tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2009-11-08:/MokoFeed2009-11-08T07:47:34+01:00tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2007-02-07:/2007/02/07/russell_running_london_marathon_april_22~1697128/moira6032007-02-07T13:21:40+01:002007-02-07T13:21:40+01:00 <p>Dear All,</p> <p>A long time sice the last post but we are doing ok, me, the boys, and the rest of the family, and are gradually returning to the flow of life after a difficult 6 months.</p> <p>Running the London Marathonon Aprill 22nd this year is my way of doing something in Moira's memory to help progress understanding and treatment of Acute Myloid Leukaemia.</p> <p>Donating through the Leukaemia Research 'Just Giving' site is simple, fast and totally secure. It is also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Leukaemia Research will receive your money faster and, if you are a UK taxpayer, an extra 28% in tax will be added to your gift at no cost to you.<br> Just click on the link below........</p> <p><a href="http://www.justgiving.com/russellismith">http://www.justgiving.com/russellismith</a> </p> <p>I also plan to get BP to match whatever I raise through it's 'matched giving' programme available to employees.</p> <p>So please sponsor me now, just click on the link below and follow the simple instructions</p> <p>Remember - it could be your donation, however small, that might make a breakthrough!</p> <p>Many thanks for your support.</p> <p>Russell. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2007/02/07/russell_running_london_marathon_april_22~1697128/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-08-03:/2006/08/03/memories_from_the_ya_ya_sisterhood~1011306/moira6032006-08-03T18:22:56+02:002006-08-03T18:22:56+02:00 <p>I am deeply honoured to be giving this tribute to Moira, a very dear friend...I face the task with some trepidation, but as ever Mo has made it easy for me. All the anecdotes and memories from her friends around the world paint the same picture of a fun loving warm and generous friend. </p> <p>So here are the collective memories from the Ya Ya Sisterhood. The women from Melbourne, Glasgow, Aboyne, Anchorage, and Cairo. We met at book clubs, quilting bees, school runs and socials. A group who have had the joy of knowing Mo as she travelled around the world with Russ and the boys. </p> <p>The common thread of our memories of Mo is obvious to all. Strength of character, fierce love of her boys, a zest for life, and a genuine sense of fun and sharing. With her beaming smile and a very distinct laugh Moira has touched our lives in many ways. With Mo we could always be ourselves. We all benefited from her warmth and her joy of the fine things in life. </p> <p>Here’s just a taste of the memories she has left with us..</p> <p>Mo was an inspiring role model who set the standard for us on motherhood. Moira gave everything she could to making the best life possible for her family; facing up to every phase of the boys lives with energy, integrity and love. Mo always put her family first. From making a warm and welcoming home for her boys in every location, to going into battle with the school be it over French lessons or cocoa pops. The love and effort and commitment she gave to Russell, Elliott, Ross and George has set up them up, ready to take on whatever the future may bring.</p> <p>Mo had a passion for exploring the places she lived, and especially loved the great outdoors. She was a fantastic researcher and spent much time planning those extra special holidays for her family and friends. From a West Highland Lodge complete with roaring stags, to a Corsican villa with little white mice in the trees. From dock jumping at Big Lake in Alaska, to to skidoo rides and out-skiing the wolves at China Hot Springs(!). From Cape Cod to Mexico, Hawaii to the Grand Canyon. And latterly Egypt. Sharing her love of camping and photography in the Egyptian desert with dear friends. Sitting under the stars putting the world to rights …</p> <p>Moira loved good wine. She often said “life is too short for drinking bad wine”. She earned a reputation of keeping the good stuff at the back of the fridge; topping her glass up in the kitchen with Cloudy Bay, while serving cheapo plonk to the less discerning visitors. Mo had the same characteristics as two of her favourite wines Cloudy Bay Sauv Blanc…“vibrantly aromatic… an exotic infusion of fresh ginger, sweet basil, and lemongrass… mouth-wateringly juicy … with a refreshing crispness”….and Tim Adams The Fergus… “deliciously different... great served at a special dinner with wine-loving friends…intensely powerful.. graceful hints of warm earth and sweet spice … medium-bodied with a supple strength”...</p> <p>Mo loved shopping and she acted as a shopping consultant to many of us. You only had to tell her what you needed and she’d know just where to find it, down to which catalogue and page number! She had a great knack of finding the perfect card or gift for any occasion - forget-me-not seeds for Ian, a silver bowl for Estelle, quilted baskets for Lynda, Sue, Megan and Sheila, a set of moose antlers for me (!). Fabulous art from Australia. She loved Cairo and picked up many treasures from Road 9 and the Khan from carpets to alabaster bowls. In the early Aboyne years it was Mo who steered us towards brightly checked trousers from Pedlars… and then she brought Boden Man into our midst. Whilst our men wore fleeces, baggy ill fitting shorts and faded T-shirts, Russell stood out in the crowd with neat pressed deck shorts and crisp linen check shirts. Today its clear she has had quite an influence on our men!</p> <p>Moira was the hostess with the mostess. Her table was the place to be! From fancy dress parties in Australia - usually ending up fully clothed in the pool - to the Abyone ball in Coo Cathedral. From Burns night in Alaska burling with 5 star generals, to ‘pole dancing’ at the Rugby Club desert ball next to the Giza pyramids. You could guarantee Mo’s table was always the worst behaved and had the most fun! </p> <p>One of the many things Mo brought back from her time in Australia was a cappuccino machine. Before the days of Starbucks and El Greco’s Mo’s kitchen table became the place to put the world to rights over a steaming mug of Lavazza black label. Mo always had a warm welcome for anyone dropping by… but there was always something about the warm and calming atmosphere that Mo created around her and her kitchen table. Our menfolk adored her as much as we did. It was only later we realized the secret of her success. Subtle blends of Lavender, Mandarin, and Geranium wafting from burners and candles, creating an invisible and intoxicating air that calmed and relaxed us. Drawing us into the glow of the “red hot chili pepper” lights and her fabulous hospitality.</p> <p>Mo was always ahead of the pack. She was the first to get an iPod, the first to buy on E bay. She was more computer literate than the rest of us put together and in January she introduced all to the wonderful world of blogging. Her blog has been a lifeline to all of us over the last 7 months. A work of art. A window into Mo’s inner thoughts and inner strength. A showcase for her writing, her wit and her wicked sense of humour. A two-way support structure for all of us… her friends and her family.