Medical clinic or hospital near Pimlico?

Hi Betsy! I am so sorry to hear about your injury! I am not a doctor, but this sounds like something you would want checked out ASAP. There are two big hospitals not too far from you- the only one I have personal experience with is Chelsea and Westminster. I'm not sure how it works if you're not registered on the NHS, but I might try going directly to their urgent care/A&E and seeing if you can get seen. They might charge you and you might be able to claim it back on your insurance, so I'm not sure. There's also the big complex of Royal Brompton/Royal Marsden nearby but I've not used them so I'm not sure what their drop-in facilities are like. If your knee is infected that sounds like something they would take you in for the same day. Good luck, and hope you are better soon!

St Thomas' Hospital A&E.

https://g.co/kgs/HuLMafm

You need an NHS hospital if you need an A&E department. Be prepared for a long wait (and to pay).
Brompton and Royal Marsden are specialist cancer. Go to Chelsea and Westminster or St Thomas's, the latter is directly opposite the Hoise of Parliament on the other side of the river.

This is a link to NHS drop in centres in London, which may be more appropriate
https://clch.nhs.uk/services/walk-in-centres

St Thomas' is only five minutes in a taxi from Pimlico and you won't need to pay.

Go to 111 online, which is the non emergency number. 111 will triage you and advise you the best action to take.
You certainly need to get this checked before a long haul flight.

Sorry it's no better.

https://111.nhs.uk

Here's a guide from the NHS for tourists. I would call or go online to the 111 number because if you call or use 111, they may be able to let the hospital know you are coming.

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/visiting-or-moving-to-england/how-to-access-nhs-services-in-england-if-you-are-visiting-from-abroad/

Cat, thanks!

C & W was recommended to me - I’m trying to avoid the A& E & long waits

Someone said that C &W doesn’t have overly long waits…

One option is Listers Urgent Care -£120 for consult fee. I’m willing to pay to avoid hours waiting …

I’m not getting into London until 6pm or so, so I’ll this tomorrow

Thank you!!

Hi Betsy! I am so sorry to hear about your injury! I am not a doctor,
but this sounds like something you would want checked out ASAP. There
are two big hospitals not too far from you- the only one I have
personal experience with is Chelsea and Westminster. I'm not sure how
it works if you're not registered on the NHS, but I might try going
directly to their urgent care/A&E and seeing if you can get seen. They
might charge you and you might be able to claim it back on your
insurance, so I'm not sure. There's also the big complex of Royal
Brompton/Royal Marsden nearby but I've not used them so I'm not sure
what their drop-in facilities are like. If your knee is infected that
sounds like something they would take you in for the same day. Good
luck, and hope you are better soon!

That’s the first one I looked at, Gerry - but apparently there’s Guy’St Thomas that also has urgent care

Thank you!!!!

St Thomas' Hospital A&E. https://g.co/kgs/HuLMafm

Thank you, Lin!

I want to avoid A & E - I really just want urgent care to be sure I don’t have an infection. As soon as I get home on Thursday, I’ll schedule an MRI and see my Dr

You need an NHS hospital if you need an A&E department. Be prepared
for a long wait (and to pay). Brompton and Royal Marsden are
specialist cancer. Go to Chelsea and Westminster or St Thomas's, the
latter is directly opposite the Hoise of Parliament on the other side
of the river. This is a link to NHS drop in centres in London, which
may be more appropriate https://clch.nhs.uk/services/walk-in-centres

Stuart, I can’t call from a U.S. number, but I did answer their on-line questions - they suggested a GP

I’m going to urgent care tomorrow morning - that is a great point about me going on a long flight with this bad knee

Thank you - I appreciate it?

Go to 111 online, which is the non emergency number. 111 will triage
you and advise you the best action to take. You certainly need to get
this checked before a long haul flight. Sorry it's no better.
https://111.nhs.uk

Guy's and St Thomas' is the name of the NHS Trust that covers both Guy's Hospital and St Thomas' Hospital. The A&E is at St Thomas', as seen in my link. No A&E at Guys, a different hospital a few miles down the road.

edit: Guy's has something called "Urgent Care" right enough. Not familiar with that service but they might be able to treat something relatively minor (hopefully, in your case). St Thomas' is closer if you're coming from Pimlico.

As to Heather's point, no, 111 won't tell an A&E department you're coming. You are triaged by a nurse in the waiting room when you arrive and then have to wait like everyone else.

Heather, thanks!!!

