Yesterday Colin was much brighter - he had been started on another antibiotic and this appeared to have improved his condition. In the afternoon he had a visit from his piano teacher which was the best thing that could have happened. After the staff had done another 'change of position' for him, Colin woke up considerably and was able to talk with us about how the sun doesn't really set in Shetland in mid-summer about his time staying there many years ago. And he also talked briefly of the time he cycled from Lands End to John O'Groats. All this time we could actually understand every word he said and it was all appropriate and in context. He was much more animated, and heartily laughing!!! I know this didn't last more than about 10 minutes, but Audrey was the best medicine he could have had yesterday! And then things got better in that Colin took on fluids quite well yesterday and even ate quite a bit of his evening meal - he hadn't eaten for a few days!
I've phoned in this morning and his condition hadn't changed so hopefully when I see him later it will be more of the same. It is good for friends to visit still - if only briefly like yesterday. They are able to talk about things they have done together with Colin in the past and remind him of the good times and have a laugh. He certainly knows them - at least those he's known well over the years. We just have to be prepared to not understand what he is trying to say and for his frustration when we don't 'get it'!
And back to that goat - everything in the garden is growing furiously, including the lawns, which now resemble a field! They are driest in the afternoons/evenings just when I'm at the hospital so you can imagine the problem! So if you do know of a goat.......
Jane.