Yesterday was stitches out day. The nurse removed the dressing and we saw the scar. All 4 inches of it. It’s astounding that such a major operation required such a small incision. Everything looked good and mum was delighted to learn that she could now have a shower.
Once that was taken care of, the sun had finally emerged so we went up to the top of Castle Hill to continue building up on the walking in what we thought was going to be a quiet, yet scenic, location. It was very busy. Lots of dogs and photographers – despite the visibility still being quite poor. We let Meg off the lead and walked along the path, and back again, probably about twice the distance of the previous day.
Today was independence day. Mum woke me this morning by bringing me cup of coffee. After she’d had a shower (Tip of the day: Shower gel is easier than soap as it doesn’t fall on the floor) I watched her climb the stairs without her sticks, in the proper manner one foot per stair. Truly excellent progress.
After lunch we did the “scenes of my youth” tour. I took Mum up to Huddersfield Sailing Club and then onto Winscar reservoir. I was stunned to find that even after living round here all her life, Mum had never been to Winscar before.
We parked in the carpark and walked as far as the dam wall and looked down on the village below. From Cross to Cross in the picture above, probably a total of about half a mile. When we finished, the wound was stinging a bit, but that was probably because the stitches had been removed so recently.
I’m going home once we’ve had Chippy Booth’s finest fish and chips for tea. And then Jackie will be popping in for the next week to make sure all is well.
Independence Day – well almost. I still can’t drive officially, although once I’m in the car I’m better than I was before as it’s an automatic and the left leg does nothing anyway. I did put it in the garage yesterday and managed fine. I still can’t bend too far over but am managing that quite well.
I can’t praise too highly the care and attention that Susie and Sally have given me. I am certain that that has been the main reason why I seem to be progressing so well. It has been lovely to have them with me and I realise how fortunate I am. They have given up their time, juggled work schedules and generally put their lives on hold for me. I am truly blessed.
Thank you girls! I hope I continue the good work you started and that I won’t let you down.
Love, Mum
Hello Susie, Sally, and Gillian,
So great to see a family come together to help their mom get back on her feet :-). I love the picture at Castle Hill since you took me there Gillian and I know just what it takes to walk there, a very nice challenging hill to get to the castle. I also love the picture of Meg staring up at you while you ponder back……Meg looks to be saying “how are you doing mom, take your time we have all day”, so adorable.
Your progress is because of the help of Susie and Sally and your determination to get better Gillian…..I bet you were a heck of a competitor when you played golf :-).
Great work to all!!
Sherri
Susie how is your trip going?
Hi Sherri,
Having never been to the States before (unlike yourself, I’m very lightly travelled). I really didn’t know what to expect, but I love it. The people are so friendly, kind and helpful, the food is fantastic and even driving seems quite straightforward (once I’d mastered turning right at a red traffic light if there’s no oncoming traffic).
I also appreciated that we didn’t have to wait at the Emergency Room we were seen instantly. I think that on our next trip over here we’ll stick to lower altitudes!
After doing this blog for Mum’s operation, I thought it might be quite nice if we did one for this trip for family and friends. It’s at susieblack.co.uk
I hope you got my email. But just in case you didn’t, thanks very much indeed for your advice. It was a huge relief when Mum forwarded your suggestions, and I really appreciated it.
love Susie