NHS

 I have just spent nine hours in A and E and in an acute decision ward at Warwick hospital where they investigated a sudden deterioration in my breathing. Tests and X-rays, concern and cups of tea with a staff of Sunday workers none of whom could be over 30 showed just what our system can do. 

I had knowledgable expositions of test results from a delightful consultant called Helen who sat cross legged on the floor by my bed to describe the collapse at the base of my lung, the ways in which they would investigate further, the strategies they would use to keep me safe and comfortable meanwhile. 

A medical practitioner nurse called Aimee dressed some distressed skin and gave me a whole series of tips and ideas for taking the stress off the coccyx area as a result of too much immobility. The body has much to do fighting cancers she said, it gives up on your skin and so you need to cherish it yourself. 

Anna and I sat in astonishment as the waves of people took us to the next stage or tested the one we were in! Each visit from the service at home fills me with wonder as the palliative care team display their skills. This added to my desire to sack every Tory who ever lived and fill a government with people who might respect such a skilled workforce, pay them sensibly and well, recognise their contribution to all our lives.