"I felt privileged and supported in achieving such an excellent outcome"

I was admitted for planned surgery this month. The experience of the enhanced recovery service has been extremely valuable in helping prepare for this event.

On the day of admission I reported to the day surgery area and the receptionist was very warm and welcoming which was very reassuring. The schedule was running late however the nursing staff were great in keeping me informed with regular updates which again helped me feel less anxious.

Then it was time to go into the anaesthetic area. This is the most challenging part of the procedure only because the spaces in the spine area are smaller and having had a previous lumbar puncture and spinal I know it is not always easy.

I do inevitably get upset at this point however both the anaesthetic nurse and anaesthetist Dr P were tremendous during this procedure. With Dr Ps expertise, professionalism and compassion the spinal was successful which is probably the thing that matters most to me as I know from previous experience(Knee replacement) the benefits and value post surgery.

The experience in surgery was fantastic as I cannot really recall anything other that waking up at the end so that was just perfect. I was admitted to ward 1 and the care I received throughout the weekend could not have been any better.

The support from Nurses, Physiotherapists, follow up from anaesthetist and Surgeon was caring supportive and very person centred. The surgery was so successful I was able to manage the stairs the very next day which felt a massive achievement and after admission I was able to be discharged on Sunday.

I can not thank you all enough for the care that I was given and due to the professionalism, team work and standard of care I felt privileged and supported in achieving such an excellent outcome