If you read my first post about Italy you’ll know what I’m talking about here. This whole journey of being a parent; you think you’re on your way to Italy. You’re all prepared for it: * learned the language - vafanapoli * got the t-shirt * bought a flat above a pizzeria and got your … Continue reading Dutch citizenship – Brexit pending →

What does it mean to be disabled? To not be-able? Able to what? It’s such a broad and ugly term. I’d guarantee that any of the disabled tennis players at this summer’s Wimbledon are able to beat me at tennis. And I’d guarantee that every athlete at the Paralympic Games is able to beat me … Continue reading Blue Badged Girl ♿️ →

There’s lots and lots of posts around about mental health and opening up about issues around mental health. This is me opening up about my mental health. I’m not afraid to admit I went to the doctors last week to seek help about anxiety and coping with Isla’s condition. When Kerry was pregnant with Isla … Continue reading Long Qtie Stress →

This morning on the news there was an article about Sepsis and some poor guy who ended up a double amputee due to a cut gained playing with his dog. If you’ve never witnessed sepsis first hand, I think it’s hard to appreciate how scary it is. Common signs and symptoms of Sepsis can include … Continue reading Sepsis – ‘The rise of the silent killer’ →

We’ve recently come home from after a week living on Ward 1C at Alder Hey. It was only supposed to be a 48 hour stay, but as you know by now, Isla likes to change plans. As we were only going to be there for 48 hours both my mum and I opted for smaller … Continue reading Living at hospital →

So today is Father’s Day. Apostrophe position debatable. To me, the position of the apostrophe isn’t the only problem with Father’s Day. It’s an exclusive day, a Hallmark holiday. Mothering Sunday has some history to it, Father’s Day is made up to sell cards and presents. What do I want for Father’s Day? Nothing. I … Continue reading Father’s Day →

Yesterday marked 1 year since Isla had her last Torsades and we ended up with the defib on her waiting for an ambulance to come and take us to Bolton and then transfer us to Alder Hey. I remember there were 6 paramedics in my bedroom that day... sounds like the beginning of a dodgy … Continue reading Babe in Arms →

We were there long enough to understand the culture of the hospital. We got to know the routines, systems and procedures. I know the quality of their care: from ICU to the ward. It is second to none. Isla was cared for by over 53 nurses on ICU and I’d trust Isla in the hands … Continue reading Why #imwithalderhey →

“Isla’s no trouble is she!? She’s an easy child to look after.” I’ve heard this a few times now from friends and family and although when you watch her most days it’s hard to argue, it also makes me want to scream. Fair warning: It gets to me for a few reasons so this may … Continue reading No Trouble At All →

We’ve recently had a little stay in Bolton Hospital as Isla had tonsillitis and high temperatures and seizures. It made me reflect on what a raw deal she has had. Something as simple as tonsillitis, which all toddlers get, gave her seizures. It’s obvious from the Mexiletine trials that Isla is prone to seizures but … Continue reading Reflecting →