"It was a true team effort by all who worked at all levels"

Suffering very acute shortness of breath I dialled 999 and whilst organising help the operators kept talking to me, very reassuring. Within 5 minutes a First Responder was at my door followed about 5 minutes later by the ambulance team. Whilst treating the symptoms they were also very reassuring. They recognised that I would be admitted and prior to taking me out to the ambulance suggested I take my book, mobile phone AND charger. Such quick caring and thoughtful help when really needed.

Everybody's worst nightmare, going to A & E at 18.30 on a Friday night. My wait to be seen was short about 15 mins. In the period waiting to move from A & E to a ward I was not just dumped on a trolley and left but rather moved to a transfer room that seemed to be the preserve of a very cheerful Heath Care Assistant keeping an eye on the patients, it was not long before I was on my way to a ward. In such a pressure environment everybody I met treated me with genuine care and kindness.

It was around 03.00 on the Saturday I found myself in what was to be my bed for the next 3 days and nights, Staples Ward, an acute stroke ward. Words cannot describe my admiration towards ALL those working on this ward for the care and compassion shown. Staples may be an acute stroke specialist ward but all were brilliant when it came to helping and treating their acute respiratory patient, I have no doubt it was this level of help that had me up and on my way so quickly.

Last but not least the catering. Hospital foods come in for more than their fair share of criticism. The breakfast offerings were the same as I'd eat at home, then the lunch and supper menus had choices of 3 mains and 3 puddings. During my stay there was always one dish I would enjoy. Yes the food is  bland but salt and pepper are provided. They happily adjusted portion sizes for me (I naturally eat child sized portions) and with this I was always offered seconds.

During my stay I was looked after and treated by many so it would be impossible and wrong to identify any one individual, it was a true team effort by all who worked at all levels within the hospital.

If your looking for a free long weekend away I can't recommend NDDH but if your seriously ill then I found them superbly good in care, treatment and compassion. They were spot on.