Wednesday, October 18, 2006

Playing Deric again

I'm Deric Longden's alter ego again. This week, the fourth in row, I am up in the Midlands 'sorting Mother out'. Well trying to anyway. She has now been in rehab for a week following 2 weeks of respite care. The best of it is, I am sicker than she is, and what is more, her Carer told me that herself!

Today we had the weekly review. A sombre gathering, with not one but 2 African social workers, apparently this area is importing them to solve their staff shortage. The Carer was there too as was the Occupational Therapist. We` sat for an hour and reviewed progress, or lack of it in this case. Sure the patient can walk, dress, eat and do everything expected, but does she want to? No. Why bother when you can be waited on hand, foot and finger? 'Of course I can do it all normally, I'm just having a rest.'

Unfortunately this didn't wash with those who decide. Going Home is only allowed if there is help and supervision. You could cut the air with a knife. I was asked to comment. I said my comments would be ignored so it was pointless. I did however pass on a comment from my sister over the pond, 'Take all the help you can get'.

That was the decider. The assembled party collectively took a large intake of breath.

'Well if she says so I suppose I'd better have it then.'

Relief all round. The problem is now, they're not sure when they can get the help.

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