IN BRIEF

Thursday 2nd August

Graham flew back to America. Got up early to wave goodbye and then went back to bed.

Friday 3rd August

Went back to Nuffield to see the consultant. He agreed that: "I had done something", but is was too early to do anything other than "wait and see" if the inflammation goes down and it settles. Advised strongly to consider cancelling our big trip to America on 17th August if no improvement.

Monday 6th August

Had nineth photo printed in Derby Evening Telegraph - slightly cheered up.

Tuesday 7th August

Went to see local doctor in the hope that he would refer me back to hospital on NHS, so at least I could have more than one option. Examined me and assured me that he couldn't feel anything (yes, that's why I waited four long years for a diagnosis!!)made things ten times worse - felt so depressed, if only I hadn't gone...

Wednesday 8th August

Robert's 21st Birthday. Upset that this is the first time that we've not seen him on his birthday, but pleased that he arranged to meet up with some mates in London and go and see Spamalot. He rang at quarter to twelve on his way home on the train and we had a chat.

Thursday 9th August

Had phone call from chap who'd see my photo in the paper. Could he have a copy as it reminded him of when his dad used to take him fishing in the same place. Fine, I'll email him - but he doesn't have email. OK, so I put a new colour cartridge and print off a copy (have to print two when I realise that I have copped the image I sent to the paper).

Friday 10th August

I ring the chap up and ask if he'd like to collect the photo - but he doesn't have any transport or any family that can do it for him. I would have offered to take it round, but wasn't up to driving because of my hernia - consider mentioning this, but he usurps me by saying: "I'm nearly 70, you know"... Offer to post it to him (through gritted teeth) even though this means I will have to go out in the car. Mission accomplished by late afternoon...

Graham phones as he waits at Newark Airport. Suggests that we cancel holiday - I feel sick in my stomach as I know how much he has been looking forward to this trip, not to mention all the careful planning during the last six months. Says "not to worry as he's got so much work following this trip that he's hasn't really time to go." Not sure whether this is true/he's knows how bad I am/trying to promt a miraculous cure... Have to admit I feel relieved...

Saturday 11th

Graham home in time to take Lucy to work.

We go to Calke Abbey for a spot of (expensive) lunch and a walk round. Lovely afternoon as there's a big concert in the evening and the orchestra are having a run through. Feeling extremely fragile by the time we arrive home. 'Miraculous cure' has failed to materialise...