Wellington day 42
Chatterbox
Margaret was in a real chatty mood today. She had been out for her controlled walk around the town then had coffee at one of the cafe's with Lisa M and discussed Life the Universe and Everything.
She said she had a really good chat about her treatment prior to coming to the Wellington and can see now the shortfalls with the service. I have tasked her to write her own BLOG at a page per day on her experiences.
She also had an enjoyable group session discussing football. She seems to be enjoying the interaction with the other patients.
I had a telephone chat earlier with Lisa M re outpatient treatment. She is still trying to co-ordinate the various o/p departments as they seem to be specialties at different hospitals. She will give me a list of departments and contacts.
I have confirmed that I will be at home next week and thanks to Bupa for giving me the time. I should then be able to ferry Margaret to any appointments and oversee her rehab in the home environment.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Day 67 Tuesday 28th October 2008
Wellington Day 41
Stairway to Heaven
The 'man from the council' came today to install the hand rail. After deciding it was a cavity wall the installation operative decided that he needed to go and get special fittings. Returning 40 Min's later he fitted a support rail with uprights screwed to the steps rather than on the wall.
It seemed alright at the time but on reflection it is a little ugly. It does not match the other supports on the opposite side as they are square and stained mahogany and the new one has white supports with a pale pine round rail. Will try staining it all one colour and see it it blends any better. However it will serve the purpose and I am sure that after a few months Margaret will not need it and it can be easily dismantled and sent back.
Margaret was pleased with the news and confirmed that all the therapists were geared up for her release now and would be doing their final reports on Thursday. Hopefully Margaret will remember to get Lisa M the SLT Therapist to call me tomorrow to discuss ongoing treatment.
Stairway to Heaven
The 'man from the council' came today to install the hand rail. After deciding it was a cavity wall the installation operative decided that he needed to go and get special fittings. Returning 40 Min's later he fitted a support rail with uprights screwed to the steps rather than on the wall.
It seemed alright at the time but on reflection it is a little ugly. It does not match the other supports on the opposite side as they are square and stained mahogany and the new one has white supports with a pale pine round rail. Will try staining it all one colour and see it it blends any better. However it will serve the purpose and I am sure that after a few months Margaret will not need it and it can be easily dismantled and sent back.
Margaret was pleased with the news and confirmed that all the therapists were geared up for her release now and would be doing their final reports on Thursday. Hopefully Margaret will remember to get Lisa M the SLT Therapist to call me tomorrow to discuss ongoing treatment.
Day 66 Monday 27th October 2008
Wellington Day 40
Was it something I said
Tonight was a reminder if I needed one of how things could be taken for granted. I had spoken to Margaret about being careful with things and that opened the floodgates. She made me aware of the fact that no matter how she tried at some things she just could not do some things. Dr Sharma chose that time to visit and Margaret told him that she was feeling sorry for herself and asking 'why me'
Dr Sharma said it was no surprise as to how she was feeling. The only surprise was that it had taken so long to come about. He assured her that her position compared to the norm was quite spectacular. He has quite a few patients at present with various age ranges from teenagers upwards and some of the younger ones are progressing very slowly and even in wheelchairs after a year. He said it did not diminish Margaret's feelings but reassured her that he felt that she would make a nearly full recovery with the leg, 90%+ functionality with the arm and hand and the speech will only suffer from the odd missed word and will probably go unnoticed.
I was also reassured by the Doctors words but did also find it difficult as I told Margaret, as she said earlier, that I also wished we could wake up one morning and hope that it was all a dream and that I was sorry I could not make it go away but can only help her get better.
While we all celebrate each small victory and sometimes larger steps, it does come at a price in her hard work and endless frustration combined with being istitutionalised.
Still only four more sleeps to hometime.
Was it something I said
Tonight was a reminder if I needed one of how things could be taken for granted. I had spoken to Margaret about being careful with things and that opened the floodgates. She made me aware of the fact that no matter how she tried at some things she just could not do some things. Dr Sharma chose that time to visit and Margaret told him that she was feeling sorry for herself and asking 'why me'
Dr Sharma said it was no surprise as to how she was feeling. The only surprise was that it had taken so long to come about. He assured her that her position compared to the norm was quite spectacular. He has quite a few patients at present with various age ranges from teenagers upwards and some of the younger ones are progressing very slowly and even in wheelchairs after a year. He said it did not diminish Margaret's feelings but reassured her that he felt that she would make a nearly full recovery with the leg, 90%+ functionality with the arm and hand and the speech will only suffer from the odd missed word and will probably go unnoticed.
I was also reassured by the Doctors words but did also find it difficult as I told Margaret, as she said earlier, that I also wished we could wake up one morning and hope that it was all a dream and that I was sorry I could not make it go away but can only help her get better.
While we all celebrate each small victory and sometimes larger steps, it does come at a price in her hard work and endless frustration combined with being istitutionalised.
Still only four more sleeps to hometime.
Monday, October 27, 2008
Rota W/C 27.10.2008
LAST WEEK ?
At the moment the rota seems to be a little sparse compared to previous weeks.
I would not be surprised if extra sessions are slotted in. Possibly Thursday afternoon is when all the final reports will be done, then hopefully home on Friday evening
Days 63-64-65
Friday-Saturday-Sunday
Nearly Normal- Friday 24Th
Week-end leave started early. I left Staines at 4:00pm and drove straight to the hospital. luckily I got a parking space right outside the hospital and was there at 5:20pm
Margaret was packed up and ready to go and we headed out into the rush hour, half term traffic.
