My Grandfather Died in November 1975
My grandfather, Charles Gordon Parkin, died on 13 November 1975. He was 77. He would have turned 78 on 1 December. I was 15. He was my second grandparent to die. My paternal grandfather Charles Arthur Drew had died just over five years earlier in March 1970 when I was nine, see Chapter 100. He was 69.
Grandad’s Health Had Been Poor
Grandad had been unwell in the early seventies and remained unwell throughout 1975. He had had surgery for an enlarged prostate the previous year in January 1974, see Chapter 100.
Continued Urinary Symptoms
However, he continued to have urinary symptoms although he had good days and bad days. Things came to a head at the end of June 1975 when he was no longer able to pass urine. He was seen by his GP Dr Gale and referred to hospital. He was admitted to Ward 7 under the care of Mr Ashken.
Dr John Gale
Dr John Gale was in fact the second Dr Gale to work as a GP in Drayton. His father, James Newlyn Gale, bought the practice in 1938 and worked until his retirement in 1957. John joined him as partner in 1952. He himself retired in April 1983.
Mr Michael Ashken
Michael Ralph Handley Ashken was Consultant Urologist at the Norfolk and Norwich from 1968 to 1996, see Chapter 100. He had first seen grandad as early as December 1970 and carried out his surgery in 1974. At the time grandad was admitted on this occasion, mum had just started to work for him as part-time secretary for his private practice, see Chapter 121. She noted that Mr Ashken talked to her about grandad.
Bladder Neck Stretch
Mr Ashken did not think grandad’s symptoms were prostate-related. He thought that they might be eased by stretching the bladder neck. This procedure was carried out on 2 July 1975. However, it did not have the desired effect and efforts to remove the catheter were unsuccessful. He was discharged home with the catheter in place on 9 July 1975.
Visitors While in Hospital
Grandad had various visitors while he was in hospital including grandma, mum, me, Alan, Liz, the Elsegoods, Irene Bell and Rev Hayman.
Initial Plans
The plan was that he would keep the catheter in place for three weeks. At home, he was visited by a number of his GPs, including Dr Sladden, Dr Leeming and Dr Gale, and by different male nurses, including Mr Baker and Mr Pearce (or Pierce).
Dr David Sladden
Dr David Sladden joined the Drayton Practice in 1956. I believe he died in 2021 aged 96.
Dr Leeming
I have not yet found out much about Dr Leeming except that he was one of the doctors at the Drayton practice in 1983 and again in 1987.
Grandad Remained Weak
Grandad remained weak spending most of his time in bed although he was able to get up for short periods. I am not sure if grandad’s urinary problems fully explained how poor his health was at this time. On 24 July 1975, although he had been improving, grandma noted that he had a bad night with “heart pains”.
Wheelchair
Grandma got a wheelchair for him. Initially, she got one from the Red Cross but, apparently, this was the wrong kind. So, in August 1975, one came from the NHS. Grandad was very pleased with it. By this time, grandad was more active. Two days after getting the wheelchair, he lowered the footrests and spent time tidying his cabin. So, in September 1975, mum took the Red Cross wheelchair back.
Long-term Catheter
On 23 July 1975, Mr Ashken told mum that they intended to keep grandad’s catheter indefinitely. He would only attend hospital to have the catheter changed. Mum took him for this to be done on 2 August 1975. There were some issues with the type of bags he was supplied. The hospital gave him bags for use in bed but he wanted/needed “leg bags”. He got some from Mr Pearce, one of the nurses, and on prescription through Dr Leeming. He also got some from Mr Newsome, a friend.
Grandad Gradually Improved
Over time, grandad improved and, by the end of July 1975, he was able to walk with a stick. He also resumed making his own diary entries at this point. However, he still had some bad days and grandma cancelled her plans to go on a women’s outing to Lowestoft on 14 August, see Chapter 124. Nevertheless, his overall improvement continued. On 25 August 1975, mum and Tricia took him to the gala in the park which I believe took place on the playingfields opposite grandma and grandad’s house. On the 28th, grandma pushed him to see their next-door-but-one neighbour, Irene Bell.
Visitors at Home
Various people visited him at home after he was discharged from hospital at the beginning of July. These included mum, me, Liz, Arthur Elsegood, Mr and Mrs Hinchley, Mrs Winspear, Mr Barnes, Barbara Carpenter, Clarence Hodgson and Mr Newsome. People helped by bringing food, such as strawberries, lettuce and blackcurrant jam; helping with shopping; and/or sitting with grandad so that grandma could do jobs.
Swollen Feet
In September 1975, Dr Leeming saw grandad because his legs were swollen and he doubled his “water tablets”.
Changing the Catheter at Home
From mid-September, Mr Ashken discussed and agreed with mum that the district nurses could change grandad’s catheter at home. This proceeded largely without incident except on 28 September 1975 when grandad called one of the nurses, Mr Baker, at 1am because he had “trouble with my water”.
Trouble With His Right Foot
At the beginning of October, grandad had trouble with his right foot. I am not sure exactly what trouble he was having. It is possible it was gout as he had suffered with this from at least 1962, see Chapter 78.
Still Using the Wheelchair
Whatever the problem was, it meant that grandad was still using the wheelchair. On 4 October 1975, he bought a night commode from Miss Cooke, grandma’s friend, for £2. Grandad noted it was a good one, better than the one he had made in Kirkby, see Chapter 31.
Stroke
Despite some gradual improvement, grandad was quite unwell on 21 and 22 October 1975. On the 23rd, grandma phoned mum to say he had had a stroke, possibly on the 21st.
Very Unwell
From then, he was very unwell spending his time largely in bed. Dr Gale came on the 23rd and said grandad could get up to watch wrestling on the 25th. However, he did not feel well enough to do so. Dr Leeming came and said he would come again on Monday. On Sunday, grandad’s friend Arthur Elsegood gave him a shave. On Monday 27th, grandad was determined to get up but felt really ill. Dr Leeming came and wanted him back in bed. On the 28th, he was too ill to get up but Dr Leeming said his pulse was stronger. Grandma phoned mum to say that grandad had been very poorly the previous day, his heart was irregular and his pulse was not too good.
Coronary?
On 30 October 1975, mum visited him and found him asleep so she went back in the evening. She noted he was ill but the doctor said he had got over the “coronary”. I am not completely sure if he had had a coronary (myocardial infarction) or a stroke (cerebrovascular accident). From the certification on the death certificate, it seems it was the latter.
Sale of the Century
On 1 November 1975, grandma noted that he listened to SoC. I checked and I think this refers to “Sale of the Century” which was on that evening.
Afraid to Be With Him
On 2 November 1975, we went to grandma and grandad’s for tea. Mum noted that she was “afraid” to be with him. I am not quite sure why. Was she afraid he might die while she was there?
Twin Beds
On 7 November 1975, twin beds came. Mum had ordered these the previous day. I assume this was so that grandma and grandad could have separate beds, possibly using both their bedrooms. However, I am not sure why that was not possible with the existing (two double?) beds. Possibly, they wanted to have two single beds in the same room.
Another Heart Attack
On 11 November 1975, the doctor told mum that grandad had had another “heart attack”. All tablets except for four had been stopped and he was told to drink plenty but not Lucozade!
Final Days
On 12 November 1975, grandma phoned to say he was in a coma. Mum phoned Dr Leeming who said there was nothing that could be done and it was only a matter of time. I went to stay the night. The doctor came three times. According to grandma, grandad was ill but chatted quietly to her. On the 13th, grandma wrote for grandad “I was weak but talked nicely at 1.30am. Then I went to sleep never to wake in this world at 9.30. Mr Pearce & Ethel were with me”. Based on handwriting, it seems that grandad’s last entry was 20 October 1975.
Visitors in November 1975
People who visited grandad in November 1975 included Barbara Carpenter, Mrs L (Lefever?), Rose Elsegood, Nellie, Clarrie, Florrie and Arthur and Irene Bell. In addition various people phoned including Uncle Jim (Frank Seville), Olive Holland and Irene Bell. Dr Gale and Dr Leeming each visited during November and nurses came with them.
Grandad’s Death
Grandad died at 9.30am on 13 November 1975. Mum arrived about ten minutes later and stayed until around 2pm.
Making Arrangements
Mum then “made arrangements” and phoned relatives. The next day, the 14th, she went to see the funeral director, Peter Taylor, and she also registered the death.
Peter Taylor, Funeral Directors
There is still a funeral director by this name at 85 Unthank Road. It seems to be part of the Coop. Nicholas Taylor has produced quite a detailed biography of his father Peter Taylor who I think founded the company. He was born in 1915 and he died in 2000. In the 1971/2 Kelly’s Tradefinder. Peter Taylor is listed as a Funeral Director at 133 Unthank Road where Hair For Men is based now.
Grandad’s Funeral
Grandad’s funeral was on 17 November 1975. We went to school in the morning. Mum met us at 12 noon and we went to Drayton. The cremation was at 3pm at St Faith’s.
St Faith’s Crematorium
St Faith’s crematorium opened in 1937 on the site of a former workhouse which was destroyed by fire in 1923. The large red and mauve brick chapel was finished in 1936.
No Church Service
There was no church service. Frankly, I am surprised by this given how fervent churchgoers grandma and mum were. I suspect grandma decided pragmatically that because grandad did not attend church services he probably would not have wanted such a service for his funeral. I don’t know what mum would have thought. However, I do know that when my brother Alan died, she was quite insistent on having a Methodist service for him even though Alan did not attend church. In addition, both his widow and son had strong feelings against having a church/religious service although they went along with it given mum’s strength of feeling on this.
There Was a Nice Service at the Crematorium
Mum noted that there was a nice service at the crematorium. People who attended included Ray and Kenneth Cirket, Dorothy Rose (Auntie Dolly), Olive and Alf Holland and their daughter Carole Pacey, and a large number of women, presumably from the Drayton women’s group to which grandma belonged. There were about 40 for tea. Mum noted that my younger sister Liz was very upset. Various people also wrote to mum. These included John Overfield and Sue Banning, the latter on behalf of the Young Wives Group to which mum belonged. Mum noted that the service was led by Rev Graham Eddy and Rev Arthur Lofthouse spoke. Mum thought he spoke “beautifully“.
Rev Graham Eddy
Mum noted that the service at the crematorium was led by Rev Graham Eddy. Based on her CV, see Chapter 105, mum worked as part-time secretary to Rev G T Eddy who was Chairman of the East Anglia District of the Methodist Church from 1973 to 1977. So, initially, I thought this was the person in question particularly when I found a reference to Rev Graham Eddy being Methodist Chairman of the District in 1976.
Two Rev Eddys
However, I wonder if there were two Rev Eddys in Norfolk at that time, see Chapter 124. In September 1975, grandma went to a women’s meeting at Drayton Methodist Church. The speaker, Rev Eddy, was described as having taken the place of Rev Hayman. Rev Hayman had been Minister at Mile Cross and he had his final service there in August 1975. In November 1977, mum was annoyed with “Eddy”, who she described as the Mile Cross man, as he said he was unable to visit grandma in hospital because he did not have money for petrol. Mum wrote to him and sent him 50p for transport! I doubt mum would have done this if it had been the Chairman of the District for whom she worked.
Also, consistently, mum referred to Rev Eddy, the Chairman of the Methodist District as either “the Chairman” or “GTE“. The only time she specifically referred to Graham Eddy was on this occasion. It also makes sense that the Mile Cross Minister would have led this service.
Rev Graham Eddy (continued)
However, I have struggled to find out much about Rev Graham Eddy. I did establish that he was Methodist Minister at Stocksbridge Christian Centre from 1989 to 1994.
Rev Geoffrey Thackray Eddy
There is pretty overwhelming evidence that the District Chairman was Rev Geoffrey Thackray Eddy. He was born in Prestwich Lancashire in 1915, entered the Ministry in 1936 and died in Stratford-on-Avon in 2014. It appears he became Chairman of the East Anglia District in 1972 having previously held the same post in Lincoln.
Rev Arthur Lofthouse
Rev Arthur Lofthouse was a close family friend having been Minister at Bourne Methodist Chapel in Kirkby from 1938 to 1942, see Chapter 31.
After the Funeral
Two days after the funeral, mum noted that grandma was OK. She commented that she missed grandad “so very much” and could not get used to the situation. She thought it just seemed to get worse.
Support from People Around Her
Mum did receive quite high levels of support from people around her. On 20 November 1975, mum spoke with Rev Ken Elworthy about possibly going for counselling at St Barnabas’s, see Chapter 114. Mum also spoke to Rev Malcolm Carter and noted that it was “nice to be able to be honest when someone asks “How are you”?” On the 21st, mum went to the Chairman’s, Rev G T Eddy’s. While, he tried to offer support, she was somewhat sceptical about this. She noted, “he sat me in a “comfortable chair” while we had coffee and talked about dad. I’m sure he is sincere but its just his way which makes it seem a “duty””. On the 24th, Rev Dowson rang mum to see if she was OK. She said she needed to talk to him and he said he would ring when he could.
Probate
On 30 November 1975, when we went for tea with grandma, mum filled in probate forms. On 4 December 1975, mum went to the probate office. Apparently, grandma had sent a draft will so mum noted she would have to go back again. On the 8th, she did this and made an appointment for Thursday. On the 11th, mum took grandma there to “swear”. Since 2018, you no longer need to go in person to swear an oath for probate. This has been replaced by a written statement of truth which needs to be signed.
My Recollections
I do recall when grandad died, certainly more clearly than I remember the death of my paternal grandfather, see Chapter 100. He died when I was much younger and I did not know him so well. However, I do not recall the specifics of the funeral arrangements. I do remember staying over at grandma’s the night grandad died. I don’t believe I was with him in the same room when he died. However, I do recall how utterly exhausted grandma seemed.
Grandma’s Health
In 1975, grandma’s health was much better than grandad’s. She used to help him by collecting his medicines when she went into Drayton village, e.g. to collect their pensions and/or to do shopping. However, she was occasionally unwell. For example, in January 1975, she had a dizzy spell. She was also unwell in June 1975. But, by the next day, her condition was “fair” and she went with members of the women’s group to Weybourne, see Chapter 124.
Arthritis
Grandma did suffer from arthritis. Based on mum’s diary notes, it seems that there was some uncertainty over whether it was rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. While my diary did not say much about grandma’s health, I did note in late November 1976 that grandma’s elbow seemed to be giving her a lot of trouble.
Investigations
In September 1976, grandma had blood tests for this. In November 1976, mum took grandma to see Consultant Rheumatologist, Dr Neil Cardoe. She was to have blood tests and xrays and to see Dr Cardoe and Mr Taylor possibly about having an operation.
Dr Neil Cardoe
Neil Cardoe was born in 1922 and died, aged 98, in 2021. I don’t know much about him except he was a Consultant Physician and Rheumatologist at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital.
Mr John Gibson Taylor
This is a reference to John Gibson Taylor who was known as Ian. He was a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. Born in 1918, he grew up in Fleet and studied medicine at St Mary’s Hospital qualifying in 1941. He served in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve during the second world war. Then, he returned to St Mary’s as a registrar to V H Ellis, the orthopaedic surgeon. He passed his FRCS in 1947 and became first assistant to the accident service at the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.
In 1954 he was appointed consultant orthopaedic surgeon in Norwich. He held joint clinics with Neil Cardoe and Gilson Wenley for rheumatoid and other arthritic problems, at first in an old workhouse, St Michael’s Hospital in Aylsham. There, a stable block was converted into an operating theatre. In this unlikely setting, Ian performed knee and metacarpo-phalangeal joint replacements. His wife was Fodhla Burnell, an anaesthetist. He died in 2005.
Referred for Occupational Therapy
On 18 September 1976, mum met grandma at the hospital to go to Dr Cardoe’s clinic. However, grandma did not see him. She had blood tests and xrays and was referred for occupational therapy. She was told that an appointment would be sent for this. Mum thought grandma was upset that more had not been done. While this may have been the case, it is also possible that it was mum who was unhappy that more had not been done!!
Mum Used Her Connections to Try to Get More Done
So, mum spoke to someone called Shirley who promised to do all she could. I am not exactly sure who this was but I assume she was another medical secretary. It is possible she was Dr Cardoe’s secretary. However, mum was secretary for Mr Stephens’ private practice, see Chapter 121, and I believe his NHS secretary was called Shirley. This might have been her. Mum might have thought she could use her contacts with other NHS secretaries to seek to gain preferential treatment.