</p> <p>So thank you Mo, for being part of our lives as we’ve brought up our children, danced, laughed and started to go grey...</p> <p>you will be with us,<br> every time we take a sip of sauvignon blanc (Oyster Bay or Cloudy Bay), we’ll silently toast you and smile,<br> every time the Boden catalogue lands on our doorsteps we’ll wonder “could our men ever look as good as Russell in this?” and smile,<br> every time we sit at our kitchen tables for a cappuccino and a good gossip, you’ll be there listening and smile,<br> every time we blog we’ll remember when we kept losing everything because we got the security code wrong and smile,<br> every time we light a candle we will reflect on our good fortune of knowing you and smile,<br> you are with us, and we will always smile.</p> <p>“Some people come into our lives and leave an imprint on our hearts, and we are never the same” </p> <p>What an incredible human being! How great was fate to let us have the chance to know you! </p> <p>Thank you, and farewell Mo – the Queen of the Ya Ya Sisterhood.</p> <p>Rosy<br> 3rd August 2006</p> <p>(Spoken at Mo's funeral. Based on the contributions of many friends from around the world. Thank you xxx) </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/08/03/memories_from_the_ya_ya_sisterhood~1011306/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-07-28:/2006/07/28/note_re_cards_for_moira~995761/moira6032006-07-28T14:04:06+02:002006-07-28T14:04:06+02:00 <p>Although the Church Service is Family Flowers only, if you do want to send letters or cards these should go to Moira's parents house in Scotland.....</p> <p>Mr and Mrs B.M. Stuart<br> Broom Croft<br> Lumphanan<br> Aberdeenshire<br> AB31 4RJ</p> <p>Thanks,</p> <p>Russell. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/07/28/note_re_cards_for_moira~995761/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-07-27:/2006/07/27/moira_s_funeral_arrangements_wednesday_a~993045/moira6032006-07-27T15:09:42+02:002006-07-27T15:09:42+02:00 <p>Dear Friends of Moira’s Blog,</p> <p>10.30am - Mid Deeside Church Torphins, Aberdeenshire Scotland:<br> A public church service to celebrate Moira’s life for family and all friends.<br> Family flowers only.<br> Donations to “The Moira Smith Forget Me Not Fund for Leukaemia Research” at the church or to Leukaemia Research, 43 Great Ormond Street, London WC1N 3JJ<br> A book of remembrance will be available for all to sign.<br> All are invited to refreshments after the service at the Learney Arms Hotel, Torphins.</p> <p>1.20pm - Aberdeen Crematorium. Aberdeenshire, Scotland:<br> A private crematorium service for family and close friends.</p> <p>Afternoon/Evening – Woodbank, Cults, Aberdeen:<br> A private food and drinks function for family and close friends.</p> <p>The last two days have been hard for us all, but the remarkable thing is how much love, generosity and celebration there already is of Moira’s life as family and friends interact over arrangements. This is something Moira would definitely have wanted, and so we intend to make her proud, by continuing the contribution she made to all of our lives. </p> <p>Russell, Boys and Family<br> XXXXX</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/07/27/moira_s_funeral_arrangements_wednesday_a~993045/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-07-25:/2006/07/25/25th_july_2006_day~986669/moira6032006-07-25T10:30:30+02:002006-07-25T10:30:30+02:00 <p>Dear Friends of Moira’s Blog,</p> <p>I have some very sad news for you today. ….</p> <p>After a fight lasting almost a year Moira died peacefully early this morning in the Derek Mitchell Unit at Kings College Hospital. Moira’s close family were able to make it to her bedside to say goodbye and be there for her.</p> <p>In the end there were just too many complications for Moira’s weary body to battle at once and the Leukaemia had also returned with no realistic options for further treatment.</p> <p>The comments and support, have all made a huge difference in keeping Moira me and the boys going and I know Moira would want me to thank you all for that. So thank you all for your love and support over the last year.</p> <p>We go forward now with the power of love, family and friends in our hearts and will work to realise the future plans which we worked out together as a family. </p> <p>We will start with the new house in Malvern and take it from there. We have a very special extended family and group of friends behind us as we do this, and so are bound to make the most of everything that lies ahead.</p> <p>Thanks again for all the love and support.</p> <p>Russell and the Boys<br> XXXX</p> <p>Please click on the link below to see our favourite memory of Moira at Wimbledon, 2006.<br> <br><br> <br> <a href="http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j130/ell1402/DSC01097.jpg">http://i79.photobucket.com/albums/j130/ell1402/DSC01097.jpg</a></p> <p><br><br> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/07/25/25th_july_2006_day~986669/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-07-16:/2006/07/16/day_88_biopsy_result_good_return_to_dmu_~964219/moira6032006-07-16T20:39:26+02:002006-07-16T20:39:26+02:00 <p>Quick update from Russell....</p> <p>Moira moved back to the DMU ward today, to assure quality delivery of remaining CMV and VOD drugs over next couple of weeks and to monitor response to 2nd infusion of Mylotarg given last Tuesday....DMU has more experienced/specialised nursing care than Guthrie plus positive pressure room with an AC to combat dehydration/hot weather.</p> <p>Last week was a tough week waiting on the results of latest Biopsy to evaulate impact of Mylotarg on remaining leukaemic cells spotted at previous biopsy, thanks to Moira's Mum, Lynda, Claire and Ali et al. for helping out and feeding the boys...........</p> <p>Yes the biopsy results were good............<10% abnormal cells, confirming theMylotarg working. The 2nd infusion is designed to nail the rest of the bastards.</p> <p>I was away in Cairo last week packing up the house, flew out Saturday, one days prep on Sunday (aided by Ross and Elliott, plus Nela, Abdou, Lisa, Heike – thanks to all of you), then packers in (help from Aine – thanks again, kept me cool and sane), all done by Thursday 5pm, boy was it hot (2 days at 47degC), sad to leave, but felt good to have one less thing to manage - even managed an overnight trip to Moon Beach to windsurf my heart out on Friday before returning home Saturday, so don't feel too sorry for me.</p> <p>We are hoping to get thru this phase of treatment by end July..........there is then a further piece of treatment aimed at finishing off the abnormal cells (longterm).....this will involve the use of Alpha-Interferon to stimulate the new/donor's immune system to attack any remaining abnormal/leukaemic cells. This will take place late July/early August and may make Moira quite ill again (mega Flu like symptoms are the principal side effect). The Dr’s and the Charismatic Prof Mufti seem very positive about the prognosis and want to hold back from using a Donor Lymphocyte Infusion at this stage (something that had been on the agenda, but would take time to line up).