BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney

Subject: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 04:48 AM

I'm booked into hospital on Friday morning cos my Doctor removed a thingy that was cancerous & needs to prod around to make sure all the cells are removed as it can come back. The good news is that it will never spread to other areas.

The bad news is that as the original thingy was huge - well, size of top joint of my thumb - the existing scar is huge (around 3" long) & as he needs to probe about 1" around the scar, the new wound will probably (definitely?) need a skin graft & that means 5 days in hospital. I don't want to even spend 1 hour in hospital, let alone 5 days.

So yesterday I visited the hospital & filled in all the questionaires & was questioned by assorted staff & they know about my other sore bits & will look after me wonderfully, but they are still doctors & nurses & it's still a Hospital & an operation & imprisonment away from my comfort zone & I don't want to be there.

sandra

The other good news is that it won't cost a cent cos I don't have Private Health cover & public patients get free treatment. Treatment for cancer and other life-threatening conditions is swift, with no waiting lists as there are for elective surgery.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: maeve
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 05:34 AM

Sandra- Warm hugs, and prayers on your account.

May your stay in hospital be shorter than it might have been, enhanced by excellent and compassionate medical care, with unlooked-for moments of joy to bring you light enough to carry you safely home.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Neil D
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 05:41 AM

Best Wishes for a full recovery and NO recurrence.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:12 AM

Holding you close, Sandra..and when you get down, or panicky, just think of us all 'out here' thinking about you and willing you to get better. Slow the breathing down, and take yourself 'somewhere else'

Take your favourite music in with you and get your mind to focus on the part of the world you love best, outside that hospital. Lie there planning what you're going to do when you get well again, then write those things down in a list, and be determined to do some of them when you're once more back home and well.

Re-direct your thoughts to somewhere you *really* want to be and then...just go there in your mind's eye.

And smile..you'll soon be well again, and scars fade in time...scars of all sorts.

Sunshine and Smiles, that's what you focus on.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Georgiansilver
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:28 AM

My prayers are with you and for you. Best wishes, Mike.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: JennieG
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:29 AM

Ouch! which hospital? I'll be thinking of you on Friday morning.

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:56 AM

Best wishes and lots of healing energy being sent your way.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: freda underhill
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 07:06 AM

Sandra - which hospital? I'll come in and visit on Saturday, if that's okay.

freda

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Janie
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 07:13 AM

Sending out light, love and prayers, dear.

Janie

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: bfdk
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 07:16 AM

Best of luck with it all, Sandra. You'll be back home in no time.

Bente

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 07:44 AM

thanks for your lovely thoughts

Lizzie - moi, panicky? were you reading my mind.

I'm hoping to borrow a CD player as my little radio won't be enough. I'm planning to take my Harry Potter books as I can't read the latest without re-reading all the earlier ones cos I forget stuff (ps. I'm a fast reader & even if I don't get to the final vol, I'll get well into the series!) & some knitting & sewing.

sandra

google ads about scars?

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Bryn Pugh
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 08:07 AM

Love, hugs, good thoughts and good wishes from Northants, UK.

Get well soon, Erica and Bryn

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 10:33 AM

Hi Sandra: May the Lady of the Roses be with you...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_k8E-f92sr0&feature=related
Health & Blessings....
bob

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Ebbie
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 10:38 AM

May the treatment be sure and your recovery swift. Time passing so fast is a good thing when it comes to this kind of thing- you will soon leave it receding into the past.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: jacqui.c
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 10:38 AM

Good thoughts coming from Maine, Sandra. Take care.

Does the hospital have PCs or wifi? Can you keep in touch while you're in there?

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Escapee
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 11:17 AM

Here's a good thought for you from Ohio, Sandra.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 11:45 AM

Lots of love and light and healing thoughts from frozen New England!

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 11:46 AM

As we all wish Sandra a speedy recovery and good thoughts in a myriad of ways, I will leave this reference for those in need of good thoughts, whatever your situation may be...
http://unity.unityonline.org/prayer
It has worked for me...
Best Wishes, Peace & Blessings to All...
bob

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: kendall
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 11:56 AM

More healing energy from Maine.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: katlaughing
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 12:04 PM

Bob, my sister used to work at Silent Unity. Thanks for the link and i second the recommendation.

Sandra, sorry I didn't check this earlier. I thought it was a previously started one for someone else.

I also second what Lizzie said; visualise where you will be and what you will be doing once this is done and over with...keep focussed on that and give thanks for it or something better for the highest good of all concerned. Of course, you don't have to do that, exactly, but it works, based on my experience.:-)

Good, good, good that it has been found and will not return!!

