I first met Nurse Deery when I was admitted as part of the Cardio rehabilitation team, explaining her role in my treatment and recovery. I immediately felt at ease as Vikkie explained in detail what had happened to me and what steps I would need to take as part of my recovery. She really helped me make sense of what had happened and was happening.

Vikkie had a way of explaining everything with such ease; I felt a bond immediately, allowing myself to be honest about my lifestyle choices, why I had made some of those bad choices, and not understanding or ignoring the signals my body was telling me.

Not once was Vikkie judgemental, she listened intently, compassionately and provided positive feedback on how to make positive health choices. A week or two after my discharge, I attended my first appointment at Rugby Hospital. I wasn't in a great place at this time; I'd let things build up, some sort of post-traumatic stress, I suppose. The morbid dread I was feeling, the anxiety and enormity of the situation I found myself in, was overwhelming to say the least. Again, Vikkie's support and compassion shone through. Her care and professional advice carried me through that time, which helped me unpack and make sense of what had happened and to see things in a more rational and logical way. She followed up with phone calls to see how I was feeling and provided further advice; this was very much appreciated.

Vikkie knew exactly what I was feeling in that moment, call it experience, intuition, I think it's something much more special. Not only is she a great communicator and an excellent professional, but I also detect a deep sense of responsibility she holds, wanting the very best outcomes for her patients' families.

My recovery is far from over. I do, however, feel a real sense of renewal and a determination to make the right choices when it comes to my health. I genuinely feel I wouldn't have felt this way if it weren't for the expert guidance, wonderful care, and compassion of Nurse Vikkie Deery.