We arrived home at 7:00 and Christopher had prepared a lovely meal of Lamb with roast potatoes, parsnips and sweet potatoes followed by apple pie and cream. We all really enjoyed it.
Saturday 25th
Nicola and Joseph came to visit in the morning and Nicola took Margaret down to the coffe shop. I set a dangerous precedent of giving her £10 pocket money, which she promptly spent on pillows and jars of coffee.
We then had the healty option brunch. Sausage, bacon, black pudding and haggis, done in the oven so no greasy plates for me to wash. Supplied by Christopher, again.
Visitors from the outside world.
In the afternoon, Lisa Cullen with baby Jack, 15 months and Stella Risk with 10 month old Lola came for a visit. Margaret really enjoyed the visit and the interaction. i think the visitors were really surprised by how well Margaret is doing.
In the evening we all went to Nicola's for a Pizza night. Jason prepared some salsa dip, which as usual could strip wallpaper with. The man needs to look up mild or slightly spicy in the dictionary.
Joseph asked uncle Chris to have a sleepover. I have yet to hear where he slept, probably with ginger the hampster.
Sunday 26th
After a seemingly long lie in, who for got to turn all the clocks back then. We had a lazy morning. Christopher had flown back to Dublin with Joseph and I then made the rest of the sausages etc. into a fry up.
We went back down to the shops in the afternoon for some ingredients to make crispy cakes in her Occupational Therapy session later in the week.
I got off lightly again by being able to cook the rest of the Lamb etc for dinner which was lovely.
Margaret decided to stay at home to watch 'Strictly Results' so we did not leave the house until after eight o'clock and arrived at the hospital just before nine. I wish it was always that easy.
Nearly Normal- Friday 24Th
Week-end leave started early. I left Staines at 4:00pm and drove straight to the hospital. luckily I got a parking space right outside the hospital and was there at 5:20pm
Margaret was packed up and ready to go and we headed out into the rush hour, half term traffic.
We arrived home at 7:00 and Christopher had prepared a lovely meal of Lamb with roast potatoes, parsnips and sweet potatoes followed by apple pie and cream. We all really enjoyed it.
Saturday 25th
Nicola and Joseph came to visit in the morning and Nicola took Margaret down to the coffe shop. I set a dangerous precedent of giving her £10 pocket money, which she promptly spent on pillows and jars of coffee.
We then had the healty option brunch. Sausage, bacon, black pudding and haggis, done in the oven so no greasy plates for me to wash. Supplied by Christopher, again.
Visitors from the outside world.
In the afternoon, Lisa Cullen with baby Jack, 15 months and Stella Risk with 10 month old Lola came for a visit. Margaret really enjoyed the visit and the interaction. i think the visitors were really surprised by how well Margaret is doing.
In the evening we all went to Nicola's for a Pizza night. Jason prepared some salsa dip, which as usual could strip wallpaper with. The man needs to look up mild or slightly spicy in the dictionary.
Joseph asked uncle Chris to have a sleepover. I have yet to hear where he slept, probably with ginger the hampster.
Sunday 26th
After a seemingly long lie in, who for got to turn all the clocks back then. We had a lazy morning. Christopher had flown back to Dublin with Joseph and I then made the rest of the sausages etc. into a fry up.
We went back down to the shops in the afternoon for some ingredients to make crispy cakes in her Occupational Therapy session later in the week.
I got off lightly again by being able to cook the rest of the Lamb etc for dinner which was lovely.
Margaret decided to stay at home to watch 'Strictly Results' so we did not leave the house until after eight o'clock and arrived at the hospital just before nine. I wish it was always that easy.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Day 62 Thursday 23rd October 2008
Wellington Day 36
A Grand Day Out
Your task should you choose to accept it is:
Go down the high st on your own and count the number of shoe shops.. really hard task I don't think.
Go into the post office and find out what time they close
Go into Boots and ask about contact lenses
Then the Library to find out how to join.
These tasks were completed under distant supervision and Margaret completed them all. This is giving her confidence to be out with other people.
Margaret has good linguistic skills but numeracy is causing her a problem.
She knows the time, but saying twenty past or ten to is problematic. Also she can give you change from £10. IE £10-£3.60 = £6.40 but has difficulty with adding 16 + 14... So there are some compartments still to be opened. At least she will not give all our money away.
A Grand Day Out
Your task should you choose to accept it is:
Go down the high st on your own and count the number of shoe shops.. really hard task I don't think.
Go into the post office and find out what time they close
Go into Boots and ask about contact lenses
Then the Library to find out how to join.
These tasks were completed under distant supervision and Margaret completed them all. This is giving her confidence to be out with other people.
Margaret has good linguistic skills but numeracy is causing her a problem.
She knows the time, but saying twenty past or ten to is problematic. Also she can give you change from £10. IE £10-£3.60 = £6.40 but has difficulty with adding 16 + 14... So there are some compartments still to be opened. At least she will not give all our money away.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Day 61 Wednesday 22nd October 2008
Wellington Day 35
How am I doing?
Christopher flew in today and will be staying until Sunday morning when, hopefully, he will fly back to Dublin with Joseph for a few days.
Margaret had some group sessions today and met other patients. There were varying abilities within the group and Margaret seemed to enjoy the interaction, especially talking about Manchester United from the football match the night before.
