"Wonderful treatment for all my conditions"

I went to Peterborough Hospital for three separate reasons:

- test for cancer (due to my PSA count)

- removal of teeth roots (recommended by my dentist)

- removal of gallstones and gall bladder (the source of my mysterious pain)

I was VERY impressed each time I went.

As stated above, the hospital was clean, full of helpful staff (e.g. receptionists, porters, cleaners, cooks, nurses + doctors) and I felt comfortable staying there. I was kept fully informed at each stage and my choices were clearly explained.

The mere possibility of cancer is terrifying. I am so grateful to the staff who (throughout the process) carefully explained the various tests and the chances that I actually had cancer. Thanks to the staff, I felt ready to face the worst. Fortunately I was given the all-clear!

Dealing with my teeth was wonderfully straightforward. After my dentist said only a hospital could remove my troublesome roots, I was swiftly given an appointment, ushered in for a pep talk (most welcome) and felt no pain despite the difficult procedure the department faced.

My third problem turned out to be gallstones. (N.B. I would not wish gallstone pain on anybody.)

Since there could be several reasons for my initial symptoms, I needed a range of tests. These included:

- 3 MRI (I was fully reassured before entering the claustrophobic 'tube')

- 1 ultrasound

- 1 cystoscopy (no pain or discomfort despite the 'intrusion')

- 1 colonoscopy (as above)

- many blood and urine samples

I also had a 20 mile ambulance trip (the crew really put my mind at rest during this) and two resident stays in Peterborough Hospital (each 4 days long.)

I want to emphasise how professional and kind all the hospital staff were on my many visits.

Receptionists knew within seconds where I needed to go. Cleaners kept everything spotless. The hospital food was tasty. Nurses could not have been more helpful.

Doctors took time to explain what was happening (and my choices.)

Although I had to cope with a urine bag attached to a wheeled stand and a surgical drain bag, I knew I was getting the best treatment.

I would have liked to name lots of staff in particular (but your guidelines say not to.)

Here's one example of how good your staff are - on my arrival after the ambulance trip, I was seen by an admitting doctor. As he was asking me about my symptoms, I 'projectile vomited' all over both of us. He promptly removed my embarrassment by saying it was not my fault and arranged a change of clothes for each of us.

Finally I was discussing all my (prepaid) treatment with an American friend. She calculated that it would have cost at least £200,000 in the US! (There is even a charge for ambulance trips.)

Long live the NHS - and my heartfelt thanks to everyone at Peterborough Hospital.