After enduring 10 years of post-stroke disabilities and particularly difficulty walking, my other illnesses were considered not so risky, hence corrective leg/foot surgery could go ahead.

So admission to the NOC in Headington went ahead, with three days prior to planned surgery to enable staff to get my blood thickness right for safety during surgery.

All went well as planned with no post-surgery problems. I could walk upright at last.

Not only was the surgical team excellent, helpful and caring, with the surgeon, Mr Theologis, coming in on his weekend off to check on my well-being.

The aftercare too by nursing staff was also wonderful.

My every need was catered for to make my stay as comfortable as possible.

Such was my stay appreciated I cannot thank the staff enough.

All too often patients criticise nursing staff, but not once did I need to complain or protest at my treatment and aftercare.

Considering the long shifts they do and being understaffed they all deserve medals for their commitment to duty.

Shame the NHS does not see things that way.

ADRIAN TAYLOR, Thames Court, Eynsham