See my reply to Stuart - can’t call, but online suggested GP

I’m pressed for time, so I think I’ll just go to urgent care

Here's a guide from the NHS for tourists. I would call or go online to
the 111 number because if you call or use 111, they may be able to let
the hospital know you are coming.
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/visiting-or-moving-to-england/how-to-access-nhs-services-in-england-if-you-are-visiting-from-abroad/

If you don’t get into London until 6 PM tonight, why wouldn’t you go to the hospital close to your hotel where you said you could get an appointment for tomorrow morning? A timed appointment at a clinic seems to be better than being a walk in patient at urgent care.

There used to be a doctor's office in Victoria Station. I used it a few years ago for a really terrible cold and they saw me, checked my lungs were clear and gave me a prescription which I filled in the Boots at the station.

You should be able get through to the 111 number on a non-UK mobile if you add the international code so dial +44 111.
I would recommend talking to them rather than using the website in your situation. I could be wrong, but the fact they have suggested you go to a GP makes me think they assume you live here and have a GP you can get to.

Speaking from experience a GP is unlikely to see someone who isn't registered with them. I tried to see my mum's GP when i was visiting and had an infected finger. They wouldn't see me. I called 111 and they suggested I go to the nearest urgent care where I was treated. Speaking to 111 they were really helpful and the staff at the urgent care centre had the time and skill to deal with my finger in a way that I doubt a GP would have been able to. 111 didn't phone ahead to say i was coming. I did have to wait but it was only a couple of hours.

There are a number of urgent care/walk in centres in London, see here https://clch.nhs.uk/services/walk-in-centres
To be honest I am not sure what the difference is between 'urgent care' and 'walk in' centres. 111 should able to tell you which it is most appropriate for you to visit.

If you do choose to call a GP, check on their website what time is best to call. The usual is bang on 8am, not 5 min before not 5 min after. You will then join a queue of people to get an appointment that day. At my surgery If the list is full by the time you get through in the morning they then tell you to call at 2pm for afternoon slots. But as i said i doubt a GP will see you.

I'm guessing you have also posted about Pasta in Pimlico elsewhere in the forum and have said about using a taxi.?Just a heads up but black cabs aren't great to get into with leg/mobility issues. I personally find them impossible. You have to bend down whilst stepping up into or down from them which can be a real strain. Your best bet is to use a 'normal' car for example an Uber or minicab that you call for. Much easier to sit down and swing legs in.

I have added a pasta recommendation to your other question :-)

My own view is that you want to be getting this looked at tonight, and making that the priority of the evening.
Especially if your hunch is right that you have an infection you need to start Anti-Biotics (if that is the prescription) or any other meds ASAP to try to ensure there are no adverse side effects.
I'm a bit concerned that this is 4 or 5 days on from the hospital visit in Paris. Any problem has now had time to develop.
Ensure they know you are flying the day after tomorrow, and take notes of what they say for follow up care with your own doctor.
If there are untoward side effects you don't want them manifesting 30,000 feet in the air.
I am not in the slightest suggesting there is anything seriously untoward but you know what happened to me the other week, and how serious that became from what was initially seen as trivial, after a similar delay of diagnosis.
I'm saying take notes because my discharge notes (copied to my GP) were unbelievably vague and breezy. I have now had to submit what is called a SARS request (basically Freedom of Information) for full notes, including the X ray, in case of future issues.

Google ”private urgent care London” and see what comes up.

At a private clinic you will pay more but you will probably be seen more quickly.

I found this link which lists a number of urgent care locations where you can walk-in. The locations at London Bridge Hospital and The Lister Hospital are probably closest.
https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/locations/urgent-care-centres#locations

Betsy. Have you contacted your insurance provider? They should be able to assist you.

I'm late to this.....I've been to the C & W hospital A & E.

I had cut my finger open and the local clinic had just closed. The admin staff still there suggested the hospital.

I did have to wait a bit but how long depends on how many people are there and their problems.

I waited about two hours before seeing a nurse. It was decided I didn't need stitches and I was sent on my way.

No charge.

An NHS hospital or clinic will not charge you to examine you, tell you their diagnosis and even write a prescription if necessary. The charges only come if they do some type of treatment. (It was not the first time I had to be seen at an NHS clinic.)

At a private clinic you will pay. Hopefully your insurance will reimburse you.

My suggestion, from what you describe, just go to an NHS hospital and bring a book.

One last thing...if you are over 60--you don't have to say yes or no here--and they give you a prescription, it will be free. Everyone over 60 gets free prescriptions. Even tourists.

