I AM writing this letter in sadness at the selfishness of some people, following the criticism of cancer services at James Cook hospital in Middlesbrough (HAS, Feb 4).

I, too, am a patient with cancer. It is two years since it started and I have had many visits to more than one hospital. Everyone with whom I have been involved has always been patient, kind and considerate. Just consider that these good folk see patients every day and must be sorely tired by the behaviour of some people.

When we start out with cancer it is surely more sensible to take each day as it comes, and not moan and complain from day one.

I do hope that your correspondent learns patience and good manners. He certainly has a long, miserable road ahead otherwise.

Name and address supplied, North Yorkshire.