"Ward L24-absolutely faultless care"

So, I thought I had sciatica...no. An MRI scan revealed I had a CNS tumour in my spine.

From the conversation with my surgeon it was clear the surgeon wasn't wasting any time. I was admitted to ward L24 waiting an operation the next day. I was scared and in shock. It was a lot to take in and process. The start of my emotional roller coaster!

The staff on ward L24 were amazing (if I could highlight/make bigger/add flashing lights to that last word I would). They comforted me during the first night when I was very upset.

The same nurse came back to see me before surgery and gave me reassuring words and hugs; the nurse was there when I came out of theatre even though their shift had ended (they had stayed behind to make sure I was ok). My initial recovery was flat bed rest. My surgeon visited me, though I don't remember much if that (too drowsy). The nurses were so lovely, thoughtful and caring. Again an emotional night for me and the nurses were comforting without making me feel silly or embarrassed.

As I progressed to sitting and then standing they were there every step of my journey. Making sure I was okay and comfortable. It felt like nothing was to big an ask for them. They even chatted to me when they filled out the notes at the end of the bed. It felt personal without being intrusive but honestly I felt like I could've asked for anything. I watched them care for other people in my bedroom with the same compassion. They work tirelessly long hours and as a patient I never felt like they were begrudgingly looking after me.

I've even telephoned the ward since I was discharged and spoke to a nurse who cared for me. The nurse introduced themselves and had remembered who I was. It was so lovely to voice my worries to the nurse, I truely felt like I was chatting to my friend but they still maintained their professionalism and gave me advice and reassurance.

In summary I would like to extend my deepest gratitude and appreciation to the staff on ward L24. They cared for me in my darkest hour and nursed me back to health. Also, to my consultant and their team, who have done an absolutely amazing job. I'm only 2 weeks post surgery and already I can tell that the scar will be very neat. I know that shouldn't matter (but I'm not too old for a bikini yet!) The fact they removed my tumour completely, told me everything was okay and came to check on me on their day off was fantastic. It's a service I definitely didn't expect. I'm forever in their debt.

Thank you ward L24