Dutch, it’s even worse than that. Tragically, a train struck & killed a pedestrian, so we’re hours behind

The Lister Hospital is walk in - I can go in the morning, and there likely won’t be much of a wait. Or, I could go to an A&E in the morning and not pay - I’m overwhelmed, because I’ve gotten such great advice here & elsewhere

I know I may have an infection, but I really hope a few hours won’t make a difference…I’m exhausted

Thanks!

f you don’t get into London until 6 PM tonight, why wouldn’t you go to
the hospital close to your hotel where you said you could get an
appointment for tomorrow morning? A timed appointment at a clinic
seems to be better than being a walk in patient at urgent care

I’ll check that out, Laurie - thanks!

There used to be a doctor's office in Victoria Station. I used it a
few years ago for a really terrible cold and they saw me, checked my
lungs were clear and gave me a prescription which I filled in the
Boots at the station.

Emma, thanks for the brilliant post!

I just want to get a decent night's sleep and go somewhere in the morning. I’m leaning towards Lister Hospital/urgent care which is also walk in even if I have to pay- as the wait is supposed to be minimal

I might have thought of trying to call 111 again, but it’s been an incredibly long day, and I’m tired …I just want to ice my knee again, lol

Thanks!

There are a number of urgent care/walk in centres in London, see here https://clch.nhs.uk/services/walk-in-centres To be honest I am not sure what the difference is between 'urgent care' and 'walk in' centres. 111 should able to tell you which it is most appropriate for you to visit.

Stuart, I’d love that too - but I have no idea when I’m getting into London, and I’ve been advised that I’m likely to be well behind patients who have more obviously serious, possibly life threatening injuries (stroke, heart attack, etc…).

I actually have antibiotics that I brought with me in case I got a bad allergy attack - I asked the medical assistant at my doctor’s office if I could take them, but she said the DR (rightly) wouldn’t tell me to take them when it’s not for what she prescribed them for (my allergies)

You make a great point, but if I go to an A & E fairly late at night, the likelihood is I won’t be seen for many hours…not far off from a morning consultation at a clinic

That’s a great idea about notifying them that I’m supposed to fly - I will do that

I just want to cry right now - I’m trying not to lose it

Thank you!!!

My own view is that you want to be getting this looked at tonight, and
making that the priority of the evening. Especially if your hunch is
right that you have an infection you need to start Anti-Biotics (if
that is the prescription) or any other meds ASAP to try to ensure
there are no adverse side effects. I'm a bit concerned that this is 4
or 5 days on from the hospital visit in Paris. Any problem has now had
time to develop. Ensure they know you are flying the day after
tomorrow, and take notes of what they say for follow up care with your
own doctor. If there are untoward side effects you don't want them
manifesting 30,000 feet in the air. I am not in the slightest
suggesting there is anything seriously untoward but you know what
happened to me the other week, and how serious that became from what
was initially seen as trivial, after a similar delay of diagnosis. I'm
saying take notes because my discharge notes (copied to my GP) were
unbelievably vague and breezy. I have now had to submit what is called
a SARS request (basically Freedom of Information) for full notes,
including the X ray, in case of future issues.

Laura, I intend right now to go to Lister…I’m trying not to worry about a potential infection, but I’m getting nervous. I’m glad I don’t have a fever at least!

I’m trying to remain calm, but I’m not. Calm person, lol

Thank you!

Google ”private urgent care London” and see what comes up. At a
private clinic you will pay more but you will probably be seen more
quickly. I found this link which lists a number of urgent care
locations where you can walk-in. The locations at London Bridge
Hospital and The Lister Hospital are probably closest.
https://www.hcahealthcare.co.uk/locations/urgent-care-centres#locations

Blockquote

Jean, I haven’t - it’s been crazy day

If I get a chance, I will - but I tend to doubt they can help given the kind of limited insurance I have

Thank you!!!

Betsy. Have you contacted your insurance provider? They should be able
to assist you.

Frank, thanks!

No matter where I go, it will be in the morning - so if it’s an A & E - I hope I don’t have to wait too long

I just hope I get to London T this point

I'm late to this.....I've been to the C & W hospital A & E. I had cut
my finger open and the local clinic had just closed. The admin staff
still there suggested the hospital. I did have to wait a bit but how
long depends on how many people are there and their problems. I waited
about two hours before seeing a nurse. It was decided I didn't need
stitches and I was sent on my way. No charge. An NHS hospital or
clinic will not charge you to examine you, tell you their diagnosis
and even write a prescription if necessary. The charges only come if
they do some type of treatment. (It was not the first time I had to be
seen at an NHS clinic.) At a private clinic you will pay. Hopefully
your insurance will reimburse you. My suggestion, from what you
describe, just go to an NHS hospital and bring a book.

Betsy

The NHS 111 number operates 24 hours so if you have any concerns, call them at any time! They really are helpful, and in my experience very kind. When my dad was ill my Mum ( who is a nurse) would call them when she was concerned about him in the night. They were able to confirm that what she was doing was right and on one occasion to confirm that she really should call an ambulance.

