"My emergency corneal transplant"

Mine was a rocket trip down the M1 from the clever ophthalmologists at John Hunter Hospital (JHH) in Newcastle to make the Hamilton/Blanca eye clinic before close that day. I was admitted efficiently and quickly and examined by the team. Their professionalism and communications were excellent. Being pragmatic myself, we agreed future discussions and disclosures would be much easier. That sort of 'nursing' wasn't necessary, in my opinion. As my bacterial infection was rampant, exacerbated by ignorantly encouraging it with the use of steroidal drops, my corneal transplant was an emergency.

Within days the total black was progressing through beige to light variation, dark shapes and up-close details of the slitlamp to identifying colours and individuals by the time I was discharged to home with oversight by the JHH team in whom I have every confidence. Based on my experience, the nursing and catering staff at SEH (Sydney Eye Hospital) were also faultless, professional and humane in their dealings with each of the needs of the others in my ward whose situation I felt was as diverse as independent to totally dependent. The cleaners, seamless. Thank you.

From my perspective, the student nurses from ACUni displayed great potential and benefited from inhabiting the models in the Eye Hospital environment.

It was impressive to witness the Nurse Unit Manager's presence on the ward interacting with all. In my opinion, it is much easier for one in such a position to remain at peace in their office, only appearing when a crisis occurs.

It is a privilege being present at the clinic while a team of about four, view and discuss the direction of treatment. Collegiality and respect among undoubtedly expert senior to junior members are obvious and an arrogance one could expect, especially in the SMO was absent. Planning for quality and succession.

I've elected not to nominate individuals as every cog makes that most wonderful of wheels work so well.

My family, friends and I are forever grateful.

Be well, safe and happy.