Mudcatter Scrump

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Singing Referee
Date: 03 May 07 - 10:09 AM

Here is the latest update on Paul's progress. Sounds like there's still a long way to go, and it may well be some time yet before an accurate prognosis can be given.

"The most recent MRI results show lots of damage to the motor area of the brain, with small pockets of damage elsewhere. This tends to suggest that physical movement will be a real issue for Paul to overcome even if those other minor areas of damage have not affected him too badly. Only time will tell.

I was last there on Sunday, (going again on Friday 4th) and Paul was quite animated for an hour or so until we wore him out! The feeding tube was to be rerouted directly to his stomach on May 2nd and the tubes to his throat removed. This should mean that he will be able to make noises and then hopefully talk fairly soon.

We believe that we have seen real signs of improvement.... noises, facial movement, hand, finger and arm movements (looks like finger picking) and apparent scanning of newspaper pages held in front of his eyes. At this stage all we can do is hope that this is genuine progress, as some movement will be reflex. The doctors are talking about sending him to a specialist brain hospital in London for "rehab", but no date has yet been set..

Finally, we learnt a few days ago that the police have confirmed Paul was blameless in the accident.. The car that hit them was driven by a man who probably went to sleep at the wheel and crossed the carriage way.

Thanks for your continued support
All the best
Alan

I also asked Alan about the many requests I've had from Mudcatters and other internet forums to which Paul belongs as to whether it's possible to contact the family direct. This is his understandable response.

"You are correct about Paul's many internet dabbling's! Frankie is now in contact with a member of "The Fivepenny Piece" so that is all under control.

Frankie does go onto mudact and other forums, so the best wishes of online friends are seen and noted. However, as you will appreciated this is a difficult time for Frankie so please direct enquires via me for the time being, and Frankie will pass all of the messages onto Paul when the time is right.
cheers
Alan

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Bee
Date: 03 May 07 - 10:50 AM

Thanks, SR, for keeping us informed. Some of the signs seem very hopeful, although there's a long road ahead.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Woofy
Date: 03 May 07 - 12:12 PM

This is very sad news indeed, please send my best wishes to Paul. I have spoken to Tommy Banner and Pete Budd and they are very sadened to hear this news and both send their very best wishes

Steve Woof (EMI Records)

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Singing Referee
Date: 05 May 07 - 05:45 PM

Just got this from Alan!!!!

"Hello all

We went to see Paul yesterday (Friday) and saw a great improvement. He was clearly trying to tell us things with gestures and trying to talk....

Frankie just called from the hospital and Paul asked for a drink, and drank from a straw!

This huge wonderful breakthrough has me and Sue grinning stupidly and me now writing with very large celebratory single malt.

All the best!!!
Alan"

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: jacqui.c
Date: 05 May 07 - 05:48 PM

What great news! We'll keep up the good wishes, just in case it helps!

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: katlaughing
Date: 05 May 07 - 05:49 PM

Oh!! What WONDERFUL news!!!!! Let's hear it for Restorative Powers, Love, and Time!!!

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: skipy
Date: 05 May 07 - 06:17 PM

Great! today has been a good day, but the last 2 minutes have been the best!
Skipy

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: catspaw49
Date: 05 May 07 - 06:52 PM

Well.....Just completely and totally

GREAT!!!

Smiles and happiness rule the day!

Spaw

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: fat B****rd
Date: 06 May 07 - 12:01 PM

Great news. What more can I say apart from onward and upward. ATB from Charlie.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Bee
Date: 06 May 07 - 12:17 PM

That is tremendously encouraging - thank you for telling us. ;-)

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: MBSLynne
Date: 06 May 07 - 01:03 PM

Oh that's brilliant! And only the start....

Still sending good thoughts..

Love Lynne

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 06 May 07 - 01:07 PM

Wonderful news, hope he continues to improve. Give him a big slobbery wet kiss from me next time you see him.

LTS

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Jean(eanjay)
Date: 06 May 07 - 01:19 PM

I'm so pleased to hear this very encouraging news.

Still sending positive thoughts and good wishes.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Lizzie Cornish
Date: 06 May 07 - 01:34 PM

Welcome back Scrump! :0)

Huge hugs and kisses from Sidmouth to both you and Frankie.

......and Steve, thank you for keeping us informed.


With love to all three of you

Lizzie xxx

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 07 May 07 - 07:14 AM

Onwards and upwards!

