"Expertise & dedication of our beautiful NHS is very much appreciated"

Yes, there are waiting times at A&E which feel interminable when you're in pain, anxious & vulnerable. However, I received excellent care from dedicated staff when in January 2016 I had a heart attack and was treated by A&E, ICU & a 3 day stay for angiogram on Jenner ward. I was terrified but everyone treating me was calm, expert & professional. Care from cardiology afterwards has been thorough & reassuring. I also attended cardiac rehabilitation, which was very supportive.

I experienced anxiety a few months later and was referred to Harrow IAPT for counselling which was gently helpful.

October 2016 I had an exacerbated asthma attack and was admitted by ambulance for treatment. The 2-woman ambulance crew were just amazing. Big thanks to them too.

A fall in 2017 saw me back in A&E, unfortunately it was 1st January - very very busy. Four fractures to the right humeral head which was also dislocated and extremely painful. That felt like a long road. Orthopaedic surgeon Mr Sala said he could repair with hemiarthroplasty, but that the arm's mobility would be at best a 45º raise.

I was in pain on waking after surgery, and 3 hours later had news that my sister-in-law's cancer had returned. For all these reasons I was weepy. One nurse - clearly rushed off her feet - expressed impatience at my tears, stating that I was very lucky compared to some. I agree, but it was an emotional time. Sister-in-law died 4 months later.

Physiotherapy sessions were intense and painful, but senior physio Maya was fantastic - kind, persistent, strong & gentle all at the same time. I trusted her and she gave me confidence. She also taught my wonderful partner how to give me passive physio, for every day between appointments. 

Next referral was to Hydrotherapy. Tanya and team are the best. I had several sessions and then continued self-funded. Well worth it for the expertise and unique support of specialised exercise in warm water & safe environment. This lifts my mood and is a friendly group where everyone understands each other's injuries.

After the death of my sister-in-law, anxiety & low mood returned, so I went again to IAPT. A long (4 months?) wait, but CBT counsellor Sharon helped me find tools to cope better.

All our lives are intertwined by kindness and understanding. I also met inspiring fellow patients. Hospital stay is not a welcome experience, but thankful for the care.

I've not been able to return to work and have taken early retirement on small savings. The expertise & dedication of our beautiful NHS  is very much appreciated. 

With love to all concerned.