Dr. Sharma called in and said that he had been speaking to the doctor at Bupa and from all the reports he has received from all the medical staff at the hospital was able to tell them that Margaret is doing 'spectacularly well'.
Everyone is so pleased at the progress she is making. Margaret is now determined to leave as soon as the end of next week. She does know that she will not receive the abundance of treatment as an outpatient but feels that by that time it will have been 10 weeks and its time to go home.
At present we are just waiting for confirmation from the medical staff and also need to have the house alterations in place.We'll see
How am I doing?
Christopher flew in today and will be staying until Sunday morning when, hopefully, he will fly back to Dublin with Joseph for a few days.
Margaret had some group sessions today and met other patients. There were varying abilities within the group and Margaret seemed to enjoy the interaction, especially talking about Manchester United from the football match the night before.
Dr. Sharma called in and said that he had been speaking to the doctor at Bupa and from all the reports he has received from all the medical staff at the hospital was able to tell them that Margaret is doing 'spectacularly well'.
Everyone is so pleased at the progress she is making. Margaret is now determined to leave as soon as the end of next week. She does know that she will not receive the abundance of treatment as an outpatient but feels that by that time it will have been 10 weeks and its time to go home.
At present we are just waiting for confirmation from the medical staff and also need to have the house alterations in place.We'll see
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Day 60 Tuesday 21st October 2008
Wellington Day 34
Paying the Piper
Nicola joined me for today's trip and we found Margaret quite tired but none the less very chatty.. She had been worked hard during the day and had a late session in the Hydro pool.
She is still finding the right arm problematic. They are working on the fingers and trying to get some co-ordination. It is a strain for her, but you can see how hard she is trying.
The recommendation for this weekend will be for Margaret to come home on the Friday evening. I said I will pick her up AFTER dinner, and to order some for me as the traffic is going to be very heavy at that time of night.
Christopher is coming over on Wednesday night so he can have the pleasure of getting up and making breakfast on the Saturday while I have a lie in....shh don't tell him
Paying the Piper
Nicola joined me for today's trip and we found Margaret quite tired but none the less very chatty.. She had been worked hard during the day and had a late session in the Hydro pool.
She is still finding the right arm problematic. They are working on the fingers and trying to get some co-ordination. It is a strain for her, but you can see how hard she is trying.
The recommendation for this weekend will be for Margaret to come home on the Friday evening. I said I will pick her up AFTER dinner, and to order some for me as the traffic is going to be very heavy at that time of night.
Christopher is coming over on Wednesday night so he can have the pleasure of getting up and making breakfast on the Saturday while I have a lie in....shh don't tell him
Day 59 Monday 20th October 2008
Wellington Day 33
Work Work Work
This week sees if anything an increase in the intensity of Margaret's work. Everyone is working towards her 'release' within the fortnight. Margaret is aware that she will not get anywhere near the intensity of therapy treatment as an outpatient and has to make the most of the next 10 days or so.
I had a talk with a company called ABLE2 who are acting on behalf of Hounslow council. They have been in touch with Lisa the OT at the hospital and have agreed in principle to the recommendations that Lisa had compiled on Friday and will contact me with planned installations.
Margaret obviously had such a relaxing weekend that she said she was up snacking to 11 pm. I told her she will need to work hard to keep her weight down.
Work Work Work
This week sees if anything an increase in the intensity of Margaret's work. Everyone is working towards her 'release' within the fortnight. Margaret is aware that she will not get anywhere near the intensity of therapy treatment as an outpatient and has to make the most of the next 10 days or so.
I had a talk with a company called ABLE2 who are acting on behalf of Hounslow council. They have been in touch with Lisa the OT at the hospital and have agreed in principle to the recommendations that Lisa had compiled on Friday and will contact me with planned installations.
Margaret obviously had such a relaxing weekend that she said she was up snacking to 11 pm. I told her she will need to work hard to keep her weight down.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Days 57 & 58 Sat & Sun 18th & 19Th October 2008
Le Weekend
Saturday 18th
Nicola went to pick up Margaret on Saturday morning which gave me a long lie in bed.
The rest did not last long as I got a phone call about 1pm to say that the traffic had been very busy and that they were due to arrive in 10 mins and they were starving and to get the kettle on and the frying pan out.
So we had a fry-up for lunch, the usual sausage, bacon, eggs and fried bread with beans. Unfortunately no blak or fruit pudding or potato scones.
After a nap it was time for tea. Well some scones, jam and genuine devon clotted cream.
For dinner it was a home tikka masala with nan bread.
Then it was time for Strictly followed by X-Factor. Margaret was then sent to bed without supper.
Sunday 19th
Margaret also had the luxury of a lie in. She usually has to get up about 7:30 but she did not get up until 9:30. She tried out her new Bath board and had a shower. The instructions state that the handle should be on the outside edge of the bath. However we dont know you are supposed to get on to the board without getting the thrill of a lifetime.Answers and drawings on a postcard please.
We had a trip out in the afternoon and even managed to do some shopping at Asda. She made me buy healthy food like peas although she made sure that she got her chocolate snacks for the hospital.
New Hair Do
She decided that the blond hairs coming through were not for her so we had a makeover. My talents are endless.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Day 56 Friday 17th October 2008
Wellington Day 30
Home visit Assessment
Margaret made a home visit with Lisa, the therapist.
This was to see how Margaret will function around the home environment. The stairs are the obvious problem area. Margaret showed off her prowess around the house and was making light of the tasks. She was able to get into the bath with the aid of a board so will be easier to have her daily shower. I have subsequently purchased a board for home so this will make it easier.
