I feel compelled to write to counter the rather negative comments currently filling our news media concerning the state of our beloved NHS.

I recently spent five days in the RHCH and, feeling somewhat sorry for myself after a sudden dose of acute pancreatitis was quickly diagnosed, marvelled at the skill, dedication and overall cheerfulness of every member of staff with whom I came into contact, probably a hundred or more.

From my wife’s worried call to 111, the subsequent arrival of the two very professional paramedics within ten minutes, the reception team at A and E, the many scans, x-rays and ward treatment from the whole team, 24/7, the daily Surgeons’ and Doctors’ ward rounds and the always positive attitude of all staff, convinced me that the NHS is struggling more because of its outstanding success in keeping us all going into older age, rather than because it is a broken or failing model.

If their combined skills have given this 81-year-old a little more time on Planet Earth, I shall be eternally grateful. I owe my life to the whole team and I feel immensely proud of our Royal Hospital on the Hill - a medical City within a much older Cathedral City. Heartfelt thanks to you all and please accept the gratitude of a very humble patient.

Richard Chisnell

Edward Road

Winchester

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