Sir.–I would like to take the opportunity to thank the wonderful staff at Basingstoke hospital for the service we have received.

During last year, and following numerous tests, Christina, my wife, was diagnosed with Pseudomyxoma Peritonea.

Our GP said that while she was extremely unlucky to have contracted the condition, she was fortunate in the fact that we live close to what was described as a “centre of excellence” in Basingstoke hospital. It has to be said that we feel that this is something of an understatement.

From our first consultation with Mr Mohammed, to the time Christina was discharged following surgery, we were treated with respect, kindness, and understanding, and importantly we were kept informed about the condition and the treatment Christina was to receive.

The medical team in ICU were incredible – their dedication to and the care given to Christina was astounding, and the two sisters in C2, Suzanne and Vicky, along with all the other medical, administration and cleaning staff were amazing.

It’s difficult to find the adjectives that describe our feelings. At some of what seemed to be the hardest points, their support to us as a family was crucial and will never be forgotten.

Finally, what can we say about Mr Cecil and Mr Moran – they are clearly outstanding surgeons, and it’s due to them, their team and all the others within the department that Christina is now recovering from this awful illness.

Now it’s my turn. While Christina was recovering at home, I had an appointment at the hospital for an angiogram as I had been experiencing chest pains. The result was that they found quite a large blockage in one of my arteries. Due to the fact that I was caring for my wife (with my daughter’s help) the doctor decided to fit the stent while I was in the theatre rather than wait the usual two/three weeks.

Again, many thanks to the team. I no longer have the pains and I am attending the rehabilitation gym sessions at the Andover War Memorial Hospital and improving week on week.

It is easy to criticise our wonderful National Health Service, which is why we felt we had to write a letter of thanks.

–David Humphries, Oakland Road, Whitchurch.