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If you pop by here often, you’ll know that in August I spent three weeks in Stanmore hospital undertaking their incredible pain management programme. Last week I went back for my three month follow-up; my actual follow-up was supposed to be in November but I couldn’t make it as I went home for my nephews birthday, so I guess you could say it was my four month follow-up.
The week before my appointment I was sent out quite a few questionnaires on how the pain was, how I felt physically and emotionally, whether things were any better etc. On the day of my appointment, I wasn’t feeling great, I’d popped my hip the night before and really wasn’t looking forward to the drive down the M1. But hey ho, these things happen.
My boyfriend and I arrived early and as much as I really wanted to walk into the ward on my crutches, showing off how far I’d come, the pain was too much and we’d parked quite a distance away so there was absolutely no way that was happening. I didn’t feel defeated about using my wheelchair like I would have a while back, I was pacing, this was a good thing.
I was greeted by the nurses who cared for me during my three week stay and received hugs from a few of my favourites (we all had favourite nurses, it’s the way it goes). I then waited in the conservatory with a few other patients that had been on the programme a few weeks after me. We had a half hour recap of things we learnt during our time there; I’d not forgotten anything! When the talk was over, we were each called out by another member of staff for a one-to-one. I was one of the last to be called and was so happy to see my OT, Sally; I did a happy dance in my wheelchair because I really wanted to tell her about my progress.
My one-to-one with Sally lasted over an hour; she went through my questionnaires, asked me questions, let me talk for ages about everything I’d been up to, and was genuinely really pleased with me. It felt amazing, I felt like I’d accomplished so much in the four months since the programme ended.
I then made my goals for my one year follow-up; these included, socialising more, writing my novel, carrying on with physio, helping my boyfriend and fundraising. It was such a great appointment, I wish all my hospital appointments were that rewarding and encouraging.
I’m really pleased with how I’ve been since finishing the programme. I’m not better, I’m not cured but I do things differently and I put my health first, and by doing so, my days are much more fulfilling.
Forever grateful to Stanmore and the amazing therapists that I worked with.
I'm so happy to read that the programme has really helped you and what you have learned will continue to help you moving forwards. Well done you!
I'm so happy to read that the programme has really helped you and what you have learned will continue to help you moving forwards. Well done you!
Thank you x