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: SINSULL
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 12:04 PM

Cancerous thingies are scary. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers, Sandra. You have a lot of company this week - all good people like you.
Love,
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: ClaireBear
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 12:06 PM

Healthy thoughts and a calming song from California.

Claire

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Megan L
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 12:11 PM

Sandra you are in our thoughts and prayers

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: catspaw49
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 12:26 PM

Hi old friend! Sounds like things are at least moving in the right direction! Of course you have all my best thoughts coming your way but let's see if I can come up with something else.

I dunno' what you can do to pass the time in hospitals where you are but god knows I'm an expert on it here in Ohio! You need the music for sure but you need other amusements as boredom will kill you faster than heart disease or cancer! So take the small things and trat them as BIG things. For instance............

Do you get to pick your meals? Here most get a "menu" appropriate to their illnes with some selections. Spend too much time thinking about this and choose carefully. Sounds silly I know but it works and you can also check and see if you can get something additional......many times you can. If so get it and save it for later like you're pulling something illegal. Or save something to eat later and eat it in a special place, even a chair out of bed or the side of your bed will do. It just have to be different. If you have jello, eat it in a pattern. Find how slowly and neatly you can peel an orage. If you took small bites before, take even smaller ones and extend the meals and snacks as long as possible.

LOL.....I know that all sounds nuts, but then again, so am I. Get into the details of nurses and docs private lies.....its amazing how much some of them will ramble on with just the occasional question as a prod. Go past the nurses staion on your walks so often that ou gather info.....After awhile you can learn all sorts of useless crap and then ask one of them a question about something you shouldn't know. Freaks them out but they generally understand.

Its all dumb but then again its all boring!!! I'll be holding good thoughts!

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: SINSULL
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 12:49 PM

My first and only hospital stay was supposed to be for ten days. By Day Four I was begging the doctor to take out the stitches /staples and let me go home. He did.

I hate sharing a room with a bunch of cranky women and their silly visitors.

Advice: if other patients' visitors get on your nerves, VOMIT! as loudly as possible. Preferably behind a curtain. The embarrassed silence followed by quick goodbyes is worth the effort.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Azizi
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 12:50 PM

Sandra, I'm sending positive vibration your way!

-Azizi

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Ebbie
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 01:25 PM

"Get into the details of nurses and docs private lies....." Spaw

I'm not sure I want to know about their private lies.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: fat B****rd
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 03:20 PM

Best regards from Charlie in Dunfermline.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: RangerSteve
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 03:26 PM

You will be in my thoughts.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:03 PM

Thinking of you... and considering opening up the Mudcat Recovery Ward again... if only to keep an eye on Nurse Ratched!

Take care.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 06:48 PM

NO! no Nurse Ratched, (please, please) - I won't go to hospital if she's there. I'll stay home here where it's safer.

spaw - thanks for your advice, I had tears in my eyes when I read it - I'm taking extra food - & have good advice from my nutritionist. Almost all I remember from my last (only) admission in 1964 for appendicitis, was not getting what I ordered. If I wanted cornflakes & a boiled egg, I'd end up with rice bubbles & a fried egg! I was planning to take my usual folk Festival snacky food (oatcakes, dried apricots & fresh fruit) & he suggested adding nuts & seeds & making sure I ate a lot more red meat when I get home. He said I'd lose weight so I needed eat enough when I get back to regain the lost weight, before getting back to smaller meals as I still have 7 or 8 kilos to lose.

And thanks to everyone - normally I'm a rock, & an island, & reaching out to local & Mudcat friends is not easy.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: open mike
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 07:10 PM

no woman is an island...even if you come from one of the island
continents!

glad you have shared this with us and i hope someone can bring you
a print out if you do not have internet access while you are there.


gosh, some folks will do anything to get some quite time for reading,
knitting and sewing, etc.

i hope everything turns out good for you
and that you will be home & well soon!

Laurel

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Joybell
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 07:40 PM

This is such a great place, isn't it Sandra.
More good thoughts and happy wishes to add to the ones I've already sent.
Joy and True-love and a little Penguin and a little Magpie.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Art Thieme
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 09:05 PM

Sandra,
Please be well---and be quick about it! Your posts and all have helped me through much tough stuff. Thanks for that. Here's hoping we can give some of the good vibes back to you.

Art Thieme
(Peru, Illinois---where our governors make our license plates!)

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Charley Noble
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 11:13 PM

Sandra-

I'm tuning in late on this thread but it's some relief that you do have access to good medical care, without having to worry about how to pay for it. Judy and I are also focusing good thoughts your way.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Peace
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 11:35 PM

What they said. All of 'em. Except Freda: I won't be in on Saturday.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 21 Jan 09 - 11:55 PM

Sandra -- good luck! Don't try and wear your contacts while you are in there......