</p> <p>That’s enough technical stuff for now……….on the home front I am off up to the new house to start the building contractor for the roof off tomorrow, then am taking 3 of the boys to see the Red Hot Chilli Peppers at Earls Court on Tuesday night……a nice break from being at home, seeing Mum in hospital and the odd skateboarding expedition around the South Bank………….I think we will do the Motor Show and the F1 exhibition at the Design Museum this next couple of weeks too.</p> <p>Keep up the comments and support, it all makes a huge difference in keeping us positive and moving forward a day at a time………..we will get there in the end.</p> <p>Love Russell & Moira.<br> XXX</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/07/16/day_88_biopsy_result_good_return_to_dmu_~964219/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-07-06:/2006/07/06/day~937878/moira6032006-07-06T13:10:14+02:002006-07-06T14:08:13+02:00 <p>So this week has been a hotty! And not much fun in the hospital with no air conditioning. However there was Wimbledon.........<br>We had a great day out , Russ picked me up from the hospital and we were whisked off to the members entrance ( no queues!) and off to experience the delights. We had great seats on centre court in the shade which was just as well as it was a steamy 32c and I was seriously in danger of not coping. A  short trip to the St. Johns Ambulance Room allowed me a lie down in some air conditioning and then I was able to continue and got to watch the Murray/Bagdhatis match. Less said about that the better, we also saw the first set of federers match before we retired to the members enclosure for afternoon tea and the arrival of our car !! Russ sipped Champagne and I slugged on the water! Didn't see Joss, I did look for you but......</p> <p>Since then I've been pretty much at hospital and will be for the next week at least. My count is completely flat now which is down to the mylotarg and so I should be in a positive pressure room like before but they don't have any on Guthrie. So I'm wearing masks and just trying to be very careful as infection is the biggest threat to me at the moment. I have a biopsy to look forward to Monday (haha) , CMV still not under control and an infection in my line ,par for the course...<br>Mum will be here on Monday and Ross and Elliott will be back from Cairo so that will pick me up !!<br>Meanwhile Russ will be beavering away in Cairo packing up the house and George will be up in bonny Scotland. Phew - the organisation...............</p> <p>As I type we're also finalising our plans  for the house which we complete on tomorrow. So much to think about, Bathrooms to choose, builders,painters and decorators to find the list is endless. It would be exciting if I could get to the shops and choose and had more energy! As it is it sometimes feels overwhelming, but we'll get there.</p> <p>Right  thats enough for now I need to lie down ........<br>I'll try and pop back on dial up if I can heave my laptop out of my bag.</p> <p>Love you all, I'm very tired so appreciate your inspirational emails,cards and blogs more than you know.</p> <p>M<br>X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/07/06/day~937878/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-06-28:/2006/06/28/day~919342/moira6032006-06-28T21:54:31+02:002006-06-29T00:54:50+02:00 <p>Back in Guthrie, had the mylotarg eventually on Tuesday. So glad I didn't check in on Sunday as I was suppposed to and I went home Monday night after spending all day here. Still here we are, the mylotarg is in and hopefully doing it's job. I had a reaction after, rigors or the shakes. which wasn't pleasant and they didn't seem to know whether it was the mylotarg or an infection. So now I'm on anti biotics as well which is a bit annoying but can't be helped just being safe.I'm hoping that everything goes ok today and tomorrow and they can let me out and I can be back on dailies. Still no results from the CMV which is annoying as it would be good to know we're beating the virus and I could stop those drugs too. But hey Rome wan't built in a day and I'm nothing if not patient. A patient patient! AAARGGGGHHH how infuriating.</p> <p>I'm going to try and get out Friday night as it's Georges Birthday and I'd really like to be at home with him.<br> He and Ell come back from school that day and Ell goes off to Cairo on Saturday for 10days so it would be nice to have a nice birthday supper together.</p> <p>So now it's late and I must away to bed, I had a late night flying visit from Jane and Jim, it was lovely to see them. </p> <p>I've got tickets for wimbledon on Monday so I've got to get out of here!!!! And a new dress from LK Bennett to wear ( no shoes though!!!) </p> <p>Might have to stop enroute - lets hope it doesn't rain ! In every sense of the word.</p> <p>Night Night all you lovelies,</p> <p>M</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/06/28/day~919342/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-06-25:/2006/06/25/day~911069/moira6032006-06-25T20:47:28+02:002006-06-25T21:14:32+02:00 <p>ok so here I am and i know I haven't been talking or blogging but I hope you'll understand.<br> I managed to get the hospital to agree to let me out and come in on a a daily basis for my cmv treatment and so could retreat to claires whilst Russ was in Cairo. I was tired and the hot weather made it very uncomfortable but it's better than being in hospital. I had my hickman line put in a week past Friday, Claire was there as I went in and Jane waiting for me as they rolled me out and then tarty Sheila arrived so all in all I was ok, and after a week of searching for a veins and stabbings and heat packs it really was the best option. Russ got back on Monday and on Tuesday I had my day 56 biopsy. Results on Thursday for both CMV and Bone marrow were not good with the marrow obviously being the most devastating.<br> I don't really know what to tell you guys, I can do nothing but carry on. So tomorrow I head back to the Guthrie ward for another treatment in the hope that that will kill the bastard and they have also stopped my anti rejection drugs in the hope that that will induce some graft versus host disease. So it seems like I have to get very sick again in the hope that I can beat this. Not a prospect I relish but if it works. All the time of course the drugs are taking their toll on my body, as you can imagine. So not brilliant news guys and the reason it takes me time to blog is because I feel like it's all so depressing and I didn't want it to be like this.