The breath of life

From Andrew:

In the last two weeks, Nancy's breathing has become progressively more difficult. A week ago, we required oxygen at home, and as the week wore on, she needed it more and more constantly. On Sunday, Nancy was in real difficulty, struggling for breath and experiencing acute anxiety/panic attacks when she became short of breath - that feeling of being underwater, and the surface is too far. You may know that she suffered from asthma as a child, in the days before puffers, so the terror is compounded by old memories.

On Monday morning, it was clear that we could not remain at home, as Nancy was in serious difficulty, and an ambulance trip to St Paul's hospital was quickly arranged. Scans and x-rays were performed, and the diagnosis was that taking a steroid to reduce the inflammation in her lungs and pleura would help, along with draining fluid that had accumulated in her chest cavity. That procedure was done this afternoon, and it has made a tremendous difference, "a new lease on life" says Nancy. Her breathing is much eased and free-er, she feels relieved, and looks a whole lot better too! We are all taking deep breaths of great gratitude and relief, and smiling with new hope. The photo was taken this afternoon after the procedure.

It is not impossible for her to still make it to Brazil on Sunday, but that seems quite unlikely at this point. We will see. In the meantime, she is delighted to be benefitting from the ministrations of a remarkable physiotherapist named Kristen Rose Duncan, who works with energy in effective and healing ways. Three more treatments on the way!

Nancy's pain is also now very well managed, using hydromorphone. A fantastic difference to no longer have pain be in the way. So now that pain and breathing are both improved, we hope that more mobility will return, as walking had become more or less impossible in the last week or so.

For now, Nancy remains in palliative care at St Paul's, likely for another couple of days, and then hopefully back home if we can arrange for suitable oxygen.

Nancy sends her love to you, and her heartfelt thanks for your intentions and prayers, which are surely helping. Keep 'em coming, please!

I am now off to secure a tasty dinner, as the food offered at the hospital is pretty much what you'd expect.

From me, an outpouring of thanks to all the heavenly and earthly Angels who are assisting in making this journey be one that is trimmed with love, support, practical help, and emotional and spiritual sustenance. With great love to you.