Caveating the following that I am not a medical professional…….I really wouldn’t take the antibiotics you have for the sake of the next few hours until you get to see a doctor. One size does not fit all when it comes to antibiotics and at best you are just wasting them.

I have a medical condition that means my knees dislocate really easily. I’ve lost count of how many times it has happened. I find using a pillow in bed when trying to get to sleep can really help. If you are a back sleeper rest your knee on a pillow or cushion. If you are a slide sleeper put the pillow between your knees. It can really make a difference by taking pressure of your whole leg. And take pain killers if you have them but make a note of how many you are taking and when. It’s easy to get confused if you are in pain and tired.

Hope it is all better soon.

Betsy, so no travel medical insurance?

Any chance you have a credit card, chase Sapphire Reserve or similar, that offers medical coverage?

Whenever you finally arrive, you can get Paracetamol and Ibrupofen over the counter, even often at corner grocery stores. If you arrive at around 2235 as presently estimated hopefully the Boots chemists store at St Pancras will still be open, if you need more supplies.
Correction, just checked- it closes at 2200.

Marks and Spencer is open to midnight- just may be they might have some.

If not there are 24 hour stores all over London. Your hotel will know the closest.

I am so sorry your trip is ending this way. I wish I was closer to give practical support.

No helpful medical advice to give, but just wanted to post to say I am thinking about you, Betsy, and hope you can find relief soon! Hang in there!

Emma, I did try 111 - no go on a US phone, and honestly I can’t even think of that now, we’re not getting in until 11:15 pm, and I likely won’t get to my hotel until closer to midnight. I don’t trust my hotel to have someone there to let me in and check me in, so I’m thinking of backup hotels for the night …

Can anyone recommend a chain hotel, nice and clean?

I won’t use the antibiotics - I’ll wait until morning

Those are great ideas re: pillows

I have Tylenol, Advil & Dual Action Advil - none have really worked, but I’ll try a couple tonight

Thank you!!!

Jean, I don’t think I do - in either case

I don’t mind paying if I go to a clinic - it’s just what it is

Thank you!!!

Betsy, so no travel medical insurance? Any chance you have a credit
card, chase Sapphire Reserve or similar, that offers medical coverage?

Stuart, I brought Tylenol (paracetamol) and Advil with me - plus dual action Advil, which is like a combo, I’ve taken Advil & Dual action - they really haven’t worked, but maybe I just didn’t take them for long enough

We’re not expected until 23:15, lol - I now have to worry that my hotel will have someone to let he in & check me in. See my above post - I’m skeptical

That’s so sweet of you - yeah, it sucks, lol…but I’m dealing with it! It’s like a test, lol

Whenever you finally arrive, you can get Paracetamol and Ibrupofen
over the counter, even often at corner grocery stores. If you arrive
at around 2235 as presently estimated hopefully the Boots chemists
store at St Pancras will still be open, if you need more supplies.
Correction, just checked- it closes at 2200. Marks and Spencer is open
to midnight- just may be they might have some. If not there are 24
hour stores all over London. Your hotel will know the closest. I am so
sorry your trip is ending this way. I wish I was closer to give
practical support.

Go to A&E,nI know you said you don’t want to, but it would probably be the only place that could take X-rays or a cat scan. My friend fell last year in London and broken her shoulder, she went to A&E, they kept her overnight. The only thing she had to pay for was the description for pain medication.
You keep saying you don’t want to go to A&E because there might be a long wait, it would be worth the wait if your knee is really bothering you and you want a proper diagnosis.

Since you are staying at Pimlico, I would drop off my luggage and then get a taxi or Uber to St Thomas Hospital A&E. It's just across the river and is the closest to your area. You may have to wait but having been to the ER recently here in the US, that's not unusual.
Hope everything turns out well.

I knows your head must be spinning with all the advice you are getting, Have you called your hotel to tell them you are running late and what time you will arrive? Midnight is not that late for a hotel in central London. Explain your situation thy should hopefully be sympathetic,

Is still isn't clear whether you have travel insurance with health coverage, but I learned on a recent trip that the concierge service they offer via phone [to a US number] turned out to be a great resource - in my case they had me on a telehealth session within an hour or two - just an example of how helpful they can be. You might find a similar service if you have an upper tier credit card. The agent I spoke with was knowledgeable and sympathetic.

Robin

I had an x-ray taken in Paris - nothing broken. Would a cat scan tell if I tore something?

I agree !