</p> <p>The boys have been here this weekend, Ross has been back since Wednesday having finished his exams and the other two finish this week and Russ will go and pick them up - so it will be full house! Both Ell and Ross are then heading off to Cairo for one last fling and Russ will head out on 8th to finally pack the house up and say his final farewells. I will be god knows where !!! There seems to be little point in planning as i've no idea what's coming and ideally it would be a good sign if I was sick and the donors cells were attacking mine particularly the bad ones. </p> <p>So everything keeps turning, each morning, each minute I try to see the good things - hard sometimes - but not impossible. I've been reading<br> "you can't afford the luxury of a negative thought" which helps me stay positive and in the moment. I wish that there weren't houses to buy and sell, countries to move and that I was living nearer my friends and family, it would take the pressure off, but it just is the way and I can't change it. Russ and I just go on. Your support has lifted us through so many dark times and I know it will do the same again, even as the odds get shorter my heart gets bigger and my determination stronger. I could be that 5 % couldn't I ? </p> <p>Bah humbug - I need to end on a lighter note<br> Beckhams free kick ? no.<br> My toe nails - trimmed ? no.<br> Oscar wilde - Yes</p> <p>Over the piano was printed a notice :<br> Please do not shoot the pianist. He is doing his best.</p> <p>And that's all you can ever do.........</p> <p>LOVE YOU LOTS<br> M</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/06/25/day~911069/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-06-15:/2006/06/15/day~884185/moira6032006-06-15T22:56:14+02:002006-06-15T23:51:31+02:00 <p>Well here I am again!</p> <p>I checked in to Kings on Wednesday morning with my darling sister Claire and Graham ,all the nurses were so pleased to see me - quite a feature here at Kings now. Anyway can't say I was that pleased, in fact I've been on quite a downer (Poor me). The 2nd result for Cmv was positive so I 'm having IV drugs to beat it - this is good - what isn't so good is the drug is toxic to the kidneys and bone marrow so not so good. Hence extra care for me and even more water to swallow (Pause for gulp!). </p> <p>Tomorrow I have to have my 3rd hickman line inserted and you know how I feel about those -this has to be the last - and I am assured it will be a repairable one in case I go loopy again and break that one ( don't worry I won't).</p> <p>So with russ away, feeling pretty unwell and with the hickman in store it's fair to say I've not been a happy bunny. However, 2nd day in I'm feeling a little better. Still feel s**t but I'm ok.</p> <p>It won't be until about Tuesday that I get the results of the next CMV test so lets hope it's a miraculous negative, I've got my '56day' biopsy that day too so we need some good results all round.</p> <p>Wish I could be more upbeat or have energy to write more but must try and get some sleep now, no other news without mentioning the F word.(Think metatarsal)Other than of course my toe nails need cutting - again. Yes I've been staring at my feet a lot! So hurry back Russell.</p> <p>I Do have my lovely sister Jane visiting this weekend and also my tarty friend Sheila from Cairo popping in tomorrow so you see I have lots to look forward to, lots of laughs to come and lots of life to live.</p> <p>Thanks for all your comments I can't tell you how great they make me feel.</p> <p>Must away to bed<br> Love M</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/06/15/day~884185/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-06-09:/2006/06/09/day_51_over_half_way~866552/moira6032006-06-09T21:00:20+02:002006-06-12T18:14:53+02:00 <p>Over half way to the day+ 100 everyone considers a major feat. I think every day is a major feat !!!<br> I'm sitting here and it's a lovely morning, didn't get too much sleep but I feel ok just now. Am contemplating the pile of pills I have to take and thinking about the 3 litres of water I need to drink today. Yuck just thinking about it makes me nauseous, but it has to be done.<br> Life is pretty much the same, I've made very little steps and that is very frustrating. My legs and feet still ache a lot, and it's not like they are carrying a lot of weight around these days - I now weigh 8 1/2 stone ! Some diet ! I am eating to build myself up but it can be hard, taste is still iffy and I can't eat huge quantities so I'm just picking here and there really. Walking short distances each day to build up my fitness and strength. Most of my numbers at the hospital are ok so I just have to keep going. Back tomorrow and will see the consultant and have more platelets.</p> <p>I've been writing this post for 3 days now and it's actually now day +54 and I've been to have my platelets and see the consultant. Russells's off to Cairo as I speak and I'm going to stay with Claire so I thought I'd better get this post on or you'll all be wondering what on earth is going on!</p> <p>Actually looks like I might have to go back in to hospital as CMV (Cyto megalovirus) has reactivated in me. Just waiting for one last result. Hope it's negative, but if not it's another 2 weeks in hospital and probably a 3rd hickman line. So you can understand why I'm not quite as bouncy as usual...... depressing thoughts.</p> <p>So if you don't hear from me for a bit you know where I've gone!! I may actually go on to the private ward so might be able to update from there but my energy is pretty low so we'll see.</p> <p>Got to go now, get my bag packed for Claire/ hospital,</p> <p>Love M<br> XXX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/06/09/day_51_over_half_way~866552/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-06-03:/2006/06/03/day~850553/moira6032006-06-03T09:18:40+02:002006-06-03T10:05:43+02:00 <p>I know I haven't blogged for some time but I've been exhausted. I guess I didn't realise how much not eating, lying in bed, having kidney failure along with everything else takes out of you. Typically I want to run before I can walk . Anyway yesterday I was so tired that I went back to hospital to have my blood checked,everything was fine except for my platelets which were down to 11, but the doctor said that I could last until Monday as long as I stay away from sharp objects !<br> After the hospital I went for a massage which made me feel a whole lot better. </p> <p>When I was at the hospital I met my consultant. I was quite embarrased because I knew that he knew things bout me that I couldn't remember - like me pulling my hickman line out. Yes, I know, all that pain putting the damn thing in and there I was 'out of my head' removing it! Anyway I broke it sufficiently that it had to be removed and now I just have the stitches and no venous access! Which of course means needles and searching for veins - not so much fun. I'd quite like to manage without another hickman line but it will depend on how well things go over the next few weeks.