This month's update. Well, I still haven't seen mum since lockdown started. The home was optimistic about starting garden visits, then they got another case, so that didn't happen. Then the testing regime went to pot because they can't get the tests due to so many being faulty. I think we are looking at the beginning of September at the earliest before they'll allow visits. An email from the manager said that they'll only allow one regular visitor, the same one each time. I was hoping that they'd allow two as I really need someone to tell me what my mum is saying as I wouldn't be able to hear her two metres away. My hearing is dire, but I can hear most people at that distance (when I'm wearing aids), but mum talks very quietly and very randomly so I can't fill in the gaps where I don't get a word. I've been sending in cards, thanks to those who've mentioned touchnote and goodies to be shared by her floor. Also thanks to
@imthedaughter for pointing out problems with pensions being paid. I've informed the DWP and am now waiting to hear back from the OPG. I'll chase tomorrow if no email by then. With the volume on full and my phone on speaker phone I can use it quite well. Not ideal when I'm in a crowded space but fine in my living room. I think I also need to contact the manager and other staff for a bit of an update on how mum is. The only contact I've had is to tell me she had a fall but was fine and that her covid test was negative. It's beginning to feel very odd, almost as if she is dead, but not quite.
My brother is in hospital just having had the colostomy operation. He managed to get on line for our family quiz on Sunday, mainly so he could wave to us all, rather than take part. I think things are going as well as they can, but it's been such a bumpy ride for him.
On Saturday I'm off to spend a few days looking after my mother in law with my husband. He keeps on saying I don't need to go, but she is one of my best friends, and I think it could be a tough time as she is getting borderline incontinent. Brother in law, her principal carer refuses to consider extra help and younger sister, who is a carer, is dead against the idea of a care home. SiL has not been feeling feel and has gone for a covid test. If its positive it might throw everyone's plans up in the air. She sees her mum three times a week, and the reason we are going is so brother in law can go on holiday. If there is a chance either mil or bil have caught it I don't think our turning up would be wise.
In much nicer news, assuming we don't get the virus by Friday week or Italy goes into lockdown again we're off to spend a few days north of Venice with a friend at his house. It's deep in prosecco country. cheers!