I went and hovered outside the Bereavement Office at the hospital, hoping the initial paperwork would be signed and maybe I'd make it to the Registry Office to at least register the death, then there would be Thursday and Friday for the FDs to come and collect mum. But no, still no signature from the doc. It has to be one that was tending to her while she was alive. So all of Tuesday and Wednesday and they can't sign a form! The lady in the office kept beeping the doc, but doc was busy with sick people. I get that, but I want to get mum moved! So, tomorrow they start at 0830 and I plan to be there at 1000, that gives me more time to get the death registered tomorrow, but doubt the FDs will be able to pick up until Friday, if they are even free. If I can't get registered tomorrow then I guess mum has to stay at the hospital until Monday, which is totally ridiculous in my view, considering there's no investigation, just a signature required from a doc!
I explained to the BO lady that mum would need to travel a distance and I'm concerned the longer it takes for her to get to the FD, then she'll look more grim for me to view, but the lady said I could see her there and then, which I declined then said she would go and have a look herself. She came back and said mum looked pale, but fine, so at least that reassured me a bit (unless she lied!). I might see if they'll let me see mum tomorrow while I'm there. I guess they will just wheel her out onto something and I will only be able to view through a window, which is fine. Will have to brace myself for the 'pale look'!
I am remarkably calm and, well, OK. I wondered if all the building grief along the way would ease things at the end. So far, it seems to be the case. I keep having a little spurt of tears now and again, and then I'm OK again. The funeral is weeks off now. I've decided it's worth the wait to get the right arrangements and attendees in place. It gives me loads and loads of time to do everything right. I have no idea about Wake venue as I obviously can't have it here at home, 70 odd miles away. I guess I'll have plenty of time to find somewhere suitable. I'm thinking a small private room somewhere. The priest will say a quick prayer at the start and then everyone can tuck in. I'm not planning to provide any alcohol, but if it ends up being at a hotel or pub, people can buy their own if they wish. I will only provide soft drinks and tea and coffee. And lots of cake!