Getting in and out of the house proven no problem. Other areas to help will be grip mats in the kitchen to make it easier and safer to use utensils and prevent slippage.
Lisa has taken her recommendations and will contact community rehab to see what they can do for us. Have pit plans in place to have a handrail fitted if they delay installation
Margaret is looking forward to her home stay tomorrow.
Home visit Assessment
Margaret made a home visit with Lisa, the therapist.
This was to see how Margaret will function around the home environment. The stairs are the obvious problem area. Margaret showed off her prowess around the house and was making light of the tasks. She was able to get into the bath with the aid of a board so will be easier to have her daily shower. I have subsequently purchased a board for home so this will make it easier.
Getting in and out of the house proven no problem. Other areas to help will be grip mats in the kitchen to make it easier and safer to use utensils and prevent slippage.
Lisa has taken her recommendations and will contact community rehab to see what they can do for us. Have pit plans in place to have a handrail fitted if they delay installation
Margaret is looking forward to her home stay tomorrow.
Day 55 Thursday 16th October 2008
Wellington day 29
No news today
More Hydrotherapy today.This really helps with the right shoulder, which is the only area that is really painful to use.
She now takes herself down to the Therapy room for her morning sessions. Plenty of exercises on the stairs which will help her at home.
All is well and moving forward.
No news today
More Hydrotherapy today.This really helps with the right shoulder, which is the only area that is really painful to use.
She now takes herself down to the Therapy room for her morning sessions. Plenty of exercises on the stairs which will help her at home.
All is well and moving forward.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Day 54 Wednesday 15th October 2008
Wellington Day 28
Getting There
Its getting to the stage where it is getting more and more difficult to come up with something interesting to say.
Today is one of those days.
I took the train and the tube today, it was relaxing, the only danger is that I fall asleep on the way home and end up in Reading a couple of hours later.
There is a Case Conference tomorrow so there may be a discussion on a possible release date. At present we are trying to liaise with the council regarding an outpatient plan and any home improvements that may be needed. In the meantime I will be getting a second handrail fitted next week to move things along.
Getting There
Its getting to the stage where it is getting more and more difficult to come up with something interesting to say.
Today is one of those days.
I took the train and the tube today, it was relaxing, the only danger is that I fall asleep on the way home and end up in Reading a couple of hours later.
There is a Case Conference tomorrow so there may be a discussion on a possible release date. At present we are trying to liaise with the council regarding an outpatient plan and any home improvements that may be needed. In the meantime I will be getting a second handrail fitted next week to move things along.
Day 53 Tuesday 14th October 2008
Wellington Day 27
Water Works
Margaret got back into the Hydro pool today. This is helping greatly with her right shoulder. She is due for another session on Friday.
We spent some time on english homework. The vocabulary is being expanded and Margaret is doing very well
Each day is an improvement, although I still cannot convince her that doing the ironing is the best therapy she can get for her right arm..will keep trying
Water Works
Margaret got back into the Hydro pool today. This is helping greatly with her right shoulder. She is due for another session on Friday.
We spent some time on english homework. The vocabulary is being expanded and Margaret is doing very well
Each day is an improvement, although I still cannot convince her that doing the ironing is the best therapy she can get for her right arm..will keep trying
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Day 52 - Monday 13th Oct 2008
Wellington Day 26
What a difference a day makes.
Margaret was the talk of the 6th floor after her week-end escapades.
She was far more relaxed today and CHATTY, I could not stop her. I had to tell her to stop at one point. Her conversational skills are improving .
Lisa, the Therapist is coming on Friday to do a home assessment and I believe that Margaret will be coming along for the ride.
The only problem with that is that Margaret will make Aggie & Kim seem like a couple of angels expecting a spotless presentation. At the moment I have a problem sitting down and I cannot find the sweeping brush!
Does anyone have any storage boxes as having mastered the washing machine a clothes mountain, well several, have appeared. Hopefully she won't look in the attic.
What a difference a day makes.
Margaret was the talk of the 6th floor after her week-end escapades.
She was far more relaxed today and CHATTY, I could not stop her. I had to tell her to stop at one point. Her conversational skills are improving .
Lisa, the Therapist is coming on Friday to do a home assessment and I believe that Margaret will be coming along for the ride.
The only problem with that is that Margaret will make Aggie & Kim seem like a couple of angels expecting a spotless presentation. At the moment I have a problem sitting down and I cannot find the sweeping brush!
Does anyone have any storage boxes as having mastered the washing machine a clothes mountain, well several, have appeared. Hopefully she won't look in the attic.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Day 51 - Sunday 12th Oct 2008
Wellington Day 25
In an English Country Garden
Margaret had a wonderful nights sleep (on her own ,I might add) I slept in the hall in case she decided to hurl herself down the stairs in the middle of the night....!
After breakfast we had a lazy morning catching up on the American episodes of Dancing With The Stars . Then a real treat some proper cooked food. A couple of sausages, bacon, eggs and beans, none of you namby-pamby gourmet hospital fare.
In the afternoon we sat out in the garden and Kal from work popped round to see her and had a good natter.
And Finally. I am sure you will be delighted with the progress Margaret is making and lacking a dog and the ability to do magic tricks; I now proudly present:- Video
And so back to hospital, no drama and no trauma. Thus begins another busy week.
Day 50 - Saturday 11th Oct 2008
Wellington Day 24
We are not amused.
Margaret started her home visit today.
