Client Testimonials

Testimonials from real SMWH clients.

Breath of Fresh Air

'Whaia te iti kahurangi ki te tuohu koe, me he maunga teitei'

Pursue that which you cherish, if you bow, let it be to a lofty mountain.

Dear Melissa

You have been a breath of fresh air during this time of change.  Thank you for contributing to my confidence so that I can stand tall.  All my love.

Breast Reduction

Good morning John

I just wanted to drop a quick note to tell you I am thrilled with my new breasts.  My husband (who didn't think I needed anything done) says I look fantastic and years younger without my matronly bosom!  I was a little shy yesterday when I came in and there was another visiting doctor present so didn't tell you at the time.  Please pass on my thanks to Melissa as well who was wonderful at alleviating all of my concerns yesterday.

I wish I had done this 10 years ago

In October 2011 at 40 years of age I underwent  breast augmentation by Dr Harman. I had always wanted bigger breasts, being nearly 6ft tall and around 70kgs I found my 12B breasts way too small for my tall frame. From the very first consultation I found both Dr Harman and Melissa Callinan (breast nurse) outstanding to deal with. They were both very patient answering all my questions and allaying my fears. Dr Harman was happy to look at a number of pictures I had brought in (to show him what I wanted) and was very careful in listening to my requests for specific size and shape and how I wanted them to finally look.
After the op I found the pain to be nominal and was easily controlled with over the counter pain meds. My cut is so fine and the scarring is minimal and beautifully done - the work of a skilled surgeon.  Any queries after surgery were quickly answered by Melissa whom I can't thank or recommend highly enough - she really has the perfect nature for this line of work. I am thrilled with the results. I look fantastic and feel sexy. My only regret is that I wish I had done this 10 years ago, it's amazing how your confidence grows.... M

Huge Thank You

Dear Noreen

I just wanted to write you a note to say a huge thank you for being so diligent in checking my mammogram.  I am very lucky that you picked it up and called me back in.  As you can imagine it hasn't been an easy week for me but the support I have received from the ladies at St Marks has been wonderful.  I am having surgery next Tuesday and then I can get back to normality.

So again I thank you so much, I am glad that you were the person looking at my mammogram that day.

Appreciation

Dear Noreen

I really do appreciate you finding the cancer so early as another year could have made a big difference.  I am forever in your debt. 

Superior Work

'Since you removed my left breast I've had the occasion to show my scar to quite a few people who see a lot of them; including my prosthesis fitter, my lymphoedema therapist (just a little and now in remission), complimentary therapists and physiotherapist (mobility good).  They have all remarked on how neat my scar is and have all asked who my surgeon is.  When I tell them it was you, none of them were surprised.  One questioned "I wonder if he knows how good he is"?  So, just in case you don't, I thought I would drop you a line and let you know how well you're regarded in the after care community. 

While I was in the eye of the storm I wasn't in a position to see or acknowledge, but I have been clearly very lucky to have you as a surgeon and your superior work has not only prolonged my life but the care you took over the cosmetics has also made a difference to how I will feel about myself for the rest of it.  So thank you for taking the time and having the commitment to being one of the best, I for one, am very grateful that you are.'

Thank you

Dear Michelle

Just a little 'thank you' from me for being the loveliest nurse I know.  You have been so gentle, kind, friendly and shown me a lot of empathy - I just could not, not say thank you enough!  I know you get paid to do what you do but I wanted you to know that I really appreciate the extra mile you go.

Mammogram and ultrasound experience at St Marks

To all the staff at St Marks Breast Centre

I just wanted to take a little time to pass on my thanks and words of praise to you all.  If high quality service could be written as a recipe, then yours is the one to follow.  From the moment I stepped through your doors I felt somehow more relaxed and comfortable.  The staff looked me in the eye and spoke to me like I mattered and nothing else did.  The coffee was lovely, and the cups - well, just kind of luxury.  I had set up pictures in my mind that I was going to become "just a number" the second I became a "patient".  That didn't happen.  Instead I found myself surrounded by lovely smiling women that seemed to care.  I hated the thought of the hospital gown scenario, but instead found myself joking that I wanted to do some Tai Chi in the green outfit.  Then what topped the experience off was the outstanding ability of the radiographer and breast physician.  I was treated by both as though I could admit to any fear and ask any question, which I did.  Fears and visions that I had held in my mind for 20 years since nursing training somehow slipped away and were replaced by empowerment.  What a weight of my shoulders - Thank you.  I will continue to sing your praises far and wide.  What a fantastic job you are doing.

Mammogram

After having a mammogram, patient asked that management be advised how wonderful Kogie (radiographer) is.  She was made to feel very relaxed and had no discomfort at all.

Heartfelt appreciation

I'd like to express my heartfelt appreciation to everyone, especially Dr Sweeten-Smith and Dr Stan Govender for the excellent care I received recently.  My improved health is a credit to your expertise, attentiveness and professionalism.