Wednesday

Being a Wednesday, it was a hospital day, so we were up reasonably early and setting off over to Heartlands Hospital for John’s haematology check-up. The last time we went, I had seen some disabled parking spaces outside the door of MIDRU – the Medical Innovation Development and Research Unit – and asked whether we could park there. The answer was ‘no’, but we could drop off.

As it was pouring with rain, we opted to drive that way round. Disappointingly, we couldn’t get into the car park as it was staff only, so John hopped out of the car and walked. I drove round to the normal car park and walked through as we usually do. When I got to the waiting room John was already there. He grinned at me and said, “It was no nearer – I still had to walk miles…..” Oh. Bother. Ah well, at least we know for the next time.

Anyway, the consultant we saw, Dr Ansari, was pleased with John’s blood results and she was about to start talking John through them and asked how he was, when in breezed Paneesha. He was delighted to see John and very happy with the outcome of all the treatments John has had, declaring him ‘cured’ of the leukaemia.

He commiserated with John over his lung condition and wondered whether a lung transplant was an option? We said no, that had been discussed a year or so ago and not on offer. Paneesha is nothing but ever hopeful that John’s ailments can be eased and is always coming up with something to try and help. We are grateful, of course, and we were glad to see him.

After we’d finished at the hospital, I suggested to John that we nip into John Lewis’s to see if there were any frocks for Lucy’s wedding. I know I have left it late to choose something, but I’d half thought I might wear one of the dresses I have in my wardrobe. However, in the end, I decided I’d choose something new.

We trailed round all the rails and picked up a few dresses to try on. I quite liked one of them, but John thought the top was a bit plain. He was right, it certainly didn’t quite have the ‘wow’ factor. I tried another on that we both liked, but I thought it wasn’t posh enough. “Hmmm,” said the fitting room assistant, “It’s a lovely day dress and does look nice on you. Have you got some time? Shall I see if I can find a stylist to help you?” Well, I don’t mind if I do!! “John? Have we got time?” He nodded. “Yes, please,” I replied.

And what a fortuitous thing it was. The girl came over – not a full stylist, but had experience enough to help – and she went to the rails, immediately pulling out three dresses that would be suitable. Our eyes alighted on the first one and that was it! I tried it on, it fitted, it looked nice, so we said we’d have it. The girl brought shoes and a jacket to seal the deal and so we came home happy. Oh, and that day dress? “Have them both,” said John. So I did.

Once home, John disappeared into the garage and I sat in the lounge for a rest. Had a chat to Michael on a video call: ” Do you want me to come over?” I asked. “I’ve got a couple of hours this afternoon, if you need things doing. But if not, I’ll stay here.” I think he may have liked me to go over, but he said ‘no, they were managing OK’.

I sat a bit longer on the sofa. My eyes were heavy. I dozed off. I woke up an hour later feeling woozy, so I toddled up the stairs and slumped into bed. Another couple of hours later……… crikey, I must have been tired. Well, I knew I was because I couldn’t sleep last night, so no wonder. Or was it the excitement of buying a new outfit? Either way, I woke and felt refreshed in time for Quiz Night.

Had fun, as always, with the Quiz Night. Everyone was on top form, despite all the hard work people are having to do with various family members and building work, and it was lovely to see them. Thoroughly enjoyed the quiz, to which I knew some of the answers! Chuffed whenever that happens.

Take care everyone. God bless.

Oh…. and that item that John went to collect from Sue and Chris yesterday? He’s only gone and bought me a Bentwood Rocking Chair! I am delighted to say the least….. I do love a chair – and this is special – reminds me of rocking the children when they were babies. Lush, eh?