"I was treated with dignity and was included in all decisions. "

I was recently operated in for the removal of a large cyst and a hysterectomy. The operation took place at Raigmore in inverness.

My first indication that something might be a miss was bleeding following my Tamoxifen. I was scanned in Orkney then in Shetland and was impressed by the way in which this was handled, with medical staff who explained what was happening at every stage in the process.

As I have to avoid having anything put into my arms, following a bilateral mastectomy I had to have needles inserted into my foot, not an easy option. At no point did any of the folk dealing with me make me feel as if I was being a nuisance.

I saw the surgeon in Inverness and had a minor operation on Christmas eve to determine what might have caused the bleeding and whether there was any sign of cancer again. Both before and after the operation I had everything explained and went home with a discharge letter, which I could read and share with my doctor.

I was given the results of the scan and the operation, along with the decision to operate, within four weeks. I was impressed at the speed of which I was informed, given that it had been the christmas and new year period and the time it can take to get the results from an Aberdeen hospital.

I was given a definite date in late February with the provision that it could be earlier if there was a cancellation and I was able to take advantage of it. This was the case and I was able to have my operation in early February. At every stage of this experience in Inverness, I was treated with dignity and was included in all decisions. Because of my previous history I agreed wholeheartedly with the surgeons that I could have a hysterectomy when the cyst was being removed. I left the hospital several days later to fly home and again the airport was made aware that I should get preference when boarding. All staff at the airport were very helpful and made the trip home easier than it might have been.

Again I had a discharge letter which I discussed with my very helpful and supportive doctor. I feel that the reason I am recovering so quickly is because of the very good treatment at Raigmore and the support of my local doctor in allowing me to go to this hospital. Some very unfortunate experiences in ARI over the years (especially in regard to my cancer treatment) have made me feel devalued, unsafe and adamant that I will not go to this hospital again.

I would also like to note that Inverness was very clean, unlike the last ward in Aberdeen.

Finally I have just been told after 2 weeks my operattion that their is no sign of cancer with my surgeon taking the time to phone me and let me know. I could not better the treatment I had.