We like to catch up with former patients. Here’s Dinah Lawlor Nolan’s story: “It’s been 13 months since I had my hip operation. I couldn’t do what I am doing now without Healthcare Abroad. Three and a half years ago I suffered so much pain with my hip. All I had was paracetamol.

“An x-ray showed my hip was bone-on-bone. Then I was told I would have to wait for SEVEN YEARS in Ireland. I was 56 and using a Zimmer frame. I felt like a 90-year-old. “I went up to the North to see what they could do. I remember I had to get 2 trains there and 2 trains back again. I was told to lose two stone and I lost a stone and a half and did the train trips again (and paid for another consultation) to be told they still wouldn’t do the operation. I cried and cried. “My daughter found Healthcare Abroad but I told her I wasn’t going to Spain. I was terrified. My pain got worse. I couldn’t use the stairs and going to the loo was so painful. A few months later I changed my mind and called Healthcare Abroad.

“Chris was amazing from the start. They provided a 5-star service all the way. They did everything. The hospital was amazing. My God, they know how to look after you. “Without these earth angels I would not be where I am today. I am living my life again. I’ve been on four foreign holidays since, the most recent last month to celebrate my pain-free 60th birthday.

I am loving life again. If my story can help just one other person, I would be so delighted. If you’re in pain, call Healthcare Abroad. They are amazing.