‘And this,’ the A&E doctor tells us showing us into a treatment room at the end of a corridor, ‘is also our ebola room!’ There’s comfort of a sort to be had in the fact that I’m not actually surrounded by staff in protective clothing, and also that I’ve been fast-tracked through casualty … although that in itself is rather worrying. I’ve had to seek emergency treatment for a flashing light show in my right eye which could be a posterior vitreous detachment – like the one I experienced in my left eye – or it might be the start of something more sinister like a retinal detachment and the only way to know is to seek expert medical help. Fast.
The ebola room, it turns out, usually serves as The Eye Room, and after a couple of basic eyes tests, further help is summoned. After a nervous wait, I’m thoroughly and efficiently examined by the on-call ophthalmologist who declares my eyes to be in surprisingly good shape for someone so short-sighted but to seek help immediately if the symptoms get worse … and breathe. Except, of course, I now have a few more anxious weeks hoping everything will settle down. I am, however, hugely grateful to the A&E staff at Aberystwyth's Bronglais General Hospital who showed me such kindness and dealt with me so efficiently.
With all the excitement of the Cardiff Half Marathon, Tom starting his PhD, my poor mother-in-law facing a round of medical treatment and a whole heap of Romantic Novelists’ Association committee work, we’ve barely stood still. And although I’m disinclined to agree with a couple of lay opinions that Too Much Running and Too Much Looking have contributed to my eye problems, I think I probably have been squeezing quarts of activity into a pint pot and it may well be time to take a bit of a rest. On a more cheery note this arrived today – a very pretty sight for both my eyes!
The ebola room, it turns out, usually serves as The Eye Room, and after a couple of basic eyes tests, further help is summoned. After a nervous wait, I’m thoroughly and efficiently examined by the on-call ophthalmologist who declares my eyes to be in surprisingly good shape for someone so short-sighted but to seek help immediately if the symptoms get worse … and breathe. Except, of course, I now have a few more anxious weeks hoping everything will settle down. I am, however, hugely grateful to the A&E staff at Aberystwyth's Bronglais General Hospital who showed me such kindness and dealt with me so efficiently.
With all the excitement of the Cardiff Half Marathon, Tom starting his PhD, my poor mother-in-law facing a round of medical treatment and a whole heap of Romantic Novelists’ Association committee work, we’ve barely stood still. And although I’m disinclined to agree with a couple of lay opinions that Too Much Running and Too Much Looking have contributed to my eye problems, I think I probably have been squeezing quarts of activity into a pint pot and it may well be time to take a bit of a rest. On a more cheery note this arrived today – a very pretty sight for both my eyes!
The painting is Sea Monoprint by Tom Tomos.
Comments
You should try to rest your eyes a bit. I know that's difficult with everything you have going on, but you still have to make it a priority.
You have an amazing body. No, don't go and take a bow and call Tom to read. It's not that! ;)
The body knows where it hurts more and more deeply, and when it (the body) wants someone to calm down and:
1) sleep a nap
2) rest
3) have a cup of coffee and do nothing the all day for days
etc
etc
what happens? He aims where it hurts.
Your body, Dear Chris, is talking. Are you going to listen? Really listen?
I'm sorry for the scare but you were probably needing it. My husband had a vitreous detachement before our wedding and it wasn't a walk in the park. He was young but only has 20% of sight on that eye and he's considered lucky. Take care!
Teresa
PS - (more) Flashing and Dashing only when a huge SUV passes through you on the road during your endless runs. And he's doing the Flash and Dash. Not you! Don't make me go there and make you. Love U.
You must TAKE CARE. If things pile up, ask for help. You, your sight, your feeling of well being - these are what matter and you must look after yourself.
(((hugs)))
Hmm, yes, I recognise a kindred spirit, Sue! Thank you.
Jane - the 'too much looking' bit does make me smile. I've noticed my heart works very hard too, but I've decided not to give that a rest!
Thanks, Kate - I do get migraines too and I'd try anything when it gets to that stage to ease the pain. All in all I'd like the flashing lights to go away now.
Many thanks, Sally. You too! x
Many thanks, Guernsey Girl. It is scary being so short-sighted, isn't it? My sight (touch wood) is quite correctable but I could really do without the worry until the flashing lights settle down. All best to you.
Liz, thank you for the hugs and your concern. I think I probably should stop behaving as if a starting pistol has just fired every morning - before my body orders me to take to a break. x
Clare, thank you for your kind comments about Tom's painting. Fingers crossed, I hope all will be well.
Like you, I really value my eyesight and know that a great part of what joy I find in life depends on my vision. (I smiled a bit this week to learn that fellow that sings with the band, Bono, shares glaucoma with me. Just keep up with the eye drops Mr B. All will be well.)
Your description of the visit to the E ward shows me again what a fine writer you are. I felt as if I was there with you. What a relief you must now feel to have been able to have the exam and to receive the advice to slow it down a bit. I know you will.
Tom's picture is perfect for your "seafaring" novel. I recommend this book to all!
Lots of love to you and Tom. xo
You have just had an injection of Irish humour...terms and conditions do not apply ;-)
Keep well lady, i.e., xx
Ooh! Audiobook! How cool is that? And I love your hubby's work.
I'm sorry to hear you've been in the wars, Liane. Like you, I'd much rather avoid hospitals - I hope you're on the mend now. Thanks for your kind comment about Tom's painting and yes, pretty chuffed to add a third audiobook to the shelf. Look after yourself. x