Excellent news.

Best wishes,

Peter

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Jim Lad
Date: 08 May 07 - 01:54 AM

Thanks Ref!
What was the single malt?

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 08 May 07 - 04:19 AM

keep on passing on the good news!

sandra

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: My guru always said
Date: 08 May 07 - 05:20 AM

Wonderful news!!! Keeping up those positive thoughts for a good recovery!

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: GUEST,Natalie H
Date: 08 May 07 - 11:30 AM

I don't know quite what I am posting on right now, but I know Paul as 'Scrump' from the Karine Polwart forum and was very saddened to hear this dreadful news today.
Bit too close to home for me! That's me speaking personally as well, not professionally (I am a qualified nurse btw!)
The best thing I can say to Paul and his family and friends is be patient, stay strong, keep optimistic but realistic, and try to do all the things that he likes, for example playing his favourite tunes.
The professionals won't probably know exactly what's happening with Paul and only time sometimes tells the full story. Already it's great to see that there has been some improvement.
I want to pass on how very sorry I am to hear about this. Sending all the love possible in the world.
To Paul,
Hope to see you back online!! We're missing the regular gig updates of yours on the Karine forum!! You won't believe it either but I was round your neck of the woods this last weekend too. You just get better soon!!
Huge love,
Natalie H xxx

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Hawker
Date: 08 May 07 - 05:57 PM

Great news, still sending get well vibes from Cornwall. Thanks for keeping us posted.
Cheers, Lucy

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: skipy
Date: 08 May 07 - 06:15 PM

Natalie, if you get to read this, your are posting to a group of people who "really do give a shit", We care for this man, as we care for all our members, we do fight a bit once in a while, but believe me we do CARE, a lot, stay with us & share with us.
Best Regards Skipy.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: GUEST,A Scrump Fan
Date: 09 May 07 - 07:45 AM

Below is a photo of Paul (in the red T shirt)

Scrump

I thought some of you may like to to focus a little more 'personally' on Paul, by having his photo nearby. I keep his picture by my computer screen now, and every day I send thoughts out to him, along with everyone else.

We're all pulling together for you Paul, you and Frankie both.

God Bless you both and hurry back to us.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Ella who is Sooze
Date: 09 May 07 - 08:06 AM

positive thoughts from Wales to all involved.

Keep your energy going.

Regards

EWIS

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: My guru always said
Date: 09 May 07 - 09:54 AM

Many thanks for the photo Fan, having only met Scrump on Mudcat it has certainly helped me to focus my thoughts.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: GUEST
Date: 11 May 07 - 05:42 AM

refresh

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Jim Lad
Date: 11 May 07 - 01:02 PM

Far to handsome for my liking!
Best wishes to the family.
Kind Regards.
Jim

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 12 May 07 - 07:00 AM

Latest from Alan Hewson:

"We saw Paul on Thursday, and he drank from a cup having whispered "water"

Drip now removed. The hole from the tracheotomy will take some time to heal. When he tries to speak, air escapes which is frustrating him! He is moving both legs a little, and the plaster cast should have been removed yesterday.

All tiny improvement which give us real hope. he is clearly trying to communicate and haveing managed to say a few words to Frankie confirms his brain function is working on that level which is really good news."

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: skipy
Date: 12 May 07 - 07:02 AM

Great! Keep it coming.
Skipy

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 12 May 07 - 07:02 AM

And Alan also prompted me to write this for Paul:

For a friend
George Papavgeris, May 2007

Can you hear me, mate?
I would have been here earlier, I'm sorry I am late.
The motorway's a bitch today, the car park's in a state.
But you don't want to know about my own problems now,
I'm here and I will stay as long as matron will allow.
And I'll ignore the bandages, pretend it's a disguise.
And I'll ignore the monitor, just look you in the eyes
And talk to you
And talk for you
And talk of you

Can you hear me, mate?
Graeme and Gina send their love, and Sue and Alan too.
The guys in the pub ask every day for news of you.
Last night we raised a glass to you and talked about old days
And yes, we trotted out all the tired old clichés
Of how you talk, and how you smile, and how you tell a joke
And Steven was all tearful, though he said it was the smoke.
We drank to you
We drank for you
We drank of you

Can you hear me, mate?
I am embarassed and that's why I seem to hesitate, but
There's something that I need to say to you, that cannot wait
I could have told you long ago, I should have done and all, for it
was you that had the accident and I the wakeup call.
So I'll just say this one thing now, don't mean to be a bore:
I loved the times we had and I look forward to some more.
I 'll sing to you
I 'll sing for you
I 'll sing of you

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Jean(eanjay)
Date: 12 May 07 - 07:48 AM

That's brilliant.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 12 May 07 - 09:08 AM

Best wishes. I hope you are feeling better soon, Scrump.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 12 May 07 - 09:10 AM

Orea, O Yorgo mou!

