A Norfolk hospital team received a special thank you on national radio from the widow of a former patient.

Eastern Daily Press: Geoff Bish was treated by the haematology department after being diagnosed with leukaemia in 2003. Photo: NNUHGeoff Bish was treated by the haematology department after being diagnosed with leukaemia in 2003. Photo: NNUH (Image: Archant)

Jane Duffield-Bish wrote a letter to Paul O'Grady's BBC Radio 2 show thanking staff at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital.

It's haematology department had treated her husband Geoff after he was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2003.

Despite being given weeks to live, his cancer went into remission and he died in January this year.

Mrs Duffield-Bish's letter, which was nominated letter of the week, gave special thanks to the department for its compassion.

She said: 'In 2003, my husband, Geoff, was diagnosed with leukaemia and given weeks to live.

'In spite of the appalling odds and against anyone's expectations, Geoff went into remission and stayed that way for many years.

'Sadly, he died at home in January but Geoff endured his illness with humour and optimism and I will be proud of him forever.

'I would like to thank the wonderful doctors and nurses who cared for him with compassion and kindness throughout and who, most importantly, gave us as a family 13 more years together which we did not expect to have.'

Paul O'Grady said: 'I'm really sorry to hear about your brave husband, Geoff, and it would be my pleasure to thank the great team at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital on your behalf.'

There are seven consultant haematologists at the NNUH who provide diagnostic, treatment and follow up services for patients with blood disorders.

The department also includes four middle grade doctors, two junior doctors and five clinical nurse specialists, according to the NNUH website.

Dr Matthew Lawes, service director for haematology, said: 'As a department, we were honoured to have been nominated by Mrs Duffield-Bish for the award.

'I am particularly pleased that the whole department, including the laboratory and blood bank, can be recognised for their hard work and dedication to working with and supporting patients with haematological cancers.'

The department will receive a certificate from the show.

Has your family member defied the odds to overcome a rare condition? Call Luke Powell on 01603 772 684 or email luke.powell@archant.co.uk