"My journey as a patient within Neurosurgery-RVI"

To whom it may concern 

I am writing to you to show my appreciation of the services I have recently received from your hospital; RVI and your staff. 

I work within the NHS myself, however I have never witnessed such seamless care provision before. From consultation to surgery, everything was magnificent. 

It was found in February 2020 I had a significant spinal cord compression in my cervical spine, which required urgent intervention. My GP referred me to yourselves and I was allocated a Neurosurgeon - Mr Nissen. 

From my initial consultation, I was in awe of Mr Nissen and the outpatients department.  Everything was clear and concise on arrival with regards to my appointment and initial information gathering.

During the consultation, Mr Nissen was most professional, approachable, calming and realistic. My wellbeing and patient centred management was at the forefront of his provision of care.

Covid-19 became prevalent. Mr Nissen kept intouch with me regular to update me of how my treatment would be provided whilst the pandemic was evolving. Mr Nissen demonstrated optimum care by the way of monitoring evidence from Wuhan/Europe which would influence my care/outcome of surgery at this unprecedented time. My surgery was precisely timed to the month when the pandemic was stabilizing (July 2020), allowing me a higher rate of life expectancy post surgery. Mr Nissen explained all risks of surgery/and the contraindications of the pandemic, to which i was allowed the opportunity to postpone this surgery if I had felt the need to do so. I have never met someone so conscientious. 

I went on to have my surgery (July 2020), again which was total precision. From entering Ward 17 on the day of surgery, I was extremely nervous. I was immediately welcomed on to the ward, greeted by amazing and friendly ward staff. These staff are so busy as pressures are currently demanding , however, the staff remained polite, friendly and very amenable. Bravo to the Ward 17 staff! 

I was then met by Mr Nissen where everything was explained again and consent gained. Again, Mr Nissen was so calming and reassuring. Not once did I worry about the surgery or Covid-19. I felt extremely safe.

I was fortunate to have the most amazing anaesthetist -?Mr Vincent. This man is also a credit to your team. I was given a thorough assessment prior to theatre, Mr Vincent going the extra mile to reassure and calm me in the most professional manner. I was in surgery longer than expected; some several hours and this gentleman stayed until i was transferred and settled within the Neuro HDU, very late in to the night, then came back in the early hours to check on my welfare. I find this most humbling. Mr Vincent also went above and beyond his duty and my gratitude to Mr Vincent is immense.

The staff within recovery were tremendous and played an integral role in maintaining my life. Again, under immense pressure of caring for ill people but delivering an outstanding provision of care. One member of staff significantly stood out to me (I apologise I forget her name, inital R I think, a Spanish nurse). This nurse 2 days later actually presented on ward 15 to come to see me as I had improved. This is above and beyond the role of a nurse. This is dedication and compassion for people. Amazing.

During my stay on HDU my care was outstanding. My designated nurses : Charlotte and Carl along with the rest of the team were beyond amazing. From entering the ward I was made safe, and comfortable. The dedication and standard of care was remarkable. These members of staff are a true reflection of what makes our NHS so wonderful.

I was then transferred to Ward 15 and again, the standard of care continued. I had been through major surgery, a long way from home, alone, however, these issues did not effect me in any way. I felt safe on the ward and all my care needs were met and more. The domestic staff, portering staff , kitchen staff, nursing staff, xray staff, medical staff - everyone was so caring, approachable and this was delivered in the most professional way. 

Everyone had such an integral part in my journey and I am so hugely grateful. These people are what makes our NHS so great and should be recognised for their wonderful care they provide. 

I am on my way to recovery now and cannot wait to start to re-live my life, all thanks to your amazing, most talented staff - Mr Nissen, Mr Nissen Secretary -Katie, Ward 17, Mr Vincent , Recovery Staff, Neuro HDU staff, Ward 15 staff, Portering Staff and Xray Staff. 

My family and I thank you all and will be forever in your debt.

Warm wishes