Definition of dedication

I was released from Mater Dei Hospital OW1 some time ago and I would like to say a big "thank you" where it is due.

I must, first of all, give heartfelt thanks to my surgeon for all the dedication, efficiency and kindness shown during my long stay in hospital. He and his equipe gave me unfailing attention and being at home today, I owe it primarily to them. Thanks also go to my surgeon at CSW and the bacteriologist who followed my case.

Another big thank you goes to the nursing staff of OWl. The NO and his deputy were ever present and ready to help in the best possible way, even coming in on their off days and when a shortage of nurses occurred. The nurses form an extremely efficient team and execute their duties unfailingly with a smile even when overworked and after hours of being constantly on call. My particular thanks go to those nurses to whom I was assigned for medication.

The nursing aides should get a big handshake and thank you for their unstinted attention and dedication. The carers and the secretary round up the staff beautifully. I must also say how much I appreciated the help of the tissue viability nurses, the physiotherapist and his helpers and our houseman who has given me constant ward help in the last weeks.

Another word of thanks goes to the cleaners who kept my room spotlessly clean and who never betrayed a moment of tiredness in spite of all their toil.

What I have noticed during my long weeks as a patient there, is that all these people care. They tried to help us even if short of staff, after hours of preparing patients for the theatre and when unexpected patients poured in night and day. If this is not dedication and caring, I would like to know what other words fit.

A final word of thanks goes to the Capuchin friar who did the rounds and always had a spiritual word of comfort and kindness.

Well done people. You are worth your weight in gold!