In the last few days, Colin has seen the practice nurse, the consultant Oncologist at Cheltenham and the GP - none of whom can really work out what it going on. Blood pressure is apparently 'normal', blood glucose (determined by prick test and not really guaranteed) was 'normal' and the GP is unsure of what blood tests to carry out, so is seeking further details from oncologist, who's idea it was in the first place. In the meantime, the oncologist is taking no chances and is arranging for an MRI (Thursday's appointment didn't follow a scan as one was 'not due' until mid-May). Colin also failed the heel-to-toe walking test and another 'hand slapping' test on Thursday, which make it all the more concerning. Jane feels she is on that precipice again looking into the abyss!
Colin's memory has also been pretty awful - although this might be due to anxiety if nothing else! Today, he had another piano 'lesson' and was able to remember things, so don't understand this memory thing either! The oncologist has finally made the referral to our optician for the slit lamp test, which she is going to carry out next Friday - this was because Ophthalmology in Worcester Hospital has discharged Colin - again!
We have seen our friends again - he of six bypasses fame and other unmentionables - and with them, indulged coffee/tea and cake/teacakes at the newly opened (again) Ceci Paolo's in Ledbury. Here we discussed the state of the NHS appointment systems etc., etc., and bored ourselves silly exchanging views on goose grease and its medicinal powers on the chest. Our friend was looking forward to his last chemo cycle last week but alas, the gremlins of a failed blood test got in the way and so he has to wait until next week, in the meantime he and his family are enjoying themselves we hope, in this warm weather!
And finally, it is Brain Tumour Awareness month this March again and yesterday was Bandanas for Brain Tumours day. As is usual for the first Friday in alternate months, we went along to the Brain Tumour Support Worcester group meeting at St. Richard's where we tried to wear our bandanas in new and exciting ways so that we look extremely fetching on the photos taken by the Worcester Evening News photographer!! It was good to catch up with our friends and also to find out that other people DO read this blog! Thank you!
We'll keep you posted on developments!
Colin and Jane.