Is there anyone here who has experience of Addenbrooke’s stroke and/or respiratory consultants? I’m interested to hear about who they are and their attitudes.
Thinking of transferring my mum into a care home in Cambridgeshire (the original family home).
Hello EMG - Just a quick note to see how you’re getting on with relocating Mum to her new home. I trust all is well.
Thanks for checking in.
We’re waiting for the social worker to contact the desired care home in Cambridgeshire.
She finally had a videoflouroscopy the other week as an inpatient and she needs to be seen by ENT as they’ve spotted what could the issue causing her swallow (damage from radiotherapy 30 years ago). So she’s still undergoing investigations but is otherwise doing well.
The flippin’ hospital removed one of her meds when she was admitted a month ago causing her a big set back and worsening her condition. We were livid. I hope she gets better treatment elsewhere - when the move finally happens. Addenbrookes was her usual hospital until they moved in East Suffolk. She’ll be back under Addenbrooke’s if the care home comes through.
Flippin’ hospitals!!
Hopefully it was not too big a setback 
Really good the videoflouroscopy has picked up the issue causing problems with swallow.
Being back home in Cambridgeshire should be good for your Mum.
Hope the home comes through soon 
Best wishes to you and your Mum.
Thanks!
I’m now thinking that Suffolk is better as it’s closer to me. The former head of nursing at the local hospital told me some hard truths - unless you’re near a hospital that specialises in stroke/ head injury, the care will be just as shoddy anywhere else in the country. She also pointed out that it’s vital to have a relationship with people in the hospital which I now have. I wouldn’t be able to advocate for her when she’s 70 miles away.
So I’m back to square one, looking for care homes that can accommodate my mum’s needs, have good inspection ratings and aren’t extortionately expensive! 
Hi EMG - I hope you find what you are looking for. I think your Mum will be happier in the original family home locale.
I think you kind of knew the hard truths before they were confirmed by the former head of nursing at the local hospital
It’s good you have built a good relationship with the people in the hospital and I am sure you will be able to advocate very well for your Mum though I can’t remember how much advocacy she needs.
I am sure you will find a good care home for your Mum and your tactic of doing unannounced visits will no doubt help. Personally, I would be more comfortable with that rather than inspection ratings as the cynic in me won’t allow me to trust them. I remember not so long ago, Mum was in hospital (last year or the year before) and there was an announced CQC inspection going to take place and I was not surprised the staff were more focused on that rather than the care of the patients. Still I guess they must provide some value
Wishing you and your Mum all the best and I hope you find that care home that will make life easier for you all.
Take care.