Hi Peps, thanks for coming back!

A few things have been on my mind… well, a few people. Here in Street, there are people who are going through a lot more than me. Also back in Bicester (where we used to live), there are family friends who are also having a really tough time. I feel a bit of a fake! My treatment is all planned; all mapped out, but life is not like that for so many.

A lot of people at this time are having to deal with a lot of difficult feelings and emotions; some have had medical emergencies that can cause real-life issues. At the moment, going to hospital can be (to varying degrees), a major logistical nightmare which causes untold stress and anxiety. Adding to the stress is the ‘No visitors allowed’ restriction in hospitals at present; all for good reason, but it can be scary and isolating for those who are admitted.

I was at the Beacon Center today for the first blast of my six (four weekly) rituximab infusions. Sitting in the reception area, I was watching people coming and going, most of them on their own – like me and others were asking to bring their partners in as they didn’t wish to leave them in the car. The staff were all so caring and so good… they tried to help everyone within the guidelines.

Like I have said, this is a new phase! This process started last Friday, where I was at the Beacon Center bus getting measured, weighted and having my bloods taken. This was followed by a trip to the County Ground Taunton (my first time there, but no cricket was on!), for another COVID-19 test – I was bowled over… pun completely intended! Monday a day of rest! Then on Tuesday – a chat with a Day Unit nurse going over the process for treatment day, followed by a chat with my Consultant; she is really happy with the treatment so far. My white blood count continues on its way downwards – it is now at 20 from 76. So, this gave me the green light to commence the treatment.

So today I met some of Brian’s family.

Meet Bea and Bob.

Bea and I became attached at the hand; I couldn’t go anywhere without her. Bob, like his name implies, kept bobbing in and out all day; we would become attached for a while and then he would bob off to someone else for a while…

Today was a long day but it went swimmingly. So in future, this treatment should just reduce to an afternoon.

Really, my throughs and prayers are with all those people who are finding things really difficult; who are struggling with either physical or emotional issues during this time of lockdown.

Some of the people that have helped those who are struggling at this time and who I would like to give a big, big shout out for is the whole ‘Meals on Wheels’ team here in Street, They are doing an amazing job feeding and forming relationships with local people through this growing ministry. For some people, it may be the only hot meal and conversation they have all week. I pray God continues to bless and grow this ministry.