"Feedback on Stoke Mandeville hospital"

In a world where criticism of Healthcare is rife, I felt compelled to write to thank you on the high level of care and service I received from your staff this week at Stoke Mandeville hospital. I was admitted on Thursday 16th July to the Day Procedures Unit with a ruptured Achilles tendon. All staff there were extremely kind and helpful and kept me informed at all times. Unfortunately there were several emergency cases that day and I was unable to have the scheduled operation. Annoyed at first, and after such a long wait, I soon understood this as I had been informed that this was possible and it was necessary to help patients with greater injuries than myself. Very frustrating, but I know that if a member of my family needed an urgent emergency operation I would expect to have priority over a non-emergency operation. Most reasonable people would share this opinion. The DPU staff helped me overcome my great disappointment with kind, reassuring words as well as some much needed food and drink. I returned on Sunday 19th and was operated on by the consultant. They answered my questions willingly and patiently before and after the operation. They instilled in me a confidence which I needed at the time, as I was so very nervous. Their excellent team, from the Junior doctors, theatre staff and support staff, were outstanding and their professional approach and cheerful attitude certainly helped me through. In Orthopaedic Ward 2 I was looked after in an exemplary fashion. All staff were kind and considerate, nothing was too much trouble and I was able to relax and begin my recovery. The same can be said on discharge from members of the ward Admin, Physiotherapy and Pharmacy departments. This is the first time in my life that I have written such a letter. I was so impressed and grateful to all your staff I felt the need to let you know. My most sincere thanks to you all. Yours sincerely Richard Topsfield