65 years of the NHS

30th June 2013

Start of celebrations as 65 Scots give thanks.

Sixty five Scots whose lives have been transformed by the NHS joined forces today to mark its 65th anniversary.

The group have shared their stories of how the NHS either saved or improved their quality of life, and sent their thanks to the dedicated and selfless staff that nursed them back to health.

The ‘65 lives’ stories highlight how the NHS is there for all – from people with chronic long-term conditions and debilitating illnesses through to those who have relied on emergency care for themselves or their loved ones.

The NHS turns 65 on 5th July 2013, and a week of celebrations will be taking place in the lead up to the anniversary to show how the NHS has developed over the years, and the world-class care it delivers to the people of Scotland.

Health Secretary Alex Neil said:“The NHS is with us at every stage of our lives and most people in Scotland will benefit from the tremendous care it provides at what can often be their darkest moments, or a time of crisis.

“This week marks the 65th Anniversary of Scotland’s NHS and there’s never been a better time to celebrate what we have – our NHS is there for everyone, no matter what the circumstances.

“The hardworking staff of NHS Scotland save and improve lives on a round the clock, daily basis. When I visit NHS services across Scotland I never cease to be impressed by the stories of the dedication and compassion provided by staff. They have my admiration and gratitude.

“Not least because I have the NHS to thank for saving my sons life and, as Health Secretary and a father, I couldn’t be prouder of what our health service does for the people of Scotland each and every day.

“I will never forget how that experience was different when I was living in America. When my son was ill, the first thing they asked me was whether or not I had insurance or would be paying by credit card.

“I am absolutely committed to the founding values of our NHS. I can promise that, in Scotland, your healthcare will move with the times and develop as our society changes, but while this Government is in charge it will be free at point of access for everyone.”

Set up in 1948, the NHS has been dedicated to providing care for Scots from birth until death.

Gillian Currie's daughter Niamh, now aged two, was diagnosed with spina bifida in the womb. Gillian was supported and cared for throughout her pregnancy by NHS Fife's Foetal Medicine Team and believes that the care she received has made a huge difference to both herself and her daughter.

Gillian from Dunfermline said, “Eighteen weeks into my pregnancy, a hospital scan revealed that our baby had spina bifida. From the moment we received this diagnosis the NHS foetal medicine team at Forth Park Hospital in Kirkcaldy were hugely supportive and provided us with advice and guidance whenever we needed it, also referring us to a number of additional spina bifida organisations.

“When Niamh was born she contracted meningitis, and required specialist care at the Sick Kids Hospital in Edinburgh. The care she received here was also incredible, and all staff members made a very difficult time as easy as possible. We always felt hugely supported.

“Niamh is now two years old and we still visit the hospital regularly for check ups and treatment, and I continue to marvel at the help and support given to us by all the NHS doctors and nurses. The NHS is one of those incredible organisations whose work often goes unnoticed. That all changes when yourself or family member is taken ill, and you rapidly realise that it's your knight in shining armour.

“The care both myself and my daughter have received from the NHS has been exceptional and it has made a huge difference to our health and happiness. I cannot thank the doctors and nurses enough.”

Charles Waddell, 62 from Kilwinning in Ayrshire, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in March 2008 after doing the bowel screening test in the January of that year. Charles credits his diagnosis and successful treatment to the Scottish Bowel Screening Programme and is in no doubt that taking the test saved his life.

Charles said: “Thanks to the NHS I too will make 65. What it has done for me has quite simply been life changing. Over the last 30 years I've required three different surgical procedures, one routine and two emergency. Each was a success and undoubtedly improved my quality of life.”

Every day, there are over 150,000 patient contacts with NHS Scotland and as Scotland’s largest employer, there are approximately 157,000 staff working across the 14 health boards.

To find out more about the 65 lives and NHS Scotland, visit www.ournhsscotland.com