We recently received the following feedback from a local patient regarding their experience and treatment for leukaemia at Worthing and St Richards hospital.
There is a lot of very negative press surrounding the NHS at present, and there can be no doubt that some of this is warranted. However, there are aspects of the NHS that are truly outstanding and should serve both as a reassurance to us all and a beacon as to what can be achieved.
I have, in the last few months, started chemotherapy treatment for leukaemia. Initially, at Worthing and then at St Richards to recover my immune system before going home for a break pending round two of chemo. What I found was teams of staff—from cleaner to consultant—who were unfailingly caring, professional and just plain “nice”. Treatment started promptly—I am aware that this is not the case for all cancer patients and so I don’t want to give the impression that “I am alright, Jack”. I feel extremely lucky to be in the position where treatment offers the possibility of a genuine cure and that it was available quickly. I hope we can return rapidly to that being the norm for everyone.
Cancer care seems to me to be a case where the medical “technology” and the people are of equal importance. So, I want to reassure readers and celebrate that first class staff are at work in our hospitals: Bognor Community, St Richards and Worthing within my direct experience.
As a Friend of St Richards, you are already contributing, but there are a couple of things we all should remember to consider, if we are not already doing them. Give blood and register as a stem cell donor.
I was amazed at the quantity of blood products that I was given during my stay, and it reminded me of the vital importance of blood donors. As my way out of leukaemia is a bone marrow/stem cell transplant, I am now aware of the number of wonderful people around the world who have registered as potential donors. Again, if you can, please do consider joining a register, such as the Anthony Nolan charity (www.anthonynolan.org). Both contribute, literally, to saving someone’s life!
Thank you to this anonymous author for sharing their first-hand experience, personal journey and insight.
We are so grateful to our fantastic hospitals and the staff within them who make them so special.
Thank you also to those who have or are considering giving blood and/or registering as a stem cell donor.
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