Family Matters

[Marilyn]

Early Doors this morning, then Stanley?

[Stanley]

Not really, as you can see I have had a lie in. Margaret picks me up at 9AM, I should be at Marmalade by about noon. If there is a small earth tremor you'll know what it is..... Jack is staying here and my mate Phil is looking after him...... It should be quite a memorable day......

[Cathy]

Good Times Stanley. Enjoy
And please pass on my best wishes to Janet

[Stanley]

I will Cathy..... Now I have to scrub up!

[Big Kev]

Make good use of your time there...

[Stanley]

I will Kev.... It's not going to be a wake, but a joyful family occasion.



As you can see, I have scrubbed up!

[Sue]

Have a lovely HAPPY DAY. Enjoy everyone's company. A day to remember

[Marilyn]

You look fab!
I want to give you the biggest hug.

[Big Kev]

I will Kev.... It's not going to be a wake, but a joyful family occasion.



As you can see, I have scrubbed up!

You handsome awd bugger

[Tizer]

Have a great family day, Stanley! (I'm glad to see you've got your vest on. )

[Moh]

Have a great day and give Margaret a hug from all at OGFB.

[PanBiker]

All the best Stanley and pleas give our regards to Janet,

[Stanley]

I had the best day out of my life yesterday.... I was taken by Margaret and Mick who are staying in Clitheroe to see Janet and the kids in her cottage in Derbyshire. I went with one object in mind, to see Janet and have a happy day with her. She is frail, the physical effects of the tumours and treatment is like a mild stroke but otherwise I was surprised by how well she looks, a tribute to the level of care she is getting from her family and support services. She is happy to be here for one last time, is perfectly lucid but tires easily and is able to walk with assistance and even negotiate steep stairs. Her plan is to go home after her visit, assess the possible effects of further treatment and if she thinks it will affect her quality of life will refuse any further treatment and go into a palliative care routine at her new house in Perth which is fitted out as well as any hospice and is a lovely location. She is positive, absolutely sure of her course and has made sure that everyone is looked after. I came away very happy, certain that Janet was happy she had seen me and will see her once more next Thursday. Thanks to Phil and Julie for looking after Jack and being the best support a bloke could have.

[LizG]

Lovely. I'm so pleased for you. You must feel so much happier having seen her. I'll bet you were exhausted when you got home.

[Stanley]

You're right Liz, drained is the word I think but what a privilege to have daughters like these...... I made sure they know that is my opinion.....

[Sue]

I am lost for words Stanley as they cannot reflect what yesterday must have meant to all your family.

HUGS

Sue

[Stanley]

Lovely Sue.... I have to admit that I might be guilty of the sin of Pride! These kids are awesome..... One thing is certain, the younger ones have had the best crash course in crisis management and bereavement obtainable! I have made sure also that they recognise the value of a stable and loving family, too many kids today never get that chance as some people have chaotic lives and relationships. I don't know whether I have mentioned it but young Harry said I sounded just like his Mum. I corrected him, his Mum sounds like me! As I say, I am getting smug!

[Moh]

One brave determined lady.

[Tizer]

Janet looks like she's coped well with the journey and with the emotional meeting. It's amazing to think how modern medicine and surgery can allow someone in her situation to make a journey across the world to see her old Dad - and for old Dad to see her! Her robust constitution makes the best of all that medical and family support.

[Stanley]

You're right.... I may not go on Thursday. Two reasons, in my head we have said all we have to and understand each other completely. This morning I hear that even her iron will may be failing, she detects more symptoms and is now wanting to fly home and get in her own bed.... I'm all in favour of it. Once again she has accomplished everything she set out to do..... Even heroes have limits!

[Marilyn]

I'm sure I couldn't give up the chance to have a last cuddle with my child, Stanley.
I am just saying....( this is a "never again" situation).

Mind you, I would be the sort to climb into bed and wrap my arms around my child for the last fortnight...everyone else can get lost!

[Stanley]

Yes you could Maz if you believed that doing it might lessen her chances of doing what she has to do next, survive the trip back to Oz in a worsening condition. Given those circumstances and already having had a satisfactory visit it's a no-brainer. You can get to the point where you are only thinking about yourself and your own needs if you aren't careful. Whereas in fact you should be focussed on what is best for the other person. Sorry to disagree Love.

[Marilyn]

Accepted, Stanley.
I wouldn't want my comments to make a bad situation worse.
( my only child lives an hour and a half away...I am quite blessed. )

[Cathy]

When does Janet and her party head back to Oz, Stanley?

[Sue]

This is very selfish of me, but I am struggling to maintain input into this conversation as it makes me feel so sad,,,sad for Stanley, sad for the family. A brave lady indeed. Lack of input will not mean lack of thought.