"Wonderful support from the staff"

Following an urgent GP referral to A&E ambulatory care, it became apparent quickly that this was serious and from the first conversation with Ruraidh one the consultants, blood cancer was mentioned as a possible outcome which was both frightening and overwhelming in equal measure.

Given how upset I was, he said he couldn’t in good conscience put me back into the waiting room and allowed me to stay in his consultation room till a room was available. That initial kindness in the light of that news was the most wonderfully compassionate moment and set the tone for my next 8 days in Wishaw. I will never forget his kindness to me. 

From there I was moved to a room in ambulatory care overnight until a ward bed became available. Everyone in that team was so wonderfully supportive, kind, took time to care for me not just medically but also emotionally given the diagnosis I was facing. On my worst day this team of people got me through and onto the next step on my journey. 

From there I was moved to ward 6 and met the wonderful Samantha and her team. What an incredible group of dedicated and inspiring people. There are no doubt some names I’ve missed but I really need to call out my initial night shift angels who were Elaine & Genna, Carly & Emma. As well as the amazing day shift stars who were Annette, Joanne, Mia, Tracey and Abbie. They all cared for me not only medically but the level of personal care was far beyond what I could have expected or imagined. But more than that I’ve had my hand held by these amazing women while I wept, I’ve been consoled and comforted and treated with such compassion, kindness and respect that it was the closest thing to being cared for by your own family and friends. 

It is crystal clear that Samantha is an exceptional leader and the care and approach from her team, flows from her guidance, incredible standards of care for all her patients and for her team. Wishaw is incredibly lucky to have her. 

I must also mention Dr Hung from Haematology, who took time to talk through my diagnosis with me, reassuring me about my age, general health and the variety of treatment options that would be available. She was also able to do the same again with my family present, so they also had the opportunity to ask questions of her too. We greatly appreciated her openness, reassurance and the time she took to ensure our understanding of what was happening and what to expect as I moved to Monklands for treatment.

I know an organisation the size of the NHS has challenges and bureaucracy but for all of that, the people who I’ve encountered are what take the institution and bring it to life. These people who I have now met and will never forget have made an immeasurable difference to my life and I am beyond grateful for having been in their care. 

Team work