10th June 2007

LETTER OF THANKS TO SIN dated February 2007

"Dear SIN,

Thank you very much for sending us SIN's Autumn 2006 Newsletter and updating us on all that has been happening. It was good to hear how SIN has been going from strength to strength and is now a recognised body, and one to be heard!

We wanted to write and thank you for the support you gave us when we needed it. We endured a long battle to get a diagnosis for our daughter, but finally after insisting on changing consultants we did eventually get the diagnosis and the necessary operation.

Reading your letter brought back recognition of feelings that iatrogenic patients and their families suffer. When things went wrong we could not believe how we became and 'instant adversary' and regarded as 'potential litigants'. The medical shut down appalled us, and if it had not been for us sticking together and fighting for our daughter, goodness knows what would have happened to us and our family. The word 'fight' might sound a little strong, but it is the only word, that to us, conveys just how it felt.

We agree entirely that the patient should be informed if a medical error occurs and there should be a victim compensation fund. An Independent Statutory Inspectorate is very much needed as medical shut down should not happen and whislte-blowers should be protected

We have both worked in stressful situations, and wholeheartedly agree that junior doctors and other health professionals should receive all the support and supervisory training they require.

Due to the experiences we have been through, we realise the importance of having 'Patients' Rights in Statute' and fully support this motion.

W e think you are doing a wonderful job. If we can be of any help to you, then we should be pleased to offer our services".

Name & address supplied.

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