Intensive Care Unit receives special thank you

Staff have received a special visit from a lady who was cared for on Derriford Hospital's Intensive Care Unit (ICU) more than 10 years ago.

Debbie Grosch-Squance became critically ill in 2006 with necrotizing fasciitis, a rare but serious bacterial infection that affects the tissue beneath the skin, and surrounding muscles and organs. Unfortunately, this led to Debbie’s leg being amputated above the knee.

She said: “I decided to run the Plymouth 10k to raise funds for the Spring Intensive Care Charity as they saved my life in 2006. I have no recollection of my time in ICU but I do know that I am alive because of the treatment I received on the unit.

“Although I was treated physically, my family were supported emotionally by the staff during what must have been a highly stressful and worrying time for them as my life hung in the balance. Pat, one of the nurses, was especially great at keeping my daughters’, who were just 12 and 15 at the time, spirits up during their visits.

“This is the first fundraising event that I have taken part in to raise funds for the unit, but I would definitely consider doing something else in the future.”

Peter Branfield, Critical Care Team Leader, said: “Speaking personally, as an ICU nurse, Debbie’s case is one that I can really recall, even 10 years later. It is really life and work affirming to meet someone who was so ill and had such a life changing event but is so positive and has recovered so well.

“I would like to thank Debbie for fundraising for our unit. The money raised really will make a difference to us.”

The Spring Intensive Care Charity helps to fund lifesaving equipment, fund nurse education, support the families of critically ill patients and much more. To find out more, please visit: http://bit.ly/SpringIntensiveCare