Its seven months after my surgery and a time to reflect on Rehab.

 

In retrospect, when I list what has been achieved, it is obvious that all the follow-up has been worth it.

 

I can now honestly say that if not for the Rehabilitation programme currently available within the authority, people such as myself who have undergone major heart surgery, may not progress as I feel I have done. I must accept that as far as I am personally concerned, some progress has been slower that I would have liked, but this matters little, in the context of the results achieved. What does matter is how the programme has helped.

 

I have itemised below projects and help offered by the Bradford South & West Primary Care Trust, which in the context of my own case I see as most impressive.

 

*Cardiac Liaison support which is ongoing even when you are discharged to your own practice nurse after a relevant time.

*Psychological support (if needed) every two weeks.

*District nurse assistance and advice.

*Exercise programme (10 sessions) at the hospital gymnasium.

*Talks at each gym session covering subjects such as diet, medicines, relaxation and first aid.

*Support group run by former patients.

*Regular telephone contact from the liaison team.

*The ability to go to the cardiac ward if you have any worries.

*Regular follow-up appointments with your consultant or a team member.

*Your own practice and its healthy heart type programme.

*Your GP who visited regularly after the homecoming.

 But…….FORWARD  or HOME