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 12:00 AM

so I'll just have to take take your CD along, Peace!

thanks Laurel, Art & Charlie & Judy & everyone for good your wishes

love from sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Helen
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 12:37 AM

I'm thinking of you too, from way up north, here in Newcastle, NSW. :-)

Lots of love & light & hugs. And let yourself be looked after. (I know that can be hard to do when you are used to doing for yourself, being self-reliant, etc etc.)

Helen

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 01:21 AM

Good luck getting this out of your system, Sandra!

And as to the Google ad you saw for scar treatment, there are good ointments out there that do help reduce scars. I was seeing a plastic surgeon about a bad bite on my ankle and he told me to use an expensive ointment called "Mederma." It's mostly onion, apparently, treated to remove the strong scent. He told me that if I ate an onion a day I wouldn't need to use the ointment.

That'll get you discharged from the hospital in a hurry. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Bert
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 01:29 AM

Get well soon or I'll send Micca out there to take care of you. Or worse than that I'll SING to you.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: rich-joy
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 01:48 AM

Be thinking of you, Sandra (but don't forget your comfort Teddies!), and hold to that vision of a Healthy You at Home again.

Cheers, R-J
(who has been forced to re-evaluate her feelings about hospitals in the last couple of years :~(

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Hrothgar
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 02:00 AM

Just make sure you're back on deck in Canberra for Easter.

No sick notes will be accepted.

Peace and love.

Roger

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 02:18 AM

Roger, I wouldn't miss the national for quids!

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: GUEST
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 02:45 AM

good wishes from closer to home, I agree with 'spaw ..... hoard whatever food you can for later - you'd be surprised how many patients are eating their extra lunchtime sandwiches in the middle of the night

hope everything goes smoothly and you get home quickly

slainte

alison

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: GUEST,alison
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 02:47 AM

oops that was me above - just another thought .... at least you get to miss these 40C days in an air conditioned hospital!!

slainte

alison

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 06:09 AM

Sandra this is good, and you can get it from your local chemist. Keep at it and you'll be surprised what a difference it makes, but let the scar heal up first.

Bio- Oil for scars

And hey, remember to listen hard when you're in there, because...

We'll sing you to us. :0)


Actually, if you can't get Spaw to fly over in time to be your Partner In Mischief, you could try getting Hugh Jackman to visit 24/7 and that way you wouldn't even remember having the operation! ;0)

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: gnu
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 06:33 AM

Thoughts and prayers.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 08:12 AM

thanks, folks

I've printed off this thread so I can take you with me - along with a few Mudcatter CDs

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: beardedbruce
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 08:35 AM

Best wishes.




Should we start a thread on who has the largest scar(s)?

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: George Papavgeris
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 10:14 AM

Sorry, I only just saw the thread. Sandra, lots of warm hugs and best wishes from me and Nessie! May they probe minimally, pronounce you clean fully and let you go home speedily. Lots of love.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: GUEST,Mary in Kentucky
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 10:29 AM

Best of wishes to you, Sandra. I'd love to send a card, but you know how slow the mail is from here to there, just consider this a virtual card (with geraniums).

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Big Mick
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 10:46 AM

Whoa there......... hold it ....... no one checked with me on this aul load of shite!! I just checked the logs and you are not due to start falling apart for a good long spell!

Listen to Spawzer. He is nuts. It has served him well and kept him around long enough to screw up any number of office pools on when he would assume room temperature. And when THE FAIR ONE chimes in, that is particularly strong juju.

In the meantime I will light the flame, play the Low D, and say the prayers for one of the very best folks on Mudcat.

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: My guru always said
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 05:14 PM

Positive thoughts from here, recover well!
Hil
ps may I take this opportunity to recommend arnica cream for help in healing scars....

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Morticia
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 06:11 PM

Good luck, don't be scared, we are thinking of you.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Tig
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 06:13 PM

(((((((((((((((((((((((((Hugs))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Lots of love and hugs
Tig
xxx

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: katlaughing
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 07:51 PM

Love and hugs and healing, calming thoughts...hug your pillow and make them treat you gently and thoroughly to be as comfortable as possible!

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Joybell
Date: 22 Jan 09 - 07:59 PM

Sandra should be in recovery by now. It's 11 in the morning here. Getting through the early-morning traffic in Sydney would have been the scary bit -- even by taxi.
Still sending best thoughts, Sandra.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: GUEST,Peace
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 01:45 AM

Slept through it all, I suppose?

