My two day trip to the Southern went very well. I’ve been going there for fourteen years now, and treatment-wise I’ve never been better. The pattern of six monthly visits seems to work very well for me. I consider myself to be very fortunate that my immunoglobulin infusion offers me a quality of life that without it I certainly wouldn’t have!! I am also VERY VERY fortunate indeed to receive the care and friendship of the nursing staff of ward 68. It is always a great pleasure to catch up with their news and hear about their families. On this visit, I heard about two of the girls who are going through a particularly rough time of it at the moment. My thoughts are with them both and I look forward to hearing better news in the weeks to come.

The STAR of ward 68 arrived just before I left. I’ve mentioned her before in my ramblings, and will no doubt mention her again when our paths cross once more in the future.
Nancy is 96, and comes in every other week for an infusion of immunoglobulin which enhances her quality of life and keeps her upbeat and living life to the full.
Her amazing spirit is something to behold, as is her courtesy and manner towards the nursing staff. She is hugely appreciative of all they do for her, and tells them so. Such appreciation makes their jobs worthwhile, and those of us who are privileged to witness her humility and kindness, are so much the better for it!
She is quite a lady! As I left after a short blether with her, I told her that I hoped to see her still visiting the ward when she reached her century. She laughed and allowed me to take her picture, and to share it on the web.

Home again, having recorded my best BP reading ever, 120/70, I’m looking forward to the coming summer months with great relish.

PS-A special bonus from my hospital visit was to have the chance to meet my consultant Prof. Hugh Willison, the most charming of men!