Dear NHS, thank you.
On the 5th of July (2019), the National Health Service, here in the UK, celebrated it’s 71st birthday. Although financially the NHS is struggling we are still extremely lucky to have this service.
I have been receiving mental health care under the NHS for 7 years now. It started off as CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services) and after turning 18 a few years ago, I am now under Adults services.
The care I have received hasn’t always been good, in fact at times it has been very, very poor. But, I am lucky to have this free service even due to it’s dire financial state. I have also had a stay in a psychiatric hospital which saved my life.
To all the nurses, doctors, healthcare assistants, therapists etc whom have helped me along this journey, thank you. I cannot thank you enough. I have not always been the nicest to you nor have I always been the easiest patient to deal with but you have looked after me in some of my darkest of days. Given me a kind smile or a kick up the arse when I have needed it. I appreciate each and everyone of you. I would give you all a gold medal if I could.
Recently I had a stay in hospital for my physical health and all the hospital staff I came across were incredible. I met one nurse who was on a 9 hour night shift. This nurse had cycled an hour through snow to get to work and would be doing the same again after work. It struck me just how dedicated she was to her patients. I was given the best treatment I could’ve asked for. Thank you for this.
As I have said above, it’s no secret that the NHS is struggling. I do not want to use this post to go on a rant about this though, I’ll save it for another time. Instead, just a quick, huge thank you and a happy birthday. I am, all brits are, so lucky to have the National Health service. One day I want to show my thanks by working for you, to show my gratitude. For now though, I want to make every NHS staff member that have cared for and supported me, proud. Hopefully I’ll do it one day.
HAPPY 71st BIRTHDAY NHS!!!
Love to you all.
The Battle in my Brain Author. X X X
The Battle in my Brain 