o/t drugs, violence, drunken vandalism, theft,indecent exposure, police lockdowns...
yes you've guessed it....another night in a local hospital which finally prompted me to seek private health care for a routine operation.
As a lifelong supporter of the NHS (even though i have criticised it in recent years) I didn't take the decision lightly.
I used the money that I banked from stopping smoking a few years ago plus, I cut down on sugar based foods and put the money towards my op.
I felt guilty even on the way up to the hospital but....it was the best decision I have ever made.
All the other patients were supportive, there was a real camaraderie amongst us despite the odd difference of opinion. I didn't have to lock my medication nor my personal belongings away. I didn't feel intimidated wandering around the hospital. I had no fear of being drawn into a postcode war by the violent gangs patrolling the NHS hospitals. I didn't witness any bad tempered exchanges with the staff or have to endure the reek of cannabis wafting through the corridors.
The whole experience was thoroughly conducive to ease the anxiety of surgery.
So if you need any hospital treatment in future, serious consider avoiding the battle zones of the NHS and go Private.
