"Helped through an incredibly difficult time."

I recently attended EPAS at the RAH for a scan after having some bleeding, the scan confirmed an empty uterus but my HCG level was still high. The sonographer (Aileen), midwife (Laura) and auxiliary (Stacy) all treated myself and my partner with such kindness and delivered the findings to us in a professional yet sympathetic manner, we are so grateful to them for organising a scan at such short notice.

I presented to A&E 3 days later with severe pain and heavy bleeding. A&E was so incredibly busy but again I felt safe and well cared for during my time there.

I was transferred to gynaecology (Ward 32) for a further scan and bloods, the registrar (Priya) and FY2 (Emily) again treated me with such dignity and kindness as by this point I was severely in pain and understandably very worried. The bloods showed a suboptimal rise in my HCG.

I was admitted to Ward 32 and had emergency surgery the following morning which confirmed an ectopic pregnancy in my right fallopian tube which sadly had to be removed. A huge thanks to Dr Gupta, the anaesthetic team and the recovery nurses for again treating me with such professionalism and kindness during an incredibly scary time. 

I would like to thank all the nurses and auxiliary staff on Ward 32, what a team! Everyone is so kind, friendly and nothing ever seems like too much trouble. A special thank you to Karen who looked after me both nights during my stay. I ended up with urinary retention following my surgery and Karen could not have done more for me to make sure that I was comfortable. Her manner was warm and kind and her patient-centred approach to both me and the other ladies within my bay was second to none. I will be forever grateful to Karen and everyone who has provided me care throughout this tough time.

As a health professional in the NHS myself, being on the receiving side of care feels very strange. My husband and I are so truly thankful for the care I have received and I will always remember the angels that helped me through this incredibly difficult time.