Doctor’s kindness can always be called upon

A SADDLEWORTH doctor whose devotion to his patients is literally life-changing has been nominated for a Pride in Oldham Award.

Dr Ian Watson, a GP at Saddleworth Medical Practice, in Uppermill, is renowned for his excellent care and compassion during the most traumatic times.

Lorraine Milton, from Grotton, experienced his exceptional humanity and kindness first hand when her dad was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer.

Lorraine — who nominated Dr Watson for the Pride award — said he not only helped them cope with the devastation of hearing the tragic news but was there for care and advice no matter what time of day, even when he was on holiday.

More importantly, through his professionalism and support Lorraine and her family managed to fulfil her disabled dad’s wishes to spend his remaining weeks at home surrounded by his loved ones — something she says meant the world to her dad and gave them all many memories to treasure.

Fear

“As a child due to his disability my dad spent significant periods in institutions and had an inherent fear of hospitals and care homes,” explained Lorraine.

“Without Dr Watson’s support, motivation and encouragement to keep going when we were at our lowest points we may have been unable to fulfil dad’s wishes to remain at home and it would have been unlikely he would have survived to celebrate his 80th birthday at home surrounded by his five teenage grandchildren — very special for them all.

“He was able to make my dad smile through the most difficult time of his life.

“It is impossible to begin to describe what this amazing doctor did for us. He is an incredible man with an amazing family.”

Dr Watson, from Greenfield, modestly insists he is just doing his job which is made easier thanks to a host of excellent colleagues.

“I’m very thankful for the nomination but it isn’t just me,” he told us.

“The whole of the primary health care team and district nurses make it possible and we do it to keep a large percentage of patients at home.

“We try our hardest to cover evenings and weekend as it means patients get continuity rather than having to see different GPs.

“Patients who are dying appreciate a friendly face coming to see them.

“In the case of Lorraine and her family I was there more for reassurance, they did all the hard work and care.”