Go to A&E,nI know you said you don’t want to, but it would probably be
the only place that could take X-rays or a cat scan. My friend fell
last year in London and broken her shoulder, she went to A&E, they
kept her overnight. The only thing she had to pay for was the
description for pain medication. You keep saying you don’t want to go
to A&E because there might be a long wait, it would be worth the wait
if your knee is really bothering you and you want a proper diagnosis.

Mustlovedogs, thank you!!!!

No helpful medical advice to give, but just wanted to post to say I am
thinking about you, Betsy, and hope you can find relief soon! Hang in
there!

Heather

Great idea, thanks!

Since you are staying at Pimlico, I would drop off my luggage and then
get a taxi or Uber to St Thomas Hospital A&E. It's just across the
river and is the closest to your area. You may have to wait but having
been to the ER recently here in the US, that's not unusual. Hope
everything turns out well.

Emma, I did on the train ….but I never heard back from them after I told them it would be close to midnight. So when I finally got a taxi, I asked him to stay until they answered the bell. When we got there, hotel guy suggested that I go to another hotel because he was concerned about my knee (my room is at the top). Butt, we drove around, called a few hotels - not ONE room available, So after half hour driving, we surrendered - and I took my original hotel room despite the steps!

I knows your head must be spinning with all the advice you are
getting, Have you called your hotel to tell them you are running late
and what time you will arrive? Midnight is not that late for a hotel
in central London. Explain your situation thy should hopefully be
sympathetic,

55

Mark, I’ll investigate that if possible. I got to my hotel after 1 am and then pretty much dozed off….I’m exhausted. lol

Thsnks!!!

Is still isn't clear whether you have travel insurance with health
coverage, but I learned on a recent trip that the concierge service
they offer via phone [to a US number] turned out to be a great
resource - in my case they had me on a telehealth session within an
hour or two - just an example of how helpful they can be. You might
find a similar service if you have an upper tier credit card. The
agent I spoke with was knowledgeable and sympathetic.

An MRI is better than a Catscan for evaluating torn muscles or ligaments.

But let's step back for a moment. Have you done any self care since the accident to help?--rest, anti-inflammatories (Ibuprofen or naproxen sodium), ice?

Last week, after sliding off a couch due to a table, I thought I had damaged my achiles tendon. The pain was bad. The following morning I could hardly put any weight on it due to extreme pain. I started on naproxem sodium for pain and inflamation (I travel with this as ibuprofen doesn't work for me and you need a prescription in the UK) and I started icing. The pain subsided enough to do some light walking but I could still feel it. Every morning the same. I would give it a few days to see if it got any better. By day four, the pain had subsided and the area was no longer tender. It's been a week and I'm fine.

The other thing I would suggest is contacting your airline and request wheelchair assistance. If you are departing Heathrow, the distances between entrance and gate can be extreme. Why do that to your knee?

Frank, thanks! I’ll schedule an MRI when I get home

I’ve done what I can - but ice hasn’t always been possible, and I’ve taken taxis when I could. I haven’t stayed in my hotel rooms generally, no/ unless it’s to rest up before dinner or it’s after dinner.

I tried taking dual action Advil a few times. - it’s usually very good, but they were no help this time…not has Advil been, but I admit I haven’t taken it consistently

I’m glad you were ok!

That’s not a bad idea, but bot only don’t I know how to use one, I have no idea how of handle my bags

Thanks!

An MRI is better than a Catscan for evaluating torn muscles or
ligaments. But let's step back for a moment. Have you done any self
care since the accident to help?--rest, anti-inflammatories (Ibuprofen
or naproxen sodium), ice? Last week, after sliding off a couch due to
a table, I thought I had damaged my achiles tendon. The pain was bad.
The following morning I could hardly put any weight on it due to
extreme pain. I started on naproxem sodium for pain and inflamation (I
travel with this as ibuprofen doesn't work for me and you need a
prescription in the UK) and I started icing. The pain subsided enough
to do some light walking but I could still feel it. Every morning the
same. I would give it a few days to see if it got any better. By day
four, the pain had subsided and the area was no longer tender. It's
been a week and I'm fine. The other thing I would suggest is
contacting your airline and request wheelchair assistance. If you are
departing Heathrow, the distances between entrance and gate can be
extreme. Why do that to your knee?

Definitely book wheelchair assistance at the airport via your airline. Do it as soon as you can because you usually need to give at least 24 hour notice. They will look after you, put you in a wheelchair or an electric cart to get you to the plane. They will also deal with your luggage and get you through customs/ immigration etc. it can on occasion be a bit slow but it makes such a difference at the airport.

https://www.heathrow.com/at-the-airport/assistance-and-accessibility/request-assistance-before-leaving-home

If you haven’t already got one try and get a stick. They sell folding ones at Boots etc for very little. They can really help you get around and provide some stability.