This was not without its trials and tribulations. After the euphoria of receiving the news yesterday the 'head therapist' whom Margaret had not seen before came to see her at noon and announced that there would be no home visit. Needless to say Margaret was distraught at this news. One of the nurses then called me to inform me of this decision not the therapist.
Margaret was still very upset when I arrived 90 minutes later. The nurses had done their best to console her in my absence and it took me a while to convince her that she was coming home with me. After some discussion with the nursing staff, they spoke to the 'therapist' and told her I was taking Margaret out.
I fully understand the NURSEs position and their role and attach no blame to them. I Signed a safety waiver and left.
The reason I have published this is that so you know Margarets state of mind and to be aware that she may get emotional when you are talking to her.
Margaret soon cheered up once home and it was not long before I got my instructions on the washing and general housekeeping.
Nicola and Joseph came to pay a visit bringing some of Jason's homemade : pepper, pumpkin, pepper, carrot and pepper soup. This was followed by 4 cheese and peperoni pizzas supplied by myself.
In the afternoon we had watched Scotland dissapoint again in the football but a better display from England. Unfortunately we missed Wales's slaughter of the mighty Liechtenstein.
In the evening We had Strictley followed by the X-Factor. We left the results show until the morning.
It was Nice to be home
We are not amused.
Margaret started her home visit today.
This was not without its trials and tribulations. After the euphoria of receiving the news yesterday the 'head therapist' whom Margaret had not seen before came to see her at noon and announced that there would be no home visit. Needless to say Margaret was distraught at this news. One of the nurses then called me to inform me of this decision not the therapist.
Margaret was still very upset when I arrived 90 minutes later. The nurses had done their best to console her in my absence and it took me a while to convince her that she was coming home with me. After some discussion with the nursing staff, they spoke to the 'therapist' and told her I was taking Margaret out.
I fully understand the NURSEs position and their role and attach no blame to them. I Signed a safety waiver and left.
The reason I have published this is that so you know Margarets state of mind and to be aware that she may get emotional when you are talking to her.
Margaret soon cheered up once home and it was not long before I got my instructions on the washing and general housekeeping.
Nicola and Joseph came to pay a visit bringing some of Jason's homemade : pepper, pumpkin, pepper, carrot and pepper soup. This was followed by 4 cheese and peperoni pizzas supplied by myself.
In the afternoon we had watched Scotland dissapoint again in the football but a better display from England. Unfortunately we missed Wales's slaughter of the mighty Liechtenstein.
In the evening We had Strictley followed by the X-Factor. We left the results show until the morning.
It was Nice to be home
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Day 49 Friday 10th Oct 2008
Wellington Day 23
Is there a Doctor in the House
It was a shorter visit today. Joseph was granda sitting for the evening and I had to pick him up after school and we did not arrive until 6:30.
Dr Sharma came to visit about 7:15 and we had a chat about Margaret spending the week-end at home. He took a lot of persuasion but we managed to convince him it would be a safe environment for the one night. He agreed as long as Margaret was fully supervised going up and down stairs. She has some therapy on Saturday morning and I will go and pick her up about 1:00pm and have her back by 8:00pm on Sunday.
All I have to do now is cut the grass, do the washing up, change the bed-sheets, hoover the carpets, wash the floor and oh - better buy some food
Is there a Doctor in the House
It was a shorter visit today. Joseph was granda sitting for the evening and I had to pick him up after school and we did not arrive until 6:30.
Dr Sharma came to visit about 7:15 and we had a chat about Margaret spending the week-end at home. He took a lot of persuasion but we managed to convince him it would be a safe environment for the one night. He agreed as long as Margaret was fully supervised going up and down stairs. She has some therapy on Saturday morning and I will go and pick her up about 1:00pm and have her back by 8:00pm on Sunday.
All I have to do now is cut the grass, do the washing up, change the bed-sheets, hoover the carpets, wash the floor and oh - better buy some food
Friday, October 10, 2008
Day 48 Thursday 9th Oct 2008
Wellington Day 22
Any excuse to get out
It was a beautiful day today. I picked Margaret up just after lunch and we made our way to the Dentist. Margaret had a good chat with Marie while in the car and was thoroughly enjoying the drive.
The Dentist then spent about 45mins fitting a temporary post and re-attaching the crown. She will need to go back in 3/4 weeks to have a permanent fitting. I am sure she was trying to break her teeth on the beer bottle top deliberately in order to get out.
She now has her smile back and is very happy again.
Family dinner.
We then went home and as Christopher was still here, Nicola picked up Joseph and came over for dinner. We went for the healthy option of course. Lightly coated fish with accompanying golden potatoes seasonally dressed in sodium chloride and also a sour-tasting condiment and preservative prepared by two successive microbial processes. Basically Fish'nChips from the chip shop., with Jumbo sausage, battered sausage and a steak pie, washed down with a Zero coke. MMMMM
Any excuse to get out
It was a beautiful day today. I picked Margaret up just after lunch and we made our way to the Dentist. Margaret had a good chat with Marie while in the car and was thoroughly enjoying the drive.
The Dentist then spent about 45mins fitting a temporary post and re-attaching the crown. She will need to go back in 3/4 weeks to have a permanent fitting. I am sure she was trying to break her teeth on the beer bottle top deliberately in order to get out.
She now has her smile back and is very happy again.
Family dinner.
