"Sympathetic and professional care at University Hospital Coventry"

After my GP referred me to Mr Patel's clinic at George Eliot Hospital because of concerns about a spot inside my nose that wouldn't go away, I was referred to University Hospital Coventry to have it removed.

I underwent minor surgery in mid-July 2008. After the procedure my surgeon told me that although he expected negative results, he had sent the lump for pathology.

I duly attended Mr Patel's clinic for my follow-up appointment at the beginning of August, but was told the devastating news that they had discovered a squamous cell carcinoma, and my treatment was to begin immediately. Naturally I was very frightened, but Mr Patel and his nurse (not a regular Head and Neck nurse) reassured me that with the correct treatment the prognosis was excellent.

The staff were always exceptional, both in the outpatients department and the Arden Centre, taking the fear out of the word "cancer". Preparation for my radiotherapy treatment was on good days uncomfortable and on bad days traumatic, but I was reassured all along the way by sympathetic and professional staff, who instilled confidence every step of the way.

I had my final radiotherapy session in the middle of October, and after several weeks of recovery I am now in remission, hopefully cured.

I would like to thank Dr Fresco and her team, especially Paul Worrell, my MacMillan nurse, who was always at the end of the phone when I needed him. I could not have wished for better care and concern.