Encouraging news, still keeping everything crossed.

RtS

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 May 07 - 10:09 AM

Same here...all good thoughts, etc.

George, BRILLIANT, indeed and thanks for the update.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: jacqui.c
Date: 12 May 07 - 12:07 PM

George - you got me all teary! That was lovely, and so apt.

Steve - thanks for the good news. It's so good to hear that things seem to be looking up.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Waddon Pete
Date: 12 May 07 - 05:00 PM

Good news again..excellent!

Marvelous song George...

Best wishes,

Peter

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Jim Lad
Date: 13 May 07 - 12:40 AM

Good News!
Nicely done George.
I got to hear you on a podcast recently
so I know you'll do that one justice.
Cheers!
Jim

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: JennyO
Date: 13 May 07 - 05:32 AM

Lovely song, George - no less than I would expect from you!

With your song, and all of us pulling for him, how could he not get better now?

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Lizzie Cornish
Date: 13 May 07 - 06:04 AM

What great news! :0)

Beautiful song George...really beautiful.

...but to hell with Matron! ;0)

We've no 'visiting times' Spiritually we're all staying right beside Scrump, for as long as he needs us.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: sapper82
Date: 13 May 07 - 10:21 AM

Lovely words George, look forward to howling my eyes out when you do them at Wheaton Aston.
Again, as with "Streaky" who sad death is on the board, someone I've never met. Hope there will still be a chance to correct that in the future. We've lost enought 'Catters lately.
Bob

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: SINSULL
Date: 13 May 07 - 08:22 PM

I have been reading this thread and hoping. Sounds like things are as good as they can be and certainly better than expected.

I hope all the caretakers are giving themselves some Quality Time to decompress, rest and even throw things if it helps.

You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Mary

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Hawker
Date: 13 May 07 - 08:38 PM

George, Lovely song!
Scrump, still rooting for you!
Cheers, Lucy

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: GUEST
Date: 15 May 07 - 04:02 AM

refresh

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: GUEST,Natalie H (again!)
Date: 15 May 07 - 06:28 AM

I have made it back to continue reading about 'Scrump's' progress.
I am very pleased to hear good news that progress is being made.
I was very moved by that poem/song. My eyes filled with tears.
Thanks also for the photo that someone posted!
Keep strong 'Scrump'!
Big love being sent over xx

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: GUEST,Scrump fan
Date: 21 May 07 - 09:16 AM

Any more news? Still thinking of Scrump and his family, every day.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: sapper82
Date: 21 May 07 - 09:26 AM

George's song went down very well at the weekend.
Hope there is good news soon.
Bob

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 29 May 07 - 01:56 PM

I just received the following from Alan Hewson, one of his best mates and fellow band member in Tam Lin:

"It is with a very heavy heart that I have to tell you my wonderful friend Paul Gunningham died from a heart attack at 8.30 this morning.

We don't know why this happened. Paul brought a lot of pleasure to everyone who knew him. He was a kind and gentle man, modest, witty and widely talented. I will miss him more than I can say.

There will be a post mortem. I will let you know what the funeral arrangements will be in due course."

I am stunned right now.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Hawker
Date: 29 May 07 - 02:19 PM

Oh George!
I am so sorry to hear this, you made me cry twice this weekend with scrumps song, please dont stop singing it, it's a lovely tribute to a man I never knew, but if he was one of your friends, I know he was special!
Love and kind thoughts to all his family and friends.
Lucy x

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Gulliver
Date: 29 May 07 - 02:26 PM

Really really sorry to hear this. Commiserations to all.

Don

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: Ebbie
Date: 29 May 07 - 02:38 PM

I am so sorry- I was hoping for another story of a miraculous return to health.

My condolences to all.

Subject: RE: Mudcatter Scrump
From: jacqui.c
Date: 29 May 07 - 03:11 PM

So sorry to hear this! It's even more of a shock as he seemed to be doing so well.

Please give my heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. Is there anything that we can do right now?