was informed that the procedure had gone very well, and as planned.

I noticed a huge difference in my condition immediately. I was still in slight pain which I put down to the procedure, and was walking within hours.

I was treated with great dignity, respect and care by all who attended from Ward 33.

I can not thank the staff of ward 33 enough. They were professional in every way and are a credit to the NHS.

I would gladly pay extra taxes to fund this magnificant service.

Great people delivering a great service.

Thank you so much