</p> <p>It's very weird not being able to remember parts of your life, I don't want to remember the episode with the line - it makes me shiver to think about it. But the rest was like being in a dream, I was never sure whether I would make it to the next day. I didn't believe that it was real. I became obsessed with knowing what day it was and what time it was, just trying to get to the next day to prove that I was alive. Eventually it felt like I knew all the conversations that were happening around me and began to feel like I was back in the dream again. The only way I could feel better was to get out of the hospital. I've been in hospital for so long and I can cope with the confinement but this was different I needed to understand that life was real that I was really alive and the only way to do that was to get out. </p> <p>My spindly legs carried me out last Friday and this week has brought me nothing but pure happiness every single day.</p> <p>Today we are off to pick up Elliott from grannys and then on to A & K's for the night. We'll take the boys back to school on Sunday - they have exams all next week - yikes - bless them. Then we'll be back at the hospital on Monday morning for platelets.</p> <p>So I'll try and blog more next week, give you all the update on our new house plans and maybe just let you in on the hours I spent studying the size and speed of bubbles in fizzy<br> water and coke - bet you can hardly wait !!!</p> <p>Lots of love<br> M</p> <p>ps - Carry - got the pink fluffy duster - thanks - Russ keeps it his side of the bed and I have the card with you and Neil fixing the guttering , what sparkling clean people you are!!!!! you make me smile - thank you. </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/06/03/day~850553/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-05-29:/2006/05/29/day_40_you_ain_t_gonna_believe_this~838401/moira6032006-05-29T17:42:30+02:002006-05-29T17:42:30+02:00 <p>Dear All,</p> <p>I'm home !<br> On friday after a lot of bargaining and a fair bit of stropiness I managed to get out of hospital at about 9pm. I cannot tell you how good it felt. I cried and cried as we drove away it was just so wonderful. Russell's mum was still here which was great as she just had everything ready and waited on me. Before we got home I had to shuffle round M&S in my slippers for some things that I might like to eat!! It was great ! </p> <p>I'm very wobbly and very thin but it is getting better.</p> <p>We went home and I had some new potatoes and green beans - oh bliss and then strawberries. Unfortunately it all came up again and I was beginning to worry that maybe I had come out too soon, coupled with the fact that I have to drink 3-4 litres (water!) a day and thats a lot when you have to sip it, so I have felt fragile and nervous.<br> Saturday came and Russells mum went home and the boys were set to return.........<br> Russ and I had such a relaxing day and the boys eventually got home about 6pm after a series of train journeys which included being chucked off the train at one point for not having valid tickets! Bloody hell there's always some drama.<br> Anyway more tears as I opened the door to them. Say no more.</p> <p>Today is Monday and back to the hospital this morning for blood tests and some platelets.<br> That took most of the day and so now I'm here and i feel ready to let you all know that I'm out.<br> Don't be fooled there is a long way to go yet and I fully expect to be back in hospital at some point, but one day at a time. <strong>And I am so enjoying just every single minute</strong>.</p> <p>There is lots that I cannot remember about the last 3 weeks and it's probably just as well, but what I do know is that my friends and family stepped up big time and pulled me through.<br> When all I wanted to do was step into my dream where it was peaceful and quiet, Russ kept telling me I could have both.<br> I will never be able to thank them enough. Lynda nursing me through the night, night after night. How can I repay you? Jane and Claire you bathed me and kept me entertained and consoled me. Ali, you brought me apples.Mum and Dad you were constants. Rosy - I know you were there too. Russ words fail me - your strength.<br> And the boys who came to see me when I was really too delirious to recognise anyone - I love you.</p> <p>As for all my friends and bloggers around the world your love has helped like you wouldn't know - so thank you.<br> That's it for now guys, I'm listening to the eagles on the radio and putting my feet up with some very funny orthotic things on my legs they look like ski boots !they're to help stretch the muscles at the back of my knee that have just wasted.<br> Lots more to come as the weeks go on, no more hospital til wednesday for now though!! Yippee. (fingers crossed) </p> <p>Lots of love for now,<br> M<br> XXXXXXXX</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/05/29/day_40_you_ain_t_gonna_believe_this~838401/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-05-23:/2006/05/24/day~824305/moira6032006-05-24T00:00:35+02:002006-05-24T00:06:14+02:00 <p>Dear All,</p> <p>This is just a short note to let you know I am ok. I have been through lots, but seem to be coming out the other side.</p> <p>At the moment I have very little energy for writing or blogging – sometimes I can’t even lift myself off the bed.</p> <p>Every day I will get stronger and then I can begin to reveal some of what I have been through.</p> <p>Needless to say I couldn’t have got here without my family – so special thanks to them for the last 2 weeks which have been intense.</p> <p>Love,<br> Mx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/05/24/day~824305/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-05-15:/2006/05/15/day_26_blood_counts_up_kidneys_down~800410/moira6032006-05-15T08:30:16+02:002006-05-15T08:30:16+02:00 <p>Russell here, </p> <p>Moira is not able to provide an update, but she would want you all to know what is happening, briefly.......</p> <p>Our first good news in ages came last Thursday morning, blood counts are recovering, early days, but we have to take as a big positive.</p> <p>Unfortunately Moira's kidneys shut down on Thursday, a known risk from her treatment - having to process all the toxins resulting from the TBI+Chemo+Antibiotics+other drugs. The hospital teams are working hard to restart her kidneys, lots of fluids and a decision on dialysis later today.</p> <p>The family are gathered, and she has been able to see the boys.</p> <p>Moira is a fighter and with all the support from family, friends, and doctors she WILL get thru this.</p> <p>Russell&Moira<br> XX</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/05/15/day_26_blood_counts_up_kidneys_down~800410/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-05-09:/2006/05/10/day~788142/moira6032006-05-10T00:15:37+02:002006-05-10T00:15:37+02:00 <p>Russell is manically typing this for me as I have been in a pretty sorry state over the past few days. I won’t bore you with all the details. Here are the good points….</p> <p>1) Water has now passed my lips!! This was forced on me because I had to take some tablets to stop me bleeding.<br> 2) Water passed my lips, feels grey and yucky but great.<br> 3) Water passed my lips, it’s a good feeling.</p> <p>A few select visitors have been allowed into the jowls of my pad, mainly to sample the varying degrees snoring that I can now produce at a whim, even when I am awake I snore.</p> <p>Sitting with Russ now waiting for some drugs that will help me sleep tonight, haven’t had any sleep for the last two nights, so feel obliged to snore my bloody head off.