Wednesday 7th April 2010

Apologies to all for the delay in writing about Mum's birthday - I seem to have had an internet curse hanging over my head. The summary is - it was great!
Helen was in the best physical and mental shape she's been for ages and was able to really enjoy the day. We started out with our traditional family birthday breakfast of deluxe fruit salad, a few gifties and a nice morning with me, Louis, Douglas and Helen's friend Peta. Helen and Peta watched a movie about Beatrix Potter that arrived from Sally and then Helen had a lovely rest. Louis and Doug and I set up the rooftop with the help of my friend Amber and then the part began...
We had 30 or so varied folk come along and a great evening of celebration. Helen was in great form and able to really enjoy seeing everyone.
Over the weekend she enjoyed a few days with Robin and Mary Lou and we went out to see the Stephen Jones Hat exhibition at the Art Gallery - highly recommended to anyone in Brisbane.
We received lots of beautiful messages from overseas and interstate.
For those who were sad not to be able to come to the party I really do apologise for the short notice - it was the best we could do.

Over the last few days Helen has not been so good - very frail and fragile, lots of word finding issues and sleepy. Louis thinks maybe she's just tired from the big weekend - I don't know.
Irrespective of that we were looking for a way to get respite care for Helen as I am booked to go on another 10 day locum from Friday and both Louis and I have been feeling a bit at the end of our tethers in any case.
Today I saw Mum's oncologist Dr C and she agreed to admit her from Friday so that is a relief. Both Louis and I think that will be the safest option for her and us and it will give Dr C a chance to change the chemo regime, drain more fluid off the lung and generally manage things a bit better.
We don't know the ward as yet but I'll post it when we do. Louis will take the chance to go away as well and have a real break so anyone who wants to visit will be especially welcome as she may feel a bit abandoned without us.