I trust you will be feeling 'way far lots better' in just a few hours. In my thoughts and prayers, Sandra.

BM

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: JennieG
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 06:57 AM

Especially by taxi, Joy! Sandra may be feeling a bit woozy for a while but hopefully she will be back to her usual chipper self soon.

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Janie
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 07:32 AM

Just think, Sandra, you are now a day closer to heading back home.

Hope all went well and will continue to go well. Still keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Janie

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Janie
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 07:05 PM

Any updates?

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Rowan
Date: 23 Jan 09 - 10:14 PM

All the best Sandra!

I'd have seen the thread and responded before this but a (somewhat) similar event has meant that I've been Mudcatable only in the local library since New Year and will remain so for the next month; a small piece of carpal tunnel surgery has to be healed before I start chemo. The oncologist took my need to play concer much more seriously than the surgeon and was able to effect some rescheduling.

See you at the National, where we can swap hospital and scar tales.

Cheers, Rowan

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Ross Campbell
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 01:54 AM

Love and best wishes, Sandra. Be well!

Ross

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Bugsy
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 02:35 AM

I've only just seen this thread Sandra. Hopefully, it's all over and done with by now and I hope that everything went well for you. I'm, glad to see that 'Spaw sent you a message with loads of good advise enclosed. I found his message to me a great comfort when I was in for bypass surgery. Anyway, I don't normally do a lot of praying nowadays but I'll say a couple tonight in the hope that the good lord will be so shocked that he takes a look at you to make sure all is well.

all the best and love from the West,


Bugsy

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 03:26 AM

Sending you some 'good' morning thoughts from England, Sandra. xx :0)

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 06:02 AM

Only just saw this thread - hope you're recovering well and will soon read all the new messages!

Kitty

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Bonnie Shaljean
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 06:24 AM

I've only seen it too - thinking of you. Love from Ireland

xxx

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: freda underhill
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 06:39 AM

It's Saturday 10.33 pm here in Sydney. I went to visit Sandra at the hospital today - a 40 degr smotheringly hot day out where she is.

After a woozy day yesterday, Sandra was sitting up in bed looking like a queen in white (Sandra, I didn't realise your hair is sooo long!) and was remarkably calm and gracious, considering she has just had quite a large chunk removed from her tum - not just the cancerous intruder but quite a bit of flesh on either side.

Sandra had her knitting, some books and the remains of lunch, not all of it eaten. So we sat and chatted about this and that, until the lights were dimmed and a very nice nurse explained to me that it was time to go.

Sandra has been very pleased to read all the Mud-messages - just what she needed to keep her going during a time of sudden and unexpected illness.

Rowan, good luck with your op too - I'll be there to compare scars at the National too, and look forward to it.


freda

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 07:15 AM

Thank you, Freda- I love the image of queenly Sandra, hair flowing, presiding from her bed. Heal well, Sandra!

Allison

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: katlaughing
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 10:53 AM

Thanks, freda. I love that image, too!

Sandra, you'll be home in no time and the better for it, too.:-)

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 11:48 AM

Hell of a way to lose that tummy bulge, Sandra. Candle lit for you and a few others.
Love,
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: ranger1
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 07:56 PM

(((((Sandra)))))

I just saw this thread. Get well soon, oh wonderful rescue Santa! I flip through my Australian wildlife book frequently and think of you.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Rowan
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 09:06 PM

Glad you're on the mend, Sandra; catch up with you at Easter. You too, Freda; many thanks.

Cheers, Rowan

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Charley Noble
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 09:10 PM

Freda-

Thanks so much for the update.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Beer
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 09:12 PM

Sandra,
The very, very best for a speedy recovery.
Adrien from
Quebec, Canada

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Joybell
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 10:52 PM

Thank you Freda. Keep up the good work getting better Sandra. Rowan -- my possible friend from school-days -- Oh dear! all the best. Sad I won't be at the National with my scar. It's tiny of course but there's a computer beneath it reminding my heart to beat so it's interesting.
Happy but concerned thoughts.
Joy

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Alice
Date: 24 Jan 09 - 11:42 PM

Just opened this thread for the first time - Sandra, take care. Best wishes for a very speedy recovery!!

Alice

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: ragdall
Date: 25 Jan 09 - 03:12 AM

freda, Thank you for the update.

