Save Our Services - help in our hour of need.

A few years ago my wife (then 68) collapsed in agony with serious stomach and breathing problems. I immediately phoned 999.

My wife was literally screaming in agony - she is normally very stoical about pain - and fighting for breath. During the journey to the Alexandra Hospital the paramedics were unable to lesson her pain despite administering pethedine and morphone.

I was with her in the ambulance and was very worried her condition would cause a heart attack if not alleviated rapidly.

The ambulance men said this was very possible as she was still screaming and fighting for breath.

Fortunately, we arrived at the Alex very quickly and she received immediate attention in A & E. The consultant confirmed another attack could have been fatal and she subsequently underwent major invasive surgery, being in theatre for about five hours.

My wife owes her life to the speed with which she received first class treatment at the Alex, for which we will both be eternally grateful.

Had we had to travel to Worcester I would almost certainly be writing to you now as a widower.

We must keep A & E and all appropriate services at Redditch - Lives are more important than budgets! Save Our Services.

K. Hickie

Bromsgrove