A patient poem to Mr Jaf Abu

One of Mr Jaf Abu's patients decided to thank him in a way we had never seen before: with a patient poem. She had spent eight long months unable to eat, and she wrote about the physical pain, the emotional strain and the resilience it took to come through. We are sharing her poem here exactly as she wrote it.

The patient poem, in her own words

Dear Mr Abu,

Thank you so much for seeing me through,
To the end of the time when I was feeling so blue.
All because I could not eat any and all of my favourite treats.
Eight long months of torture and pain,
All because I couldn't eat a single morsel or grain.
The physical pain was nothing compared to the emotional toil and mental strain.

You went above and beyond your medical duty,
To ensure that I kept sane and didn't go loopy.
Without your reassurance, I certainly would have succumbed,
To the psychological stress, that, to others is so unimaginable, so numb.

This has been a test of my spirit but that which I have passed,
By having a positive attitude and keeping resilient in my faith.
Some lessons I have learned to keep for the rest of my life,
To know the true meaning of hunger that people less fortunate have to endure,
But which I will try to lessen by charitable cause.

There are many good people in my life,
Whose constant well wishes have supported me and carried my plight.
I am so glad that I was in your care and relieved to come out to the other side,
A stronger and more empathetic person with a love and appreciation of the simple things in life.

N. Mistry, 8th October 2021

What this patient poem tells us about care

What stands out is how much of the poem is about the mind rather than the body. Serious illness brings worry, isolation and exhaustion, and reassurance matters as much as any procedure. That is why Mr Abu spends time explaining each step of the patient pathway, from the first consultation through to follow-up.

Gynaecological problems can affect eating, sleep, work and relationships. If you are struggling, it is always worth telling your doctor how you are coping, not only what your symptoms are. Cancer Research UK has helpful guidance on coping with the emotional side of illness, and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists offers patient information on many gynaecological conditions.

We are grateful to every patient who shares their experience. You can read more on our patient testimonials page, or find out more about Mr Abu and the conditions and treatments he offers. If you would like to talk to Mr Abu about your own care, please get in touch.