(March 2010) 

Health 

Last Summer, Penny was diagnosed as having a cancerous cyst and multiple shadows in the abdomen. There was a build up of fluid which was expanding quite quickly. The symptoms suggested a rare form of cancer which would require a long operation to remove all affected tissue and the fluid mass. Last August they decided that the operation would not be successful long term and that Penny might not get through it.

She was given three lots of Chemo, which very nearly killed her but has left the cancer unaffected. She spent many weeks in Sue Ryder unable to leave the bed other than by hoist. She came home for Christmas and has home care. During Feb 2010 she began to get out of bed again and walk a little.

She can now just about get to the bathroom for the toilet and to have a sit down shower. Healing and restoration become less likely by the day and we are surrounded by others who are impacted by cancer. 

Prayer

How on earth do you pray about such things. Much easier when it is someone else!   Just prayer for God to keep us moving forward and help to keep up with all that he is doing. Pray that Penny remains pain free and full of the Spirit.

Finance

We  had to stop fostering. The relief was great. The peace and quiet is lovely. The empty bank account is not so good! But the Insurance did pay up and we cleared the mortgage.

Travel

All travel has had to cease for now, although Malcolm is getting to South Armagh for Patrick's day thanks to Penny going for respite care at the Sue Ryder hospice in Nettlebed.

Holiday

Would love to take Penny to Canada. She has wanted to go for years. Health and finance, especially insurance, are big hurdles.