"My treatment has been simply amazing"

I recently went into FVRH to have a large lump removed from my neck. It was daunting to say the least, that the base of my neck would be cut to remove a perhaps cancerous growth.

Both the surgeon and the anaesthetist immediately dispelled any fears I may have held. The anaesthetist perfectly explained that I would feel no pain during the operation, while the surgeon explained which part of my neck she would be operating on.

Before I knew what had happened after several hours surgery, I was awake and very much pain free. Now I was in another room to recuperate, and I felt totally fine. I wanted to get out of bed of course, but felt a bit wobbly due to the anaesthetic. I had a drip bag for blood still attached, but felt no discomfort from this.

I was regularly checked by the ward Nurse, temperature taken, heart rate and blood pressure taken and all were perfect. I enjoyed dinner and was able to swallow perfectly. The surgeon kindly visited twice, to see that I was ok, and she was happy I was progressing well.

Must admit I didn’t sleep, but the nurses kindly made me tea and toast, while I chatted to them. Next day the doctor said I couldn’t go home yet, due to among of blood still apparent in the drain. I was however allowed to go for short walks, which was great.

The surgeon visited again and I was regularly checked by the the nurse. I didn’t feel as though,I had had an operation, for I felt good. I did sleep soundly that night for a few hours, when tiredness caught up with me.

Early next morning, I was allowed to go to the restaurant adjacent to the ward, where I indulged in a large and delicious breakfast, my swallowing was perfect.

That day I was let home, then several days later I had the stitches expertly removed by the surgeon. She had done an amazing job, the scar would be minimal considering the operation and I was healing rapidly. She also told me that the biopsy indicated no cancerous cells. This was fantastic news, I just felt so emotional, that tears fell down my cheeks. I could not thank her enough.

I have a follow up appointment, so that the surgeon can check my voice box.

From start to finish, since my local GP noticed the swelling on my neck, to the operation and aftercare, my treatment has been simply amazing. I cannot thank the doctor, surgeon and theatre crew and nurses enough. God bless them.