Mum!

I made a final visit, to see my Mother at the Queen Alexandra Hospital in Portsmouth, on Thursday. Mum has now been discharged and is currently staying with my Brother at his home, until she goes to Southampton General Hospital for another extensive operation.

Mum already has two below knee amputations, after suffering from the effects of long term diabetes. Her last leg was removed about five years ago. Even with the loss of her limbs, she still managed to walk using her prosthetic legs; quite an achievement for a pensioner. Sadly on Wednesday she was told, she would never walk again. One of the stumps, has become infected and is gradually going gangrenous. Everyone is concerned about the possibility of sepsis and this volatile situation needs to be monitored closely. There is very little the Hospital can do now, apart from removing Mothers whole leg, leaving her depressed and feeling rather down, as one would expect. This will take some time to organise; Mum will have to once again endure another waiting process!

My parents are in the process of selling their home, which has become unmanageable. They will eventually move into a purpose build retirement village, with everything they need on site; shops, a gym, cinema and restaurants all for the residents of this revolution in 'old age living.'

Returning to their usual residence would be too much for Mum and Dad at this time. The adaptations and adjustments they would have to make, whilst selling this property are just too prohibitive. Luckily my brother has a purpose built annex, suitable for both their needs; I'm sure they will be very happy there until Mum once again has to return to Hospital. Of course I wish them both well; for now I can take a step back until I am needed once again. Until then It's time for me to concentrate on my new life in the UK; after all I am going to be here for quite some time, until I am sure my Mum and Dad are well enough to continue on their journey together!