</p> <p>Counts haven’t risen yet but we are sincerely hoping that they will do any minute, and from that we can take some hope.</p> <p>I love hearing all your comments on my blog, thank you.</p> <p>Love,<br> Mx</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/05/10/day~788142/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-05-03:/2006/05/03/day_13_birthday_thoughts~773441/moira6032006-05-03T17:50:10+02:002006-05-03T23:37:51+02:00 <p>Water<br> Can’t get it in<br> Can’t get it out<br> I feel like a very popular night club.</p> <p>Blood<br> Where isn’t it coming from?<br> Oh yes, I see, left pinky<br> Good old pinky.</p> <p>Food<br> Dream worthy<br> Ain’t none hear me<br> Gates are all shut<br> Gotta get me some soon<br> Chefs at your back<br> Steady<br> (Oh Christ too much daytime TV).</p> <p>Sleep<br> Must away now<br> From night time<br> Meanderings<br> Miss you<br> Ahh there you are.</p> <p>Finding it hard to swallow<br> Huge gulp<br> Large slap<br> Am gasping in the corner<br> Kinda choke.</p> <p>Mx</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/05/03/day_13_birthday_thoughts~773441/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-05-02:/2006/05/02/day_13_no_suction_necessary_for_this_icy~771315/moira6032006-05-02T18:54:36+02:002006-05-02T18:54:36+02:00 <p>Last night at 2.37am I put some ice cold water in my mouth. What a plan, what a joy, what a feeling.</p> <p>No swallowing as yet, but my mouth didn't scream or splutter. I had the suction all ready in case of lots of fast dribbling occured (just so I can play at being nurses really).</p> <p>Hoorah the plan worked and it felt great. </p> <p>Infact - I'm going to do it again!</p> <p>Bye<br> M x</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/05/02/day_13_no_suction_necessary_for_this_icy~771315/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-05-01:/2006/05/01/day_12_quiet_day_with_drugs~769265/moira6032006-05-01T21:08:01+02:002006-05-01T21:08:01+02:00 <p>Quiet day with drugs.</p> <p>Claire came yesterday, it was lovely just to have that stillness. Russ will come soon then perhaps we can have that quiet too.</p> <p>Everything going according to plan with no major complications so far (TOUCH WOOD).<br> All I focus on is the day, and, that glass of water I can swallow. Pain is around, but controlled, sleep ever present, love in my heart</p> <p>M<br> x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/05/01/day_12_quiet_day_with_drugs~769265/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-29:/2006/04/30/day_10_a_very_personal_nursing_service~765481/moira6032006-04-30T00:53:56+02:002006-04-30T00:53:56+02:00 <p>Dear All,</p> <p>I am still on that beaten track but have discovered the wonders of Morphine, Cocaine and Sleep.</p> <p>Lynda has been down nursing me, as only a friend and nurse can. It's been so nice I can't tell you. The 3 foot square shower that blasts cold air and trickles hot water on you is so much better when there are 2 of you, one to juggle the pumps and the towels, and the other to, well, you know - I don't mean any of that funny nonsense either! Just to have someone to laugh and cry with you at the pure ridiculousness of it all. NHS small shower of the year award! <img src="/img/smilies/icon_confused.gif" alt=":-/" class="middle" border="0">.</p> <p>Tomorrow is Day +11, Lynda will be off in the afternoon, but I think she came in the nick of time, hurry back Lynda. Russell's Mum is back on Monday, to help Russ which is fantastic, he needs some time where he is doing just one thing and his Mum was happy to help. Then the lovely Karen is coming for the weekend, I can't wait, and I know it sounds alot, but don't worry, I'll keep the visitors busy....I can't talk, so I have to write everything down and they can always massage my feet! The nurses here won't let me get too tired and sometimes I can barely stay awake anyway. Coupled with this horrendous habit of snoring I seem to have mastered, no-one seems to stay for long.</p> <p>So, recap of where I am....<br> Day +11 (11 days after donor cells have gone in)<br> Infections 2 (booted out 2)<br> Mucousitis (ongoing)<br> Temp (normal and stable)<br> Waiting for counts to rise.</p> <p>Phew I am now exhasted.<br> One day at a time, open your eyes and enjoy your life.</p> <p>PS I am writing this on the back of a Farrow & Ball order form that Russ sent for (via his Mum) when we bought the house so I can choose colours.</p> <p>Mx</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/30/day_10_a_very_personal_nursing_service~765481/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-27:/2006/04/27/day_8_morphine_aamp_cocaine~760624/moira6032006-04-27T18:38:14+02:002006-04-27T18:38:14+02:00 <p>Hi Folks,</p> <p>No more talking from me. Morphine enriched Moira…………..</p> <p>Pain is mmm ----<br> Palliative care Dr. very nice + lots of drugs to play with, things are tough. But its just pain and I can beat this.<br> Long for a glass of water if could only swallow. One Swallow will be my Spring.</p> <p>Take care,<br> Mx</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/27/day_8_morphine_aamp_cocaine~760624/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-25:/2006/04/26/day~756139/moira6032006-04-26T00:45:23+02:002006-04-26T00:45:23+02:00 <p>Dear all,</p> <p>It’s nearly into Day +7 and I’m waiting for the nurses to come and take down some drugs, put up some more and bring the crushed pills that I have to try and swallow as they can’t be IV.</p> <p>Everything else is IV now as it’s very difficult to swallow. I look a bit like a guinea pig all swollen and piggy blood-shot eyes- not a good look. And tomorrow one of the nurses is going to shave the ½" hair growth (the longest in 9 months) off for me, as it is falling out fast and it’s more comfortable and becomes less patchy if you do so. So I shall look like a bald albino guinea pig.</p> <p>It’s great counting the days but it is so early in the proceedings it’s easy to get ahead of ourselves, the nurses keep reminding me it will get worse and keep offering me morphine but so far I am managing and know that if it’s getting worse I will take the drugs then.</p> <p>I’m off the antibiotics now, which is great because it eliminates 5 more loads of drugs a day. So now I’m just working on keeping my temp stable and not catching anything. I have until Day +12 before the nasty drugs finish, and then I can work on getting rid of the chemicals and getting through the side effects. Once the stem cells engraft and start producing neutrophils lots of the bits that hurt will clear up very quickly so I’ll raise a glass to that day!</p> <p>Russ is on his way down to kiss me goodnight, what a sweetheart, he has had a busy time of it with the boys on holidays and then getting them back to school which involved the car breaking down and a meeting with the owners of ‘our house’ in Malvern all in the same day. Coupled with selling the house in Scotland I just don’t know how he does it.</p> <p>Anyway, here’s the news we really want to share....<br> Today we had our offer accepted on the house in Malvern !!!!!!!!