"Impressed by the dedication and professionalism"

Whilst playing golf I experienced a blackout which according to my colleagues lasted about a minute. During this episode I did not experience any pain.

The following morning I managed to get an emergency appointment with my GP, Dr Taylor at the Alcluith Medical Practice at Dumbarton Health Centre. On conclusion of an examination, Dr Taylor administered soluble aspirin, informed me that I had a serious heart murmur and immediately summoned an emergency ambulance to take me to the Medical Assessment Unit at Vale of Leven Hospital. Following my assessment there I was admitted to the Acute Receiving Unit, where I remained for 3 days, after which I was transferred to the Coronary Care Unit at the Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH)

Following extensive tests and scans etc, I was informed by Dr Lau, Consultant Cardiologist, that I had severe Aortic Stenosis and there was no way I could be discharged until this was rectified. I remained in the RAH for a further 3 weeks before being transferred to the Golden Jubilee National Hospital in Clydebank. After having an Angiogram I was informed by Dr Doshi, Consultant Cardio-Thoracic Surgeon, that my Aortic Valve was severely damaged and would require to be replaced. He carefully explained to me the surgical procedure and the timescale for the recovery process. The operation was successfully completed in June 2022. After 2 days in Intensive Care and another 8 days on the ward, I was discharged. After 6 weeks I was reviewed by Dr Doshi and after a further 6 weeks by Dr Lau, both of whom were entirely satisfied with my progress.

After this I started Cardiac Rehabilitation under Sister McCurley and Physios Caitlin and Colin at the Vale of Leven District Hospital. I finally completed my rehab at the end of December 2022.

Throughout this journey I have been thoroughly impressed by the dedication and professionalism of all the NHS staff -  medical, nursing, dental, domestic, ambulance and rehab staff involved in my treatment and recuperation, many of whom were often working under extreme pressure. They are all a credit to their profession.