"Gratitude to dedicated staff"

I was referred by my GP to A&E in January, with suspected gout.

After tests I was admitted as it was thought I had septic arthritis. Mr Simpson from Orthopaedics wasn't convinced and thanks to his skill and dedication it was discovered I had had a cat scratch which had poisoned my right leg.

I had two operations to clear out my knee and all the staff in the operating theatre were absolutely fantastic. They chatted away to me and the professionalism shown was absolutely fantastic on both occasions.

On returning to the ward 3A, the nursing staff were so caring and nothing was too much trouble to help ease my pain. Over the next 12 days I was shown nothing but absolutely first class treatment from everyone who looked after me. They were all so cheery and always made time for a little chat.

My fervent thanks go to Mr Simpson and his staff whom I will always owe a great debt of gratitude for their dedication and professional attitude.

This was my first stay in hospital and when I was discharged I felt as if I was leaving my friends, as that is what they had become.

In these days of slagging off the NHS I must tell you I think you do a fantastic job and am so happy there are still people so dedicated out there.

I would appreciate if you could give a copy of this to the staff in 3A and also Mr Simpson as I would like them to know I'll be forever grateful to them.