Mr John Stephens
John Pendered Stephens was born in Northamptonshire on 29 March 1919. He died on 11 April 2004. He was educated at Stowe School and then stuided natural sciences at Cambridge. Interestingly, he represented the university at both rugby and tennis. He did his clinical training at St Bartholomew’s Hospital during the second world war. He held house appointments with J Basil Hume at Friern Barnet, one of the hospitals used by Bart’s during its evacuation from London. In 1943, he joined the Royal Army Medical Corps serving in Sierra Leone, Burma and India. He passed the FRCS in 1948 and worked as a supernumerary registrar with J Basil Hume and Alan Hunt at Bart’s. In 1952, he went to Norwich as a surgical registrar. He gained his masters in surgery in 1953 and in 1955 he was appointed as a consultant general surgeon in Norwich. He retired in 1984.
Booked for Surgery
On New Year’s Eve 1976, mum took grandma to see Mr Taylor about her elbows. I am not sure if this was through the NHS or privately but I suspect the latter. He recommended an operation on the left one and would get her in in under a year on the NHS. She would need to go to St Michael’s in Aylsham for two weeks possibly longer. It could be done privately in March but would cost at least £800.
St Michael’s Hospital, Aylsham
St Michael’s Hospital was formerly a workhouse that was converted into a hospital. It was built between 1848-9. It was originally known as the Aylsham Workhouse and then, in 1930, the Aylsham Public Assistance Institution. Then, it became St Michael’s Hospital but by the early 21st century it was empty.
Grandma Had Surgery in January 1977
On 20 January 1977, grandma was asked to go in on Monday at 10am to Aylsham Hospital. I don’t know if this was private or through the NHS. It was much quicker than Mr Taylor had indicated for either route. It is possible, perhaps likely, that mum used her work connections to pull strings. On the 25th, Mr Stephens, the surgeon for whom mum worked, said he would speak to Mr Taylor about grandma. So, he was clearly aware of her and Mr Taylor knew who mum worked for.
On 24 January 1977, mum went to Drayton for 9am and took grandma to St Michael’s Hospital in Aylsham. In my diary, I noted “this morning mum took grandma into Aylsham hospital as she is going to have an operation on her elbow to remove the pain due to her rheumatism. The op will be on Wednesday. Mum & I went to see her this evening. She seems to have settled in well, it took us 1/2 an hour to get to Aylsham as it is 15 miles.” Grandma had her operation on the 26th. Mum noted that the sister told her it was a small one. However, they gave grandma a blood transfusion as she was anaemic.
Post-op Recovery
On 27 January 1977, mum noted that grandma seemed well but had a temperature. On the 31st, she had her plaster off and she was discharged from hospital on 10 February 1977. She stayed with us until the 16th.
Visitors in Hospital
Other people who visited grandma while she was in hospital included Liz, Alan and Arthur and Rose Elsegood. I assume visiting was limited to two people as mostly mum used to go with just one of us. On 2 February 1977, mum noted that the “C of E man” from Drayton, Rev Barney Broom, had gone to see her especially. I think this might be a reference to Bernard William Broom.
Mum was disappointed that the Methodist Minister from Mile Cross, who I believe was Graham Eddy, had said he could not visit because he did not have money for petrol. Mum wrote to him and sent him 50p for petrol!
Tricia, who was away at University, see Chapter 120, sent a card and two letters. Various people phoned including Auntie Amy (Wilson), Jim, Renie, Bert and Edie (Seville). On 25 January 1977, mum rang Mr Slater and had a conversation about grandma. I am not sure who that was.
A Chance Meeting
On the 26th, mum met Mr Keeble in the corridor. He had been our next-door neighbour when we lived in Hellesdon, see Chapter 75.
Outpatient Follow-Up
In early March 1977, mum took grandma back to see Mr Taylor. He said he would do the other arm in late summer but he noted it would be a bigger operation. Mum noted she would see him again on 6 May but there is no record of that appointment taking place. As far as I know grandma did not ever have the other arm operated on. She did see Dr Cardoe on 16 June 1977 but was then discharged from further follow-up.
On 15 June 1977, mum went to St Michael’s Hospital to discuss chairs with Ann Mary. I have assumed these were for work, see Chapter 121, but it is possible they could have related to grandma.
In April 1977 Grandma Experienced “Heart Strain“
One factor in grandma not having surgery on the other arm may have been that her general health was poorer from April 1977. On the 12th, mum was called at 2.10am because grandma was “not very well”. Auntie Dolly, Dorothy Rose, was staying with grandma and she called mum. Grandma was having difficulty getting her breath. Mum called the doctor. Dr Eve came and gave her an injection. Mum noted that Dr Eve had said she could go but Auntie Dolly wanted her to stay so “I lay on settee – just dropped off about 7 when she woke me with cup of tea.” Dr Leeming then came twice.
Mum came home from 1-3 and noted that Auntie Dolly would not let her come for longer! When mum got back at lunch-time, she told us that grandma had something wrong with her heart but it was not serious. Apparently, mum was told that she had not had a coronary but did have “heart strain”. This was treated with digoxin, furosemide (Lasix) and potassium chloride (Slow K).
Dr Julian Eve
Dr Julian Eve was one of the Drayton GPs. He joined the practice in 1956 and retired in 1986.
Dr Leeming Confirmed That Grandma Had Not Had a Coronary
On 14 April 1977, mum rang Dr Leeming at night. He had done an ECG and still thought grandma had not had a coronary. He was going to visit on Saturday and he told mum she could ring anytime. Mum thought this was because she had got Mr Ashken to see one of his patients the next day. To me, this is another example of mum seeking to use her position as a medical secretary to gain preferential treatment. Whether this was the case I am not sure.
Helping with Practical Tasks
On 15 April 1977, mum and my sister Liz went to Drayton and did shopping for grandma. On the 17th, mum did grandma’s washing. Also, on the 17th, Auntie Dolly told mum that she would ring mum if grandma was unwell again and, according to mum, refused to ring the doctor.
Grandma Gradually Improved
At one point, I thought grandma might come to stay with us when Auntie Dolly went back to Bedford. However, she did not. She seemed to improve and had a home help coming in. Mum noted that Dr Leeming thought it was OK for grandma to stay at home on her own.
Grandma Had Further Heart Problems at the End of April 1977
At the end of April 1977, grandma was short of breath again. Mum was told that she had a “flitter”. On 3 May 1977, mum spoke to Dr Leeming who told her that she had atrial fibrillation. On the 21st, grandma was not too well. Mum thought this was because one of grandma’s friends, Mrs Cooper, had visited and stayed three hours. Mum noted that Dr Leeming was putting up a notice limiting visitors to 15 minutes. Also that day, I noted that grandma was not very well but apparently well enough to tell mum that she didn’t think I would pay her back for the motorbike, see Chapter 127! I noted that I would “to spite her”!
Grandma Saw a Cardiologist
In June 1977, mum went with grandma to see cardiologist Dr Oliver. He told her that she had had a faulty valve all her life. If she had been 15 years younger, he would have recommended an operation but, as she was 76, he recommended “going slow”. Just over a week later, Dr Leeming told mum that grandma had a calcified valve for which nothing could be done “and will be sudden”. Mum noted that the prognosis was 2-3 years. Grandma died on 2 June 1980. Her death certificate stated that she had aortic stenosis which is presumably what Dr Leeming was referring to.
Dr Wilfrid Oliver
Wilfrid Allen Oliver (known as Bill) was born on 29 September 1913 and died on 22 January 1998. He was a physician and cardiologist at the Norfolk and Norwich from 1946 to 1978. He qualified from St Bartholomew’s Hospital Medical College in 1936. Then, he worked as a house physician for sixteen months and then spent two years studying pathology. In the first year he was junior demonstrator of bacteriology and in the second year he was appointed senior demonstrator of morbid anatomy and histology. Then, in 1938, he gained his MD and passed the membership examination of the College. In the same year he was appointed clinical assistant to the Hospital for Sick Children, Great Ormond Street.
In 1939 he became chief assistant at St Bartholomew’s under A E Gow and to its cardiac department under Geoffrey Bourne. During the second world war, he served in the Royal Army Medical Corps. During the war, he gained experience dealing with a smallpox outbreak. In 1946 he was appointed as a physician and cardiologist to the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. He was a key figure in developing the cardiac department in Norwich. He retired in 1978. In 1947 he married Daisy Constance Cecilia (née Whatley) and they had two children. Following his first wife’s death, he remarried to Pamela May Lambden. He died at his home in Lenwade, where he had moved after his retirement.
Grandma Grew Generally Frailer and Had Episodes of Ill-Health
After this, grandma grew generally frailer and also had episodes of ill-health.
Grandma Was Not Too Well in Early July 1977
On 2 July 1977, mum went to Drayton as grandma was not too well. Grandma rang on the 7th to say she had not been very well all week. She had had Dr Leeming on Tuesday and was going to ask him to come again on Friday. On 9 July 1977, mum went to see grandma. She was slightly better.
Mum Ordered Grandma a Renray Seat
In July 1978, mum went to the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital and ordered grandma a Renray seat. These are chairs designed for “healthcare spaces“.
Grandma Had Her Ring Cut Off
On 6 October 1978, mum took grandma to Tilletts to have her ring cut off. Established in 1908, a jewellers called Tilletts is still in operation at 17 St Giles Street, see Chapter 92.
Grandma Was Unwell in October 1978
The next day, on 7 October 1978, grandma was not very well and they called Dr Leeming. He thought it was low blood pressure. Mary Bettany was staying the night. Dr Leeming phoned mum. The next day, grandma was not too bad and wouldn’t have the doctor again. Mary stayed the night again. On the 9th, grandma was much better. Mum went there to do lunch but grandma had almost done it.
In December 1979 Grandma Was Ill in Bedford
On 27 December 1979, grandma was in Bedford visiting Auntie Dolly. Auntie Dolly phoned saying grandma was not very well, she had forgotten to take her tablets, and she wanted to come home. Kenneth Cirket brought her. Mum went to see her in the evening but thought she was not too bad although she was a “bit breathless”.
Mum’s Health Was Poor During This Period
There was a great deal in the diaries for this period concerning mum’s health which appears to have been poor overall. This was something I was not particularly aware of at the time. She saw a wide range of doctors including particularly her GP, Dr Welch.
Dr D M Welch
Dr D M Welch was one of the GPs at the Mile End Surgery that we had belonged to since we moved to Norwich, see Chapter 78. They also had a surgery in Tuckswood that mum sometimes used. This practice is now known as Castle Partnership. While she mostly saw Dr Welch, she did sometimes see other doctors in the practice. For example, in November 1977, mum saw Dr Welch and he introduced her to their GP trainee Dr Adrianne Cranefield who mum noted was married to Mrs Dowson’s stepson. In August 1978, she noted seeing Dr Adrianne Hartley Booth as Dr Welch was on holiday.
Dr Adrianne Cranefield/Hartley Booth
As noted in mum’s diaries, Adrianne Cranefield was a GP trainee at the Mile End Road Surgery. She married Vernon E Hartley Booth in the third quarter of 1977. So, Cranefield was her maiden name and Booth or Hartley Booth her married name.
Mental and Physical Ill-Health
While I have tried to divide mum’s health issues into those affecting her mental health and those affecting her physical health, this distinction is rather simplistic as clearly some, if not many, of mum’s physical symptoms had their origins in her poor mental health. Such physical symptoms, which she frequently complained about included general feelings of being unwell, tiredness and exhaustion, dizziness, fuzziness, headaches, breathlessness, hiccups, swollen feet and a range of other aches and pains which may have had a physical cause and/or may have been contributed to by her poor mental health. Such pains included aching feet/legs, tummy pain/ache, backache/back pain, sinus pain, neck pain/stiff neck, aches in her arms, chest pain, pain in her shoulder blade, a sore mouth and an aching face.
Tiredness and Exhaustion
Mum often complained of feeling tired and sometimes of exhaustion. She thought there would be a physical cause for this but various investigations, at different times, failed to find one. On some occasions, but not always, these feelings related to poor sleep or physical activity. She was given a range of treatments including iron supplements (Ferrogradumet) and a mixture of thiamine hydrochloride (Vitamin B1), calcium glycerophosphate, potassium glycerophosphate, sodium glycerophosphate and manganese glycerophosphate (Metatone).
Headaches
Mum experienced headaches from time to time and wondered if these related to extra work or tensions, e.g. at church, see Chapter 124.
Aching Feet/Legs
Between December 1977 and July 1978, mum experienced symptoms in her legs and feet including pains, aches, tingling and bruising. She spoke to the nursing sister at work and also saw Dr Welch. Initially, he thought it was a pulled muscle and gave her pentazocine (Fortral) and a crepe bandage. Her symptoms continued and she was given various treatments including a combination of paracetamol and pentazocine (Fortagesic), quinine sulfate, phenylbutazone (Paroven) and multivitamins (Multivite).
In April 1978, she raised the issue at an appointment with Mr Green. He advised vitamin B but if there was no improvement to see a “surgeon”, although the type of surgeon is not specified! This is a bit odd as Mr Green was himself a surgeon!! In May 1978, mum had her leg xrayed but this was normal. In July 1978, Dr Welch told mum that her legs were nothing to worry about. He advised her to walk and have a good holiday. She bought support tights.
Neck Pain
Between April and May 1975, mum experienced neck pain. She spoke to several of the GPs at her practice including Dr Carver, Dr Welch and Dr Bennett. She thought it might be a stiff neck or a boil. The doctors mentioned a pulled ligament, a slipped disc and a fibrous nodule. She was advised to take painkillers and was given coproxamol (Distalgesic), a mixture of aspirin and methocarbamol (Robaxisal Forte) and a mixture of paracetamol and dihydrocodeine (Paramol 118). Dr Bennett told her there was nothing wrong really. Also, Dr Welch gave her clomethiazole (Heminevrin) to help her sleep.
Dr P H Carver
Dr P H Carver was one of the GPs at the Mile End Road practice. I don’t know any more details.
Dr John F Bennett
Dr John F Bennett was one of the GPs at the Mile End Road Surgery. According to the Castle Partnership website, he owned the Mile End Road premises and sold them to the practice in 1976.
Other Pains
On occasions, mum experienced tummy pains for which she sometimes took antacids. From time to time, she had backache and related this either to a particular physical activity, such as sweeping leaves or collating church documents, or constipation. On one occasion, she complained of sinus pain for which Dr Welch prescribed a combination of bromelain, rutoside and trypsin (Triogesic). Once, mum noted taking Anadin for pains in her right arm. She wondered if it was arthritis. In December 1978, mum woke at 4am with pain in her chest and wondered if it was indigestion. She also had it twice during the evening. Three days later, she saw Dr Welch at Tuckswood. He told her the pain in the chest was a bruise.
Mental Health
Mum continued to suffer poor mental health during this period. Indeed, there is more about mum’s mental health in the diaries of this period than in previous periods. This may be because mum had more mental health issues during this period but this is unlikely to be the main explanation. Mum was not keeping a diary in the early seventies and grandad did not talk about mental health issues even in his diaries. In the late sixties, mum had severe mental health issues and was treated with antidepressants and ECT, see Chapter 88. However, her diary entries were sporadic at that time so those diaries are not as clear about mum’s mental health issues as they might be.
Feeling Depressed
Mum complained frequently of feeling depressed, particularly in 1975 and 1976. I counted over 100 references to being depressed in these two years including 14 references in a single month. This compares to only nine references across the other three years, 1977-1979. In September 1977, when she saw Dr Welch, he was pleased that she was not feeling depressed at that time. A few extracts from mum’s diaries concerning feelings of depression are included here.
Other Terminology
Sometimes, mum abbreviated depressed to “d”, e.g. “very lonely & d” on 20 July 1975. She also referred to feelings of depression in different ways, e.g. feeling “down”, feeling “up and down”, feeling “dejected”, feeling “low”, feeling “distressed” and seeing her future as “black”.
Anxiety
Clearly, mum suffered from anxiety but noted this less frequently than feeling depressed. Often, there were specific things that triggered her to worry including not knowing where one or other of us was; anxieties over one or more of our relationships; not having heard from someone, particularly Rev Dowson; anxieties over her health; anxieties over our health; concerns over her weight being too high or low; and money worries.
I am not sure about my other siblings but I was more aware of mum’s anxieties than I was her depression. I think this was because her anxieties affected me directly. If I was even a few minutes later than she thought I should be, she would worry and would then be upset and angry when I did get in. Mum’s tendency to worry meant that I would avoid telling her things that I thought would worry her. For example, in May 1977, when I felt sick and had earache, I did not tell mum as I knew she would worry.
One of the things mum complained about in her diary was that I did not talk to her about things that were worrying me. To be honest, mum would have been one of the last people I would have talked to about worries because I knew that she would not be reassuring or supportive but I was likely to trigger a level of anxiety in her that far outweighed any worries I had!
