"Exceptional!"

I would like to express my gratitude to The Royal Berkshire Hospital. I attended A & E on

Friday 30th September with a Fish Bone stuck in my throat. I was very anxious and panicky as this is a massive fear of mine. I was seen by a doctor who was extremely patient and understanding of my fears. They put my mind at ease by reassuring me that the fish bone would not cause any harm but would feel uncomfortable. They could not see the bone with the naked eye so arranged an x-ray, they informed me that a Mackerel bone may not show up, which it didn't. Doctor advised me I could go home and eat as normal and try a fizzy drink - the bone may flush through naturally otherwise I could stay and see an ENT specialist. I decided to go home as they had reassured me I was not in danger. I was advised if it had not gone by the following day I could return and they would arrange for me to see the ENT specialist. That evening I thought the bone had dislodged.However the following morning the bone was still there. I returned to A&E and was greeted by the doctor who organised the ENT specialist to see me. I met with a consultant who was again so kind and understanding of my fears and very patient with my anxiety.

They arranged a nasal camera to confirm where the bone was located. Understanding my anxiety they sedated the nasal region making sure I was comfortable. They located the bone, tried three different ways to remove it, on one occasion calling for assistance who offered their hand to hold for reassurance. This was so helpful to me and made my experience so much less traumatic. They were unable to retrieve the bone as it was too far back and I was gagging. They advised the only other option was to remove it under general anesthetic, although this is often not needed as the bone would more than likely naturally disperse. It was my choice. The Consultant realised how anxious I was so arranged for me to have the procedure under general anesthetic that evening. I was honestly worried having to have a GA but relieved to know the bone would be removed. Two lovely anesthetists arrived taking all my details and surgery was arranged for 9pm. I was placed on Dorrell Ward and greeted by friendly nurses. I was taken to Theatre. The Nurse on duty accompanied me and held my hand through out, which was very comforting. The porters who transported me were caring, funny and generally lovely. My whole experience from the onset was amazing. I was not made to feel a nuisance in any way or that I was over reacting, I was made to feel I mattered, they all wanted me to feel better. In the Theatre I had so many people looking after me...I am sure I saw at least 10 members of staff. I do not not know their names but everyone was professional, caring and wonderful. My surgeon successfully removed the bone.Thank you so so much to all of you who helped me through, what for me, was a very frightening experience. You all put my mind at ease. Thank you so so much!!!