I've spoken at some length to the Wild Rover (or Clever Evil) - new-ish catters may not remember the man behind the names - and John is still underplaying it. Bear in mind that Don was 74 and had been suffering from emphysema for a considerable time, probably as a result of his previous long-term history of smoking, which is a hint.   

Winnie is herself only recently out of hospital, but it looks very possible for family to take up the slack - and in addition to help with Winnie's mother who lives nearby. And who must be getting on for telegram from the Queen time.

The thread title has been changed to reflect Mr. Thompson's grave illness. It can revert back at some time in the future. ---mudelf