Upset
Mum sometimes talked about being “upset”. By this, I think she probably meant what I would describe as “tears” and “tantrums” which I often experienced from her. These were almost always triggered by something which might seem minor to others but which would elicit a furious emotional response from mum. Examples include a church working party setting a date for their next meeting that Tricia would be unable to attend; me telling her that Tricia and I were not getting along; Alan telling her that he was bored with Boys’ Brigade; Mr Hunter, the ophthalmologist, telling her that it didn’t matter which of Alan’s eyes he operated on; and noticing that some of her stamps were missing.
Fears
Mum also spoke about “fears” which seem to be closely related to worries and anxieties and were triggered by similar things. For example, she spoke of “fears” when Alan asked if he could go with three other boys to How Hill on Saturday and back Sunday; when it was very windy and she thought the house was shaking; and when she thought she might have parathyroid cancer.
Irritability
Sometimes, mum complained of being irritable and this included losing her temper. Often, this was directed at me and I confess that at that age I found her very irritable. She probably felt the same about me referring to me as “difficult”, “edgy” and “awkward”. Often this mutual irritability coincided with dad visiting, see Chapter 114. At times, mum’s irritability was directed at others including my siblings and dad. Mum was usually sorry afterwards but I for one found such apologies a little hollow as the irritability etc would happen again.
Surprised
I find mum’s frequent references to being depressed in her diaries a little surprising as depression was not something I ever recall her talking about or acknowledging. I guess her diary was a safe place to acknowledge her feelings at a time when it was uncommon to talk openly about mental health and illness. Mum tried actively to hide her symptoms of depression. For example, on 1 June 1976, she wrote that she was “very depressed but trying to hide it”.
Contributing Factors
From the diaries, it is clear that certain things contributed to mum’s feelings of depression and anxiety, upset, fear and irritability. These included loneliness and “longings”; poor experience of church and church activities; issues relating to us her children; her relationship to dad and his visits; slow progress on getting a divorce; poor health; staying up late; problems with money; problems with the car; problems related to holidays; actions of her friends; and grandma’s advancing age and declining health, see Chapter 114. However, at times, mum felt depressed and did not know why. Similarly, there were times when mum felt better but did not know why.
Relieving Factors
Sometimes, mum could identify things that made her feel better. In particular, this included talking with friends and confidants such as Rev Dowson, Malcolm Carter and Dr Welch. She found that knowing she had an appointment booked with Dr Welch served as an emotional “anchor” for her. She very much appreciated him as her GP. For example, for Christmas 1975, mum took him a one pound box of chocolates to thank him for his help and patience.
Mum Felt Better at Work But…
Mum also often felt better when at work. She clearly enjoyed her work and it gave a sense of fulfilment and of being valued. However, her GP, Dr Welch was concerned that work-related stresses were contributing to mum’s mental health problems. In April 1977, he wondered if the headaches mum was experiencing were due to tension as she had started getting them after she started working for Mr Ashken and Mr Stephens. Dr Welch also advised her to take things easy after she had been ill, and particularly after she had had surgery. This was advice she found more difficult to take. In August 1978, Dr Welch thought that she was overworking and that she would be better when she had a rest in hospital.
Dr Welch frequently advised her to take a holiday. This was advice mum was mostly happy to take, see Chapter 114. However, the kinds of holidays she took, see Chapter 122, at Methodist/Christian Guild properties, sometimes seemed to make her mental health worse because she felt that most, if not all, the people on such holidays were couples and this emphasised her own loneliness and poor mood. Sometimes, she did not feel a holiday or break would help. In May 1975, mum saw Dr Welch in the morning. He wanted her to get away for a break by herself. However, mum felt that she just needed to talk and share problems.
Mum Actively Struggled Against Depression
Mum fairly often talked in her diaries about fighting against or struggling with depression.
Medication
During this period, mum took a variety of medicines to try to improve her mental health.
Antidepressants
These included antidepressants such as amitryptilline (Tryptizol and Lentizol) and doxepin (Sinequan). Mum did not seem to take these tablets regularly and often commented if she had or had not taken them. On some occasions, she took a tablet to avoid or treat withdrawal symptoms particularly nausea.
Sleeping Tablets
She also took sleeping tablets such as nitrazepam (Mogadon), clomethiazole (Heminevrin), chloral hydrate/cloral betaine (Welldorm) and flurazepam (Dalmane). Mum did have trouble sleeping, including difficulties in getting off to sleep and sometimes waking early. Sometimes, Dr Welch suggested alternatives to sleeping tablets though such as staying up later before going to bed. Mum thought that nitrazepam made her restless and increased the activity of her thoughts and caused her to dream/have nightmares.
Mum was also given chlorpromazine (Largactil) and thought this was to help her sleep. In July 1975, she saw Dr Welch because she was not sleeping well. He suggested stopping clomethiazole and starting chlorpromazine. I don’t think mum’s experience of taking chlorpromazine was positive as she felt it caused her thoughts to race.
One of the reasons mum tried these different medicines was to try to find the one that best suited her in terms of helping her to sleep. I think mum felt that clomethiazole (Heminevrin) was most effective for her. However, she assumed that Dr Welch did not want her to have these regularly or over a long period because of cost. Also, I think she wanted to avoid taking any sleeping tablets if possible. For example, in September 1975, she noted that she was trying to cope without Heminevrin. But, she ended up taking one at quarter to 11 as she had a very active mind.
Valium and Librium
In May 1978, mum took dizepam (Valium) but I am not sure entirely why it was prescribed. It could have been for anxiety, insomnia or for the leg symptoms she was experiencing at the time. In July 1978, Dr Welch offered her chlordiazepoxide (Librium). Again, the precise reason for this was not clear. Mum did not seem happy about this and wondered if she should see someone else.
Urinary Symptoms
Throughout this period, mum experienced urinary symptoms, including frequency, dysuria, abdominal ache and incontinence. These were thoroughly investigated by the GP, e.g. to rule out urinary infection. No physical cause could be found and she took potassium citrate and cetipin to try to treat the symptoms. However, Dr Welch did suggest to her that the symptoms might be due to “tension” and this was when he started her on another antidepressant doxepin (Sinequan).
Concerns About Her Weight
During this period, mum had concerns about her weight. In May 1975, she noted that she weighed 10st 1lb (64kg). Her feet were also swollen. In June 1975, mum noted she was going to cut down on biscuits as she was unable to wear summer dresses. However, in June 1976, mum was concerned that she only weighed 9s 3lbs (58.5kg). She wondered if this was due to lack of food or a combination of tiredness, depression and worry. In February 1977, she described herself as hungry for sweet things all day. In June 1977, Malcolm Carter noted that mum had put on weight. She weighed herself and recorded it as 9st 14, which would be 10st or 64.5kg She again resolved to cut down on sweets and biscuits.
Minor Ailments
Mum had a number of minor ailments which these days we would be encouraged to self-medicate or to see a health professional other than a doctor. In August 1975, mum saw Dr Bennett and had her left ear syringed as she was deaf. Our GP surgery no longer offers this service on the NHS but a private service is available there through a company called Ear View.
Also, in August 1975, Dr Welch prescribed mum an antihsitamine chlorpheniramine (Piriton) for her heat spots. As this is an over-the-counter medicine, I think people would nowadays be encouraged to get this themselves. I have done this for antihistamines for hay fever for quite a number of years now. In August 1976, mum took Piriton again for spots. She did not say whether she bought or was prescribed this.
In June 1976, Dr Welch prescribed her a mixture of vitamins and minerals for tiredness. These days, I think most practices would expect people to buy their own medicines of this nature given that they are available over the counter. In October 1976, mum did buy Boots vitamin tablets, 30 for her and 30 for Tricia.
Infection Following Ear Piercing
Mum had her ears pierced at Tilletts in Tombland in January 1975. Four days later, her left ear was swollen. She phoned Mr Tillett who told her to get some penicillin from her doctor. However, Dr Welch wanted to see her first. So, she went in the next day. He gave her some Ampicillin (Penbritin). At the end of the month, she noted that her left ear was irritating. The way this is written made me think she was referring to the other ear. However, on all occasions when she mentions which ear it is, she always refers to the left.
Tilletts in Tombland
I was aware of optician L L Tillett and jeweller Thomas Tillett. However, both of these operated in St Giles Street and mum emphasised that this was Tilletts in Tombland. I found a 1982 advert for James and Ann Tillett, jewellers located at 13 Tombland. Based on Google Streetview, this is now occupied by Blue Bear Coffee Company. However, Tombland Jewellers and Silversmiths were there until at least August 2016.
Unwell on Holiday
In July 1976, while on holiday with Alan and Liz at the Methodist Guild property in Dunoon, see Chapter 122, mum became unwell with pain in her left side and blood in her urine. She initially wondered if it was kidney pain or from sitting on a wall the previous day. She noted that the initial pain went after prayer.
Admitted to Dunoon Hospital
On the 24th, the day they were due to come home, mum had to call the GP at 2.30am and was told she either had a stone or infection in the kidney. She was given pethidine by injection and tablets and stayed in bed. The GP came at 12.30 and about 7. The next day, she was no better and was admitted to Dunoon Hospital.
Dunoon Hospital
Although there has been a hospital in Dunoon since 1885, the one mum was admitted to was a purpose-built hospital that opened in 1966. It had 74 beds, mainly configured as four-bed wards. It has been known as Cowal Community Hospital since around 2008.
Treatment in Hospital
Mum was treated with four-hourly pentazocine (Fortral) injections. I noted that Alan and Liz were being looked after by people that they had met the previous year. Over the next couple of days, the pain eased slightly. I noted that mum wanted to go privately and fly home. However, she was persuaded to stay.
Driven to Glasgow
Nevertheless, they did leave on the 28th. Mum’s friend Cecil drove them to Glasgow but the car then broke down.
First Class Train to Edinburgh
Mum, Alan and Liz went by first class train to Edinburgh.
Overnight in Edinburgh
They stayed overnight at the Royal Scot Hotel. Mum noted this was a lovely place which cost £19.25. I have noted adverts for this hotel covering the period 1973 to 1999. It appears that the hotel opened in July 1973. In 1989, one of the adverts announced the opening of a new Swallow Leisure Club at the hotel. In 1996, there was a note saying the hotel was not for sale contrary to an announcement in The Scotsman. The hotel’s address was 111 Glasgow Road. Delta Hotels Edinburgh, a Marriott Hotel is now at the address. Apparently, the name changed in June 2010.
Mum, Alan and Liz Flew Home
On the 29th, they flew to Norwich via Leeds. Malcolm Carter picked them up from the airport. Mum noted that grandma left ours as soon as mum arrived there. I had noted that I was planning to go out as I “did not approve”. I am not sure what I didn’t approve of, possibly going privately. Also, I suspect I was somewhat sceptical about how ill mum actually was. For example, when she got back, I noted that she “didn’t seem too ill”. I noted I managed to get her painkillers from the chemist “after much walking”.
Treatment When Home
On 30 July 1976, mum went by taxi to see Dr Welch at 10.30. They agreed she would be treated by Mr Ashken. I presume this was mum’s wish because she worked for him. Mum phoned him but he was out. She spoke to Mrs Ashken and Mr Ashken phoned back around 3.30pm. He asked her to go straightaway to have an IVP with Dr Visick.
Dr Visick
I don’t know much about Dr Visick but assume he/she was a consultant radiologist in Norwich.
Kidney Stone and Arranging Treatment
The IVP was done and Dr Visick told mum it was a stone. Mr Ashken rang at night and came to see mum. He said there was no need for her to go privately as he would treat her himself all the time and he would arrange a side ward. This is the kind of preferential service mum liked and grew to expect!
Also, during this period in hospital, Sue, who was Mr Ashken’s NHS secretary, showed mum the letter Mr Ashken had written to her GP. Again, this showed how mum was treated differently from other patients. Things are different now as I think letters to GPs are now routinely shared with the patient who is the subject of the letter.
In October 1976, Mr Ashken said there was no need for any money for what he had done. I don’t quite follow this. If he had treated mum on the NHS, as he had suggested, there would have been no need for her to pay. I am not sure if some aspects of her care were private but, if they were, he did not charge her because she worked for him.
Admitted to Ellingham Ward
On Friday 30 July 1976, I noted that mum was going to have an operation on Sunday and that Mr Ashken, for whom mum worked, was going to carry out the surgery. On the 31st, mum was admitted to Ellingham Ward of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. Mum really liked the ward. On 26 August 1976, just under two weeks after she left hospital, mum bought three one pound boxes of Quality Street which she took for staff of Ellingham Ward that afternoon.
Confirming the Stone Was Still There
After admission, mum had another plain xray which showed that the stone had not moved. Mum said she saw the stone which was very rough. Mr Ashken said it was unlikely to have passed on its own.
Surgery
So, mum had surgery to remove the stone the following day, 1 August 1976. Everything went well. I saw her in the evening after she had had surgery. I noted that “she seemed groggy because of the pain medicine. She was not able to open her eyes properly and her speech was slurred. She was sipping water.” Mr Ashken described the operation as straightforward. He visited her regularly while she was in hospital. Mum noted that he was more talkative when he came on his own rather than with a nurse. Mum also noted she had 14 stitches and a drip and a drain. She could not remember much about going for the operation. On 6 August 1976, I noted that the drain was out, the dressing was off the wound and I could count 14 stitches.
However, she was still in hospital. I don’t knw if this was longer than she had expected. That day, the 6th, I took some duplicating to a Mrs Brake to do as mum was unable to do it. I don’t know any more about her. As far as I know, this was the only time she was mentioned in the diaries.
Mum was still experiencing pain in her left side. This puzzled Mr Ashken but he thought it was muscular. Nevertheless, he was going to ask Dr Mark Mehta to review. On 9 and 10 August 1976, mum noted that fasting bloods had been taken for calcium levels.
Dr Mark Mehta
I came across a short biography co-written by Mr Ashken. Mark Mehta was a consultant in anaesthesia and pain relief at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital from 1966-86. He was born in India in 1924 and he qualified from St Bartholomew’s in 1947. From 1958-66, he was a consultant in King’s Lynn. Later, he developed a pain relief clinic in Norwich. In 1973, he produced his first book on intractable pain. He was president of the Intractable Pain Society from 1978 to 1980. He died after coronary artery bypass surgery on 23 June 2000 leaving a wife, Joy, two sons and two daughters.
High Blood Calcium Levels
On 11 August 1976, Mr Ashken told mum that her blood calcium levels were high. He told her that he would ask physician, Dr Pryor, to see her.
Dr Jack Pryor
Jack Sidney Pryor was born on 4 July 1933 and he died on 21 December 1988. He was a consultant physician, with a special interest in renal diseases, at the Norfolk & Norwich Hospital, Norwich. Born in London, he received his medical training at Charing Cross Hospital, where he was later to return as a senior medical registrar for a period of three years from 1966. In 1969 he was appointed senior lecturer in medicine at Charing Cross Hospital.
Then, in 1970 he was appointed head of the department of experimental therapeutics at Sandoz in Basle, Switzerland, and was responsible for designing studies in the early stages of the development of new drugs. In May 1971, he was appointed consultant physician in renal diseases at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, a post he held until his sudden death in December 1988. In 1958, Jack Pryor married Bridget Egan, a nursing sister at the Brompton Hospital. They had one son, Robert.
More Tests and Xrays
Mum’s high blood calcium level meant there was need for more tests and xrays. Mr Ashken also explained that if the tests were “positive” another operation would be needed. Mum had skull, spine and hand Xrays. A staff nurse said they were OK but mum wondered if that was just to calm her. Mum felt quite depressed about it all. She also had her blood pressure taken lying and standing.
Review by Dr Pryor
On 12 August 1976, Dr Pryor saw her in the morning. Mum found him very nice. He got a complete history from her and “examined all bones”. He started her on a low calcium diet for four to five weeks. Then, he said he would review her as a private patient.
I am not sure how mum intended to pay for this. She worried a lot about money and it was a constant source of tension with dad, see Chapter 114. As far as I know, she did not have private medical insurance. She wrote to BUPA on 31 August but she heard nothing. So, on the 14th, she phoned them. They said they had not received the letter so she wrote again.
Discharged Home
Mum was discharged home on 13 August 1976. Liz and I were away at dad’s. But, we came home the next day with dad.
Visitors While in Hospital
Mum had had a lot of visitors while she was in hospital. These included grandma, Tricia, me, Alan, Liz, Malcolm Carter, Sue Banning, Dorothy, Sue, Ken Elworthy, Nancy, Mrs Elsegood, Mrs Papworth, John and Heather Ferguson, Mr and Mrs Munday, Christine Carter, Rev Eddy, Mrs Ashken, Andrew Wright, Mr Ream, Janet Bennett, Daphne (the new secretary at 41), Barbara Williams, Amy Wilson, Miss Griffiths, Margaret Culley, Mr Stephens and Jack and Janet Howard.