<br> So now Russ has even more work cut out, finalising a sale in England and going to a closing in Scotland. Can we make more of this man. Carbon-copy him and spread him around a bit, implant a cooking gene and we’ll be away...... </p> <p>That’s about it for now, tomorrow I will eat one Solero and drink nothing, have my head shaved, get a couple pints of blood and have the usual vast quantities of drugs. All with the hope filled heart that before too long I will feel the sunshine on my face and taste some real food and sleep in my own bed with my darling family around me. Filling up the washing basket and leaving the towels on the bathroom floor – love it!</p> <p>Love to you all,<br> Don’t panic if I’m not around – I’ll be back.....<br> M<br> x</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/26/day~756139/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-20:/2006/04/20/day_1_and_those_cells_are_streaming_roun~743500/moira6032006-04-20T23:53:41+02:002006-04-20T23:53:41+02:00 <p>Dear All,</p> <p>Day +1 and those cells are streaming round me.</p> <p>How I miss you all, days are short and long. At my worst it feels like a black hole, at my best a bad case of flu. I've never had so many drugs pumped into me, sometimes it takes all day and all night and that's tiring in itself. My head spins. I got an infection the 1st night so anti-biotics have been added to the supply. Once they're finished I'll be glad - doesn't help the side effects.</p> <p>Your comments have moved me so much I can't tell you and I know they help Russ. I long for some food but can't eat, my lips are numb and I can't taste anything. I dream of Italian food and salads, so tasty, and water that is clear and sweet. Most of the nurses are kind and caring - they seem to know how to cope and the Dr's are reassuring and so far on the ball with all my needs. I'm hoping that as those Yanky cells start to grow and my good times increase I can write you more often from my mini pad.</p> <p>Until then - all my love,</p> <p>Mx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/20/day_1_and_those_cells_are_streaming_roun~743500/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-18:/2006/04/18/update_from_hell~737054/moira6032006-04-18T18:36:46+02:002006-04-18T18:36:46+02:00 <p>Chemo done, side effects are making me grey and weak.</p> <p>Tomorrow is Day Zero when I get the donor cells (6 bags of them) and then we wait.</p> <p>Russell has read me all the blog comments and I have laughed and cried. This is a very dark place but you have let sunshine into my heart for a tiny minute. I can see you all so clearly and I use that to help me through the pain.</p> <p>Love Mx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/18/update_from_hell~737054/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-16:/2006/04/17/chemo_day~732746/moira6032006-04-17T00:27:54+02:002006-04-17T00:27:54+02:00 <p>Just a short post from here in my pad. The drugs make me whoozy and I sleep a lot .<br> One day at a time is all I know and what I return to. That, and I only have to endure pain and it’s finite even when it feels infinite. These are better days than I know are coming the side effects will really hit home next week so for now I’m just trying to get my head round it all – still. It’s continuous drugs ,IV’s, blood and platelets……. Usual stuff.<br> Makes for busy time strapped to a bed .</p> <p>Russell is downloading all your comments for me and I can’t tell you how much they have made me smile – all of you out there in blog land! Thanks for that, can’t wait til I’m feeling better and have a data card and can hopefully communicate more fully.<br> Take care you guys,<br> And Happy Easter………….</p> <p>Love M<br> X</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/17/chemo_day~732746/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-14:/2006/04/14/day_1_chemo_kings_dmu_oops_russell_s_2nd~728169/moira6032006-04-14T21:15:52+02:002006-04-14T21:15:52+02:00 <p>Slept and drifted in and out, these are going to be busy days..... </p> <p>I have very little break from the various infusions and the chemo makes me light headed. I am trying to keep awake when I'm untethered so I can exercise my lungs while I still have a little energy.</p> <p>I can feel the slope pulling me down, but bring myself back to one day at a time and all of you out there willing me on. I have my little smiley man - thanks Carrie - and Huey (he's not bird fluey) the spring chicken, to keep me entertained.</p> <p>Keep praying for me, the posts will get fewer as the side effects will really pick up once the cells go in next week.</p> <p>One day at a time, one day.</p> <p>Love you all,</p> <p>Mx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/14/day_1_chemo_kings_dmu_oops_russell_s_2nd~728169/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-14:/2006/04/14/day_1_chemo_kings_dmu~728143/moira6032006-04-14T21:03:40+02:002006-04-14T21:03:40+02:00<p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/14/day_1_chemo_kings_dmu~728143/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-13:/2006/04/13/guys_tbi_tgi_friday_tomorrow~726138/moira6032006-04-13T23:22:25+02:002006-04-13T23:22:25+02:00 <p>Dear All,</p> <p>Despite having an open phone line here it seems I’m still not able to access the internet. They must have 0845 numbers blocked. So I’m writing this on word so Russ can cut and paste it in for me<br> I’m on Day 4 and have one final session to go, one final fry up and then it’s back to Kings for the nasty chemicals.</p> <p>So how have I been all week. Well I wasn’t well at the weekend as I told you and this nearly jeopardised everything. I checked in at Kings and told them about my high temperature and saw the doctor who decided to start up IV anti-biotics before sending me off up to Guys to check in there. Russ and I decided to go and get something to eat as we hadn’t had lunch and been an age at Kings and I though it would help, I was hungry and my temp was coming down, so by the time we got to Guys it was 6.45pm.</p> <p>They showed me to my room – nae bad and then the doctor came in and said sorry there had been a cock up and that I had to go back to Kings because they couldn’t do TBi on me with a temp, suspected infection. Despite the fact that my temp was now normal. I asked if they couldn’t just monitor me overnight and make a decision in the morning as this would delay things by a whole week and mean me having more chemo etc etc. She said no. Russell said no that I wasn’t going anywhere until my consultant had been spoken to and a proper informed decision had been made.