After having a procedure at STARS, Taylah Hughes shared her experience of what it was like to be one of our patients.

“When booking my procedure, I spoke with Chris, my case manager. He was so lovely and answered all my queries and concerns and made me feel comfortable about coming to STARS for my surgery,” Taylah said.

“He even ensured I had a room for the night as I don’t react well to general anaesthetic.”

Taylah is currently studying a Bachelor of Nursing, so she understands the importance of advocating for patients and creating therapeutic relationships and effective communication.

“When I came to STARS for my pre-op appointment, the nurses were so lovely and comforting.”

“There was an issue with my consent form, and my pre-op nurse advocated for me and spoke to the surgeons about what I was looking to gain out of this procedure.

“The nurse made sure they did not take me to have this done until they fully understood what I wanted and that I was comfortable; this did not go unnoticed and was greatly appreciated.”

As Taylah went into the procedural room, she felt safe and well looked after.

“The surgeon had a full understanding of what I wanted and explained that when I wake up it may look really scary, as most of my body would be covered in bandages, but it would all be okay and I would be totally fine,” Taylah said.

“I really appreciated this and felt well prepared.”

Taylah described the wonderful nurse who looked after her while she was in recovery, saying the nurse didn’t leave her side and went above and beyond to make her feel comfortable.

“My experience with every single nurse in 6B honestly brings tears to my eyes,” Taylah said.

“They are hands down the best nurses that I have ever come into contact with, and those nurses are the exact reasons I decided to become a nurse myself.

“Not once did I ever feel annoying or a burden when pressing the call bell.

“Every time they would come into my room, they always took that extra time with me, because they knew I was sad to be doing this all alone and not have any support with my due to COVID.

“Words honestly cannot describe how amazing and inspiring those nurses are. The care, respect, compassion and empathy shown was out of this world.”