Yes, a bit of a hiatus there. Partly because we’ve been on holiday, but mainly because of something far more serious. While on holiday, we had a pretty nasty car crash, and I ended up in hospital for three days.
It happened on Thursday, August 22, which started rainy. Our B&B host Denise had suggested places to visit, and we started at Birsey, a small island with a causeway that was due to be uncovered much later. From there we drove to Kirbuster farm museum, which was excellent. Then to a cafe at Fern Valley, where we were watched by ring-tailed lemurs.
From there we went on to look for Happy Valley, as recommended by Denise. While about to turn right at Maeshowe we were struck by a large van driving at speed. The car was demolished. Both of us were badly bruised by seat belts/airbags, and I broke my arm. I was able to get out and speak to the driver of the other vehicle – he and a boy with him were both ok.
Both of us were badly shocked. After speaking briefly to the police, we were taken by ambulance to Kirkwall Hospital. They wanted to operate on my arm, but didn’t have the requisite metal plate. Then they wanted to take me to Aberdeen, but I could see chaos looming and suggested Norwich. This was agreed. Police kindly took us back to B&B, where Denise was wonderful. Got us food, and next day took us to garage in Finstown to retrieve stuff from car wreck, then to the airport, where she ensured we would be looked after by Loganair. (McKinlay Kidd had earlier booked flight by Loganair to Norwich via Edinburgh). She also helped us sort our stuff out.
Both flights were lovely, and we were met at the airport by Paul and Maryta (who didn’t seem to know why).
Woke at about 5.30 on Saturday and after reporting car accident to insurance got taxi to hospital, where I gave them surgeon’s letter. Eventually I was admitted to Euston ward, then Gateley, then Cringleford.
Visited on Monday morning by a third orthopaedics consultant who said I probably didn’t need operation because it would probably heal naturally. I chose this option, partly but not entirely because I wouldn’t have an operation till at least Tuesday. Dot meanwhile is suffering bravely and was brought up to see me twice, once by Judy and once By Louise Robinson. Charlotte also came by to chat, which was very nice.
Later on it transpired that I would have to stay in another night because the plaster shop went home at about 11.30am, it being Bank Holiday. Aargh!!!! Spoke to David on FaceTime, and Phil brought Dot up to see me around 3.30pm. Also got nice text from Oliver. Chris brought Dot up to fetch me on Tuesday morning. We met in the car park.. It was hot.
Since our return to Norwich it has been very warm – blue sky – except for one brief burst of rain. Des has helped by putting bins out and watering flowers, and this afternoon Judy came round with some food – together with her grandchildren, Flossie and Rosie. The former was particularly delightful and helped us open three boxes of Orkney stuff that had just arrived. Sean is just back from France, where he saw the aftermath of a fatal accident and caught a parasite while swimming in a pool.
Panicked for a couple of days because I couldn’t find vital bit of paper given me by the police, but this afternoon it turned up on the floor next to Dot’s bed.