A woman who spent four months in hospital has challenged the government to tackle the “immense pressure” staff are under.

Gillian Leake, of Wilmot Road in Leyton, was referred to Whipps Cross Hospital in Leytonstone for treatment for breast cancer last year.

The retired factory worker also had her thyroid gland and a gland in the lower neck removed.

The 61-year-old was admitted to hospital on Easter Monday and expected to only be there for two weeks.

But an allergic reaction to a muscle relaxant and MRSA meant she had to stay until August 20.

Miss Leake is still undergoing rehabilitation and is in remission from her cancer.

She said she saw at first hand the difficult circumstances staff are expected to work in.

“The government should work in these hospitals for two weeks and just see the immense pressure that staff are under," Miss Leake said.

“The nurses and doctors were run off their feet.

"They have about 15 or more patients each and there is no doubt more need to be recruited.

“It was a common occurrence for a nurse to be late to seeing me and they would apologise and say they were short staffed today.

“I understand I was on the mend so I was not their priority but it was clear that there was not enough staff and they were stretched.

“Some of the most dedicated nurses were getting into the hospital at 7.30am and working until 10pm.”

Despite the pressure on staff, Miss Leake was full of praise for the level of care she received.

“The care and attention I received was second to none," she added.

"The public demand instant treatment and people are so rude and disrespectful in the way they speak to the nurses.

“I get emotional talking about it.

"I have sent the team at Whipps cards and letters to thank them because they saved my life and work beyond their means to provide.

"I cannot express how grateful I am."

In a new series on the NHS, the Guardian will feature experiences of patients, their families and staff of treatment provided across east London and west Essex. As A&Es continue to struggle with demand and politicians argue over the future of healthcare, we will publish first-hand accounts, features and news stories on the latest developments. We want to hear from you if you have something to say about your local hospital, GP surgery, or clinic. Click here for contact details of reporters covering your area. Alternatively, you can submit a story here.