This year, one of Gorvin’s chosen charities is the Cardiothoracic Critical Care Unit at Wythenshawe hospital. Throughout 2022, the unit will be the beneficiary of a portion of our fundraising efforts, funnelling vital funds to a unit that saves lives and gives people the hope of a brighter future.
To give you an idea of the important work the unit does, we wanted to share this case study. Neil is just one of the thousands of people to whom the unit has provided life-saving interventions over the years.
Neil’s journey
In January 2019, after a complication with the infection Streptococcus, Neil was admitted to his local hospital in a rather serious condition.
It was here that a visiting Consultant Cardiac and Cardiothoracic Transplant Surgeon assessed Neil and the severity of his condition.
He immediately arranged for his transfer to the specialist Cardiothoracic Critical Care Unit at Wythenshawe hospital.
A team was sent to ensure the transfer to Wythenshawe went smoothly and as quickly as possible. There was no time to spare as Neil’s condition worsened.
At Wythenshawe Hospital, Neil was assessed fully and it was determined that immediate surgery was required to repair 2 damaged heart valves. While such conditions are fairly common, it’s not very common for them to be so severe.
Critical, life-saving care and the long road to recovery
The infection had travelled into Neil’s Bloodstream and then to his heart (Endocarditis) and subsequently damaged two out of his four previously healthy valves.
During the nine-and-a-half-hour surgery, it became clear that a repair was not possible. Neil required and received two brand new mechanical heart valves.
Wendy (Neil’s Wife) has provided an account of how remarkable the team at the CTCCU at Wythenshawe Hospital were. Without them, she doesn’t believe Neil would still be here today.
“The team are remarkable, caring and determined in ensuring that every possible detail was covered to ensure the best outcome for Neil. They completely micromanaged Neil (and every patient) having 1-2-1 nursing 24 hours a day.
“They explained everything to me and even turned a blind eye to me once visiting out of visiting times by mistake. Nothing was too much trouble. I am and always will be so very grateful for the care they gave Neil and the care they give all their patients. They are amazing people.”
How you can help
To contribute to the amazing team over at the CTCCU, you can donate via our JustGiving page below. Your money will go towards helping more like Neil who need the expert care and support of CTCCU at Wythenshawe hospital.