"I am very thankful for all the care and consideration I have received"

I am in my 70s with multiple diagnoses and 26 items on my prescription.

I attended Torrington Hospital recently for an appointment with Specialist Nurse Nicole, who works with the Bladder and Bowel team.

Her approach to me was warm and empathic, and as the consultation developed, she evidenced care and  consideration for the quite serious health problems I have, including a worsening bladder problem. 

Over the last 12 months, my previously fairly minor bladder problem has deteriorated and an MRI of my spine a few months ago has indicated multi level problems in the spine with nerve impingement.

Nurse Nicole encouraged me to speak more about the problem as I was finding some embarrassment with those kind of bodily areas involved.

She confirmed that the nerve impingement affected the top of the sacrum where the bladder functioning centre is, and that was the reason for excessive urge of micturition, pain, the need for pads etc.

Nurse Nicole advised me about different aspects of care and hygiene for that bodily area, she was able to ease my own concerns and embarrassment, and I found her professionalism above reproach.

I was also prescribed appropriate pads etc, and she will follow up in three months. Unfortunately I still await an appointment with a Consultant from the Orthopaedic Spinal Team.

I am very thankful for all the care and consideration I have received during my appointment with Specialist Nurse Nicole and those other nurses I have previously seen from the Bladder and Bowel Team.