At one point, I described the stream of her visitors as “endless”. Generally, mum seemed to appreciate people visiting her but she noted that although the senior minister from Park Lane, Rev Ream, see Chapter 124, visited twice, he did not stay for more than five minutes on the first occasion and only for ten minutes the second time.
Mum received flowers from the church, Dorothy (Mr Stephens’ secretary), grandma (via Mrs Elsegood), Rev Eddy, Sue Banning, Mrs Ashken, Janet Bennett and Barbara Williams.
Other gifts included perfume from Christine Carter, Ribena from the Fergusons, fruit from the Mundays, fruit pastilles and pears from Nancy and plant and chocolates from Miss Griffiths.
People also phoned to see how she was including grandma, dad, John and Heather Ferguson and Miss Garrod. Mum also received some letters including one from Cecil.
Visitors at Home
People continued to visit mum after she was discharged from hospital once she was at home. They included Christine Carter, Rev Eddy, Andrew Wright, Connie Harvey, Nancy and Heather Ferguson. Rev Ream visited but, apparently, he came to discuss church work!
A number of people brought flowers including Christine Carter who brought the flowers from Bowthorpe Road Methodist Church.
Mum also received a number of cards including from Ray Tracey, Pam Ludlow and Gerald and Thelma Cooke.
I phoned as, from the 16th, I was away youth hostelling in the Peak District, see Chapter 122.
Seen by Dr Welch
The day after she was discharged from hospital, the 14th, Dr Welch came to see her. He said he would see her the following Friday and he told her to be patient. He reviewed her on the 20th. At that review, he said she was doing well and she could go to work as long as she stopped when she had had enough.
Back to Work
Mum called in to see Daphne and Mr Stephens that very day, 20 August 1976. She started back on the afternoon of the 24th. Apparently, Mr Ashken was pleased to see her as “everything seemed in a muddle”! On the 27th, Mr Stephens apparently told her that a high calcium could cause duodenal ulcers as well as stones. While this may well be true, it may not have been the most helpful thing to say to mum as it gave her another thing to worry about. On 31 August 1976, mum noted being worried because she thought Mr Stephens had referred to a tumour of the parathyroid gland. On 17 September 1976, Mr Stephens expressed surprise that Dr Pryor was sure the problem was with the parathyroid.
She Saw Dr Welch Again
Mum saw Dr Welch again on 6 September 1976. Again, he advised her to be patient. I am not sure precisely sure what was meant by being patient. Was this in relation to recovery from her surgery or in relation to getting to the bottom of the high calcium level?
Being Patient?
In terms of recovering from the surgery, on 15 August 1976, two days after being discharged from hospital, mum went to church. She did go in dad’s car and she got a lift back with Gerald Cooke. For some reason, she left during the final hymn of the first two services she attended. I am not sure why but my suspicion is that it was for dramatic effect! I am not sure it could have been because staying to the end of the service would have been too much physically for her as, that same day, on the 15th, she went to Mousehold Heath in the afternoon. By the 22nd, she had been cleared to go back to work and had already popped in!!
Follow-up Appointments
Mum received a follow-up appointment from Dr Pryor for 1.50 on 15 September. On the 13th, mum had a follow-up IVP with Dr Visick. He said there were no stones but some irregularity due to the operation. Mum was concerned as to whether that was all it showed. The next day, Mr Ashken went through the xray with her. He said there were no more stones. However, the ureter was narrow where the stone had been but the kidney was working well. On 11 November 1976, mum had another IVP with Dr Visick at 11.30. He said the kidney was emptying better but mum asked if it was really perfect. On the 12th, Mr Ashken spoke to her. He told her that the kidney was draining OK but the ureter would always be narrow. On the 15th, she saw Dr Pryor who said he would refer her to Alan Green.
Mr Alan Green
I found Alan Green’s obituary in the EDP. In 2015, he died at the age of 87. Norman Alan Green was born on 2 July 1927 in Leicester. He studied at St Bartholomew’s. He married nurse Doreen Wright in 1951. They had four children. He spent three years in Norwich from 1954. He won a Fulbright scholarship in 1958 and went to Boston Hospital and Harvard Medical School. Then, he returned to Norwich in 1961 and established the city’s first urology service in 1966.
He retired in 1990. After retiring, he wrote obituaries for professional journals. He was a founder member and then President of the British Association of Clinical Anatomists and an external examiner for the Royal Colleges of Surgeons in England and Edinburgh. He was a musician playing piano to a high standard. I found other biographies on the Royal College of Surgeons of England website and on the Travelling Surgical Society website.
More Tests
When Dr Pryor spoke to mum, he noted there would be further blood tests but not cortisone tests. Mr Ashken phoned mum to tell her that Alan Green was away over the whole of November. He also thought she needed time to get over her earlier operation first. On 21 September 1976, Mrs Black phoned mum to ask her to see Dr Black for a blood test on Thursday the 23rd at 2pm.
Dr Alec Black
Alec Black was a consultant haematologist at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. Born in March 1934, he died in September 2022 aged 88. According to his obituary, he played an important role in the plans to relocate the hospital to Colney instead of earlier plans to move to Hellesdon. He trained in Cambridge completing his medical degree in 1959. He began haematology specialty training in 1964 at St Thomas’. From there, he took up a new consultant post in haematology at the Norfolk and Norwich. I assume Mrs Black refers to Dr Black’s wife. Her maiden name was Alison Butters. They married in Lincoln in June 1966.
Appointment to See Mr Green
On 22 September 1976,, mum phoned Mr Green and booked to see him on Friday, the 24th.
GP Review
On the 23rd, mum saw Dr Welch. He said she was doing well and not to have another operation unless there was good reason. I wonder if this meant he thought she had had unnecessary surgery. Apparently, he also told her not to hoover and asked how she would manage for money if her washer broke down. He said he was concerned about her health. She noted that he called her Sheila. He said she was to keep in touch but she did not need to make another appointment.
She told Dr Welch that I had said she should not go back to work until she could cope fully at home. Dr Welch said this was wrong, that she had done the right thing but that she’d had a major operation and it would take another 6-8 weeks to be right. I find these entries difficult and am not sure if I and Dr Welch were being represented correctly. Also, I have other, more recent experiences, of mum telling me something her doctor had apparently said to her which meant I was either wrong or had to do something differently. I always took such conversations with a large pinch of salt!!
In this case, I was 16 at the time and am sure I would not have wanted whatever I had said to be put up to the GP for criticism! Clearly, I did have doubts about what mum felt unable and able to do. I suspect Dr Welch was probably answering tactfully as few people wanted to tell mum something they knew she would not be happy with! It is also probably fair to say that he recognised that mum enjoyed and valued work and, for this reason, getting back to work was probably a good thing.
Blood Tests
That afternoon, mum saw Dr Black for blood tests. She said he took 25mls of blood for parathyroid tests and urea and electrolytes.
Planning for Surgery
The next day, the 24th, she saw Mr Green. She said he was very nice and they had a long talk. He agreed to explore her parathyroid. She was to come in at the end of November/beginning of December to Ellingham Ward and she would have a single room. On 7 October 1976, Mr Ashken told her to pencil in the date of 2 December 1976 for her operation. Apparently, he had discussed it with Mr Green. On the 12th, she got a letter from the hospital telling her to come in on November 30 for surgery on the morning of 2 December.
Admitted for Surgery
On 30 November 1976, Tricia took mum to Ellingham Ward to be admitted. Mum noted that she had the same room as before. They started a 24-hour urine collection and she was seen by Mr Green and Mr Ashken. On 1 December 1976, the anaesthetist Dr Morgan-Hughes came to see her.
Dr Morgan-Hughes
I have not found much information about him except for being Dr J O Morgan-Hughes, a consultant anaesthetist at the Norfolk and Norwich. I did find a John O Morgan-Hughes born in Yarmouth in 1936.
Surgery
Mum had her operation the next day on 2 December 1976. She noted that her operation was at 9am and she got back to the ward at 12.35. Apparently, according to mum, her blood pressure dropped very low during the surgery and she had oxygen in the recovery room with her blood pressure checked every hour. Her drip and drain were taken out in the late evening. Mr Green told her that the parathyroid was considerably larger than it should have been. He also told her that it was benign. On 11 January 1977, he showed her slides. The gland he removed was 1¾ inches long and it should have just been like the little bit at the end.
Post-Op Recovery
On the 3rd, mum was given co-codaprin (Codis) for pain. She also experienced pins and needles in her left arm. She was given two glasses of milk to drink which helped. Lynn, one of the staff nurses, who mum liked took her drain out. On the 4th, she was not very well and was given more milk, three pints in total. Mr Green saw her and she had some stitches out.
On the 7th, mum developed a streaming cold and was given throat lozenges (Bradosol) containing hexylreorcinol, an anaesthetic and antiseptic. On the 10th, Mr Green came in the evening and only saw mum and Sally Bracewell, presumably his private patients. Mr Green wanted mum to stay another week but agreed she could go home on Sunday (12th). She was to see him in the New Year. He told her he had some photos of her neck. He told her to take it very easy. I am not sure how much she did that!
Visitors During This Admission
Mum had a number of visitors during this admission including grandma, Tricia, Angus, me, Alan, Liz, Mr Ashken, Mr Stephens, Rev Elworthy, Malcolm Carter, John and Heather Ferguson, Janet Bennett, Frank Papworth, Ralph and Jean Dye, Thelma Cooke, Betty Colver, Dorothy, Sue, Daphne, Mrs Dellar, Dr Batty Shaw, Ken Tickle, Joe Woodrow, Brenda Farrow, Mr and Mrs Munday, the Church of England vicar, Doreen from the bed bureau, Rev Ream, Marian Buxton, Eric Buxton and Margaret Culley. Malcolm Carter gave her communion. The free church chaplain, Rev Jones, visited her but mum noted this was “rather hurriedly”. Mum thought the C of E man was called Bransby. On 5 December, mum went to a service at the hospital chapel at 5pm.
Before and after her surgery, mum visited Nancy Papworth in Deopham Ward. Nancy had surgery the day before mum, on 1 December 1976. Eric Buxton visited her from Hethersett Ward where he was.
Mum got flowers/a plant and a card from Doreen in the bed bureau; a card and letter from Coeliac Society headquarters in London; Lucozade from the Fergusons; a plant from Young Wives; church flowers from Ralph and Jean Dye; bulbs from Thelma Cooke and flowers from Bowthorpe Road Methodist Church.
Mum was able to make some phone calls from hospital including to Malcolm Carter. On the 6th, Sally Bracewell came into the room next to mum. She was a doctor’s daughter. Mum thought she was nice and that they got on well. Sally had surgery on the 9th and went home on the 11th. Mum noted that she missed her.
Discharged from Hospital
Mum was discharged from hospital on 12 December 1976. Alan dropped clothes off for her at 2pm. He came back to pick her up at 4.30pm with Tricia and Liz. They all went to grandma’s for tea.
On the next day, the 13th, mum went to Alan’s parents’ evening at school. She also sorted out coeliac and duplicating money even though Dr Welch signed her off work for three weeks. On the 14th, she went Christmas shopping in the city. I am not sure this is what Alan Green had in mind when he told her to take it very easy!!
Also, on the 14th, Pam Ludlow brought her a plant and card from choir. On the 15th, Tricia took Mr Green a bottle of wine and mum wrote to Mr Green about BUPA although I don’t know what she said. Then, on the 17th, mum got a letter from Mr Green thanking her for the wine. On the 19th, mum drove to Drayton but hurt her neck so Tricia drove back. She had some symptoms during this period including headache and tinglings.
Further Follow-Up
In January 1977, mum saw Dr Welch on the 4th and Mr Green on the 5th. The latter again told her not to do too much! She saw Mr Green again on the 11th. He said she should do some exercise and see him again in 2-3 months. She was to have another blood test when convenient. She had that the next day, on the 12th.
Continued Symptoms
Mum continued to have various symptoms including neck pain, back pain, pain in her left side, tiredness, tinglings, feeling sick and chest pain. She saw Dr Welch several time during this period. He advised her to be patient and reassured her multiple times that she was doing very well. On one occasion, in February 1977, Dr Welch told her that he did not think the pain in her left side was a stone. But, mum thought she had perhaps not explained it properly. I imagine it would have been very difficult for any doctor to differentiate between the baseline pain and other symptoms that mum always had and anything related to the surgery or underlying condition.
On 9 March 1977, mum made an appointment to see Mr Green on the 29th. She had blood tests for calcium and phosphates on the 23rd. When she was seen by Mr Green, she was worried about chest pain she was expereincing. However, he told her there was nothing wrong with her heart. She noted that he examined her thoroughly. However, I am not sure a general surgeon/ urologist would have been best-qualified to make this judgment about her heart! She was asked to go back for review after 12 months.
A Chance Meeting
In May 1977, mum bumped into Dr Pryor when she was in the hospital for Mr Stephens. He asked her how she was and how the depression was. She noted that he seemed pleased with the answers. She had further blood tests in December 1977 and her calcium and phosphate levels were normal. The following year, she was seen by Mr Green, in April 1978, and had further blood tests. He commented “corrected calcium bit low”.
A Fall
On 20 May 1977, mum fell while crossing a road. She could not remember why she fell but could recall thinking “I’m falling”. She tore her trousers, grazed her left wrist and bruised her right cheek.
Tore Big Nail Off
On 15 November 1977, mum “tore big nail off” Presumably, this was done by accident.
Another Fall
On 25 November 1977, mum slipped on a slope near Sainsburys and sat down hard hurting her left buttock. The next day, she had back and side ache where she fell.
Twisted Ankle
On 28 December 1977, mum twisted her ankle. This merited three exclamation marks. The next day, she noted her ankle was OK but her leg was sore.
Cut Finger
On 23 February 1979, mum dropped a knife and it cut her right middle finger. Given mum was right-handed I am not quite sure how she did this! Five days later, Dr Brittain told her it was infected. He gave her some “stuff” to put on it which mum described as like red ink. I am not sure what this was. One possibility is chlorhexidine which comes in a range of colours. I am not sure if this was the same problem but, in April 1979, mum asked Dr Welch about her finger and he told her to leave it alone.
Dr Brittain
Dr Brittain was one of the GPs in the practice for which mum worked between 1977 and 1991, see Chapter 105. I believe there were two Dr Brittains, father and son. Dr Brittain Snr was a partner in the practice. I think the younger Dr Brittain worked there at some point but I don’t think this was full-time nor as a partner. His name was David Brittain and he became a private homeopathic practitioner having worked in Australia and in general practice.
In a discussion on doctors on the Norwich Remembers Facebook group, several people recalled Dr Brittain. Susan Bellamy Waterfield referred to him as Dr Dripping but I am not sure why! Noreen Neal noted that he worked at a practice at 7 Newmarket Road. This surgery still operates and is part of St Stephen’s Gate Medical Practice. John Mackay referred to him as old Dr Brittain and noted that he was very good with children and he was never afraid of seeing him. Noreen Neal referred to Dr David Brittain as “one of the kindest, most gentle doctors I have ever known”.
June Pinching recalled Dr Brittain at Newmarket Road surgery. He delivered her daughter. She described him as a wonderful kind man. She noted that she believed his son had gone into medicine too. Caroline Sop recalled both Dr Brittain and Dr Watkins and described them as good GPs. Margaret Stone recalled Dr Watkins and Drs Brittain, father and son, on Newmarket Road. Ann Parker noted that they were her doctor and her son was seen one Christmas Day as a cracker he pulled hit him in the eye. Isabel Colegate noted that he was her doctor. Ann Parker remembered Sister Hardingham as the practice nurse. She described her as lovely, so kind and gentle.
Thrombophlebitis
In November and December 1978, mum had an episode of thrombophlebitis in her right leg. It started with pain in her right thigh on 7 November but, by the 11th, her right ankle was red, swollen and burning. She made an appointment to see Dr Welch but, on the 13th, the nursing sister at work, who I beleieve was Janet Hardingham, suggested seeing Dr Brittain. He thought it was phlebitis, gave her phenylbutazone and rang Dr Welch.
Janet Hardingham
Mum always described the nurse she worked with at Dr Brittain and Dr Watkins’ surgery as “sister“. I believe this was Janet Hardingham. I know she worked at this practice and that she and mum knew each other. In March 1966, when she was a nursing sister in the Casualty Department of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, she spoke to mum’s Young Wives group, see Chapter 90.
