And again...

The results of the blood test, taken at home by the nurse, were through very quickly, as the doctor at the hospital rang at 4 o'clock, and said that he'd just been faxed them, and clearly there was still a lot of inflammation somewhere, on which the antibiotics were not working, so would Tom accept being hospitalised again? I more or less said he'd have no choice if I had anything to do with it. He had less fever and pain but was simply very unwell, and I was getting a bit desperate.

So this was not a mad and terrified dash this time, we even had time to pack properly, only omitting toe-nail clippers, which he'd forgotten he needed until he took his socks off in the hospital. It's mostly a relief, and now he's in the right department, with a scanner scheduled for tomorrow, we hope he'll get a proper diagnosis and treatment.

I feel considerably less wobbly now than before. I ran into 85 year old Victor clambering about on ladders pruning hedges, as I was coming in, and told him something of the story. He mentioned that he'd just had something resembling a minor stroke and was due to go in for a scan too, in the meantime he'd just carry on clambering around on ladders, it takes more than a brain haemorrhage to keep a Le Faucheur from his bricolage. I chatted over it with a couple of other neighbours who were out inspecting the potato and carrot crop, and it was pointed out that we haven't really had a serious illness since we've been here, so have done quite well - not to mention saving on the complementary insurance. I rang J who invited me round to eat, which I turned down, pleading the need to walk the dog, a glass of wine and Richard Dawkins, but took a raincheck to go round there for a drink after visiting tomorrow, even though she's having her last session of chemo during the day.

Withal, I feel very bien entourée, not least because of the concern and support shown here. Let's hope we get it sorted out this time. And thanks again for the loving kindness.