"My Salute to the British Nation"

Anything else?

I was on vacation to London with my family from 21st December 2012 for about 12 days. Before departing from Karachi, my orthopaedic surgeon gave me the permission to travel as I had fully recovered from my Total Hip replacement surgery which was carried out on 5th September 2012.

Unfortunately, on 31st December while I was at home in East Acton, the Hip joint somehow got dislocated and as a tourist the more disturbing issue was to get immediate emergency treatment and assistance to reach the right hospital. A friend advised me and I called 999 for help. They arrived after an hour or so, but during this time they remained in touch and gave some useful advice to avoid further damage. Myself and my family were highly impressed with their extremely professional approach as prior to shifting they minutely discussed with me about how they would shift me to the ambulance and to the appropriate and capable hospital.

I was taken to the Emergency wing of Charing Cross Hospital, where I was attended immediately and efforts were made to do Closed reduction then and there, but the doctors could not succeed in doing so. I was moved to the ward and early morning the doctor and his team carried out the procedure and within minutes I was back again on my feet.

During my stay in Hospital, I received the best medical and nursing care, food, tea & cookies, medicines and above all, the respect and Loving attitude by all concerned despite being a foreigner. The Physiotherapist came and elaboratively explaind me the do's and dont's. He gave me a pair of crutches and his useful advice.

Since arrival at hospital I was mentally prepared for at least five times more expensive treatment at London hospital as compared to the best hospital of my country. I was carrying enough cash and credit cards hence, payment of expenses was no issue for me. Prior to my discharge from hospital, I asked the nurse numerous times to provide the bill but everytime he smiled and went away. Finally in the evening, this nurse brought me the Discharge papers, medicines and injections to take back home and I again requested for the hospital bill to which he responded that it is all complimentary and wished me a happy new year.

Myself and my wife were astonished and were hesitant to leave the hospital as we had the feeling that there is some mistake as I was not a British citizen, but a foreigner like millions of others visiting UK. Finally we left after reconfirmation.

I apologise for writing this detailed note, but I strongly feel that I owe my heartfelt gratitude to all concerned who have helped me in distress and shall remain unforgettable for the rest of my life.

I request you to kindly convey my thanks personally to everyone including the valiant ambulance staff for their outstanding services.

The crux of my note " I salute the british nation "

God Bless You