"urgent treatment for DKA. RPH linked with Minerva..."

From the diligent secretary for the doctor based at Minerva Centre Deepdale to being seen swiftly on 20th May by the doctor, treated with a bolus dose of insulin due to cannula failure on my pump, to being discharged by a super doctor from Ward MAU (Royal Preston Hospital) on Wednesday 21st May, the treatment I received from entry to the A+E dept, onto resus section of A+E, return to an A+E bay from approx. 1.30pm on 20th May till around midnight when I was admitted to MAU, was nothing less in my opinion than 'gold star standard'. The team on A+E followed the DKA protocol professionally, efficiently whilst warmly offering reassuring guidance. Considering how busy the A+E Department was, I received top class dignified, individual attention at all times. I observed all staff hoofing around A+E tirelessly. They should all be paid a 'bankers bonus' and wear a 1st place rosette each as these professional, caring people save lives and are an absolute credit to this country! I was moved to MAU around midnight on 20th May where the Charge Nurse and his team, monitored my blood glucose levels through the night each hour as per protocol, after I had been taken off IV drips and was using the insulin pump again. The nurses team that night were also superb. I was discharged around midday on 21st May by a senior consultant who was so kind. I think it is easy to take for granted the benefits of public service staff. I wish to take this opportunity to remind people that we are very fortunate to have access to superb health care, carried out by the full range of Clinical, medical, nursing and ancillary staff. In these times of financial restraint and budget cuts, I feel humbled by my treatment. I also feel extremely grateful and want to extend my thanks to the staff who treated me as well as they could at all times during my short but eventful stay at Royal Preston Hospital. Please could I also thank the wonderful continuing care I receive for my diabetes from all the staff at the Minerva Centre on Lowthorpe Rd, Deepdale. They too are truly tremendous! I thank all of you very, very much for the care you give me and I appreciate that I am able to live a very normal life, having had diabetes type 1 for over 47 years. I accept I have the odd 'blip' which was a technical fault with my insulin pump that caused my DKA but I was placed in capable hands at Royal Preston Hospital and I would recommend this hospital to anyone in the country. It really sets the standard in my opinion. Thanks again to everyone! Alison Birtle