I recognised the name as there was a Janet Hardingham in mum’s address book when I first started managing this in 2017. However, her name is not in the latest version I have which probably means that I was notified that she had passed away. I found some details of her working as a staff nurse in casualty during the second world war. I also found an obituary which confirmed she had indeed passed away in July 2019. From that, I learned that she was a long-time member of Surrey Chapel and that she indeed worked as a practice nurse for Drs Brittain and Watkins.
Different Attitudes
The doctors she worked for seemed to have different views about whether they could treat her or not. Dr Brittain seemed willing to but Dr Watkins, see Chapter 114, said he couldn’t.
Dr Welch Confirmed the Diagnosis
Two days later, mum saw Dr Welch who agreed with Dr Brittain. He gave her phenylbutazone (Butazolidin), hydrochlorthiazide (Moduretic) and glycerine and ichthyol to put on the inflammation. Mum referred to Butazolidin Alpha and Icthar and I have assumed she was referring to Butazolidin Alka and glycerine and ichthyol.
Nevertheless, her symptoms continued and she was also having headaches. Janet Bennett, one of the staff with whom mum worked, asked Dr Brittain if phenylbutazone (Butazolidin) could cause headaches. Dr Brittain said they could and that mum should stop them and see Dr Welch. She did on 6 December 1978. He commented that she looked well and put her onto trypsin chymotrypsin (Chymoral) instead of phenylbutazone. Her symptoms still continued, possibly worsening. Dr Welch saw her on the 13th and told her that the thrombophlebitis had flared up again. He put her back onto phenylbutazone (BTZ Alka), pentazocine (Fortral) and glycerine and ichthyol. He also said if it did not clear up she would need to be off work.
Hay Fever
Like me, mum suffered from hay fever. The first mention of this is in May 1979 when Dr Welch gave her chlorpheniramine (Piriton) as she was sneezing in the morning. I wonder if some of the illnesses she thought were colds, particularly when they were very short-lived, in fact, were related to hay fever.
One of the main problems with chlorpheniramine is that it causes drowiness. Non-drowsy anti-histamines, such as cetirizine, only became widely-available in the early eighties. In July 1979, Dr Welch prescribed her Haymine. This is a formulation of chlorpheniramine which also contains the decongestant ephedrine hydrochloride.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
In November 1979, mum had a very funny feeling in her arm which she described as “cold & tingling”. About a week later, she saw Dr Welch who thought it was carpal tunnel syndrome. He advised her to take a diuretic for a month. He said if it did not improve after ten days she should go back. As far as I know she did not.
Problems with Periods
From May 1975, mum was troubled with problems related to her periods including heavy bleeding, and abdominal pains. She saw Dr Welch about this, in September 1976, and he tried to reassure her. However, the symptoms continued and she also complained of spotting and mid-period bleeding. She saw Dr Welch again in July 1977. He told her there was a polyp causing bleeding and this was nothing serious. He asked who she would like to see. She said she would like to see Mr Carron-Brown, who had treated her in 1966, see Chapter 88.
Mum Referred Herself!
As with other referrals, Dr Welch left mum to do this. She did but found that both Mr Carron-Brown and Madge Thompson, presumably the secretary for his private work, were both away. So, mum spoke to Mr Carron-Brown’s secretary at the Norfolk and Norwich. She said to phone Madge on Monday. Instead, mum wrote to her and Madge phoned her on Sunday night. She told mum that Mr Carron-Brown could see her the next day.
Polyp Removal
Mum saw Mr Carron-Brown on 11 July 1977 and he removed the polyp. He told her that it was nothing to worry about and that it had been sent for analysis. Mum wondered why it had been and wished she had asked him. He said he would start her on a three-month course of norethisterone (Primulut) and this was prescribed for her by Dr Welch.
Continued Symptoms and Follow Up
Mum continued to have symptoms, particularly period pains. She saw Mr Carron-Brown again in September 1977 and he told her that the next step would be a D&C. However, when he saw her in April 1978, he advised a hysterectomy. She told him that she could not have eight weeks off work. So, she agreed to have a D&C in May with possibly a hysterectomy in October or November.
D&C
In May 1978, mum was admitted to Wroxham Ward. She noted that it was very quiet and not as nice as Ellingham Ward. She had the D&C the next day, on the 5th. Mum noted that Dr Morgan Hughes was the anaesthetist. Visitors during this short admission included Sally, Daphne, Malcolm Carter and Mr Ashken.
Her Symptoms Still Continued
Nevertheless, mum continued to have symptoms including heavy periods.
Too Much Oestrogen
In July 1978, Mr Carron Brown told her she was producing too much oestrogen. This made mum worry about cancer as she had heard that the oestrogen pill was linked to cancer. She was concerned about the histology report which had showed a hyperplastic pattern. Mr Carron Brown wanted her to take a combination of norethisterone acetate and ethinylestradiol (Controvlar) but this had upset her before so she decided not to.
Hysterectomy
Her symptoms continued and she was admitted for a hysterectomy at the end of August 1978. She had the operation on the 30th. Things went well. The histology report showed benign fibroids.
Post-op Recovery
Mum had parts of the drain removed on 2 and 3 September 1978. All the drain was removed on the 4th and she had a bath. Mr Carron Brown told her to wash her hair and put her face on!! She had her stitches out on the 5th and was also given a bulk-forming laxative (Normacol). By the 6th, she noted she was more or less OK.
Note on Normacol
Normacol’s active ingredient is sterculia. Because of problems obtaing sterculia, Normacol has not been available in the UK since 2023.
Post-op Bleeding
Mum also noted that a woman who had had an operation on the 6th had to be rushed back to theatre because of bleeding. She thought the operation had been done by Mr Carron Brown and was the same operation she had had. She wondered whose “fault” it was. Also, she noted that she had had a different anaesthetist, Dr McEwen and that Dr Morgan Hughes kept patients in the recovery room till they had come round. I am not quite sure what she was saying but an anaesthetist could hardly be responsible for bleeding!!
Discharged
On 7 September, Mr Carron Brown said she would be able to go home on Saturday, the 9th. On the 8th, mum was feeling quite depressed. Mr Carron Brown spoke to her on her own. He told her that it was 9th day post-op blues and was quite normal. Mum had apparently phoned Madge to ask if she could speak to Mr Carron Brown on his own. Mum did indeed leave hospital on the 9th. Tricia and Angus picked her up.
Visitors in Hospital
People who visited mum during her stay in hospital included Tricia, me, Alan, Liz, Muriel Yarnell Margaret Prime, Janet Bennett, Mr Ashken, Peter Lemmon, Maureen Harris, Dr and Mrs Brittain, John and Heather Ferguson, Liz’s friend Tracey, Janice, Gillian, Mrs Yallop, Dr Leach, Doreen, Daphne F, Muriel West, Rosemary Davey, Daphne B, Gerald and Thelma Cooke, Margaret Culley, Paul Burgess, Sue and Dr Watkins.
She received flowers from Mr Stephens, Mr and Mrs Ashken, grandma, Sue (Mr Stephens’ secretary), Daphne (MHA), the Coeliac Society, Dr and Mrs Brittain and St Peter’s Park Lane Methodist Church.
Also, she received peaches from the Brittains, Gillian and Rosemary, Ribena from the Fergusons, pears from the Fergusons and the Cookes and books from Dr Leach and the Cookes.
She got cards from Janet, Sally, Daphne (S), Gillian, Janice, Joyce (in physio), Gerald and Thelma Cooke, the Brittains, the Culleys, Auntie Dolly, Amy Wilson and the Hallers. She received a letter from Nancy Papworth.
Nice to Be Home
Mum said it was nice to be home. She noted that her bedroom was lovely and that we had bought lots of flowers too.
Visitors at Home
People who came to see mum at home included Rev Partner, Nancy Papworth, Sue Banning, Daphne, Thelma Cooke, Peter Lemmon and Sid Mitchell.
She got a card from Mr Ashken and letters from Rev Dowson. Margaret Prime, Janet and Doreen phoned her.
Taking Things Easy?
On 11 September 1978, mum saw Dr Welch and he signed her off work for four weeks. However, I am not sure how easily she took things. Only two days after coming out of hospital, she went to a magazine committee meeting at Chapelfield Road Methodist Church!! I took her and Tricia brought her back. Five days after being discharged from hospital, she went to a Synod meeting in King’s Lynn. She was disappointed that no-one came to visit her on her ninth and tenth day our of hospital and only Janet phoned. On 6 October 1978, she took a parcel to Wroxham Ward. On the 25th, she gave Mr Carron Brown a bottle of wine. She noted it had cost £4.50.
Outpatient Follow-up
On 2 October 1978, mum saw Dr Welch. He said she could go to work and could type but should not do GP work until after she saw Mr Carron Brown. I don’t understand how Dr Welch would or could make this distinction, i.e. she could go back to work for Mr Ashken and Mr Stephens but not for the GPs. I suspect this was what mum wanted though as she liked her private work much more than her GP work!
Mum saw Mr Carron Brown on the 16th and he told her that she had done “bloody marvellous”! He said there was slight granulation tissue and, if she got a yellow discharge, she should come back. He said she could do what she liked but Dr Welch added within reason. In January 1979, she started using a topical antibacterial preparation containing sulfathiazole, sulfacetamide and sulfabenzamide (Sultrin cream) prescribed by Mr Carron Brown. She saw him again in March 1979 and he told her that everything was OK now. However, on the 14th, mum got a letter from Mr Carron Brown asking her to have blood tests and a plain xray. She had those in the afternoon.
Seeking Preferential Treatment
One thing is clear from reading mum’s diary entries about her health during this period and that is that she expected, and often did receive, preferential medical treatment because of her role as a medical secretary particularly for the private practice of Mr Ashken and Mr Stephens.
Private-style Treatment from Mr Ashken
When mum had a kidney stone in July 1976, she was treated by consultant urologist, Mr Ashken, for whose private practice she worked. He explained that she would receive private-style treatment, i.e. she would have a private room and would be seen by Mr Ashken only. However, she would not be expected to pay for this. Presumably, he waived any fee due because she worked for him.
Using Mr Ashken’s Contacts and Influence
There were also examples where Mr Ashken used his contacts with colleagues to gain special or accelerated treatment. One example of this was when Mr Green operated on mum for her hyperparathyroidism. Mum’s care was discussed between Mr Green and Mr Ashken. In other cases, e.g. with Dr Pryor, Dr Visick and Dr Black, mum received private-style treatment and I am not sure if this was because of Mr Ashken’s connections or because mum paid for private treatment either directly or through private health insurance.
Mum Used Her Own Contacts and Influence
As a medical secretary, mum knew a lot of consultants and their secretaries for both their private and NHS work. Mum used these contacts to arrange and expedite her own referral and treatment. Whenever Dr Welch thought she should be referred, he consulted mum over who she would like to see and then left it to her to arrange the referral. One example of this was when mum was having trouble with her periods, she was to see Mr Carron Brown. She contacted the secretary for his private work, Madge Thompson. Madge phoned mum on a Sunday and mum was seen the next day. Mum took a similar approach to arranging xrays with Dr Visick.
Another example of using her own contacts and influence was in November and December 1977 when she had had blood tests, she contacted Barbara Cullum to get her results. Presumably, this meant she got her results faster than would have been possible without these contacts.
Mum Could Access Medical Records
As a medical secretary, mum had access to hospital records. She used this to read her own records in September 1975 and to read those of her father, in January 1976. Again, she was able to do this because of her role as a medical secretary. This would not have been possible for someone who was not in that, or similar, position.
Times have changed in terms of individuals accessing their own medical records. I can now access my GP records through the NHS app although this does not yet cover hospital records as far as I know. I don’t think accessing someone else’s medical records was allowed then nor would it be allowed now unless you had permission or power of attorney. Grandad, I know, had died by the time mum looked at his notes so perhaps it is a moot point but I would have hated mum accessing my medical records! This is not because I have anything to hide but because they would have been none of her business, certainly once I had reached 18.
Trading Favours
While in most case people mum or Mr Ashken knew simply helped facilitate or expedite mum’s treatment, there was at least one case where mum thought this was done because she had done something similar for them. Clearly, mum was in a position to return a favour as she was effectively gatekeeper to Mr Ashken’s and Mr Stephens‘ private practices.
Mum’s Approach Made/Makes Me Uncomfortable
Although I was not directly involved in these issues at the time, I did come across these issues later and mum’s expectations of preferential treatment did make me uncomfortable. I think I believe that the NHS should provide equal access to services for all regardless of ability to pay, status and/or family or work connections. I think I am realistic enough to know that that is not the case. But, I don’t like the idea that someone thinks they should get preferential access because of their job.
Some of What She Expected Seems Inappropriate to Me
I know that, in private practice, consultants may carry out tasks that in the NHS would be done by others. However, some of the things mum expected seem inappropriate to me, for example, organising plain xrays through a consultant radiologist or expecting a consultant haematologist to take blood samples!
It Also Led to Major Problems Between My Mother and My Sister
Mum’s expectations in this regard were a factor in the final breakdown of the relationship between her and my younger sister. Liz also worked as a medical secretary. When she was working in Cardiology, mum clearly expected Liz to use her influence to get her seen more quickly and/or by the Consultant. When Liz wouldn’t or couldn’t do that, mum was angry and frustrated and conflict ensued from which the relationship never recovered. Clearly, this was not the only factor but I suspect it was the final straw!
Illnesses Affecting Us Children
There was a lot less information about illnesses affecting us children than there was about those affecting mum. While this is likely to be partly because the main source of information was mum’s diary, it is also likely that mum experienced many more illnesses than we did.
Tricia’s Illnesses
In January 1976, my older sister Tricia went to see Dr Welch about her swollen ankle. He thought it was just bruised. She was to go back in seven to ten days if no better. I did not see any evidence that she went back so I assume she recovered. In March 1979, mum noted that Tricia had a “tummy upset”.
My Illnesses
In my case, I only had minor illnesses and injuries during this period.
Non-Specific Illnesses
Often the illnesses involved were non-specific. In April 1977, I did not feel too good so instead of meeting people at Just John’s, see Chapter 122, I stayed at home. In May 1977, I felt sick and had earache but did not tell mum as I thought she would worry. That same month, I felt ill after having run back to a party at Bywell’s, see Chapter 122. Gary Wood saw me home.
More Specific Illnesses – Tonsillitis
I did sometimes have more specific illnesses. For example, in January 1979, mum thought I had tonsillitis. However, the following day, mum noted I was better.
Minor Injuries
I suffered a number of minor injuries during this period,
Something in my Eye
In August 1976, while youth hostelling, see Chapter 122, I got something in my eye. Two guys from Newark, Ross and Neil, helped me by cooking a meal.
A Black Eye
That same year, in December 1976, I got hit while playing basketball at school and sustained a black eye, see Chapter 118.
A Burn
The following year, in March 1977, we made toffee apples at school to raise money and I burned myself, see Chapter 118.
Sore Legs
Also that month, after the school sponsored walk, see Chapter 118, the backs of my legs were sore. While this was not necessarily an injury as such, I noted that they hurt quite a bit whenever I got up from resting a long time.
Fall From My Bike
On my 17th birthday, 4 June 1977, I fell off my bike, see Chapter 127, outside the hospital and incurred minor injuries.
Mental Health
I don’t think any of the diaries had much, if anything, in them about my mental health. However, in November 1979, mum got a letter from me and thought I sounded a “bit down”. This could have been the case but it seems more likely to me that mum misinterpreted what I wrote. I think this because if I was feeling “down”, the last person I would have gone to would have been my mother!! In general, I really enjoyed my time at university, part of which was being away from home!
Trevor Hughes
In December 1975, mum hosted St Peter’s Guild at ours, see Chapter 124. Trevor Hughes was the speaker. He remembered seeing me in Attleborough Hospital after I had my appendix out, see Chapter 100. Apparently, we talked for some time.
I think this was Rev Henry Trevor Hughes. The son of H. Maldwyn Hughes, he was born on 27 February 1910 in Wallasey and educated at the Perse School, Cambridge. He worked in banking before training for the ministry at Wesley House, Cambridge. Then, he gained his Cambridge MA in 1938 and Oxford MA in 1969. He was chaplain at Culford School 1935-1941 and RAF chaplain 1941-1945. Appointed Vice-Principal of Westminster College in 1946, he became Principal in 1953, oversaw the college’s move to Oxford in 1959 and forged links with the University. He was the first Methodist to become a Select Preacher at the University. After leaving the college in 1969, he served in the Attleborough Circuit in Norfolk until retirement in 1975 and retained an active involvement in educational affairs. His books include Prophetic Prayer (1947), The Piety of Jeremy Taylor (1960) and A Progress of Pilgrims: seven Methodists. 1914-1958 (1979). He died on 26 April 1988. He is listed as a Wesleyan Minister although he was only first ordained in 1935.