Sandra,
Best wishes for speedy healing, kind caring nurses and visits from many cheerful friends.

rags

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: catspaw49
Date: 25 Jan 09 - 03:24 AM

Rowan!! So much going on and so little news. That's not the Mudcat Way and unfair to your friends here......But I'm glad things are moving along in what seems the right direction so keep the rest of us posted (so to speak0,

Sounds as though Sandra has the situation in hand too! Sandra, Karen is knitting away on a baby blanket for a close friend's daughter due in two weeks. Karen has really gotten into the homemade blanket gift for babies but she makes them more sized for a 12 year old.......I think she hopes to achieve "favorite blankie" status with new arrivals as they grow up....LOL

Hang in there Kiddo!!!!


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Rowan
Date: 25 Jan 09 - 08:09 PM

Rowan!! So much going on and so little news. That's not the Mudcat Way and unfair to your friends here

Thanks for the good thoughts Spaw!
I didn't want to hijack Sandra's thread, so I tried to keep diversionary comment to a minimum. The onset of my event was (thankfully) sudden and I was out of contact for enough time to think it didn't warrant starting a thread. Unlike the UK and NE US 'catters there's a lot of nonMudcat distance between many of us in Oz so news can be sporadic. Festivals are great for catching up face-to face and I'm looking forward to seeing Sandra and Freda.

I've just received news that the person who introduced me to Mudcat (Tony, in Darwin and with whom I sang and played in a past life) has had a bit of an encounter that Ozcatters might like to chat over with him. Like me, he has a well-developed sense of humour and a good prognosis.

Cheers, Rowan

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Charley Noble
Date: 25 Jan 09 - 08:31 PM

Rowan-

My best to you and Tony as well.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Charley Noble
Date: 26 Jan 09 - 08:27 AM

This just in from Margaret who is hosting Sandra at her digs while she recovers:

"bearded bruce - my scar is longer than my forearm! beat that, folks!

& sins, the tum is above the scar! ratzes! it was great when the original thingy was removed & that bit was flat, wot a shame the other bulgy bit remains. My surgeon said some pathologist is going to get a real surprise when they get to work after the holiday weekend & see the huge sample that needs slicing & examining. The result will be available at the end of the week, & I have to make an appointment to see him the following week.

Hospital was a lot better than I thought it would be - great staff & fellow patients, why I even decided that I'll accept my thyroid specialist's opinion to remove my malfunctioning thyroid! She'll get a shock, cos I was so much against the idea. Food wasn't good (who was telling us about starving patients hoarding food? good thing I took my supply) but my wonderful hostess has loaded up her fridge so fully that I had to remind her I'll probably only be here 1 night & day. Spare bed has been carried down the narrow steps & set up in front living room, (thanks John aka occasional Mudcatter Jack Halyard!) - everything is cosy for the invalid - dunno whether to milk the situation or not! Another friend picked me up from the hospital, fed me lunch then drove me over here.

thanks to everyone for your good thoughts, I took my printout to hospital & read thru it.

lots of love from sandra"

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Jan 09 - 09:36 AM

Great to hear you're doing OK... continue to take care.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 26 Jan 09 - 09:40 AM

Milk it, MILK IT! :0)

Good to hear you're on the mend, Sandra...and looking forward to your next op too! Now *that's* what I call great hospital service, the patient liked it so much she's going back for more. lol.

Look after yourself...and eat loads of chocolate! :0)

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: gnu
Date: 26 Jan 09 - 11:50 AM

Sandra, Rowan, Tony.... great to hear positive news!

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Megan L
Date: 26 Jan 09 - 11:54 AM

What are you folks doing over there trying to get bulk buy discount. Now get well all o ye and dinny mak me send Granny ower there.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: katlaughing
Date: 26 Jan 09 - 02:03 PM

Thanks for posting her message. Good to hear from you, Sandra, and that things went well!! Keep up the good vibes!

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Rowan
Date: 27 Jan 09 - 12:05 AM

Just in time to enjoy the holiday; goodonyer, Sandra!

Cheers, Rowan

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: freda underhill
Date: 27 Jan 09 - 06:29 AM

Sandra, I'm glad you're in good hands. You were remarkably calm considering a pece of you has been removed. I'm glad that apalling heat has been replaced by cool misty rain, this should help your recovery be more comfy.

freda

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: topical tom
Date: 27 Jan 09 - 08:15 AM

Best wishes for a speedy recovery from Quebec (Canada)!

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 02:07 AM

back home after my adventure.

Another friend collected me from Margaret's place & took me & my bags to Craft group, where I wasn't allowed to move chairs & tables & carry stuff back to the storeroom! Not that I wanted to, or even thought of helping. We had our usual crafty & chatty time.