If you have any worries or feelings of instability on the hotel stairs come down on your bum. Undignified but better than your knee giving way and falling.

If you are referring to not knowing how to work with assistance at the airport, it's easy.

Contact the airline and let them know you need assistance. Do it today if you are leaving tomorrow.

When you get to the airport, find an airline employee near check in and tell them you requested wheelchair assistance. They should call it in for you.

A wheelchair, or some other vehicle, will arrive, take you through check in if necessary, and then get you through security and to your gate. They handle any carry on you might have.

It's a free service but it is nice to tip the attendant. They also get you expedited through security.

Once past security, they also use large golf cart type vehicles to whisk you to your gate.

The airline will also make arrangements to have someone meet you when you arrive.

Another reason to let the airline know ASAP is seating. If you are in economy, they might give you a better seat where you won't be cramped in for the long flight. And keep at least one of the Advil available during the flight in case you need it.

Betsy,
I hope you are at least a little rested this morning. When you get home you will have a month to submit a claim to Eurostar for 50% compensation.
If you request assistance at Heathrow , and I agree you really should, they will push you and take care of your bags, and you may well be pre-boarded before everyone else.
If you decide on the day you need assistance there are help points at all Heathrow rail and bus stations, car parks and car drop off points, to call free phone for assistance,
Or you can call +44 (0) 20 8757 2700 at T2, 3 and 4, or +44 (0) 20 8263 6415 at T5.
https://www.heathrow.com/at-the-airport/assistance-and-accessibility/assistance-departure-guide
I suspect/hope the hospital will take blood tests to check for infections, processed then and there.
I think you should taxi to Paddington, arrange assistance for a buggy to take you to the train and use Heathrow Express. Call free 0800 022 3720 - https://www.heathrowexpress.com/accessibility

I actually have both prescription Naproxen and Codeine at home. I'm not meant to take Naproxen due to blood clotting problems.

PS- the national news confirms that two people tragically lost their lives yesterday in separate incidents near Lille. Trains were provided overnight at Paris and London as stationary emergency hotels due to the severity of the disruption.

Emma, I’ll try that! Hopefully they’ll be able to accommodate me

LOL no, fortunately the stairs are carpeted and pretty soft..:I just go nice and slow!

Thank you!

Definitely book wheelchair assistance at the airport via your airline.
Do it as soon as you can because you usually need to give at least 24
hour notice. They will look after you, put you in a wheelchair or an
electric cart to get you to the plane. They will also deal with your
luggage and get you through customs/ immigration etc. it can on
occasion be a bit slow but it makes such a difference at the airport.
https://www.heathrow.com/at-the-airport/assistance-and-accessibility/request-assistance-before-leaving-home
If you haven’t already got one try and get a stick. They sell folding
ones at Boots etc for very little. They can really help you get around
and provide some stability. If you have any worries or feelings of
instability on the hotel stairs come down on your bum. Undignified but
better than your knee giving way and falling.

Frank, thank you so much!

I’ll contact them as soon as I can - I really hope they can accommodate me- that sounds really helpful

I just picked up my prescription from Boots, so I’ll be taking medicine prescribed by the clinic

If you are referring to not knowing how to work with assistance at the
airport, it's easy. Contact the airline and let them know you need
assistance. Do it today if you are leaving tomorrow. When you get to
the airport, find an airline employee near check in and tell them you
requested wheelchair assistance. They should call it in for you. A
wheelchair, or some other vehicle, will arrive, take you through check
in if necessary, and then get you through security and to your gate.
They handle any carry on you might have. It's a free service but it is
nice to tip the attendant. They also get you expedited through
security. Once past security, they also use large golf cart type
vehicles to whisk you to your gate. The airline will also make
arrangements to have someone meet you when you arrive. Another reason
to let the airline know ASAP is seating. If you are in economy, they
might give you a better seat where you won't be cramped in for the
long flight. And keep at least one of the Advil available during the
flight in case you need it.

Stuart, I was so tired that I dozed in the room at Lister that I was waiting in, waiting for my x-rays & blood test to be ready! They even shut the lights because they saw how tired I was!

I HOPE I’m not too late for assistance - but if so, I’ll try tomorrow

The DR prescribed Naproxen for me….I'm essentially allergic to codeine

Thank you!!!!

