Blimey Limey

Well, last year I met an NHS angel. I had requested a referral from my local GP to see a specialist in Lyme Disease, someone who knows a bit more than the average medic. After a few months waiting I received an appointment at a hospital that is sort of in my area, a bit of a drive, but hey.

Rolled up at hospital with no expectations - or at least the usual in and out within five minutes, ten at the most that an NHS consultant can offer. After a bit of a wait, an ecg (all OK) and a few other investigations by two nurses I was welcomed in by a most charming gentleman, hand outstretched greeting me with "Your case is very interesting" and a wide smile.

Then followed an illuminating, interesting and heartwarming hour of information about Lyme disease. We peered at web pages on the internet, I learned about bacteria die off - and the tiredness this can cause, which I expereienced for months, and about how pheasants in the UK carry Lyme - which could easily be eradicated by stopping the commercial breeding of the birds, the crucial differences between the USA.

And now I am a fortunate person who had Lyme Disease. I diagnosed it, and the NHS through my local GP and that lovely specialist took action and healing started. All the more reason to protect our wonderful National Health Service.