<br> The only bed they had for me at Kings was on a medical ward and as they were saying I was neutropenic sepsis and I was sitting in an isolation room at Guys it seemed madness that if they were going to halt things I should be sent back to a much less healthy environment. Russ said find her an isolation room at Kings or she’s coming home. Finally the registrar from Guys phoned and Russ told her she had to get hold of my consultant to make an informed decision. To her credit, she did and he said don’t halt anything we are off. Phew……..thank goodness for Russ and his staying power. </p> <p>So that was the start of the week. Monday morning the lovely Peggoty, Macmillan, Radiology nurse came up to get me for my first session. The first one always takes longer as they have to set you up and explain everything for you. They stick all these TDi’s over you which are little pieces of lead that they then use after to calculate how much dose I’m getting in various areas. There are a lot the first session to stick on but it lessens at each session. I sit in a special chair and they start to cover you in bolus, bags of Vaseline basically which makes you in to as square a shape as possible so there are no spaces where more increased doses can get you. The team down there have told me that lots of people have asked for their photo to be taken at this point but guess what! Not me!!! You can use your imagination but just remember the Vaseline is inside the bag!! Then they put a perspex shield around me, square my head up and run out of the room. I have to sit dead still for about 8-10mins, or about 3 songs on the CD player. Then they turn me around. I have a laser running down the middle of me and if I move 2-3mm either way the machine stops and they come in and adjust me. </p> <p>Crazy hard and so far I’ve only moved 4 times I think pretty good. The machine buzzes away and I imagine a golden shower of rain falling all over me breaking into my cells and popping them all ready for disposal. The team down there are wonderful, they are such lovely people they have helped make it ok. All the boys have been in to see me get set up so they know and can understand .I ‘m quite tanned and very tired. </p> <p>I’ve had to have 5 units of blood so far and 3 units of platelets. God bless those donors that come in for me I’d like to kiss each and every one of them. Unfortunately because of the schedule I have I’m quite busy and a lot of these things have been running through the night which makes me more tired. </p> <p>So that’s a fairly elaborate description of what’s been going on now let me summarize some of the very very good things that have happened here at Guys.<br> 1. On Monday an aromatherapist appeared in my room. Ah bliss thought I’d died and gone to heaven she gave me a heavenly foot rub. Unfortunately they don’t extend down to Kings ( the aromatherapists not my feet) but when I’m an outpatient I can access them – so something to look forward to.<br> 2. On Wednesday a reflexologist appeared in my room for another foot rub – better still.<br> 3. The weirdest of coincidences occurred. Remember I was telling you how hard it was to stay still. Well half way through the TBI they turn you around. Now the first half I have a fairly long range of focus and I find it easier to sit still, but when they turn me around I’m about 6 ft from a door and no point of focus. I thought about this and on Tuesday had meant to take a photo down with me to stick on but forgot so Peggoty got me a post it note or a postcard. Now when I saw the card I recognised the artist as being someone that Russ had recently been to see at an exhibition and he had wanted to buy. I said to Peggoty oh is that Ian… Couldn’t remember his last name, Moore she said, that’s my husband! She was as freaked out as me. And when I told Russell later he couldn’t believe it and so now we can go straight to the artist and buy our painting! How fabulous is that!<br> 4. On Monday the day I started was Prophet Mohammed’s Birthday, and the day my new system goes in is Ross’s 16th birthday.<br> 5. On Tuesday night my 2 darling doctors, Ihab and Emma, from Woolwich turned up and visited for a couple of hours geeing me up with their positive spirit and kind kind thoughts. I do miss them. They brought hellos from everyone and it was such a lovely boost.</p> <p>And that’s probably enough for now.. If you got to the end of this post then well done! I’ve been so tired and I can see it’s going to be tiring to do. When I feel ill I just won’t/don’t feel like doing anything so will have to rely on Russ to update you.<br> But don’t forget to keep commenting, all your comments come through to me as email so even if I can’t log on Russell will regularly download my email and I can read from there. If I can’t get online at Kings it will be back to the data card option.</p> <p>Lots of love to you all,</p> <p>M<br> X</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/13/guys_tbi_tgi_friday_tomorrow~726138/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-09:/2006/04/09/this_is_it~714408/moira6032006-04-09T14:36:36+02:002006-04-09T14:36:36+02:00 <p>Just back from our night away. It was/is a fabulous hotel. A small family run hotel where they gave us a suite for some ridiculously low price special guests don't you know. Won't bore you with details but here's the weblink </p> <p><a href="http://www.thestaffordhotel.co.uk/">http://www.thestaffordhotel.co.uk/</a></p> <p>I wasn't feeling very well unfortunately so I did a lot of lying in the 4 poster bed with the very soft sheets. Need some blood I think and am hoping they can arrange it today. </p> <p>Did manage to go out for a meal at The Mango Tree, a thai restaurant, we'd asked for non smoking and then when we got there they said the whole restaurant was smoking. Needless to say we weren't very happy but I didn't have the energy to go any where else. So we sat down and I promptly set fire to the menu - a great trick that could have been better if sprinklers had gone off. The meal was pretty standard still you live and learn.<br> We were home by 8ish and I was in bed exhausted. Russell enjoyed the benefits of the room, nice whisky, fire, TV etc......me enjoying the soft sheets.<br> Got to go guys can't do anything fast and I'm supposed to be at Kings by 3pm.</p> <p>Leaving you with a poem again one that I'm going to be reading a lot over the coming weeks.</p> <p>Love you all..............</p> <p><strong>New every morning</strong></p> <p>Every day is a fresh beginning,<br> Listen my soul to the glad refrain.<br> And,spite of old sorrows<br> And older sinning,<br> Troubles forecasted<br> And possible pain,<br> Take heart with the day and begin again.</p> <p>So here's my new beginning and don't forget each day is yours too.</p> <p>M</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/09/this_is_it~714408/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:moiras.blog.co.uk,2006-04-07:/2006/04/07/yesterday_lunch~710670/moira6032006-04-07T19:13:24+02:002006-04-07T19:13:24+02:00 <p>Yesterday my change of chemo coincided with Russell arriving with lunch. So we asked pretty please if I might be let off the hook for and hour and went and had lunch in the park - and here I am........<br> <a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=465696"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/696/465696_66ddb8c97d_m.jpg" align="" alt="meinparkweb" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>M<br> x </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://moiras.blog.co.uk/2006/04/07/yesterday_lunch~710670/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>