Van looked after me in theatre recovery. It was an unplanned surgery to have a supra pubic catheter fitted. I was terrified going into theatre as previously I have been very distressed in recovery leading to lots of medication and prolonged recovery afterwards. The anaesthetist and her team were fantastic, changed their approach & prepped Van. I woke up from my GA and saw Van, I did not know him, but he was calm & he clearly understood my fears. He listened carefully to me and monitored me closely, as I am autistic, so my pain perception can be poor. He gave the IV opioid pain relief in small amounts & waited to see my response after each administration. When I said I couldn’t take anymore, he listened, but on observing that when I was in pain, he discussed what I wanted to do. He made it clear that he was working with me on this and even took me to the ward himself to ensure I got my preferred pain relief ASAP. I recovered from the GA in record time, but more importantly, I felt heard & empowered, a long way from the terrified person who went into theatre. I may need further surgery in the future, and I now know this approach works for me, I can alert staff in the future. I cannot thank Van and all the theatre team enough for the sensitive approach to me and for looking after me so carefully.