"Emergency admission"

I was admitted to the SAU having failed to pass urine for the previous 36 hours although I had no desire to do so and had no bladder discomfort.

The staff were working extremely hard but they always had time to keep me informed about the various investigations that were being done.

Eventually after a ct scan showed a stone in my left kidney (my only one) which was blocking the flow of urine I was taken to the operating theatre for emergency surgery.

After the op I was admitted to Ward 26U.

I was amazed at just how busy this ward was both during the day and night but I found the staff, without exception were kind and prepared to spend time with me where necessary without in any way making me feel I was being a nuisance.

The doctors were on the ward early and rounds were taking place well before 9am.

I found they were prepared to answer any questions I had.

Although I was supposed to be discharged the day after my surgery the senior doctor took the trouble to come to me that afternoon and tell me that they wanted me to stay an extra night as I only have the one kidney and they wanted to be assured that it was working properly before discharging me.

I really appreciated that courtesy which, years ago would not have happened.

The food was very good which is such an important factor in having a good outcome to treatment.

I have to return in 6 or 8 weeks for laser treatment to get rid of the stone which will either be done as a day case or one night stay because of the one kidney.

I have no worries based on my experience last week.

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