If you request assistance at Heathrow , and I agree you really should, they will push you and take care of your bags, and you may
well be pre-boarded before everyone else.
If you decide on the day you need assistance there are help points at all Heathrow rail and bus stations, car parks and car drop off
points, to call free phone for assistance,
Or you can call +44 (0) 20 8757 2700 at T2, 3 and 4, or +44 (0) 20 8263 6415 at T5.
https://www.heathrow.com/at-the-airport/assistance-and-accessibility/assistance-departure-guide

Just to update

I went to Lister Hospital, & they were terrific - walked in, seen immediately, really great

Fortunately all is well - no infection, which was my main worry. I have a bone spur, but that’s all

When I get home, I’ll have an MRI done to see if I’ve torn anything

Thank you again!

Betsy, I'm so glad everything is working out. I've been following this thread, although had nothing to contribute so i just read your story.

If I can make one suggestion: when you get home, you will be sore, will be tired, will be jet lagged and feeling pretty crappy I imagine. Don't worry about coming here and responding to everyone's well wishes (and I'm including myself in there). You are very polite and you like to respond to everyone who posts, and I totally get that as I like to do the same thing.

But when you have an injury and need to rest, it's okay to not be polite and to just focus on yourself and healing. There will come a time when you will be bored, and will have your phone or other device handy and can respond to everyone then. But right now, I would suggest just focusing on yourself and the healing process at this time. :-) Good luck!

Betsy, glad it's not an infection. You must be quite relieved.

As Mardee says, take care of yourself!

Safe travels home.

That's great, Betsy.

Do get on the horn ASAP to the airport so you don't have to walk all those miles unnecessarily.

Mardee, thank you!!!!

I definitely will be pretty tired - long trip, long flight, and all this stuff that happened at the end. Not only do I need to deal with my knee, but my teeth, too, lol. Not to mention I’ve got loads of DVRing to catch up on!

I appreciate all you’ve said - I will definitely be around, though …!

Jean, I AM - I was really worried about that…now I need to be concerned if I tore something, lol

Thank you!!

Nigel, thanks!

I contacted Heathrow - all arranged (not at Miami, though, as I spoke only w/Heathrow, not American. But that’s ok - this was the most important part. I really hope I can get a seat with more leg room…!

That's great, Betsy. Do get on the horn ASAP to the airport so you
don't have to walk all those miles unnecessarily

.

Betsy, I hope this helps you.

American Airlines Special Assistance

Betsy, thanks for letting us know. I'm so glad you found a place to go and had your mind relieved. When you get home and have more tests I hope the news remains positive. I'll hold that thought.

Betsy talk to the flight attendants they should be able to get you a wheelchair to come to the plane in Miami. It is worth asking.

Glad to hear you got checked out and things were okay. Safe trip home.

So glad to hear you got seen promptly! Safe travels home, and I hope this injury towards the end didn't spoil your big trip too much. I think we are all very eager to hear how it all went once you are feeling better!

Glad to hear you managed to get seen.
Have a safe journey home.
Whisper… get a cab to the airport, you deserve it:-)

Good news for today - No infection- yay! Listen to mardee’s wise advice about keeping us all in the loop once you get home. You’ve had a great trip with a big hiccup at the end. Just relax and enjoy your reminiscing. Circle back to everyone here whenever you’re ready; we’re not going anywhere ;)

Betsy, I’m happy to hear that you went to the hospital. Better news that you don’t have an infection.

Jean, it’s a good thing you sent this link - they changed my flight, & I had no idea!

Thanks!

Betsy, I hope this helps you. American Airlines Special Assistance

Thank you, Laurie!!

Betsy, thanks for letting us know. I'm so glad you found a place to go
and had your mind relieved. When you get home and have more tests I
hope the news remains positive. I'll hold that thought

.

Gail, I will - thank you!!

Betsy talk to the flight attendants they should be able to get you a
wheelchair to come to the plane in Miami. It is worth asking.

Heather and Cat, thanks!!

Cat, no not all - but now I just want to get home, and my flight bring changed (which I just found out about) is annoying AF

I will post as much as I can !

So glad to hear you got seen promptly! Safe travels home, and I hope
this injury towards the end didn't spoil your big trip too much. I
think we are all very eager to hear how it all went once you are
feeling better!

Emma, thanks!

Glad to hear you managed to get seen. Have a safe journey home.
Whisper… get a cab to the airport, you deserve it:-)

Must love dogs… thank you!

I will, and that was great advice !

Hiccups haven’t ended, lol - my flight was canceled, and I was rebooked on a later flight !

Good news for today - No infection- yay! Listen to mardee’s wise
advice about keeping us all in the loop once you get home. You’ve had
a great trip with a big hiccup at the end. Just relax and enjoy your
reminiscing. Circle back to everyone here whenever you’re ready; we’re
not going anywhere ;)

Robin, thanks!!

Betsy, I’m happy to hear that you went to the hospital. Better news
that you don’t have an infection

.

