We are just returning on the train from Ilkley in Yorkshire after 4 enjoyable days with Neil’s sister Joy and Peter. I’ve always wanted to visit Castle Howard, so we did and there were hardly any visitors there. The house is absolutely stunning, then we wandered through the beautiful gardens in a rather strange light. The sun was amber as it struggled to penetrate the Saharan dust blown high into the atmosphere by the remnants of hurricane Ophelia. It was a wonderful day and another ticked off my bucket list. Next day we caught up with friends for lunch and visited Hockney’s work in Saltaire. I have to confess I was so tired by the end that I slept almost 14 hours yesterday evening and last night. I forget sometimes that I’m not quite running on all cylinders.
After quite a lot of researching the internet, we opted for laparoscopic surgery. Since surgeons in general can’t decide which is better, hence the ROMIO study, then I might as well go with the minimal invasion method, and deal with any complications as they arise. Since it’s our decision, I’ll accept whatever comes my way. I know I’m in safe hands as Grant Sanders has performed both surgeries many times and I couldn’t ask for more.
I had my last required blood test in Ilkley on Tuesday which showed my neutrophils down to 1.08. They should be 1.5 but Mr Sanders’ specialist nurse Marilyn assured us that he explained he’s happy to go ahead with the surgery so long as they stay above 1.0. Phew. I’m geared up and ready to deal deathly blows to the dastardly, dreaded Deirdre. For some reason, I’m not nervous at all. I just want it done. I’ll be under a general all day (good job I’m not military!) and won’t come round until well into Friday evening. I’ll ask Neil and/or Cara/Marc to give an update here on Saturday.
Neil is intending to take Cara, Marc and Sarah on a short tour to the Plymouth Gin distillery while I’m under. It’s a perfect way to spend the afternoon and nurse Marilyn agreed absolutely. There’s nothing they can do all day except wait. If it were Neil having surgery, I’d definitely be on the gin!!
Thursday evening we’ll all check into the Lodge (http://www.heartswelllodge.co.uk ) at Derresford hospital which looks lovely. It’s just for patients and relatives. Seeing as I’m supposed to rest between now and Friday morning to get my neutrophils up, I’ll end here.
Thanks to everyone who has sent encouraging emails. I’m so sorry I haven’t been able to reply to all, but its great having so much encouragement from so many friends. Thank you.
See you on the other side!!!!