We then went home and as Christopher was still here, Nicola picked up Joseph and came over for dinner. We went for the healthy option of course. Lightly coated fish with accompanying golden potatoes seasonally dressed in sodium chloride and also a sour-tasting condiment and preservative prepared by two successive microbial processes. Basically Fish'nChips from the chip shop., with Jumbo sausage, battered sausage and a steak pie, washed down with a Zero coke. MMMMM
Day 47 Wednesday 8th October 2008
Wellington Day 21
Give me a break
After posting the telephone number margaret is now complaining that she cannot get a rest during her lunchbreak.. So please leave your phonecalls to after 5.00pm in the evening as she works so hard in the mornings that she needs a rest after lunch.
In an effort to do things by herself Margaret managed to dislodge a crown and now needs to go to the Dentist tomorrow.
She also had a little tumble in the bathroom, again trying to do too much late in the evening when she is tired. it just brings to the fore the reality that although she is making phenomenal progress sometimes she needs to slow things down.
This is on the back of the fact that she was outside with the physios in the morning walking 'unaided' aroung the building. possibly throwing her knickers over Pauls fence got her too excited, or was it him throwing them back with a brick attached that did the damage.
Give me a break
After posting the telephone number margaret is now complaining that she cannot get a rest during her lunchbreak.. So please leave your phonecalls to after 5.00pm in the evening as she works so hard in the mornings that she needs a rest after lunch.
In an effort to do things by herself Margaret managed to dislodge a crown and now needs to go to the Dentist tomorrow.
She also had a little tumble in the bathroom, again trying to do too much late in the evening when she is tired. it just brings to the fore the reality that although she is making phenomenal progress sometimes she needs to slow things down.
This is on the back of the fact that she was outside with the physios in the morning walking 'unaided' aroung the building. possibly throwing her knickers over Pauls fence got her too excited, or was it him throwing them back with a brick attached that did the damage.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Day 46 - Tuesday 7th Oct 2008
Wellington Day 20
A well earned rest
On Tuesday, Dad ended 45 days of consecutive (and sometimes multiple) daily visits to the hospital to visit Mum, by taking the evening off. To be honest, I'm amazed he lasted so long without collapsing from exhaustion.
On a normal day, he'd be up at 08:00 and into work for 08:30, working through without a lunch break in order to finish at about 15:30 and get back home for 16:00. A quick bite to eat and gathering of Mum's necessities he then heads to the hospital (through some nasty rush hour traffic) to get there for about 17:00; followed by 3 or 4 circuits of the area looking for a parking space. After visiting for about 3 hours he makes the 1 hour journey home and just about has time for a cup of coffee and a bite to eat before bed, and the cycle begins again.
It was well overdue that he took an evening off, so in his stead Nicola and I went to visit and spend a couple of hours with Mum in the Wellington.
We arrived at 5:15pm, literally just as Mum had sat down in her chair to watch some TV. She was just back from an extra physiotherapy session where she had been put through her paces on the skiing machine; designed to help with leg and arm strength, as well as co-ordination.
Mum usually has her dinner around 18:15 and Nicola and I were getting a bit peckish ourselves (somewhat of an understatement), so we decided to see if we could get some food delivered to the hospital so we could all eat at the same time.
Nicola asked the nurses if they knew any good delivery places around, and was presented with a menu for the local Chinese; apparently the nurses use it quite often! The menu was extensive and covered not just Chinese, but Thai and Japanese too. Even better was that when Nicola called them they asked what floor we were on and what room number; they would deliver straight to the door!
Unfortunately, delivery took a bit longer than expected and Mum had polished off her steak & potatoes, followed by banana split, before ours arrived (believe me, there is absolutely nothing wrong with her appetite).
The Swimsuit Saga
When Dr. Sharma, Mum's senior consultant, visited late last week he suggested that Mum might enjoy some Hydrotherapy, as they have a pool in the hospital. Her first session has been organised for Friday afternoon, and so has begun the search for some suitable attire. Apparently, nothing Mum currently owns is suitable and, surprise-surprise, it's not so easy trying find a store that sells 'suitable' swimsuits this late in the season.
The usual outlets where you would expect to find this kind of thing all year round (Debenhams, Marks & Spencer, BHS) have very limited range and stock - as if everyone stops going swimming or going on holiday come October. Anyway, we've got just about 24 hours to try and track something down, or Mum'll be doing hydrotherapy in a tracksuit!
A well earned rest
On Tuesday, Dad ended 45 days of consecutive (and sometimes multiple) daily visits to the hospital to visit Mum, by taking the evening off. To be honest, I'm amazed he lasted so long without collapsing from exhaustion.
On a normal day, he'd be up at 08:00 and into work for 08:30, working through without a lunch break in order to finish at about 15:30 and get back home for 16:00. A quick bite to eat and gathering of Mum's necessities he then heads to the hospital (through some nasty rush hour traffic) to get there for about 17:00; followed by 3 or 4 circuits of the area looking for a parking space. After visiting for about 3 hours he makes the 1 hour journey home and just about has time for a cup of coffee and a bite to eat before bed, and the cycle begins again.
It was well overdue that he took an evening off, so in his stead Nicola and I went to visit and spend a couple of hours with Mum in the Wellington.
We arrived at 5:15pm, literally just as Mum had sat down in her chair to watch some TV. She was just back from an extra physiotherapy session where she had been put through her paces on the skiing machine; designed to help with leg and arm strength, as well as co-ordination.
