to throw my toys out of the pram’

that someone has had a hissy fit, or become incoherent with rage,

This was the week of the perfect storm.

New Nevro spinal stimulator is gradually settling in. It is I am assured MRI compatible. Indeed the last one was. I’ve had many an MRI.

Unfortunately due to the no bending, twisting, lifting, situation post-operative my ability to pick up anything on the floor is limited. In kneeling to pick up lego , as you do, I knelt down and knee popped again. The pain swelling and bruising was indescribable. As NHS-land can only do virtual orthopaedic clinics, I managed to persuade BUPA to fund a private appointment in London. Nice Mr Knee- surgeon put in an MRI request. Urgent.

It turns out no London hospital can do MRI. With stimulator. The Nevro team would not assist.

Meanwhile MSU private and via GP somehow delayed. Antibiotics not kicking in.

Then I still haven’t got a follow up appointment to pelvic MRI of 2023. I have not had kidney ultrasound. Blood tests nor indeed BP review.

In total tearful frustration I wrote …

Good evening UCLH,

• I have still not had a repeat MRI as indicated in 2023 for my ureter injury from 2009.
• I have constant urinary tract infections, despite:
• Continuous antibiotics
• Failed gentamicin protocol
• Hipprex, Uromune, Urovax, Gentamicin
• I have blood pressure despite being on the highest medication doses prescribed by (UCLH nephrology).
• I have a NEVRO spinal implant (MRI-compatible), but all hospitals have refused to do the scan.
• UCLH has not helped resolve this. In fact have obstructed the process.
• I have a knee injury and need an MRI.
• My local hospital only offers telephone orthopaedic clinics, which are not of any use at all.
• I have had to pay for private physio and a private surgeon for knee
• UCLH has not assisted them (or me) in getting an MRI for knee…even though I am going to have to pay.
• GP surgery update:
• Surgery pharmacist called she rapidly gave up on:
  • Blood pressure check
  • Medication review
  • She decided to contact UCLH for advice
• She cannot access my secondary care notes from UCLH nephrology.
• BARTs severe asthma clinic:
• Their system does not communicate with UCLH’s Eric.
• Luton and Dunstable Hospital (TMJ & urgent jaw surgery): apparently whilst I am priority that means at least another year hence. Having been referred two years ago. No rush.
• Their system also does not communicate with ERIC or even my GP (same trust).

I am out of options and now am giving up altogether.

Despite my total throwing of toys out of pram in frustration- nothing nothing has been resolved.

Meanwhile to my relief I spent a morning in JohnLewis baby department. Choosing prams car seats and all necessary items for my son , BFG, his wife the wonderful J, as they prepare for the imminent arrival of baby. Of course, baby tech has evolved faster than a an MRI appointment The best strategy? Play it cool, pretend I know absolutely nothing, and let them think they’re teaching you something. Just smile, nod, and prepare!