David Kitson – Testimonial

Following debilitating pain in my middle back and MRI scans I was diagnosed with a spinal tumour at the age of 60. This was six years ago. The skilled surgery of Mr Pal and his team removed the tumour and I returned to normal living without pain. Three years ago, a follow up MRI scan revealed the return of the tumour, and further surgery was undertaken to remove it and stabilise the spine with carbon fibre rods and screws, followed by a course of radiotherapy.

All looked well until recently when I started getting further pain in my lower back and down one leg. MRI again established the root cause. A further operation was deemed necessary to remove a tumour from my lower back, which was achieved last week as soon as Covid-19 restrictions were eased. Almost immediately, the intense pain has gone. While there is still some soreness from the surgery, and walking is still slow, I feel so much better.

Throughout, Mr Pal has explained everything clearly, both the advantages and the possible pitfalls. His skill as a surgeon and dedication to his work is exemplary. I owe him and his team an awful lot. Much of the work done on me has been ground breaking, and it can hopefully benefit others. Hopefully I will not need any more operations, but if the worst happens, I know there is someone I can trust to do his utmost to rescue me from pain and worse.

My sincere thanks to Mr Pal, his team, all the doctors, nurses and staff at Leeds General Infirmary. Finally, thanks to the MRI department, without which I might never have even got a diagnosis.