Last week I was in hospital for my 'gin', the tonic that perks up my immune system and keeps me functioning at a great level for six months.

This week I was at the dentist THREE times, something of a record for me. My smile is now an improved version of what it was, and hopefully there will be no further need for extractions or alterations to my dentures in the years to come.

As I sat waiting for the anaesthetic to take effect on two necessary extractions, I mused at my predicament. Here I was sitting alone on a dentist's chair listening to relaxing music. I had been in the dental surgery for almost an hour. Appointments were running late, although I had come early for mine as I tend to do. During those sixty minutes I marvelled at the lack of increased BP levels, and my relaxed state. Once the proverbial 'nervous wreck' in such situations, I'd come a long long way in my attitude to the regular dental visit. I don't think I would say that I LIKE going to the dentist, but over the last few years I've become so much less of a wimp!!

I have to say that as the minutes passed to more than ten as I waited on that dental chair for the extractions-to-be, I was beginning to wish that the door would open and Dr. Alan Kerr would come through it. I was beginning to feel just a little uneasy!! He came. The teeth were extracted and I was off to return again today for the fitting of my new bottom plate. Phew!!!!!

New teeth, new infusion of immuno, I was off on my bike to get my increasing level of fitness up a notch.

Health is wealth. I feel very wealthy at the moment and have to thank the excellent services of all of our NHS professionals for their dedication and care. Without them I would be much the poorer!!!

Cheers for our NHS!!!!!