​Daisy Hill is ‘the heart of Newry’, says patient

​Peter Rafferty thought that his world was coming to an end when he suffered the heart attack on May 10.

"I was more than glad to reach the A&E Department,” he said.

"Despite all my fears and worries at the time I was quickly stabilised by the doctors and nurses to whom I will be forever grateful.

"A heart attack is an horrific experience and one I would not wish on anybody,” added Mr Rafferty.

“Moving from A&E, I was admitted to Coronary Care and Male Medical on level 5 ward 4 in Daisy Hill.

"My care experience there was I can truly say second to none from all the doctors, nurses, administration personnel, kitchen staff, logistical personnel and ambulance teams.

"I wish to convey my sincere thanks and appreciation for all they did for me.

“To Dr Patricia Campbell, Head of the Cardiac Department, who took time to explain the care plan and procedures that would lie ahead for me, and to her team, many thanks.

"My care plan included others to whom I am very grateful, including Dr Michael Moore at Craigavon Area Hospital and a special word and massive thanks to Dr Alsir A M Ahmed, heart surgeon at the Royal Victoria Hospital Belfast whose surgical expertise has given me a new lease of life.”

Mr Rafferty added that having the hospital in Newry had saved his life and its services should be retained.

“I can honestly say if the services that supported me were not available at Daisy Hill Hospital, I would not be writing this today and sharing my story with you,” he said.

"My life was saved due to the efficient, effective and timely care provided by the staff at A&E and subsequent support and care plan established and provided by the cardiac team at Daisy Hill.

“Therefore in my opinion, the people of Newry, South Down, South Armagh, Monaghan and Louth, deserve and require a fully functional Daisy Hill Hospital which is able to provide access to a quality of health care that is equitable and sustainable for the long term.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​”