Tales from the Red Cross hospital and fair warning I talk about my recent surgery and I talk about it very openly.

ALSO SWEAR WORDS.

In sharing this information it may encourage people to better advocate for their medical health and care, have a good experience of a hospital stay.

I talk about what I requested, how I requested it, and what I let go in order to have a peaceful stay.

I talk about my body, about scars and stitches, and allow me to hint at what was happening, there is a lot of talk of 'down there' that may not be the best for a lunch time listen!

I had a brilliant stay at Nisseki (Red Cross Hospital) in Tokyo - I was lucky that my surgery was straightforward and uncomplicated and I am going for my one month follow up consultation with my surgeon soon. Every step of the way has been thorough, well managed and I felt safe and heard. I also advocated for myself clearly and politely - and although I come across very confident, this is something I actually need to be brave about.

It's also worth mentioning that i and my husband had a great deal of support from family and friends checking in on both of us. For that I am incredibly grateful and hope to be able to return the kindness some day.