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My experience after a viral infection

Posted By HopingforRecovery

"My experience after a viral infection"

About: Royal Perth Hospital / Neurology & Epilepsy Service & Neuro-surgery & Ward 5H

(as the patient),

I was admitted to the ER department at RPH after collapsing after a viral illness. As the ER was too full ( even after ambulance transported me there) I was moved to the waiting area, unable to walk and getting seizures. Luckily one doctor saw my condition and moved me to the ER almost immediately. 

I had paralysis of my legs and couldnt walk. The doctors in the ER were quite good as well as most of the other doctors who came to see me. However, the neurologist who examined me said that I will be ok and that 'these things have a way of sorting itself out'. Well I feel thats not the case. I still have sensitivity to light, confusion and developed intense anxiety overnight. As a Lumbar puncture was not done I recently went for one. My symptoms are worse by the day. Perhaps, if a LP was done in hospital back then I would have been spared months off illness and suffering. Very sad situation indeed.

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Responses

Response from Ben Noteboom, Executive Director, Royal Perth Bentley Group last month
Ben Noteboom
Executive Director,
Royal Perth Bentley Group

Submitted on 15/09/2025 at 11:46 AM
Published on Care Opinion Australia at 4:29 PM

picture of Ben Noteboom

Dear HopingforRecovery,

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I am truly sorry to hear about the distressing circumstances surrounding your visit to the Emergency Department at Royal Perth Hospital (RPH). Your account highlights both commendable moments of care and areas where our service has fallen below expectations.

I understand how frightening and frustrating it must have been to experience seizures and paralysis, and to feel your concerns were not fully addressed, especially when symptoms have persisted over time. Please be reassured that your feedback is deeply valued and taken seriously.

RPH is committed to continuous improvement. Reviewing individual cases like yours helps identify opportunities to enhance the quality and safety of our care. It allows us to reflect on clinical decisions, communication, and patient outcomes so we can learn and prevent negative reoccurrences.

If you feel comfortable, I encourage you to contact our Patient Experience team on (08) 9224 1637 or via email: RPBG.feedback@health.wa.gov.au. Having more details would allow us to review your case thoroughly and ensure your voice contributes meaningfully to our improvement efforts.

Once again, thank you for sharing your story and I hope you continue to receive the care and support you need.

Kind Regards,

Ben Noteboom

Executive Director

Royal Perth Bentley Group

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