Message Twenty One

Liz had a reasonably good night.  We joined her after lunch.  I sensed that she is feeling increasingly frustrated with her situation.  She has been exercising a lot.  This involves pushing with her right leg, and lifting her right hand and arm up to touch her face.  It takes a considerable effort and is exhausting.

We saw Liz touching her left hand and trying to move it, but this was too difficult for her. Eventually,  she had to use the letter chart to tell us that her left hand was pushing down on the PEG feeding tube into her stomach, which was agony.  We felt so much for her - such a simple thing, but a big task to get us to understand what was right before our eyes. This feeding hole into her stomach has become red and sore.  It is not at all uncommon for this to happen, but it is vital that it is not infected with any hospital acquired bugs.

Liz has had lots of special things made for her.  Her sixth-form friend Miriam, and James visited.  Miriam has been writing some reflections for her.  As a Creative Writing Masters student, these are beautifully written, with just the right amount of emotion and hope.

Anny, her friend from Sheffield sent Elizabeth a recording of her singing one of Elizabeth's own songs.  Liz's church has a great song writing community.  I attach a link to one that seems appropriate for the moment.  (Click on this link to hear Liz singing Elizabeth's Song)

Celia, one of Liz's flat mates from last year, composed and played an inspiring piece of harp music for her.  A number of people have painted beautiful pieces of art.  Elizabeth has been given many wonderful cards.