Day 2. Saturday, 5th February
6.15 pm. Margaret has just phoned me with the news that I knew was a possibility, but hoped not to hear. Having started the surgery it was obvious that the tumour has spread to adjacent lymph glands and the operation was aborted. I have long been aware that pancreatic cancer is notorious for spreading before symptoms appear. It is likely that Margaret will be discharged on Tuesday, with an incision down the whole length of her abdomen, and chemotherapy will be started in the near future. Obviously she is putting on the same brave face as expected of her.
Day 3. Sunday, 6th February.
8.45 am. Margaret is fine, I was informed. However, having prepared herself for a rough few weeks before everything was back to normal, she was sad yesterday to know she faces more months of feeling so unwell. Unless there is further information there won't be another report until tomorrow. I have been encouraged to learn that a number of you have been using this means of contact. I could have informed some of you by e-mail, but do not have all of your addresses.
Day 4. Monday, 7th February
I have spoken to Margaret this morning and she is still on course to be discharged tomorrow. My original thought was to let her travel the 125 miles to Castle Hedingham by bus, as the NHS doesn't seem to be worried how she gets home with a healing incision the length of her abdomen! However, after confirming that she can safely travel sitting up, we have relented and a car is now organised. Margaret insists that she returns home, rather that convalesce elsewhere and, fortunately, Alan Shaw is making good recovery. She wants to be near the really excellent village medical practice and Colchester Hospital, where she has had efficient and compassionate attention. Hopefully, Essex Social Services will increase the carers support at home.
Day 5. Tuesday, 8th February
A quick update before I take Dorothy to her Day Centre and I dash to my "job" at the National Jazz Archive. Margaret is still desperate to get home today. However, she has a distended abdomen and, although the registrar says she could leave, I am trying to convince her to stay another day. Alan Shaw is regaining strength daily and every 24 hours would make their situation easier. And they also have to arrange for a car to drive the 250 miles round trip. I will find out the result this evening.
Day 6. Wednesday, 9th February.
Margaret is returning home today and hopes to be picked up at 11.30 am. by the same driver who has taken her to and from the hospital on each of her visits. She does seem to be gaining strength but is still finding food a problem.