Share review of Mr Siong Seng Liau

Mr Siong Seng Liau 2021-01-15 Person 5 5 0

From the first time I met Mr Liau, on Nov 5th 2020 I could see that he was caring and thorough. I arrived in the clinic on my own but he did not go on with the consultation until my husband joined us, so that he could be fully aware of all aspects of the situation. This meant explaining my condition as it had been found, and having all possible responses explained. I could see that after several tests and discussions a decision had been jointly arrived at that I would be a suitable patient to have surgery, namely Whipple's procedure. After time for consideration and opportunity to clarify and ask questions, I came to see that I had an offer that not all patients have, that delaying may mean changes in practice due to Covid, and that this is a major operation. I agreed to contact the nurse in a few days, having given myself time to make my decision. I felt under no pressure. Following my discussion with Mr Liau and the HTP nurse I had a most helpful and enlightening conversation with the dietician. After making the decision to go ahead with surgery I continued to have support from the HTP nurse who had been at the initial interview, the dietician and others. The next time I met Mr Liau was when I arrived at the door of the theatre was I was greeted by himself and some of the team. We spoke briefly, and I felt respected. Following surgery I was aware of great support by lots of members of the team, reminding me that I had had a big operation and keep trying to follow advice and do my best to allow my health to improve. I was amazed at the care of the Doctors, taking time, listening, understanding and encouraging even on days when I felt less positive. I felt dieticians showed particular understanding. and also Occupational therapists. Mr Liau came to see me on the ward after nearly 2 weeks, and was very clear in saying again how major my surgery had been, and that I needed to continue to try to keep walking and eating well to make good progress. The last time I spoke to Mr Liau I had been able to speak to the dietician again for further support and advice, which has proved helpful. In this phone consultation Mr Liau was able to speak about the experience thus far, referring to the surgery, what had been found, my recovery, and anticipated next step. And again I was able to ask for clarification, and ask questions. The most surprising thing for me was to realise that I was one of the last operations to take place before Covid changed things. I am most very grateful for the opportunity Mr Liau gave me, the qualities he could see in me to be a suitable patient, and his skills and expertise as a surgeon, dealing with a situation that was unexpected. I was also aware of the respect that he had from other members of the team. The characteristic that probably most surprised me was the way he respected me, when I thanked him for his encouragement and support, he has always changed it to helping me to see the efforts I have had to make to get through accepting the surgery, and coping with the recovery. Really affirming for me, and showing great care and concern for a patient.