Nor was I allowed to carry my bags, or the fruit & veg we bought on the way home. Dallas pushed the trolley across the sloping market floor (good thing the trolley was stable, cos she is smaller & shorter than me!) & then drove thru early peak hour traffic, & carried almost everything up my 38 stairs! And offered her spare room if I find the stairs too much, but I'm planning to stay in for a few days, maybe take a short walk at night if I get too stir-crazy.

I do have some great friends - it's amazing to an island like me how helpful folks are if asked (& even if not asked!)

The only pain-killers I asked for (in the ward, dunno what I might have been given pre & post-op) were for my sore back - scar pain was ok, more a bloody (bruised!) irritation & annoyance, as it still is. And those little sticky strips that "hold" the wound together - wot a bloody irritation. And white surgical stockings are just the thing for hot humid Sydney days & nights, but I have to go around looking like a lady bowler until I see my surgeon again.

Hospital beds & chairs are not the best for chronic back pain, so after I could get up on Fri night I walked a round a bit - sometimes just out of our 4-bed ward into the corridor, later in the hospital grounds.

I read, knitted, embroidered & rested, & did the same at Margaret's place, tho she did allow me to chop veggies last night (I was hanging out for veggies & ate lots, yum!!), & I even sneaked in a small washing-up while she was arguing with her new computer. By-the-by, I couldn't submit anything on her computer, first message I had saved & we sent it to Charlie for posting, second disappeared after submitting & I couldn't retrieve it. One Of Life's Little Mysteries! (Two Of Life's Little Mysteries?)

thanks to everyone for your support & good wishes, now I just have to wait till my appointment with my surgeon in a week.

sandra (resting on a comfortable computer chair after half a day on another comfortable chair)

I'm sure my bruises are prize-winners, too!

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: GUEST,Peace
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 02:15 AM

YAHOO!

Great to see you posting, Sandra.

Bruce

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Megan L
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 03:39 AM

Great to have ye back lassie Noo dinny dae onythin daft (OK try no tae dae onythin dafter than usual:) )

Hope you get good results from the specialist.

Awra best
frae
Dauvitt and his Meg

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 03:48 AM

Wonderful to hear from you! Should I open up the Recovery Ward now? There's a special annexe stuffed full of craft items (for the occupational therapy, we can't sell the stuff but the "special" patients here get such a kick out of being allowed to eat as much glue as they like), with windows that open out onto the gardens where you can watch Nurse Ratched pursue her burgeoning career as a Physio Terrorist. Or just pursue the patients that have escaped her tender care...

Keep up the good work of resting, it's the best thing you could do!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: freda underhill
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 04:44 AM

I kept an eye out for Nurse Rathched when I was visiting, as Sandra let it be known she wasn't to be allowed in. Luckily, there was no sighting, I think she must be off causing trouble with Micca.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Charley Noble
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 07:44 AM

Home is nice!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble, preparing for another foot of snow in Maine

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: SINSULL
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 08:19 AM

Good to have you back, Sandra. 114 degrees in Brisbane? YUCH

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 08:32 AM

not quite as much in central Sydney - only 23.0 ten minutes ago @ the observatory, but it's close to Sydney Harbour & so am I. We have 81% humidity, tho I'm not noticing it as I have a fan blowing on me.

We're expecting 28 tomorrow (with 36 out west) & I'm staying in!

It'll be cooler tomorrow in Brisbane - they're only expecting 30.

sandra (12.24am)

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: artbrooks
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 08:33 AM

Of course Nurse Ratched is spending all her time with Micca - why else do you think he is spending all his time locked in the loo?

Good to see that you are out of durance vile and on the road to recovery.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: artbrooks
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 08:38 AM

Oh yeah...that last one was 100.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 09:03 AM

Glad you are home Sandra. Hope you heal well and quickly.

Love

Khatt x

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: quokka
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 10:16 AM

Only just seen this thread too - here's good thoughts for a speedy recovery and a {{{{((((hug))))}}}}

Cheers,

Quokka

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: katlaughing
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 11:03 AM

Super, you are home!! Thanks for letting us know and thanks to your friends who took such good care of you. Remember that, eh, and to let them know if you need more help.:-) Take it easy and slow.

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 04:22 PM

It is good to get back home again. Stay cool and get well soon!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: SINSULL
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 05:46 PM

Stay very cool!
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Joybell
Date: 28 Jan 09 - 10:44 PM

Great, Sandra. Well done and brave.
So it's only 28 there! Lucky you. Just as well. It's 43 here.
Cheers, Joy

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 29 Jan 09 - 12:29 AM

Joybell -- WHERE is it 43??????????

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Helen
Date: 29 Jan 09 - 01:07 AM

Glad to hear you have escaped from hospital. Get yourself well and enjoy the pampering.

