Karen (43)
Colchester
Gastric Band

I am happy to share with you my experiences with EOC, both prior to going to Belgium and during my stay there. I have had first class treatment throughout my experience, prior to surgery nothing was too much trouble for anyone and if I was feeling nervous or uncertain about anything I received an e-mail or a telephone call giving me all the reassurance that I needed. The information available was extensive and was fully explained to me. I was a little nervous setting out on my journey because I hadn't spoken face to face with anyone just by e-mail or phone, but I need not have worried. My journey via Euro star was pleasant and comfortable and on arrival I found the train for Brugge with ease. Being on my own in a "foreign" country was daunting but again I needn't have worried as everyone I met spoke impeccable English, from the taxi driver to the hotel staff. My hotel (the Acacia) was superb. I was delighted to have a suite: very clean and well furnished. And the location was magnificent. There was a little hitch the following morning as it stated in my program that Marc would pick me up at 10, but he had sent a message to the hotel saying to get a taxi. I did not receive that message but I got a call from Marc himself. The hospital was lovely. All the people I met from EOC were very kind and helpful and the presentation with dr Dillemans was very informative. In my programme it said I would have consultation with the doctor then group presentation but this was not the case. I would have liked to speak to him, but Marc was excellent and was able to give me all the information I needed. On the day of the operation everything went very well. I had hoped that I would be with the other English patient who had attended the presentation, but this was not to be so I felt slightly isolated in 4 person room with nobody to talk to. But other patients did speak to me the following day. Discharge from hospital was good and Marc came to take me back to the hotel where I was given a menu of food that could be provided, but not one to be kept down. I walked to the local supermarket and bought my own soup and yoghurt. The private nurse that attended my room was very pleasant. She offered me more painkillers but I didn't want them. So the whole experience was extremely professional and everyone was very kind and helpful to me. It has been 6 days since surgery and I have lost 5 kilos already, fantastic!! I have already recommended EOC to somebody else. Please pass on my thanks and heartfelt gratitude to all for helping me get my life back.