We always welcome a Letter to the Editor to share with our readers – unsurprisingly they don’t always reflect the views of this publication. If you have something you’d like to share, get in touch and of course, your considered comments are welcome below. This from Don Smith in Newport. Ed
Four weeks ago I suffered a heart defect and finished up in the hospital at Portsmouth (Via St Mary’s Isle of Wight).
I underwent an angiogram and had a two procedures to fit a pace maker. I am now recovering at home. The treatment I received was second to none, and I have only the greatest respect and admiration for all the hospital staff.
Ancient ambulance
However, on the 30.06.15 I was transferred to Portsmouth via Southampton from St Mary’s Hospital, in an ambulance that must be a relic of the First World War.
One passenger was a stroke victim, being dropped off at Southampton. The other patient was a man with a heart condition like myself. Every bump was felt during the time it took to get to Portsmouth.
Three hour journey
We left Newport (St Mary’s) Being given twenty minutes to pack our belongings. at 20.35 hours 30.06.15 and arrived at Portsmouth at 00.20 hours on the 01.07.15.
It took over three hours to get to Portsmouth. When we eventually arrived, in the early hours, the hospital was locked; twenty minutes trying to find an entry into the hospital.
On route we made six or seven stops to administer drugs to the other two patients, both were in a very distressed condition; I myself, who suffers from ‘Forester’s Disease’ (Calcification of the spine), cancer and chronic neuropathy (legs and spine) was in very much pain all of the way.
Time to upgrade the ambulances
These old ambulances must be changed, they are well past their sell by date and on the journey I made on this date, there could have been a more serious outcome.
As I have previously stated, I cannot fault the skill of the surgeons or the care of the staff.
Please, let’s make journeys to the mainland and the return journey (for the old and disabled) more safe and more comfortable.
