"Great care for aortic aneurysm and colon cancer at Northampton General"

If I had lived 100 years ago I would have died of multi-organ failure in April 2006.

Initially diagnosed with an enlarged prostate, I was catheterised with a view to a rebore. My catheter became blocked and I was admitted for remedial action.

Scan information showed that I had a fistula between my colon and bladder, and a 6.5 cm aorta aneurysm. Priority was given to the latter by Mr Libertini's most caring and efficient team. Having built up strength at home, I was admitted again and had a tumour removed from my colon and bladder walls by Mr Berry's excellent team.

Follow-up diagnosed colon cancer and a secondary infection of my liver. I have recently embarked on chemo treatment at the Oncology Clinic. Having spent several weeks in the wards (mainly Willow Ward to date), I have nothing but praise for the high standards of nursing that I have received. My main concern is the chronic underfunding of the NHS in Northamptonshire, that is causing cost cutting measures that will seriously affect staff well-being, patient care, admission times, and people's lives.