"A&E and Ward 3A"

We arrived at Alder Hey on Saturday morning after being transfered from Ormskirk Hospital via ambulance. From the second we arrived, we knew our daughter was in the right place. The quick thinking and decision making of the A&E consultant certainly prevented a medical emergency. Our daughter was quickly stabalised and out of pain and all necessary tests and procedures were undertaken proficiently under her direction. Whilst impressive, what was most commendable was how the doctor managed to make such strategic decisions about our daughter's care whilst alleviating her fears and providing comfort to a terrified seven year old in acute pain. I felt listened to for the first time and I will feel forever grateful to the consultant.

When we arrived on ward 3A, we were made to feel at home and procedures were explained kindly and (in many instances) repeatedly by the heroes that work on the wards. The nurses must be super-human to ensure things run so smoothly whilst maintaining compassion and making sure that our daughter feels safe and secure. The staff seem to be forevr on the go and don't seem to waste a second! That said, I am incredibly impressed by their capacity to follow procedure and control infection. As a germophobe, I am always conscious of hand washing and the staff never seem to forget. An example would be when a nurse came in to administer medication wearing gloves. Whilst in the room, a buzzer sounded and the nurse switched it off. She then changed her gloves before continuing her work. While only a simple action, this indicates to me the routine steps taken to prevent poorly children getting sicker.

The care from the doctors has also been beyond reproach and they have answered all of our questions with patience and understanding. Our consultant, even took time to learn the names of our little girl's cuddly toys so she felt more comfortable in his presence. Again, whilst only a simple gesture, these things bring great comfort. I was similarly impressed by one of his team (a female doctor) who took time out of her busy day to come and give blood test results personally as she knew I was concerned treatment wasn't working. It is generally accepted that medical professionals have the necessary knowledge to make the best choices for our children but, for me, it is those small gestures that build the most trust.

I will be forever grateful to Alder Hey for helping my poorly daughter not feel afraid anymore. Alder Hey is a prime example of our amazing NHS and I feel so utterly thankful that, in our hour of need, we were able to call on

Alder Hey for help.