Experimenting with Smoking
Finally, in terms of general health, I experimented with smoking during this period. On 13 March 1976, I noted that I had been bored at Teens youth club, see Chapter 122, so started smoking again. But, I didn’t like it so sold my cigarettes to Roger Boothby and noted that I had “re-given up”. On 15 March 1976, Roger Boothby bet me 50p that I could not go without a cigarette until 10.4.76. I am not sure who won that bet but I did smoke after that time. I only gave up once and for all once I went to university in 1978, see Chapter 120. Also, I suspect mum knew but, if she did, she never wrote about it or raised concerns about it in her diary.
Report on my Medical History
In September 1978, Dr Welch wrote to mum summarising my medical history. I am not sure why he did this but I suspect this was something mum had asked for possibly linked to my going to university, see Chapter 120. I am not sure if I was involved. This is not something I recall. However, it is of interest that I was 18 at this point yet Dr Welch still wrote to my mother rather than to me directly.
Alan’s Illnesses
Among us siblings, it seems that my younger brother Alan experienced the most illnesses of us all. I have noticed this before when reviewing the diaries but do not particularly recall that this was the case. I wonder how much of it was related to Alan having Coeliac disease, see Chapter 78. Another possibility is that mum recorded illnesses that affected Alan more than the rest of us.
A Rash
In January 1975, mum noticed that Alan had spots on his leg. She wondered if it was a heat rash or gnat bites. The next day, she took him to see Dr Robertson at 8.30am. Dr Robertson thought it could be a reaction to the antibiotic amoxicillin (Amoxil) or to his trousers. Mum wondered if she had used Comfort on any of Alan’s clothes previously. He was advised to take the antihistamine chlorpheniramine (Piriton).
Dr I C Robertson
Based on the letterhead above, Dr I C Robertson was one of the GPs in the Mile End Road practice. I don’t know anything more about him.
Comfort
Apparently, Comfort was the first fabric conditioner in the UK. It was launched in 1969.
Asthma
Alan sometimes experienced asthma symptoms during this period. I believe I did too although mum does not seem to mention it during this period. Based on my recollections, Alan suffered more with asthma than I did.,
For example on 20 January 1975, mum commented that, despite the symptoms, Alan still managed to go to Boys’ Brigade. On the 22nd, in the afternoon, mum spoke to Dr Welch about him. He told her to increase the beclomethasone (Becotide) inhaler and he would see him if he was no better. The very next day, mum took Alan to see Dr Welch. At this point, he was not wheezy just complaining of feeling tired. Dr Welch wondered if he was anaemic and sent him for a blood test. He had this on the 24th and, on the 29th, mum noted that it was normal.
Then, in July 1975, mum noted that Alan was a bit wheezy. On 19 October 1975, Alan got back safely from a walk from Stalham to How Hill. Mum noted he was tired and wheezy but otherwise fine. On 1 June 1976, mum noted that Alan was wheezy “still”. I noted that Alan had a cold. On Christmas Eve 1979, mum took Alan to see Dr Bennett as he was wheezy. He was told to increase his salbutamol (Ventolin) and beclamethasone inhalers. On Christmas Day, Alan was very wheezy. On the 26th, he was a bit better.
Bedwetting
In October 1975, when Alan would have been 13, he was still having problems with bedwetting. Apparently, the issue is not uncommon in teenagers but I don’t think I knew that as it is not something that is widely talked about even now. Mum went to see Dr Welch about this. Dr Welch said he would like to see Alan on his own and this happened about a week later. Dr Welch gave him imipramine (Tofranil) and a chart. He went back to see Dr Welch in January 1976 and was due to go back in eight weeks. Two years later, in 1978, mum spoke to Dr Welch about Alan’s bedwetting. He told her to wait until he asked for help. She said she was told he had very mild spina bifida which was nothing to worry about. I don’t think I was aware of this.
Coeliac Disease
The diaries contain relatively little about the management of Alan’s Coeliac disease, see Chapter 78. There are some details of things mum made for him including bread, fruit cake, “krispies”, Christmas cake, Christmas puddings, Eve puddings and pastry
Krispies
I believe these were cakes made with Rice Krispies and chocolate. I recall these as a child. I am pretty sure these were made with conventional Rice Krispies but my understanding is that these are not gluten free as they contain barley malt. Gluten free alternatives are available.
Eve Puddings
From memory, we had this type of pudding a lot. It could be made with almost any fruit and then a sponge layer on top. In November 1977, mum noted cooking separate Eve puddings for me and Alan. I am not sure why there was one for me and not for everyone! Mum noted using plain flour and baking powder for mine and she said you could not tell the difference between them. Alan said he was not hungry and mum thought this was because we could not tell which was which! I am a little surprised by this as mum was always careful to make sure Alan got gluten free versions of whatever we were having. However, it is true that I do not recall us being as worried about cross-contamination as people might be today.
Gluten Free Pastry
In November 1979, mum made pastry for Alan using French gluten free flour that Mrs Housego had given her. I am not entirely sure who this was.
Gluten Free Items on Prescription
I believe Alan got some gluten free items on prescription, such as bread and flour. My understanding is that while some gluten free items are still available on prescription in some places, they are much less available on prescription now than previously. On the other hand, gluten free items are much more available generally than they were then but they tend to be much more expensive than gluten-containing counterparts.
Collecting Bread Mix
In July 1976, I went to Robinsons on Colman Road to get some bread mix but they hadn’t got any.
Robinsons
According to Kelly’s Directory and Kelly’s Tradefinder 1971-72, Guy C Robinson was a chemist at 143 Colman Road. This is in the shopping area on the corner of the Avenues. No 143 is right on the corner and currently houses Lucky Wok. Apparently, this is known as Bunnett Square. Many people on Facebook seem to recall Robinson’s being among a group of shops here. One of the things I remember about this group of shops is that the names were all in the same format with white letters on a blue background.
Juvela Flour
In January 1978, mum made Alan some bread and rolls with Juvela flour. Juvela is described as a versatile and reliable white gluten free flour substitute.
Communion Wafers
In May 1977, mum noted that she had got special communion wafers for when Alan was made a church member, see Chapter 124. However, she noted that the senior Minister Rev Ream “messed it up” as he gave Alan the wrong bread.
Minor Injury
According to me, Alan got “slightly injured” in March 1976 when we did something with a weather vane at grandma’s! Perhaps surprisingly, mum does not mention this.
Unspecified Illness
In May 1976, mum noted that Alan was not very well but she did not give any details.
Ingrown Toenail
During this period, Alan also had problems with his toe and I believe this was an ingrown toe nail.
Seeing Doctors
In June 1976, while on holiday in Dunoon, see Chapter 122, mum took Alan to see the doctor about his toe. She was advised to let the air at it. In August 1976, Dr Robertson saw Alan about his toe. He was to use a silver nitrate stick on it and was not to wear nylon socks. Silver nitrate has been widely-used in the treatment of ingrown toenails but the evidence for the effectiveness of this is fairly weak. I was not aware of the advice on socks but apparently the reason is that nylon socks trap moisture and can promote infection.
In September 1976, Dr Bennett saw Alan about his toe. He was to continue with the silver nitrate. However, the following year, in January 1977, Alan’s toe was worse. Mum thought she might take him to see Dr Welch or Dr Bennett the next day. On the 28th, mum took Alan to see Dr Fraser who wanted to refer Alan to Accident and Emergency to see a surgeon.
Dr Fraser
I am not sure who Dr Fraser was. I presume he was one of the doctors in the Mile End Road surgery but he is not listed on the letterhead I have.
Referred for Surgery
Although Dr Fraser wanted mum to take Alan to Accident and Emergency to see a surgeon, mum told him who she worked for, see Chapter 121, and they agreed Alan would see Mr Stephens. Mum spoke to Mr Stephens and he said to take Alan to his clinic the next Monday, the 31st. Dr Fraser gave her a letter for this.
Seen by Mr Stephens
Mr Stephens saw Alan as planned. Mum noted that she and Alan walked there. She also commented that Mr Stephens did not see her at first but when he did he said “”Oh it’s you” & was quite different.” As mentioned elsewhere, mum loved to get what I believe she saw as preferential treatment.
Alan Had Surgery on His Toe
Alan went for surgery in February 1977. I may recall him having this surgery. I certainly recall, I think, that he did not have a nail on one of his big toes. He was admitted to Diss Ward for removal of the nail and nail bed. He was kept in overnight and discharged the next day. When mum got there to collect him, the doctors were doing a ward round so mum went to see Sister Burton on Ellingham Ward. They had coffee together and she told mum to come again. Mum noted that Alan came out in a wheelchair but hobbled to the car.
Post-op Recovery
I noted that Alan seemed very well when he got home apart from a big bandage on his foot. Following the surgery, he progressed well. He only got pain when he walked. He was able to resume various activities including going to church, to Boys’ Brigade and to the cinema. Mum took him various places in the car including church, school, work and the cinema. About two weeks after surgery, he was able to cycle to school.
Post-op Review
Ten days after surgery, on the 28th, Alan went back to the hospital. I noted that this was to have his bandages off. Mum noted that he was also reviewed by Mr Stephens. Apparently, Mr Stephens told mum “they had a raised blood urea for Alan Drew – he doesn’t think it is A as it came from a clinic but there is no other Alan Drew. Had another blood test.” On 1 March 1977, Mr Stephens told mum that the “path lady” had taken the wrong blood so Alan needed another blood test the next day.
Alan had the day off school following this review as his toe was painful. He went back to the hospital for his toe to be dressed on 3 March 1977. He also had blood taken. Mr Stephens told mum that the blood test was normal. He had further reviews at the hospital.
Problems With Another Toe
A month later, in April 1977, mum noted that Alan’s middle toe on his left foot was infected. She thought the nail was plenty long enough. He had had the infection for five days. It must have persisted as, at the end of May 1977, mum took him to see Dr Welch. He advised putting silver nitrate on the toe and to go back in three weeks if no better. The following month, in June 1977, mum took Alan to see Dr Welch. He took a piece of nail off.
Ill/Tired After an Expedition
In October 1976, I noted that Alan was back from an expedition and I thought he seemed unwell but was not sure what was wrong with him. The following day, however, I noted that he was much better and he went to Boys’ Brigade. I suspect he had just been tired as he went to bed at 3pm the day he came back.
Faint
In December 1976, Tricia had to pick Alan up from school about 11.30. Mum simply noted “faint”. So, I don’t know if he felt faint or had fainted. The next day, he had the morning off school. He was off in the afternoon anyway. Presumably, the schools had broken up.
Coffee Burn
In September 1977, Alan spilled a cup of coffee on his foot. It blistered an area of 2” by 5”. Mum and I took him to hospital. Initially, the sister stripped the blisters and dressed it. He had to go for repeat dressings and he was off school for a while. By the 28th, he was better and went to school.
Aches and Pains
In November 1978, Alan complained of pain and an ache in his left chest and abdomen.
Pulled Leg Muscle
The following year, in August 1979, while on holiday, see Chapter 122, Alan pulled a muscle in his leg.
Liz’s Illnesses
Liz suffered a number of illnesses in this period.
A Rash
In January 1975, mum noted that Liz was covered in a rash. She noted that Liz had groomed the horses rather than riding them, , see Chapter 122, because of the weather. She hoped that the rash was not an allergy to horses.
Odd-Shaped Feet!
In October 1975, mum noticed that Liz’s feet were “an odd shape”. She said the skin was tight on top and very fleshy underneath. I (helpfully!) said it was bad shoes. Mum said it couldn’t be. My sense is that she was pretty annoyed at me for saying this. Frankly I don’t recall.
Ten days later, mum took Liz to see Dr Welch about her feet. He said there was nothing to be done now but they would wait until her feet stopped growing. Then the options would be to have the little toes off or try to straighten them. Mum promised Liz that it would be her choice and she wouldn’t make her do anything. I vaguely recall this issue namely that Liz’s little toes overlapped her other toes. I am not sure what was done in the end.
Playground Fall
In March 1976, Liz fell in the playground. The school called and mum picked her up at 1.15p.m. Mum said she was dazed and “odd” and could not remember anything. She phoned Dr Welch who was at Mile End. He told her to let her sleep and if she was not OK the next day to let them know. Mum noted that she seemed better in the evening but was not her usual self. However, the next day, she was better.
Earache
In February 1977, while Liz and I were in Birmingham with dad, she had an earache which had kept her awake the previous night. I thought she looked very ill.
Sick at School
In April 1977, Liz was sick at school. However, the next day, mum noted she was a bit better.
Sick at Night
In October 1977, Liz was sick at night. The next day, I came home at lunch-time to see Liz who wasn’t very well. I confess the main incentives might have been to get out of school and to ride my motorbike, see Chapter 127. Mum noted Liz was off school all day but better by evening.
Sick
In June 1979, on Alan’s birthday, Liz was sick so did not want any of the Chinese food that mum and Alan got.
Coughs and Colds
The diaries documented a number of people who had coughs, sore throats and colds during this period. These included mum, Tricia, me, Alan, Liz, Irene Bell, Dr Day, Pam Ludlow, Rev Eddy, Mr Stephens, Rev Dowson, Malcolm Carter and Hilda Crowe.
Mum Had a Lot of Colds
Mum noted having colds on 21 occasions during this five-year period. This was a lot more than any of the rest of us, between two and seven occasions. Part of this may relate to the fact that the information is from her diary. Also, I wonder if some of the colds that lasted a day or less might have been undiagnosed hay fever. Nevertheless, mum did seem to have a lot of colds during this period, an average of four per year based on these numbers.
In May 1976, mum was depressed and wondered why she was getting so many colds. It was perhaps natural that living in a house with so many people, especially children, there were quite a lot of coughs and colds shared around.
Sometimes, mum seemed to apportion blame for a particular cold to a specific person. For example, in December 1976, mum said she had got Tricia’s cold and that had come originally from dad! In May 1978, she wondered if she had got Liz’s cold.
Flu?
When the GP who mum worked for, see Chapter 121, Dr Day, was ill in May 1975, she described this as flu. I know there is a tendency to use the terms cold and flu synonymously. However, I recall mum being quite strict on this and insisting that flu was much worse than a simple cold. I have never known how you can be sure without testing which is rarely, if ever, done. In February 1976, when both Rev Eddy and Mr Stephens were sick, mum described this as flu.
Failure to Attend Activities
Sometimes, mum mentioned that people had colds when they were unable to do a particular activity. For example, in November 1975, Pam Ludlow could not go with mum to the Cathedral for a rehearsal and recording of “Songs of Praise”.
Cold Remedies
Cold remedies that mum used herself or for us during this period included Anadin, Bradosol, Contac, Dimotane, Disprin, Fortagesic, Karvol capsules, Lemsip, Phensedyl, Pholcodine, Pholcolix , Sudafed and Triogesic.
Anadin
Mum’s cold remedies included two Anadin often in combination with Lemsip. Anadin is a well-known brand name for pain relief. The original Anadin, first produced in 1932, is a mixture of aspirin and caffeine but Anadin products containing ibuprofen and paracetamol are now available.
Bradosol
Bradosol are throat lozenges containing hexylreorcinol, an anaesthetic and antiseptic. Mum was given them when she developed a cold and sore throat in hospital in December 1976.
Contac
Mum took what she described as “Contact”. I wonder if she was referring to Contac which is a mixture of paracetamol and pseudoephedrine hydrochloride.
Dimotane
Dimotane was a mixture of an antihistamine (brompheniramine), a decongestant (phenylpropanolamine) and an antitussive (codeine). However, the exact composition may vary across different Dimotane products.
Disprin
Disprin is a brand name for soluble aspirin. In November 1976, when I was thought to have tonsillitis, Dr English advised mum to give me this. Alan was also ill at the same time and he was given Disprin four-hourly. I was 16 at this point but Alan was only 14. Aspirin is no longer recommended in under 16s because of the risk of Reye’s syndrome. At that time, we were given Disprin at a much younger age. Indeed, there was a specific product for this called Junior Disprin. It was discontinued in the early eighties and is now a museum item.
Karvol Capsules
I recall Karvol capsules from my childhood. They contained a combination of aromatic oils which could be squeezed on a pillow to help you breath and sleep when you had a cold. While they smelled strongly, my recollection is that the smell was not unpleasant. They are no longer available in the UK because of concerns over the use of one of their ingredients, chlorobutanol. Similar alternate products are available though.
Lemsip
Mum’s cold remedies included two Anadin often in combination with Lemsip. Lemsip is a very well-known British branded cold remedy containing paracetamol and phenylephrine hydrochloride. First produced in 1969, this medicine is still available today. Most well-known is the orginal hot lemon drink but various products are now available under the Lemsip brand. In January 1976, mum referred to taking a Boots Lemsip which I assume was an own brand equivalent.
