When I arrived at the Nightingale over two weeks ago I was scared, anxious, lonely and depressed and just wanted to go home.

I didn’t want my partner to leave me, and cried for hours when he left.

Two weeks down the line, I can honestly say this was the best decision I ever made. I leave as a confident, independent young woman and I haven’t felt like that in over two years!

I can finally stand on my own two feet again and make my own decisions without asking for validation.

My friend Kirsten said to me she feels like “the old Lou is back!”

The staff at Nightingale including the nurses, doctors, therapists, consultants and the cleaners on ward 1B have all supported me on my journey to becoming me again.

My partner, sister, parents and friends have all been my rock and I am eternally grateful for everyone’s support.

The friends I have made here are also invaluable and are friends I have made for life.

There is a real sense of community at the Nightingale, and the past two weeks I’ve been at a place I have been able to call home.

I would advise all patients to go to all the groups and make the best use of your time here.

Use the support network around you and don’t be afraid to ask questions or express your emotions.

I am now coming back as a day patient so I can continue my journey here.

I am so excited for what the future holds, and I can’t wait to start my life as the new me!

– By Louise

 

 

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