"It was more than just a job to them - it was their actual calling"

After moving back home to Northern Ireland from England after 44 years away, I can honestly say there’s a world of difference in the care I received here at Ward 43 At Altnagelvin Hospital. England’s care was absolutely fine but the care I received from the staff at Ward 43 was outstanding. 

By that I mean that it was old fashioned nursing care, I felt seen and heard with any concerns I had about my surgery (reconstruction after a bi lateral mastectomy). The nurses employed here - I felt it was more than just a job to them, it was their actual calling (cheesy I know but so true). Nothing was too much trouble even though they are on a busy ward. 

In particular Staff Nurse Amy and Staff Nurse Laura couldn’t have shown me any more kindness during their hectic day. This goes such a long way as when being in hospital can be a scary experience full of unknowns. They made a few days which could have been an unpleasant experience fun on some occasions. We were able to have a little laugh together. 

My pain was managed perfectly without having to wait undue times even though I was one of many many patients under their care. I never felt I was a burden to them and any questions I had were answered professionally and plainly. 

If you are due to go to this ward then please do not be too worried as you will likely be put at ease as much as humanly possible. 

Thank you again to Amy and Laura for helping me through what could have been an awful time. 

You may just be going to work for another day but to me it has a huge impact on my life. Your interaction made such a difference. That’s what nursing is all about… 🙂