Mum usually has her dinner around 18:15 and Nicola and I were getting a bit peckish ourselves (somewhat of an understatement), so we decided to see if we could get some food delivered to the hospital so we could all eat at the same time.
Nicola asked the nurses if they knew any good delivery places around, and was presented with a menu for the local Chinese; apparently the nurses use it quite often! The menu was extensive and covered not just Chinese, but Thai and Japanese too. Even better was that when Nicola called them they asked what floor we were on and what room number; they would deliver straight to the door!
Unfortunately, delivery took a bit longer than expected and Mum had polished off her steak & potatoes, followed by banana split, before ours arrived (believe me, there is absolutely nothing wrong with her appetite).
The Swimsuit Saga
When Dr. Sharma, Mum's senior consultant, visited late last week he suggested that Mum might enjoy some Hydrotherapy, as they have a pool in the hospital. Her first session has been organised for Friday afternoon, and so has begun the search for some suitable attire. Apparently, nothing Mum currently owns is suitable and, surprise-surprise, it's not so easy trying find a store that sells 'suitable' swimsuits this late in the season.
The usual outlets where you would expect to find this kind of thing all year round (Debenhams, Marks & Spencer, BHS) have very limited range and stock - as if everyone stops going swimming or going on holiday come October. Anyway, we've got just about 24 hours to try and track something down, or Mum'll be doing hydrotherapy in a tracksuit!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Day 45 - Monday 6th Oct 2008
Wellington Day 19
The Committee
This afternoon Margaret and I had a meeting with Dr Sharma and the full team of therapists. The consensus was that Margaret is doing really well and everyone is impressed by her progress.
Dr. Sharma was impressed by the progression in her speech and general mobility.
Treatment shall continue at the same pace with a look to Margaret coming home in about 3 weeks. !!!!!!
The therapist will arrange a home visit to assess what equipment may be required around the house, such as an extra handrail for the stairs. Once this is done then Margaret can have 'Trial Visits' with overnight stays.
Margaret is determined to be out in the 3 weeks, I doubt we could stop her now.
Watch this space.
For those of you who have been worried about me, well, I am having a night off on Tuesday to recharge. Nicola and Christopher will visit and Margaret can phone me at home.
The telephone number for the 6th floor is 0207 483 5036 and ask for room 660. Check the rota but generally between 1pm and 2pm is best or evenings. I will get Margaret to phone mum.
The Committee
This afternoon Margaret and I had a meeting with Dr Sharma and the full team of therapists. The consensus was that Margaret is doing really well and everyone is impressed by her progress.
Dr. Sharma was impressed by the progression in her speech and general mobility.
Treatment shall continue at the same pace with a look to Margaret coming home in about 3 weeks. !!!!!!
The therapist will arrange a home visit to assess what equipment may be required around the house, such as an extra handrail for the stairs. Once this is done then Margaret can have 'Trial Visits' with overnight stays.
Margaret is determined to be out in the 3 weeks, I doubt we could stop her now.
Watch this space.
For those of you who have been worried about me, well, I am having a night off on Tuesday to recharge. Nicola and Christopher will visit and Margaret can phone me at home.
The telephone number for the 6th floor is 0207 483 5036 and ask for room 660. Check the rota but generally between 1pm and 2pm is best or evenings. I will get Margaret to phone mum.
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Day 44 - Sun 5th Oct 2008
Wellington Day 18
Hair raisin' experience
Hair raisin' experience
A new look
As you can see Margaret decided to have her hair trimmed to a uniform length. This was deftly and bravely done by Jason.
We had a smashing lunch again supplied and prepared by Jason, who said we men cannot multi-task.
The Girls
Day 43 - Sat 4th Oct 2008
Wellington Day 17
Wino's in the woods
Margaret, Nicola, with Celeine and Brennagh went down the high st to Harry Morgan's cafe for afternoon tea and a glass of wine. They brought back some delicious cakes and patisseries that we had after dinner. They were so rich that we had to take half of each home.
Margaret really enjoyed the visit. I came up later in the day with Joseph. I would have been earlier but Joseph had me traipsing around Londis shops looking for Match Attax cards only for him to tell me that they don't come out until the 9th! he thought the shop may get them earlier.
Tomorrow Margaret is coming home for lunch with the family
Wino's in the woods
Margaret, Nicola, with Celeine and Brennagh went down the high st to Harry Morgan's cafe for afternoon tea and a glass of wine. They brought back some delicious cakes and patisseries that we had after dinner. They were so rich that we had to take half of each home.
Margaret really enjoyed the visit. I came up later in the day with Joseph. I would have been earlier but Joseph had me traipsing around Londis shops looking for Match Attax cards only for him to tell me that they don't come out until the 9th! he thought the shop may get them earlier.
Tomorrow Margaret is coming home for lunch with the family
Saturday, October 4, 2008
Rota W/C 04.10.2008
Next weeks rota. Click to enlarge
As you can see it is another fun packed schedule.
More work being done on the hand and arm each morning, plenty of therapy as she was getting bored in the afternoons and a dip in the pool on Friday
There is a Team meeting on Monday at 4:00 which I will attend.
As you can see it is another fun packed schedule.
More work being done on the hand and arm each morning, plenty of therapy as she was getting bored in the afternoons and a dip in the pool on Friday
There is a Team meeting on Monday at 4:00 which I will attend.
Friday, October 3, 2008
Day 42 - Friday 3rd October 2008
Wellington Day 16
Dad and I went up early today and managed to park the car in a nearby road without having to circle 4 or 5 times.
