Chris Maddocks shares her experience of being admitted to hospital. Let us sincerely hope that people will live and learn from listening to people’s personal experiences. DEEP appreciation to Chris for having the strength and courage to share.
Chris writes:
“Since the world went into lockdown one of the most terrifying thoughts for people living with dementia has been the fear of being admitted to hospital.
Unfortunately, on 28th July when I suddenly became unwell, I was admitted to my local hospital. During my 6 day stay I was moved four times, I was unable to get my Parkinson’s medication when I needed it and in one room I was left alone with only a bowl of hot water to wash with a cardboard commode to pee and poo in and arrange for the disposal myself. I know the doctors and nurses did their very best for me, but it was a lonely and frightening experience that I think is important to share. I am sharing to explain how small things can become much bigger for someone living with dementia in the hope that this will help others who may be admitted in the future.
It began on Tuesday 28th July while out at my sister-in-law’s for a socially distanced BBQ; I felt sick and had severe pain between my shoulder blades. I somehow drove myself home but when the pain became so intense and I experienced shortness of breath that I called 999. The paramedics took me to A&E where they did some tests but sent me home telling me it was either just my asthma or a hiatus hernia…..”
Read more by clicking on this link: CM Hospital stay during covid2
Chris is a member of Sea DEEP in Eastbourne, Speak out with dementia, Tuesday Tonics and Zoomettes
