"Amputation of a great toe to remove melanoma"

Following a referral by my GP I was examined by a Dermatologist at St Margaret's Hospital

Epping Essex. The histology showed a 1.8 Breslow thickness of a subungual malignant melanoma from the left great toe.

I was then referred to Broomfield Hospital where I had a preliminary consultation with a specialist team. They confirmed to me that it would be necessary for me to have surgery the details of which were explained to me. Naturally this caused me consternation and

I had some concerns.

However the doctors and senior nurse who were present allayed such fears as I had. They were all extremely kind and by the end of the consultation I was confident that

I would be safe in their care. Subsequently I attended a Pre-Assessment appointment in the Hand Trauma & Assessment Unit where I was separately examined by two nurses who each carried out particular tests. Both examinations were very thorough indeed. Ultimately on 29 March 2019 shortly before 7.30 am

I attended the hospital for the operation and was admitted to Mayflower Ward. Immediately I was put at ease by the nursing staff on duty. During the course of the day various procedures took place and ultimately the operation was performed in the late afternoon. The large number of surgeons, doctors, nurses and other medical personnel who were involved did take me by surprise and it was evident that the whole procedure was extremely efficient. The care and kindness which I received was superb and I consider that it could not have been improved upon. Fortunately I stayed in the hospital for only one night and although I was discharged the following day this was only when the medical staff were satisfied that it was safe for me to leave. Since the operation I have already had two follow up appointments and another will take place shortly. The checks which take place provide me with an assurance that all is well. I have nothing but praise for the hospital, the treatment I received and above all the wonderful medical personnel. I know that I must not name any individuals who cared for me in various ways but hopefully they will all know who they are and I thank them most gratefully.