"Exceptional surgery and care in the Upper GI Unit..."

I had major complex reconstructive surgery at the RVI on 24 November 2013 after severe complications to a previous minimally invasive oesophagetomy at Liverpool resulted in a neck stoma and jejunum feeding. I contacted the hospital after I became aware of its expertise and experience in type of surgery. The surgeons, led by Professor Griffin, were Mr Immanuel and Mr Mike Kanahan, and the quality of their skills, attitude and ability is unsurpassed. My unheard of recovery post surgery was in no small part due to their techniques and expertise, coupled with the superb support of the Ward 36 team. I can now eat and drink normally for the first time in 21 months! I am also very proud of the fact that my external scars are so expertly done that they will become almost indiscernable, and their superiorty is much admired by friends and aquaintances who have surgical scars themselves. I know that my insides are the same, as when I had my barrium meal test, the radilogist remarked that the joins were 'beautiful', and I have no pain at all 6 weeks after surgery. My stay on Ward 36 was almost like a holiday, such was the care. In particular I'd like to thank Clare Sedgewick, Specialist Nurse, for her support of both me and especially my husband Peter, both before and after admission. The dietician Jill Sturrock has been, and continues to be a fount of knowledge on diet, nutrician and ways to ease back to normal eating. She really know her stuff, explains things so well and is extremely approachable. The all the nurses and auxillaries were friendly and kind. And although I can't name you all, my special gratitude goes to the following, you made my stay a very happy one. Penny, staff nurse in HDU Ward 36, she's an exceptionally gifted nurse and such an intelligent caring person. Michelle and Annette on ICU, incredible nurses Jenny, staff nurse on HDU, who very quickly and sympathetically sorted out my epidural relief when I first came down from ICU. Seb, the consultant who works with the Prof. He was always around ensuring that my medical care after such complex surgery was spot on and things went well. Gayle, Anna Chrissy and Racheal, staff nurses on Ward 36, for their wonderful care and friendliness. It really lifted my spirits. Brenda and Christine the auxillaries, we had some great chats and I'm certain that your lovely attitude and the excellent way you do your jobs helps many other patients besides myself. So thank you for my new life all at RVI, we're going to make the most of it. Dorothy Carley