Our National Health Service!!!!
For 70 years we have had the pleasure and reassurance that should we need help with either physical or mental health concerns all we need to do is call or attend one of the many GP practices or hospitals. The NHS has helped every single person on our small island and I am one of those people.
The NHS has been there for me for many reasons, the birth of my child being the most important of all. The staff who cared for us during this time was some of the most caring people I have had the pleasure to be around.
When my child hit teenage hood and the hormones rampaged through his body we needed the help of the NHS again. The support he received from the staff at the clinic and the Consultant who called each week to check how he was doing will stay with me and him forever. This was something that would not normally be protocol for any consultants to do but this made both us feel that she cared.
Unfortunately my family required the help of the NHS again when my mum was diagnosed with Lung Cancer. This has to be one of the most fearful times in my life the thought that I could lose her so young was devastating but again the staff were on hand to help all of us. Luckily the Dr, nurses and all other staff worked their magic again and my mum is now 10 years cancer free. None of this would have even been possible if it wasn’t for the dedication, hard work, care and commitment of the wonderful people who are OUR NHS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For the past 15 plus years I have had the pleasure to be a member of staff for the NHS. I am proud that I am able to do the work I do helping and supporting many people who struggle with their mental health. Over the years I have had varying roles and have worked with some of the most wonderful people from staff, service users, careers and volunteers in the organisation. When I first started I never thought I would stay so long but working anywhere else would just not be the same.
So from a user to staff member the NHS is a massive part of my life and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
Congratulations on your 70 years what a force you are, stay strong NHS we ALL need YOU.