"My recent operation and stay at East Surrey Hospital"

By appointment, I was admitted for a complete replacement of my left knee on in early June.

The process was well organised. About midday, I was wheeled into the theatre where George Tselentakis undertook the operation. The anaesthetist, who had earlier briefed me on what he would do, put me under. The next thing I remember was waking up in Woodland Ward No 12.

Throughout my remarkably short stay, I was impressed by the professionalism, care and attention of all the staff, especially Staff Nurse Kristina and her team on Woodland Ward. I also gained some understanding of the immense complexity of a hospital the size of the East Surrey. The logistical management was exemplary - the systems and processes seemed to function flawlessly, despite some rudely demanding patients who seemed to expect luxury hotel service from all the staff.

We are hugely privileged in the UK to have the NHS. Because I paid for medical insurance in the past, I am aware of the cost of such operations as the one I have just had. Having retired, partly because of my inability to get around, I could not have afforded to pay to have my knee replaced. Hence I am truly blessed to have had a 'new knee'. I hope in due course to get back on my bike and raise money for the three 'life saving' charities I have supported over the past 12 years:

The Nazareth Hospital (http://www.nazarethtrust.org/nazareth-hospital);

Papua Partners (http://www.papuapartners.com/id97.html); and

New Ways http://www.newways.org.uk/About-Us.aspx)

Please pass my thanks and best wishes to all those who cared for me. They are a great team.