Our Consultant Nurse for Learning Disabilities, Amanda McKie, has shared praise from former patient Michaela Bradshaw, who had both knees replaced at CHFT, and is now almost fully independent again.

The reasonable adjustments made throughout Michaela’s stay have also been commended by MENCAP Kirklees. Following the recent article in Learning Disability Today, which was shared with them by the Integrated Care Board, their Chief Executive Officer, Dawn Wood, said: "The article reflects our experience when working with CHFT. In particular, a lady recently had her 2nd knee replacement and she has recovered exceptionally well from both procedures. The reasonable adjustments from the OT were exemplary."

Michaela was cared for on Ward 8B at CRH and her therapists were Naim Mohammed, Lorna Wigglesworth, Daniel Springett and Kaiten Patel.

Amanda visited Michaela to hear more from her and Care Home Registered Manager, Theresa Kelly, who supported her.

Theresa said: “The theatre staff were really nice to Michaela, talking to her and reassuring her. Dr Malawska, Michaela’s anaesthetist was fabulous. She let me into the anaesthetic room to support her which made a huge difference.”

Michaela told Amanda in her own words about her experience:

“I took Annabelle (my doll), and the therapy staff took her to do my therapy with me. They looked after her when I did the stairs. They used her to encourage me to walk. The nursing staff on the ward at first were struggling to motivate me, but they got the staff in from my care home, and they helped to get me mobilising. I had a Sunday dinner at the hospital. It wasn’t like school dinners though; it was nice but no Yorkshire puddings! But the custard was nice, it was homemade.

"I am back walking now, when before I couldn’t get out of bed, I had lost my independence and was in so much pain. I don’t take any pain killers anymore. I am nearly independent again - no more Zimmer frame! I have my motivation back. I am enjoying getting out again going to coffee mornings, clothes shopping, walking into town and playing bingo. Before surgery I was stuck in a wheelchair.

"My goal was to get my independence back and to go out on my own again, I am nearly there thanks to my two new knees.”

Theresa added: “I am absolutely amazed at Michaela’s recovery. The therapy staff on the ward really worked well with us to get her home, where she recovered so well, we nominated her for “Reach for the stars” award with Mencap in Kirklees which she won.”

Theresa says it makes a huge difference when hospital staff:

• Listen to carers who know the person best
• Make reasonable adjustments. For example letting Theresa going into the anaesthetic room
• Read hospital passports to get to know the person
• Take time and patience. Get to know the person and what matters to them

#ThinkLearningDisabilities - reasonable adjustments make a huge difference.