"Thankyou Ward 1 West Gynaecology St George Public Hospital"

I was recently admitted at to Ward 1 West Gynaecology in St George Public Hospital from their emergency. I stayed in the ward for 4 days and in that time I cannot express enough gratitude and admiration for the incredible care I received.

From start to finish, every nurse, doctor, and staff member I encountered showed an outstanding level of professionalism, compassion, and genuine support. They were quick to act, clear and reasonable in their decision making, and always reassuring in their words. Everything was explained to me openly and in a way I could understand, which made me feel safe and cared for through every step.

I also had surgery, I had complete confidence in the Dr, anaesthetist, theatre nurses and team. Even as an anxious person by nature, I felt calm and secure, knowing I was in the most capable hands.

The nurses especially deserve recognition. The female nurses were so bubbly, thoughtful, and kind, they helped me walk, helped me go to the toilet, held my hand, brought me water or ice, and answered my buzzer with patience every single time. The male nurse I had was equally wonderful his humour made me laugh when I needed it most. The nurse who took me to theatre and was there during that time, I wish I knew her name. She spoke with me the entire time, keeping me calm and comforted, and I truly felt like I was being looked after by a friend when she was on. I only wish I had gotten all of their names so I could thank them individually.

Each time I shared that I had previously experienced a miscarriage, they acknowledged it with such empathy. Even when they had to deliver difficult news, they did so with genuine compassion and heart. Before any examination or procedure, they asked for my consent, checked that I was comfortable, and reminded me that I could ask them to stop at any time. Same goes for the ultrasounds I had, that level of respect meant so much.

I wish I could thank them more, and I wish there was greater recognition, pay, and support for the work nurses do every day. They are truly amazing at what they do and are the heart of patient care.

My experience in Emergency was long, and I believe that is when my cyst ruptured. The only thought I have looking back is that I wish that part could have been quicker. A few times I even thought about leaving, but I knew I couldn’t with the amount of pain I was in. I do not think this was anyone’s fault, I only hope that Emergency has enough staff, enough support, and good pay for the people working there, because it is such a crucial part of the hospital.

To my Dr's, Nurses, Sonographers, Theatre staff and to everyone in Emergency and on Ward 1 Gynecology who cared for me during my stay thank you. You made an unbearable situation feel bearable, and I will always remember the way you treated me with such dignity and care.