I saw yesterday afternoon that the 1215 flight AA39 had been cancelled, and replaced with another flight at 1215 with a different flight number AA9603, now rescheduled to 1335, just 5 minutes before AA57..
I wondered which was yours.
So now two AA flights to Miami 5 minutes apart.

I’m so glad Jean prompted me to check on the flight by posting AA assistance link. My father helped book the trip on his e-mail, so I never received the new flight info - and he either never received any update, or just forgot to send it to me

That’s odd, but at this point, I’m expecting anything, lol

Edit: and now my flight has been changed to 3:10 pm

I hate this SO much !!!!

I feel like I should change the flight to tomorrow, no cost, and stay at an airport hotel

I saw yesterday afternoon that the 1215 flight AA39 had been
cancelled, and replaced with another flight at 1215 with a different
flight number AA9603, now rescheduled to 1335, just 5 minutes before
AA57.. I wondered which was yours. So now two AA flights to Miami 5
minutes apart.

You should do what you want to do. At this point, I think you deserve it. :-)

Thanks, Mardee!

I stayed on the 3:10 - much as I loved LOVED my stay, at this point I just want to be home …I can’t do much with my knee anyway!

I did decide to pay for internet during the flight - it will help calm me down since I’ve been so frazzled, lol

You should do what you want to do. At this point, I think you deserve
it. :-)

Good to hear you're getting back on track.

I'm confused - the only 3:10 AA to MIA is 1:10 (13:10) to DFW. Is that you with a change?

And seeing you writing at 4pm UK time makes me think that the internet works (wow, I've never replied to somebody onboard before - when I used to fly we didn't have internet yet) and you're relaxing, on either time. Well done.

Think of it this way, Betsy. Going forward if there are any travel challenges that arise, I am going to say to myself “Suck it up and carry on! Betsy faced huge hurdles, too, and (with the help from so many kind and generous people) got through it!”

Well done is right! :)

My father helped book the trip on his e-mail, so I never received the new flight info - and he either never received any update, or just forgot to send it to me.

Just pointing out that you should have the ability to add your contact info to your profile in the trip record - and another reason to travel with your your cell phone number active - hopefully it will get to the point where you can also enter your WhatsApp number. In addition, notifications may be better if you're using the app for the airline you've booked with.

Hi Nigel

Thanks!!

Yea, the 1:10 to MiA from London was delayed because the plan from MIA was late …but I’m not sure why it says DFW

Oh, lol - I paid for the internet! I’ve never done that, but I needed to calm myself down since I was on edge, and bring able to use the internet distracts me!

Good to hear you're getting back on track. I'm confused - the only
3:10 AA to MIA is 1:10 (13:10) to DFW. Is that you with a change? And
seeing you writing at 4pm UK time makes me think that the internet
works (wow, I've never replied to somebody onboard before - when I
used to fly we didn't have internet yet) and you're relaxing, on
either time. Well done.

Must love dogs-

Aww, thanks! I’m a type A worrier who likes everything to go according to plan- when it doesn’t, I get nervous. I didn’t want to freak out and ruin my trip, so I’ve handled the injury part pretty well - but the craziness with the train and plane had gotten me a bit frazzled, lol

I was told that they canceled ALL Eurostars yesterday because, on Tuesday, in addition to the delays caused by two fatalities, someone stole the cable ! So I should consider how lucky I was to get back to London when I dud!

That’s not to even add about how I dealt with. Taxi scammer

Think of it this way, Betsy. Going forward if there are any travel
challenges that arise, I am going to say to myself “Suck it up and
carry on! Betsy faced huge hurdles, too, and (with the help from so
many kind and generous people) got through it!” Well done is right! :)

Mark, I did add the AA app late last night, but I honesty forgot - I dozes off a couple of times, TBH

I’m going to update the info ASAP!

Thanks!

Just pointing out that you should have the ability to add your contact
info to your profile in the trip record - and another reason to travel
with your your cell phone number active - hopefully it will get to the
point where you can also enter your WhatsApp number. In addition,
notifications may be better if you're using the app for the airline
you've booked with.

Betsy, glad you made your flight after all the craziness. You'll be home soon. What a relief!

I see you finally left Heathrow at 1606- 2 1/2 hours later than originally timed. So you should hopefully be into Miami around 8pm local time.

Jean, thanks! Yes, I’m going to love sleeping in my own bed tonight!

Betsy, glad you made your flight after all the craziness. You'll be
home soon. What a relief!

Stuart, about 7:45 pm, amazingly despite the late start!

I see you finally left Heathrow at 1606- 2 1/2 hours later than
originally timed. So you should hopefully be into Miami around 8pm
local time.