Phensedyl
Phensedyl is a cough medicine consisting of a combination of codeine and chlorpheniramine.
Pholcodine
Pholcodine was an opiate cough suppressant also known as morpholinylethylmorphine and homocodeine. It was withdrawn from use in the UK in 2023. Dr Welch gave it to her and warned her not to take “too much”.
Pholcolix
Pholcolix is a mixture of pholcodine, paracetamol and phenylpropanololamine.
Sudafed
Sudafed is a range of branded nasal decongestants that may have one of three active ingredients – pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine or xylometazoline. Various other ingredients may include guaifenesin, ibuprofen, paracetamol and caffeine.
Antibiotics
In January 1976, mum was concerned that her cold had gone to her chest. She saw Dr Welch who gave her the tetracycline antibiotic demeclocycline (Ledermycin). In April 1976, Alan became wheezy and quite unwell following a cold. Dr Bennett also gave him demeclocycline (Ledermycin). A few days later, he was still unwell and had a high temperature. Mum spoke to Dr Rutter who said it was probably flu and that antibiotics would not help but would keep his chest clear. In August 1976, Tricia had a sore throat. She saw Dr Bennett who gave her phenoxymethylpenicillin (Penicillin V). In November 1976, I also had a sore throat and was given penicillin.
In February 1978, mum had a cough and catarrh following a cold. Dr Welch gave her the antibiotic doxycycline (Vibramycin). The next day, mum felt ill with a headache etc and it was worse after taking the Vibramycin. She rang Dr Welch at Tuckswood. He said it could be them but he then said to persevere. She remained ill for a few more days but then gradually recovered. She had Vibramycin again in March 1979, when Dr Downes prescribed it for her when a cold she had went to her throat, and in October 1979 when Dr Brittain prescribed it for her.
Soldiering On
I think mum had the tendency to “soldier on” when she had a cold including going to work. My recollection is that we had to do the same and we could only be off school if we were at death’s door.
By way of example, at the end of March 1976, I noted that my cold meant I missed going to the Norwich Ipswich game on the 31st. This was a First Division game which Norwich won 1-0 with Martin Peters scoring the only goal, see Chapter 123. This was a big game for Norwich. It was only their third season in the top flight. They would finish in their then highest position of tenth although Ipswich finished sixth. The next day, I went to the pictures to see “Death Race 2000”, see Chapter 122. Mum noted I insisted on going and I commented that my cold was a bit better. The next day, I noted that my cold was bad but I went to school, see Chapter 118, and even played five-a-side!
Mixed Standards
However, mum’s diary showed that she sometimes had mixed standards, in my view, about what she could and could not do when she was ill. In April 1976, she noted that Tricia painted the ceiling as she didn’t have the energy. She had, however, had the energy to have lunch in the city and to buy a skirt at Marks and Spencer!
On Wednesday 10 May 1978, Dr Welch advised mum to have the rest of the week off work. I assume she did. However, the next day, she had her hair done and went to a St Peter’s Guild meeting. The next day, she went to the Norfolk and Norwich and went shopping!
At the end of March 1979, Dr Welch told mum she should have a week off work to recover from her cold. On Sunday 1 April 1979, she did not go to church and Alan brought her breakfast in bed. However, later, she did typing for both her works!
In July 1979, mum noted having a bad cold but this did not stop her going fruitpicking!
Preventative Services
We did not engage with health services only for treatment. Rather, we accessed a number of preventative and other services.
Immunisation
These prevenative services included a range of immunisations. In March 1976, I noted that I had a tetanus injection and a polio sugar lump. I thought the sugar lump was worse! In June 1976, mum, Tricia, Alan and Liz had tetanus injections. Mum noted that Tricia’s arm ached at night. Alan and Liz had diphtheria immunisations too. I don’t know why I had mine separately from them. I am also not sure why Alan and Liz did not have polio boosters when they had their tetanus boosters. They went back, separately from each other, for these later that month.
In December 1977, mum took Liz for a rubella vaccination. Mum referred to it as “German measles”. Rubella immunisation was introduced for pre-pubertal girls in 1970. All children have been immunised against measles, mumps and rubella since 1988. In October 1978 and 1979, mum had flu immunisations at work. In 1979, mum had a painful left arm following the immunisation. Adult flu immunisation has been offered to vulnerable people in the UK since the late 1960s.
Cervical Smear
Mum also noted when she had cervical smears. She had one in May 1977 and noted that her last one had been in March 1972. On 15 April 1976, mum saw Dr Welch. He told her to come for a smear and check-up on the 29th. However, when she saw him on the 29th, he examined her and said she looked healthy so she did not go for a smear.
Giving Blood
Mum had been a blood donor for a number of years. However, I do not recall her ever noting this in her diaries before this period. I did find her blood donor card among her papers. This shows that she gave blood ten times between 1969 and 1981. However, there was an eight-year gap between April 1972 and May 1980.
Not “Good Enough“
In April 1976, mum went to give blood but “wasn’t good enough”. I am not sure why she did not give blood between April 1972 and April 1976. There are many reasons why a person might not be able to give blood. The reason in mum’s case seems to have been that she was anaemic but she appears to have taken it personally! I wasn’t able to give blood when we came back from Africa in 1998. At that time, a history of travel in areas that were badly-affected by HIV was enough to be refused. Unlike mum, I simply accepted this and I don’t believe I have given blood since.
Mum was told they would do further tests and let her know. My suspicion is that the copper sulfate test that they use(d) for detecting anaemia raised concerns. Essentially, this involved putting a drop of blood into a vial of copper sulfate. If it quickly sinks, the person can donate blood. If it floats or sinks slowly, the person is not allowed to donate blood and has further tests to determine their haemoglobin level.
In early May 1976, mum received a letter from the blood donor people saying she was anaemic with a haemoglobin of 10g/dl Mum noted that it was the same it had been in July 1975. Nevertheless, she started taking iron supplements and I assume the matter was resolved.
Turned Down Again
However, mum was due to give blood in April 1977. She told them she had had a parathyroidectomy and they told her not to come. I checked to see what the advice would be now for someone who had had a parathyroidectomy. It appears that it would be decided on a case-by-case basis.
Then, mum wrote to the Blood Transfusion Service about this. At the end of the month, she received a letter from them saying they could not accept her blood. She clearly was not happy about this but was not sure what to do next. Options were to write again or to speak to Mr Ashken or Mr Green. I am not sure why this mattered so much to mum. I think most people would have just accepted the decision!
On 20 May 1977, mum wrote to Mr Green. Mr Ashken told her that Mr Green had spoken to him about it. Also, on the 25th, mum received a letter from Mr Green saying he agreed with her and he had written “to Cambridge”. It is interesting that the Regional Transfusion and Immunohaematology Centre listed in mum’s transfusion booklet is in Long Road in Cambridge.
Dentist
Mum noted taking various of us to the dentist for one thing and another including check-ups, fillings and dental extractions. Mum also took Alan and Liz to see the school dentist in December 1975.
David Rogers
Our dentist at that time was David Rogers and I believe I recall him. I remember his surgery being upstairs in a property on Prince of Wales Road.
Sure enough, the 1967 Kelly’s directory lists him as a dental surgeon at Lombard House, 20 Prince of Wales Road. He was still there in the 1971/72 Kelly’s Tradefinder. It seems that 18-20 Prince of Wales Road are now office buildings called Greyfriars House. As of April 2025, they appear to be for sale. Apparently, In the late 1960s hire purchase financiers Lombard were based at 20 Prince of Wales Road and perhaps that is where the name Lombard House came from. They were also known as Lombard Banking or Lombank. Lombard Banking was taken over by NatWest in 1970.
Fillings
I had one filling there in January 1976 as did Alan. Alan had another filling in July 1976 and I had another in April 1977. Apparently, he also talked to me about university applications, see Chapter 120.
Extractions
I had a tooth out there on 15 December 1975. In June 1976, mum and Alan were told that he might have to have four teeth out and then wear a brace for a year. Mum discussed this with Malcolm Carter who thought he should have the treatment. However, in July 1976, Alan saw Mr Rogers. He knocked out a loose baby tooth and said nothing more was needed. In June 1978, Liz had four baby teeth out under general anaesthetic administered by Dr Reynard. I have not found out anything about him.
Memories of Mr Rogers
A number of contributors on Facebook also recall seeing him as children. Reported experiences were mostly negative. One contributor recalled that he had been her old dentist. She noted “I remember having a tooth extraction, he used the gas mask. I woke up with a bag of sweets on the arm of the chair after they tried to keep my mouth closed. For some reason I didn’t want to shut my mouth“. Another recalled him as a big strong man. She thought he was not the best but better than the children’s dentist on Unthank Road. Another said he always smelled of curry. Another described him as a “butcher” noting that her experiences of him had produced a lifelong fear of dentists.
Yet another recalled “I had 2 extractions with a general when I was about 11; They gave me enough anaesthetic to stop me being able to move but not enough to put me under and stop me experiencing the pain and feeling his knee on my chest as he fought to pull them out!” Another commented that he was “one of the worst dentists I had the misfortune to go to”.
Another complained that he was never given pain relief for drilling or extractions. So, he changed dentists in his teens. He thought that his wife had been his assistant. He recalled a particularly humorous story, “On one visit to Rodgers, I remember saying to Mum I needed the toilet that had two doors one in the reception room and one on the stairs, I went in and open the stairs one ran down to find my Mum at the bottom of the stairs blocking the door …. Bless’her.”
My Own Recollections
I don’t remember him particularly clearly and don’t really have any views on his competence or otherwise. Later, when I went to university, I did need extensive dental treatment but I put this down to my own fault and neglect although I suppose poor previous care and treatment could have been a factor. I think mum thought highly of Mr Rogers though.
Eyes
In addition to seeing the dentist about our teeth, we also saw various people about our eyes, including the GP, ophthalmologists, opticians, orthoptists and the school health services.
Tricia’s Eyes
In April 1975, mum saw Dr Welch about Tricia’s eyes. He told her to contact the school health services which mum did although I am not sure why he told her that. They told her an appointment would be sent. I am not sure if this was sent. It is pretty clear mum did not wait for it! In just over two weeks, mum took Tricia to see ophthalmologist Mr Hunter at the Norfolk and Norwich. He noted that her eyes were still the same, which presumably means he had seen her before. If she had had glasses to correct the right eye, she would have seen double. He tried it. He told her that she could drive and she should “go and forget it”. From what I know, Tricia had very reduced vision in one eye. Also, as far as I know, it has never given her any difficulty.
Mr Peter Hunter
Peter John Lewis Hunter was consultant ophthalmologist at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital from 1957 to 1982. Born in 1921, he qualified from Birmingham in 1946 and died in April 2020. In 1947, he took up a post in the eye department of the Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne. It seems he did national service and then was appointed to Bradford Eye and Ear Hospital before returning to the Royal Victoria Infirmary in Newcastle as senior registrar ophthalmologist. In 1957 he moved to Norwich as consultant
ophthalmic surgeon, where he remained for 25 years. His wife Kathleen, predeceased him in 1992. They had five children and six grandchildren.
My Eyes
School Nurse
In September 1975, I saw the school nurse about shortsightedness. I am a bit surprised as this sounds as if it was a new issue. But, I was first found to be shortsighted as early as 1966, see Chapter 88. I suspect the issue is that I did not wear my glasses. I recall that I had difficulty seeing the board throughout my school career. It is perhaps odd that it took to 1975 for someone to do something about it. I readily accept I did not help as I did not want to have to wear glasses in school!
Ophthalmologist
The school nurse wanted me to see the consultant at hospital. Mum thought I was worried but would not speak to her, see Chapter 118. Mum wrote to my French teacher Mr Cheeseman. In November 1975, mum took me to see Mr Hunter at the Norfolk and Norwich. He said I was shortsighted and would need to wear glasses for all school work. Mum said I was quite upset and that she might ring Mr Cheeseman the next day. I am not convinced that mum was a good judge of whether I was upset or not. In my view, her comments on this reflect more how she was feeling than I was necessarily. I know I was not thrilled about the thought of having to wear glasses at school and, from memory, I largely did not even after this point.
New Glasses
Mum did phone Mr Cheeseman and told him about my glasses. Two days later, mum took me to pick glasses. They were going to cost £21.25. The next day, mum wrote to dad about money for my glasses and Tricia’s trips, insurance and medical insurance. However, at the end of November, mum noted that she would pay for my glasses because of dad’s money problems, see Chapter 114.
About three weeks later, mum noted getting me my glasses. She said they were very nice but very strong lenses. I am not sure what mum meant by this or what she expected! I suspect they were the right prescription for me as I am very shortsighted. She noted they cost £20.50. I don’t know why they were marginally less than the original price she quoted.
Follow-Up Review
In January 1977, I went to what I described as “the optician”. They said everything was OK and I should go back next year. However, mum noted that we actually saw an ophthalmologist at the hospital. She noted that she picked me up from school and we went to the Norfolk and Norwich to see Mr Hunter’s registrar. Mum noted there was no change.
Lost Glasses
In March 1977, I thought I had lost my glasses. I am not sure if this was wishful thinking! I think they must have turned up although I don’t seem to have recorded this.
Alan’s Eyes
In June 1976, mum took Alan to see Mr Hunt, the optician.
Robin Hunt
Robin Hunt worked at L L Tillett’s at 87 Upper St Giles Street. Apparently, he was born in September 1944. L L Tillett was dissolved in 2010 but there is still an optician at 87 St Giles Street called Tillett Adams.
Glasses
Following this appointment, Alan had to wear his glasses at school and for reading for three weeks and was then to go back in early July. Mr Hunt said there was a problem with his muscles. Mum took him back as directed and they saw Mr Hunt again. He said that Alan’s eyes were abnormal. He needed glasses and he should go back in one year.
Reviewed by Mr Hunt
In February 1978, mum took Alan to see Mr Hunt in the afternoon when he was off school with a cold. This was around eighteen months after he had been previously seen. They were told that his eyes were about the same and that he needed a slight correction but it might cause trouble if it was done. I am not sure if Mr Hunt was talking about surgical correction or perhaps correction with lenses. I am also not sure why such a correction might cause trouble nor what kind of trouble it might cause. Mr Hunt noted that his eyes were good but they did not work together. Mr Hunt told them to come back in one year or earlier if needed.
Another Review
A year later, in February 1979, mum took Alan to see Mr Hunt again and Alan had his eyes tested. Mr Hunt said they could see the ophthalmologist Peter Hunter if they liked. My sense is that not something that Mr Hunt was pushing for but rather mum probably asked about it. Alan agreed so mum was going to arrange it, another example of mum using her position to self refer.
Seen by Mr Hunter
In March 1979, mum took Alan to see Peter Hunter. Mr Hunter wanted Alan to see an orthoptist at the hospital. He thought exercises might help but, if not, a small operation might be needed. Mum confirmed that this was what the optician had told them but here she referred to him as John Hunt
Orthoptist
Alan saw the orthoptist in May 1979 and was given exercises to do.
Admitted for Surgery
However, in July 1979, Alan was admitted to the Ingham South Ward at the Norfolk and Norwich for eye surgery.
Confusion Over Which Eye
There was some confusion over which eye was to be operated on. Mr Hunter told Alan the right eye but Alan thought the orthoptist had said left eye. Mum tried to speak to Dr Brittain about it but could not get him so spoke to Mr Ashken. He advised mum to phone Mr Hunter and ask him. Mum did so. He told her that it was the right eye but it did not really matter which one he did. This upset mum who went to speak to the then Minister’s wife, Christine Lemmon. My understanding is that squint surgery is usually done on the squingting eye but it may depend on the exact case.
Surgery
On the 16th, Alan had the surgery. Afterwards, the orthoptist told him not to read or watch TV but Mr Hunter said he could. Ten days later, mum took Alan to Mr Hunt, the optician, to tell him about the surgery and to have his glasses straightened. From there she took him to the orthoptist, Mrs Ede, at the hospital. In August, they saw Mr Hunter who was very pleased with progress. He was given a follow up appointment for one year. The orthoptist discharged him from their follow up in September 1979.
Liz’s Eyes
As far as I know, Liz had no problems with her eyes during this period.
Mum’s Eyes
In March 1976, mum had her eyes tested. She was to wear glasses for needlework in the evening. This is slightly odd as it sounds as if it was a new thing but mum had been advised to wear glasses for headaches she was getting in 1961, see Chapter 78. Three years later, in March 1979, mum had her eyes tested again. She was told to wear half glasses.
