ON May 11, I was taken to the University Hospital of North Tees at Stockton. The following day, I had an emergency operation which saved my life.

I would like to give my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved – the paramedics, the surgeons, what wonderful men, the nursing staff, porters, tea ladies, cleaners and also my fellow patients who always tried to raise a smile or laugh, whatever they were feeling like.

Special thanks to surgeon Mr MA Tabaqchali and his team.

Mrs Joan Scott, Hartlepool.