Mum was practising writing and was very keen to show us her new rota for next week, there is a hydro therapy session on Friday, how exciting.
Phone Service
Mum called room service and ordered coffee for 3, she's getting good at this, but the waitress is severely under pressure :-(
Feeding Time
We decided to order a chinese takeaway, I couldn't sit through another night watching mum eat a 3 course meal, we ordered online but then got a call to say they didn't deliver to hospitals! S0 we had to find an alternative.....we're now friends of the "Peking Inn"
Gold Star
Mr Sharma visited tonight and was again very impressed with mum's progress especially her walking, all unassisted!
Mum no longer needs to buzz for the nurse when she needs a shower or to use the toilet....she's Mrs. Independent now.
We're looking forward to a girls coffee afternoon as soon as Celeine and Brennagh arrive.
Dad was also told to take home the lovely pasta that mum made yesterday...that's luch sorted for tomorrow.
Dad and I went up early today and managed to park the car in a nearby road without having to circle 4 or 5 times.
Mum was practising writing and was very keen to show us her new rota for next week, there is a hydro therapy session on Friday, how exciting.
Phone Service
Mum called room service and ordered coffee for 3, she's getting good at this, but the waitress is severely under pressure :-(
Feeding Time
We decided to order a chinese takeaway, I couldn't sit through another night watching mum eat a 3 course meal, we ordered online but then got a call to say they didn't deliver to hospitals! S0 we had to find an alternative.....we're now friends of the "Peking Inn"
Gold Star
Mr Sharma visited tonight and was again very impressed with mum's progress especially her walking, all unassisted!
Mum no longer needs to buzz for the nurse when she needs a shower or to use the toilet....she's Mrs. Independent now.
We're looking forward to a girls coffee afternoon as soon as Celeine and Brennagh arrive.
Dad was also told to take home the lovely pasta that mum made yesterday...that's luch sorted for tomorrow.
Day 41 - Thursday 2nd October 2008
Wellington - Day 15
No News is Good News
It was one of those days.
Things are going well, and Margaret is getting stronger and fitter by the hour.
Christopher left at 7:00 to get the tube to the airport, which took 1hr 15mins and the plane was on time- a result. So Margaret and I had a night in watching the football.
I hear that Marks & Spencer's profits are down, I cannot understand how 'cause Margaret bought up ALL their tops. I thought I might try and put the iron inside the washing machine and see if the clothes come out pressed. I am sure it will work.
At the moment I am on the look out for left handed forks and spoons, let me know if you find any.
No News is Good News
It was one of those days.
Things are going well, and Margaret is getting stronger and fitter by the hour.
Christopher left at 7:00 to get the tube to the airport, which took 1hr 15mins and the plane was on time- a result. So Margaret and I had a night in watching the football.
I hear that Marks & Spencer's profits are down, I cannot understand how 'cause Margaret bought up ALL their tops. I thought I might try and put the iron inside the washing machine and see if the clothes come out pressed. I am sure it will work.
At the moment I am on the look out for left handed forks and spoons, let me know if you find any.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Day 40 - Wednesday 1st Oct 2008
Wellington Day 14
Laundry Day
Since Mum has been in the Wellington she has been dressing in her own clothes, rather than a hospital gown. This, inevitably, has led to the need for washing.
Each week used clothes are taken away and replacements delivered - just like a real laundry service, except the person doing the washing is Dad.
Not being one to look 'wrinkled', Mum of course demands that her clothes are impeccably ironed, so rather than do this at home and risk ironing something that Mum doesn't really want - Dad brought up a bag full of tops and got Mum to select which she wanted. He then produced an iron, out of another bag, and proceeded to iron the selected tops, on the floor of the hospital room.
Once that was completed, he was handed another bundle of used clothes and the cycle begins again.
Freeview
Dad brought in a freeview box from home and I conected it to the TV in Mum's room. She now has a few extra channels to watch, including ITV4 (for the football).
Shopping trip to Tesco
Contrary to the previous entry, it is actually Thursday that Mum is going on her shopping trip to Tesco. Not sure what the budget is, but I'm sure she'll try and sneak some biccie's in there, to keep her visitors happy.
View from the balcony
Mum's hospital room is high-up on the 6th floor of the Wellington, and affords quite a nice view of the city.
^ Click to enlarge ^
Laundry Day
Since Mum has been in the Wellington she has been dressing in her own clothes, rather than a hospital gown. This, inevitably, has led to the need for washing.
Each week used clothes are taken away and replacements delivered - just like a real laundry service, except the person doing the washing is Dad.
Not being one to look 'wrinkled', Mum of course demands that her clothes are impeccably ironed, so rather than do this at home and risk ironing something that Mum doesn't really want - Dad brought up a bag full of tops and got Mum to select which she wanted. He then produced an iron, out of another bag, and proceeded to iron the selected tops, on the floor of the hospital room.
Once that was completed, he was handed another bundle of used clothes and the cycle begins again.
Freeview
Dad brought in a freeview box from home and I conected it to the TV in Mum's room. She now has a few extra channels to watch, including ITV4 (for the football).
Shopping trip to Tesco
Contrary to the previous entry, it is actually Thursday that Mum is going on her shopping trip to Tesco. Not sure what the budget is, but I'm sure she'll try and sneak some biccie's in there, to keep her visitors happy.
View from the balcony
Mum's hospital room is high-up on the 6th floor of the Wellington, and affords quite a nice view of the city.
^ Click to enlarge ^
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