Grandma’s Eyes
Grandma had had problems with her eyes for many years. She had given up driving because of poor vision in the early sixties, see Chapter 80. In December 1976, I read grandma’s Christmas letters to her. In February 1977, mum took grandma to see Mr Tillett about her glasses as they were slipping.
Illnesses Among Friends and Family Members
In addition, a number of family members and friends were ill during this period.
Grandma and Grandad’s Neighbours
There were a number of illnesses among grandma and grandad’s neighbours.
Barbara Carpenter
In May 1975, grandma and grandad’s next-door-neighbour Barbara Carpenter lost her voice.
Irene Bell
Irene Bell lived next door to Barbara Carpenter so next-door-but-one to grandma and grandad. In June 1975, she went to see her doctor. A few days later, she was not well and ten days after that had the doctor. The next day, she was not well and grandma did shopping for her. A week later, at the end of May, grandma went to see her and Irene went for an Xray. I am not sure if this all cleared up but in July 1975, Irene Bell had an ear infection. Almost a week later, she was still not well. I am not sure if this persisted for several months or if Irene suffered another illness but, on 8 October 1975, Irene was getting better.
Old Friends From Kirkby
In May 1975, mum phoned her friend Mary Leach. She knew her from Kirkby where her husband Derrick had been the Minister, see Chapter 79. She was not well with “nervous exhaustion” and Derrick had written to mum about it.
Friends From Church
Mum sometimes noted when friends from church were ill.
Eric Buxton
In September 1976, mum distributed flowers from Harvest Festival including some to Mr Buxton who was in the Norfolk and Norwich. In January 1977, mum visited Eric Buxton. The implication was that this was in hospital. A few days later, she visited him again and noted that he had been in five full weeks.
Nancy Papworth
In November 1976, mum noted that Frank Papworth had phoned to say that his wife Nancy had been admitted to Deopham Ward because of adhesions. Mum went to see her a few days later. That same day, Mr Papworth came to tell mum that his wife’s operation would be the next day, the day before mum’s.
Maureen Harris
In May 1977, mum visited Maureen Harris in hospital. She was in Wroxham Ward.
Dorothy
On 6 April 1979, mum was talking about a play at St Peter’s and noted that Dorothy’s voice had nearly gone. I am not entirely sure who this is referring to.
Methodist Ministers
Sometimes, one or more of the Methodist Ministers mum knew were ill.
Rev Dowson
In January 1976, Rev Dowson’s wife was ill which meant that plans for the next day had to be cancelled, see Chapter 114. In May 1976, Rev Dowson told mum he was ill so he would not be able to come that week. Mum said she did not feel worse after this. She did ring Malcolm Carter though and arranged to see him. I think this perhaps shows how much mum had relied on Rev Dowson in terms of maintaining her mental health but it also shows that she was now also getting support from Malcolm Carter. In March 1978, Rev Dowson wrote to mum saying he was in hospital with what he thought was a pulmonary embolism again. Presumably, this means he had been in hospital before for a pulmonary embolism but I am not sure when.
Rev Malcolm Carter
In November 1976, Malcolm Carter was not too well. A week later, he was still not too well but he called to see mum and stayed to talk.
Rev Peter Lemmon
On 31 March 1979, Peter Lemmon phoned mum at 10.30 to say he had slipped a disc and was flat on his back. I am not sure if this was am or pm. He asked mum to take “my CPD” to the meeting tomorrow. I am not sure what CPD refers to.
People Mum Knew Through Methodist Guild Holidays
In August 1975, while on holiday at Plas y Coed, see Chapter 122, mum noted that a lot of people had a sickness and diarrhoea bug. In July 1978, when mum was in Sidmouth, she met someone called Bill Richardson. While they were there, his mother had a stroke.
Hairdresser
In March 1976, mum noted that she had her hair permed by Jane as Isabel had tonsillitis.
People Mum Knew Through Work
Sometimes, mum noted when people she knew through work were ill.
Mr Stephens
At the beginning of April 1976, Mr Stephens, one of the surgeons for whom mum worked, told mum that he was going into St Bartholomew’s Hospital (Barts) to have his gallbladder out. She noted that he did not look well. At the end of April, mum noted that Mr Stephens was going on well and that he had had one large stone. In October 1978, mum noted that Mr Stephens was chatty but not very well. Then, in March 1979, Margaret Prime told mum that Mr Stephens had been ill in theatre the previous week. An ECG taken at the time showed he was “fibrillating”.
St Bartholomew’s Hospital
St Bartholomew’s is a hospital in central London. Founded in 1123, it was threatened with closure in 1995 because there were considered to be too many hospitals in central London. In the end, it was redeveloped as a cancer and cardiac centre.
June From the Tuckswood Surgery
In May 1977, June, from the Tuckswood surgery, phoned mum to say she had collapsed at work and had been in the West Norwich Hospital. Mum was not sure what was wrong. She wanted mum to sort her an appointment with Mr Stephens.
Rosemary Davey
In November 1977, mum went to visit Rosemary Davey in Rockland Ward. She had had a hysterectomy under Mr Carron Brown. She was medical secretary for Dr Goodwille, a GP in Attleborough, and went with mum to a number of medical secretaries’ conferences and meetings, see Chapter 121.
Daphne
In April 1978, Daphne thought she had cystitis. I think Daphne was one of the secretaries who worked at the same private practice as mum at 41 Newmarket Road. I think she may have started in around August 1976 and she worked, initially at least for Dr Batty Shaw, see Chapter 121. However, there are at least two Daphnes mentioned in mum’s diaries, Daphne F and Daphne B. I think both worked as medical secretaries or receptionists. One Daphne certainly worked at the GP practice of Dr Brittain and Dr Watkins at some point. However, there was also a Daphne who was Mr Ashken’s secretary in 1978 and I presume she was his NHS secretary.
Dr Batty Shaw
Anthony (Tony) Batty Shaw was born on 19 June 1922. He was educated at Rugby School and Balliol College Oxford. He did his clinical studies at Guy’s Hospital. Initially, he worked at Guy’s Hospital before doing national service with the Royal Army Medical Corps. He then did further training including in the United States. In 1956, he was appointed a consultant physician at the Norfolk and Norwich and worked there until he retired in 1987. He married Patricia Heckels in 1954. He died on 19 August 2015.
Dr Leach
On 26 February 1979, mum noted that Dr Leach had broken her arm while skiing. Initially, she said it was a compound fracture of her right humerus. But, she later corrected this to say it was not compound. She was flying home. She was off sick on 5 March.
Dr Julia Mary Leach was one of the GPs that mum worked for between 1977 and 1991, see Chapter 105. I have not found out much about her except that she was born in September 1948 and was a Director of the Town Close Educational Trust from 2004 to 2016.
Doreen
On 13 March 1979, Doreen went in for a D&C. I think Doreen also worked for the GP practice of Drs Brittain, Watkins and Leach, as did mum, see Chapter 121. She is mentioned frequently in the diaries. There are also a couple of references to a Doreen in the bed bureau who might be a different person.
Mr Ashken
On 22 July 1979, Mrs Ashken phoned and told her that Mr Ashken had broken the little finger in his Rt hand. They were in Hampshire. He had had to cancel operations for Tuesday and Wednesday. On 24 July 1979, Mr Ashken had his arm in a sling. Mum had to do forms for him. This continued on 25th and she also had to make phone calls for him.
Eileen Day
In November 1978, mum went to see Eileen Day in Wroxham Ward. I think she may have worked for the occupational therapy department of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital at the same time as mum did. Mum mentioned Eileen a few times in that context.
Sally Bracewell
Mum sometimes got to know people through an illness, particularly a hospital stay. In December 1976, when mum was in hospital for parathyroid surgery, Sally Bracewell came into the room next to mum. She was a doctor’s daughter. Mum thought she was nice and that they got on well. A few days after she was admitted, mum noted that Sally went to theatre in the morning. The next day, Mr Green came in the evening but just saw mum and Sally who presumably were his private patients. The next day mum noted that Sally went home. Mum went to see Nancy Papworth and noted she missed Sally. In October 1977, mum also noted that Sally was back in Ellingham Ward. Mum went to visit her.
Illnesses Among My Friends
Sometimes, one or more of my friends was ill.
Everard Mascarenhas
In November 1976, Everard Mascarenhas, see Chapter 118, was not so well so did not go to school. I went there in the evening and he seemed OK. In February 1977, Everard did not go to school but, this time, it was because his brother Vernon was ill and he was looking after him. The next month, in March 1977, Everard did not go to school as he was ill. However, when I went round in the evening, he was better and was going the next day. In June 1977, Everard was not at school and I wondered if he was sick.
Ian Sherrington
In January 1977, I noted travelling home from Nottingham, where I had attended a course, with Ian Sherrington, see Chapter 118. I noted that he spent the whole journey complaining about his state of health!
Gary Wood
In June 1977, I went to Gary Wood’s house, , see Chapter 118, as he was not well but he looked OK when I saw him.
A 14-Year Old Friend
In May 1978, I had some friends round. One, who mum said was 14, was sick and she said I cleared it up and was most upset. I don’t recall this story at all and wonder how true it was. I don’t doubt that one of my friends might have been sick at the house. However, I was nearly 18 at the time and it does not seem very plausible that I would have had a 14-year old friend.
Teachers Ill or Injured
On occasions, I noted when one of my teachers was ill or injured.
Mr Winterbotham
In June 1977, I noted that our Latin lesson was cancelled as Mr Winterbotham, see Chapter 118, had sprained his ankle.
People I Worked With at the Scientific Anglian
Sometimes, I noted if people I worked with at The Scientific Anglian, see Chapter 119, were unwell mainly because this meant they were not at work.
Ross
In May 1976, I commented that Ross was not at work as he was ill. I vaguely remember Ross and believe he attended King Edward School.
Terry
The next month, in June 1976, Terry was not in as his doctor suspected he had an ulcer. Later that year, in December 1976, Terry was not at work because he had had an accident in his car and, although he was not hurt, he was badly shaken. I also vaguely remember Terry. He was considerably older than the others of us who worked on Saturdays.
Illnesses Mum Saw at Work
Mum sometimes commented on illnesses she had seen at work.
An 18-Year Old with Prostate Cancer
For example, mum noted that Dr Baker phoned to say a “boy” aged 18 in Ward 7 had prostate cancer. Mr Ashken was very concerned.
Dr Henry de Chair Baker
According to the 1971-2 Kelly’s Tradefinder, Dr H de C Baker was a pathologist in Norwich at that time. Apparently, he was born in London in 1924 and qualified from Manchester in 1948. He died from prostate cancer in 2004. He was a consultant at the Norfolk and Norwich from 1967 to 1983. Also, he was married with three children and five grandchildren.
Mum Took One of Mr Stephens’ Patients Home and Then to be Admitted
On 25 October 1977, mum had to take one of Mr Stephens’ patients home and then to be admitted at the Norfolk and Norwich.
A Vasectomy
On 4 March 1978, mum noted that someone she knew had had a vasectomy performed by Mr Ashken!
Illness Affects a Conductor
On 11 March 1979, mum noted that she and Janet Bennett went to the Theatre Royal for a Viennese evening, see Chapter 122 . The orchestra was conducted by Henry Krips in place of Willi Boskovsky who was ill.
Grandma Continued to Volunteer at the Hospital Canteen
Grandma continued to volunteer at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital canteen athough sometimes grandad referred to this as going to the hospital clinic rather than canteen. Often, she went on her own but, on occasions, she went with her friend Jessie Cushing. On at least one occasion, when Auntie Dolly was visiting, she went with her.
Church Stall at a Norfolk and Norwich Fete
In June 1978, mum went to the church stall at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital fete in the afternoon. Presumably, she went to help.
Mum Was Involved with the Coeliac Society
Mum remained involved with the Coeliac Society both locally and nationally. The Coeliac Society was founded in 1968 by Elizabeth Segall and Peter Benenson. Elizabeth Segall was the wife of a doctor and the mother of a child with coeliac disease. Peter Benenson had the condition and also became a founder of Amnesty International. In 1971, the Coeliac Society had about 5,000 members and this rose to 12,000 by 1976, 23,000 in 1987, 49,000 in 2001 and over 76,000 by 2006. In 2001, the charity renamed itself Coeliac UK, see Chapter 100.
Local Activities
Mum was involved in local activities for “the Coeliacs“. For example, on 4 January 1975, they went to the pantomime in the afternoon and then to St Peter’s Park Lane Methodist Church for tea. Mum noted that Alan had been a big help.
Mum did not note which pantomime they saw. However, according to an advert, it was “Cinderella” starring Clive Dunn and John Boulter. Grandma and Auntie Dolly had been to see this on New Year’s Eve the previous year, see Chapter 122. There, I had noted that Lucy Winters played the lead role of Cinderella. However, this was based on an article in the Local Recall database which is no longer accessible.
Local Meetings
Mum was involved in organising local meetings.
AGMs
These included an Annual General Meeting. This was held sometime between January and March. Over this period, attendance grew from only eight in 1975 to 27 in 1979.
In February 1975, mum was disappointed with the turnout. She had made biscuits the day before but wondered if it was worth it. In 1976 and 1977 for sure, and possibly in 1975, the AGMs were held in our lounge,. In March 1976, I noted that Alan went. Mum noted that nine people came. In February 1977, 14 people attended a meeting at our house and I assume this was the AGM.
In January 1978, it seems that the meeting venue moved from ours to the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. Mum went to a Coeliac meeting there. I don’t know for sure that this was an AGM but I think it was as Paul Burgess was elected Chairman, Jackie Aldous Treasurer and Mrs Ibott to help with secretarial work. Both Paul Burgess and Jackie Aldous are mentioned fairly frequently in the diaries in connection with the Coeliac Society. As far as I can see, however, this is the only mention in the diaries of Mrs Ibott.
In February 1979, at the AGM of the local Coeliac group, mum retired, presumably as the group’s secretary. They gave her a silver powder compact, a lipstick, a cut glass vase and a record token. Rae Ward came to speak and there were 27 there. I don’t know who Rae Ward was. The spelling of Rae perhaps implies a woman. I wonder if there was a connection with the Mr Ward who spoke to the group on gluten-free supplies in October 1978.
Committee Meetings
Following the 1978 AGM, mum sometimes met with Paul Burgess and Jackie Aldous to discuss local work for the Coeliac Society. Mum sometimes referred to these as committee meetings.
Fundraising Activities
Mum was involved in a number of fundraising activities for the Coeliac Society.
Selling Christmas Cards
I am not sure if mum sold Christmas cards for the Coeliac Society locally only or if she was responsible for this nationally. I do know that she sometimes roped us in to help. For example, in November 1977, I helped my brother Alan deal with requests for Coeliac Christmas cards. That took us to more or less tea-time as there were lots.
Collecting Stamps
Mum organised members of the local Coeliac group to collect stamps. For example, in July 1975, there was a Coeliac meeting sorting stamps. About 20 people came. I am not sure if this activity raised funds for the Coeliac Society or others or both. In December 1976, mum took stamps collected by “Coeliacs” to Roadline (B Road Services) for the “Blue Peter” Lebanon appeal.
I recall “Blue Peter” appeals. The appeal in 1976 was for old stamps and postcards for medical accomodation, food, drugs and equipment for babies and children injured and made homeless by the civil war in Lebanon.
Initially, I was not entirely sure what the reference to Roadline was. However, it seems they were transporting blankets for free and presumably transported stamps too. Roadline was the new name for British Road Services Parcels and this company left the National Freight Corporation in 1997 as LYNX Express.
Coffee Mornings
Mum organised coffee mornings to raise money for the Coeliac Society. For example, in October 1975, she had a coffee “morning” for “the Coeliacs”. Tricia picked up grandma to go. Mum noted it was both a coffee morning and afternoon. 29 people came, 13 in the morning and 16 in the afternoon. She raised £28.50 including £3 from sale of Christmas paper in Drayton.
Pippa Dee Parties
In November 1975, mum had a Pippa Dee party. She sold around £70 worth of items. This made a profit of £6 for the Coeliac Society. For information about Pippa Dee parties, see Chapter 92.
Raffles
There were sometimes raffles for the Coeliac Society. For example, in October 1977, I made £2.00 selling tickets for such a raffle.
Other People Raised Fund for the Coeliac Society
Sometimes, other people raised money for the Coeliac Society.
Stalham Lions
For example, in May 1977, mum went to Boundary at 8.45 to see Mr Lines of Wroxham and other Stalham Lions off in a sponsored walk to Cromer to raise money for “Coeliacs”. This is a distance of about 22 miles. They raised £505.
Boundary refers to the junction of Boundary Road, Reepham Road, Cromer Road, