A beacon of hope at False Bay Hospital

Greg Judd, Marina da Gama

I am writing to share my recent experience at False Bay Hospital during a challenging medical emergency last week.

My intention is to highlight the outstanding dedication and compassion of the doctors, nurses, and staff at the hospital, rather than focus on my own health issues. I feel compelled to share what a truly special team they are.

I arrived at the hospital at 5.50am last Wednesday, armed with a referral letter from my GP. Having heard about lengthy waiting times at other Government Hospitals from family and friends, I braced myself for a long wait.

As someone previously accustomed to the privileges of medical aid and private healthcare, I was not looking forward to the experience, but my condition made it necessary to seek help. There appeared to be around ten people ahead of me, which seemed manageable.

However, as a newcomer to this process, I was unaware of the distinction between booked patients with appointments and unbooked walk-ins like me.

Other patients informed me that I would only be seen after all booked patients, which, given my worsening condition, left me feeling increasingly anxious as the number of booked patients continued to rise.

At this point, I encountered my first "FBH Angel" - a nurse responsible for initial medical observations before patients see a doctor. Unfortunately, I did not catch her name, but her attentiveness was remarkable.

She moved down the line, speaking with each person, but was clearly observant and noticed my distress. Upon reviewing my referral letter and hearing about my symptoms, she immediately took action, moving me straight into observation.

With the results showing dangerously high blood pressure, she instructed me to proceed to casualty without delay and provided clear instructions on how to access urgent medical attention.

In casualty, I was triaged and joined the queue once again. Seeing others ahead of me in significant discomfort and distress, I waited patiently for my turn.

When I was eventually examined by Dr Moodley, I had no idea she would become my next "FBH Angel."

She examined me thoroughly and could not find anything significantly wrong, but she told me she had concerns and did another test, and another test until she discovered that I had had a heart attack and was at risk of another.

Thanks to her instincts and diligence, I then received prompt treatment in casualty and was held there overnight in case of further complications.

During my stay, I met a nurse by the name of Moses, whose skill, care, and compassion were evident as he moved throughout the department. This was in fact so of all the nurses and doctors in casualty, who displayed exceptional commitment, handling emergencies and difficult patients with unwavering professionalism and compassion.

After being admitted to the male ward for further treatment, I received medical care on par with the best private hospitals I have visited.

The nurses ensured my comfort and administered treatment with expertise and professionalism, while still finding time to offer reassurance during a frightening time. I was consistently kept informed about my condition with honesty and promptness.

The entire ward staff managed even challenging patients with respect and patience. Special mention goes to Nurse Hughes, whose kindness and positivity brightened the ward for everyone.

The ward and its facilities were continuously cleaned, and the food exceeded expectations -something I can confidently say, given my daughter's expertise as an executive chef.

My overall experience with everyone at the hospital was truly impressive. From the doctors and nurses to the staff and security guards, their collective attitude ensured every patient received the care, attention, and respect they deserved.

After spending the weekend at home reflecting on my experience, I feel it is my duty to celebrate the team at False Bay Hospital. They stand as a bastion of excellence and a beacon of hope for the sick and injured in the False Bay Area.

It is comforting to know that such compassionate and skilled care is available to all residents of the far south.