(BTW, your friend Dallas didn't work in a library in Newcastle a decade or two ago, did she?)

Helen

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 29 Jan 09 - 03:22 AM

Trubrit - Joybell lives in rural Victoria, normally rather hot in summer, but currently a bit hotter! - see the Melbourne temperatures thread for more info on her day.

Helen - Dallas was not a librarian, she's a retired travel agent.

It hasn't been as hot here - tho wearing these bloody blood pressure stockings make it seem the same. And my scar is crossed by lots of nasty scratchy tapes - they certainly aren't holding it together - & they are annoying me, as is the puffiness. My left leg has been sore all day (old story, nuffin' to do with the wound) & I've found it hard to sit (as is often the case) & too hot to wander about

whinge whinge, moan, moan, grizzle, grizzle

sandra (does this mean I'm getting better?)

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Canberra Chris
Date: 29 Jan 09 - 06:26 AM

I didn't spot this thread - ask for songs and put it in the music forum! John Dengate would oblige.

But we did talk on the phone.

I used to work in an operating theatre but I'll spare you the inside (as it were) stories.

Except a couple. One was the time the two surgeons were arguing about which leg it was. I knew, and I was going to intervene if they got it wrong.

Over several months nothing so far as I was aware went wrong, so it seemed about as safe as crossing the road. But I can understand if you're chicken.

The main danger was probably to me, as I had to clean the theatre back in the old days with the cocktail of cleaners they tell you now (thanks!) never to mix, or use in a confined space.

Chris

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Megan L
Date: 29 Jan 09 - 06:27 AM

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 29 Jan 09 - 11:23 PM

I saw my Dr this morning & she admired the scar! - well, she said it was well done & doing well.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: GUEST,Peace
Date: 29 Jan 09 - 11:28 PM

43 x 1.8 + 32 = 109 degrees F.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Helen
Date: 30 Jan 09 - 01:42 AM

Oh well, I just thought I'd ask about Dallas because it is an unusual name for a woman. The Dallas I knew was starting out as a writer back then, and moved to Sydney for better opportunities. (One of my favourite ex-colleagues, BTW.)

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Hrothgar
Date: 30 Jan 09 - 03:44 AM

Hasn't been over 35 Celsius in Brissy - 95 Fahrenheit, that is.

Now, the humidity - Urrrk!!!! well up in the 80s!

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: catspaw49
Date: 30 Jan 09 - 12:51 PM

You're laying there with this huge, ugly, scar on your bod and the damn thing looks bloody and bruised and its still oozing gawd knows what.........Doctor comes in and says," Um-hmm...uh-huh.....yes........Oh yes, that's looking very nice."

Doncha' wanna' ask, "What the fuck reality are YOU in Doc?"

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 30 Jan 09 - 05:35 PM

you're not wrong, spaw - sitting is extremely uncomfortable, but as long as I alternate sitting with walking & laying down, I'll survive to grumble & moan!

At least it's cooler where I live - we're only expecting 29 today here & for th rest of the week, unlike those in Sydney's west who will get 35+ & the folks in Australia's south-west where temperatures are in the mid 40s.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: JennieG
Date: 30 Jan 09 - 07:24 PM

I'm one of those folk who live in Sydney's wild wild west....although it's not as wild here as it is further west.....if you follow me.

Sandra, good to hear that things are proceeding as well as they should, even though you are uncomfortable. Each day will be better.

Cheers
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 31 Jan 09 - 05:26 AM

Good to see you back and getting well again, Sandra.

I hope you remembered to bring Hugh Jackman back home with you...It'd be a real shame if you left him in the hospital! ;0)

A big, but very gentle, hug for you...(((x)))

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: SussexCarole
Date: 31 Jan 09 - 03:44 PM

So sorry that we've missed this thread til now! All our very best wishes to you Sandra for a speedy recovery.

Andrew & Carole x

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Rowan
Date: 31 Jan 09 - 11:40 PM

Glad to see all's well, Sandra, or at least on the mend.

