I’ve started experiencing symptoms that need emergency attention (please don’t ask what, I’m not ready to talk about it). So I’ve put together a grab bag of essentials in case I have to go to A&E (then potentially onto a ward) without warning.

Being prepared, knowing I have the essentials covered if I have to go into hospital at short notice, gives me some confidence with my temperamental body.

I chose my Sisu Loungefly as my grab bag as it makes me smile.

Medication: I’ve packed two days worth of all my medication, along with a prescription. If you’re carrying medication, particularly if it’s not in original labelled boxes, it’s good to carry proof that they’re your meds and you’re taking them on the advice of a doctor.

Hospitals aren’t great at being able to get hold of an individual’s daily medication.

Toiletries: I’ve gone basic with toiletries. Toothbrush and toothpaste are essential, plus soap, deodorant and moisturiser. Skincare can be skipped for a day. I want to avoid overpacking.

Change of undies: No one feels good in a less than fresh pair of underwear. I’ve packed a few pairs so that regardless of what else is going on, I feel comfortable.

Snacks: An essential in any bag I pack! With lots of food allergies, getting something to eat is hard.

Cash: So I can get a taxi home if needed.

Have I missed anything in my hospital grab bag?

[Video description: A torso up shot of Tania, a white woman with tied up brown hair. She is wearing glasses with dark green lenses, a black wrist splint and a white jumper with cut out shoulders. Tania holds up a character bag of Sisu, a purple and teal dragon. Tania then shows her essential hospital items of medication, a prescription, her toothbrush, toothpaste, moisturiser, deodorant, wipes, cash, chocolate and crisps.]