I’ve never been a fan of hospitals. Maybe that’s common—many of us tend to avoid doctors and dismiss the aches and pains that come with age. When I recently caught what I thought was a simple cold—snuffles, sore throat, mild discomfort—I expected it to pass with a little rest and some paracetamol.
But then the shortness of breath started. Over three days, it worsened. Maybe it was COVID, I thought, though testing wasn’t readily available, so I decided to take it easy and wait it out.
It didn’t improve. Climbing stairs became a challenge; I had to stop halfway up. My partner insisted I call the doctor the next day. I hoped a good night’s sleep might help—no such luck.
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The journey from the car to the doctor’s surgery, normally brief, dragged as I stopped multiple times just to catch my breath. The doctor recognized something was seriously wrong and quickly arranged for me to be admitted to the Acute Medical Unit (AMU) at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital.
The diagnosis? A pulmonary embolism—a large blood clot blocking my main artery, affecting both lungs and the right side of my heart. It was severe, and I spent ten days as an inpatient at GRH, receiving incredible care.
I won’t delve into politics about the NHS—it’s not perfect, but when I needed them the most, they were there. Plain and simple, they saved my life.
The experience brought moments of fear and uncertainty: Would I fully recover? Could I resume my normal life? Yet, there were also uplifting times—a young boy’s hospital ward birthday party complete with presents and balloons lifted spirits for everyone.
Now, with hope and determination, I focus on recovery. This tribute is for the fantastic team in the AMU and wards 8a and 8b, the people I—and my family—owe so much.
Their dedication, empathy, and professionalism were unwavering, no matter how complex the cases or how exhausted they must have felt. There was never frustration, just care.
A few of my heroes by name:
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Anna, the doctor who quickly identified the danger without panic and saved my life.
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Nurse Foster, who performed my first ECG and exemplified kindness and skill.
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Lorie, who soothed my fears during my first night on AMU.
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Becky, who skillfully conducted a second ECG, even shaving my chest for it.
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Abi, the AMU head nurse, balancing care and leadership with a calming presence.
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Lateefat, the “Queen,” who helped me with mobility despite setbacks.
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Daniel, who assisted with the less glamorous but necessary tasks with good humor.
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Sumi, whose sunny smile brightened the ward.
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Paulo, the calm organizer managing ward chaos with precision.
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Katie, the “Angel of the Night,” whose cheerful presence was a comfort during the darkest hours.
Also, gratitude to everyone else including technicians, cleaners, porters, and other nurses and doctors who all played vital roles—from performing scans to providing comfort.
This article is also dedicated to fellow patients on the wards and their families—wishing you all strength and health, and the comfort of home soon.
To all the staff at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, thank you. You are my heroes.