Cheers, Rowan

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Micca
Date: 01 Feb 09 - 03:33 AM

I hope you are feeling better Sandra, I haven't even got a spectacular scar to show off (this time) for which I am Grateful!! It must be absolute TORTURE to wear support socks in those temperatures!!!, they make my legs ITCH something awful!! (I have to wear them when flying), So Get better soon, you have friends pulling for you everywhere, and this Mudcat Healing Power really does work!
Micca

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: skarpi
Date: 01 Feb 09 - 05:34 AM

I just saw you thread a moments ago ? I dont why it has gone by my
eyes , anyway , I hope you wil be well Sandra , ((( hug ))))
all the best Skarpi Iceland

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 01 Feb 09 - 07:39 PM

thanks for the good thoughts.

latest update - I visited the Medical centre yesterday & am now on antibiotics cos of an infection. My nurse friend says it might be expected as my lymph system has been disrupted (she said some very techo stuff & my eyes glazed over)

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Carly
Date: 01 Feb 09 - 11:51 PM

I just got here...I am glad to hear that you are home and doing so well. I sympathize about the surgical stockings; they are such a pain, particularly in hot weather! Heal fast, well, and completely.

Sent with best wishes from Carly

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 04 Feb 09 - 01:55 AM

I saw my surgeon today & as I knew - he had cut out soooo much flesh around the site of the original cancerous thingy that there is not a trace of cancer anywhere in the area.

YAH! & even better I don't need to wear those white stockings when I'm out & about.

the only problem is the swelling above & below the scar which he dealt with by sticking in needles & syringing out lotsa' liquid. I kept my eyes shut & chatted brightly except when one needle hit a nerve. I have another appointment Fri to get more removed & he assures me he couldn't find that nerve again if he tried!

My leg is much more comfortable & I'm sitting more easily.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: freda underhill
Date: 04 Feb 09 - 02:33 AM

that's faaanbloodytastic news Sandra. I'm VERY pleased to hear it!

amalina

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: gnu
Date: 04 Feb 09 - 06:37 AM

Great news. Hope you heal fast.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: Megan L
Date: 04 Feb 09 - 06:42 AM

That is good news Sandra. :) for future reference make sure you are positioned in such a way that if the doctor is male you can assure him you will not hurt him if he doesnt hurt you. My big sister nearly crippled a dentist when she was young in the same manner.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Rowan
Date: 04 Feb 09 - 07:51 PM

Great news, Sandra

My big sister nearly crippled a dentist when she was young in the same manner.

And I bet it involved a particular part of his anatomy that was the basis of a schoolyard joke on the same theme that was widespread in my youth; I'm pleased it had some basis in fact.

Cheers, Rowan

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: TRUBRIT
Date: 05 Feb 09 - 12:01 AM

Good girl Sandra --- take care.

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: katlaughing
Date: 05 Feb 09 - 12:17 AM

That's great news, Sandra!! Keep at it and heal up, all the way!:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 05 Feb 09 - 07:16 AM

hugs to you Sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Feb 09 - 04:58 PM

Been praying fer ya... (Will contiune.)

~S~

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: SINSULL
Date: 06 Feb 09 - 09:14 AM

Great news, Sandra. Sure he's not doing liposuction?

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 06 Feb 09 - 10:16 AM

thanks for the good wishes & prayers - this healing lark is sooo bloody slow! I felt more comfortable when I left hospital, before my wound started swelling up. It's hard to get comfortable with (old) sore back & legs & (new) swollen wound.

More liquid removed today (& he as he said, he didn't find that nerve again!) - about 200ml, the first lot was a cup & a half & I'll be needing several more sessions next week. I forgot to ask how long the swelling would last, but I don't suppose I could get an accurate answer!

sandra (not getting any skinnier!)

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Sydney
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Feb 09 - 10:17 AM

Is the smoke from the fires near Melbourne reaching you, Sandra? Reports here say that it is bad.
Windows closed in 100+ degree heat can't be fun.
Stay safe and take one day at a time. By March 1st this will be behind you.
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 07 Feb 09 - 05:22 PM

thanks for your good wishes, Mary.

Sydney & Melbourne are about 900 kms apart, but we do have some fires to the north of Sydney on the Central coast, about 80 km away & there was a fire in a harbourside National Park about 12 km from my place.

temps will be 33 in my harbourside bit of Sydney, with 43 in Sydney's west, 75ms away - Sydney is a large region. And I'm staying inside again today.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Charley Noble
Date: 07 Feb 09 - 09:08 PM

Sandra-

I do hope you are permitted to imbibe a little alcohol to mitigate recovery. Judy and I recommend "rusty nails," a mixture of Drambuie, Scotch, and ice cubes.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Good thoughts needed, please-Sandra in Syd
From: Rowan
Date: 08 Feb 09 - 03:58 PM

Just a quickie to let those of you who know Lynne Stone, the Alleways and Frank & Mary (all from Marysville, where there's only four buildings left standing), they're all safe and relocated around Victoria. Lynne, and the Murphys have lost their houses but Dave and Di's house "is" 5km out of town and we don't yet know its status.

Cheers, Rowan