An 83-year-old grandad endured a 14-hour wait at A&E, prompting his family to bring a camp bed for comfort. George Morris, suffering from a heart condition and potential sepsis, couldn’t manage on the hard plastic chair Hairmyres Hospital provided. So, his family stepped in with a camping bed, fresh water, and a hot water bottle.
His daughter, Mandy, described the wait as “absolutely shameful” and “inhumane,” highlighting the stress on “battle-weary” nurses left without sufficient management support. George had previously endured nearly 20 hours in Glasgow Royal Infirmary for a similar health scare, only to be told to go home without follow-up care.
During another hospital visit for high temperatures and severe shaking, a GP advised immediate A&E care, suspecting a serious infection. Despite the urgency, George was left waiting in a full A&E without seats, leading his family to make him comfortable with supplies from home. Mandy expressed frustration with the system, calling for urgent action from politicians and NHS management.
Hairmyres Hospital apologised, acknowledging high-pressure conditions leading to extended wait times and urged people to reserve A&E visits for life-threatening emergencies. Mandy hopes their story will spark change, emphasising the need for contingency plans and better care immediately—not just future investment.
George’s story has struck a chord online, revealing widespread concerns about the state of the NHS. Mandy challenges leaders to experience long hospital waits firsthand and address this pressing issue. She stresses the need for immediate solutions, urging decision-makers to prevent others from enduring similar hardships.