In January 2020 I was diagnosed with Acute Promyelocytic Leukemia. I had to undergo 8 months of intensive treatment, spending a month in Ward 33 and 7 months as an outpatient, repeatedly spending 8+ hour days in the newly refurbished break room. The room was refurbished during my treatment, and provided a change of scene and atmosphere it certainly made things a lot easier for me.
During my time on Ward 33, I was offered a fresh bacon sandwich most mornings, I could watch the TV at the bed for free and had frequent visits from Sister Cath. Little luxuries like this really made a big difference to my mental health while confined to the hospital.
During my treatment I spent many hours talking to Sarah Blakey, the Bright Red Specialist Nurse. As this was during the pandemic, I had to attend most of my treatment alone, however, Sarah frequently went above the role of a nurse and would spend time sitting across from me discussing non medical topics, and taking an interest in me and not just my condition. Sarah was actually the nurse who told me I was in remission. She tracked me down in the hospital to tell me.
Even now, when I attend for my checkups, Sarah will always make time to check on how I am doing, not just physically but mentally too.
For all of the reasons stated above, I frequently attempt to raise money for Bright Red, their support really is a huge part of the reason I am still here today.
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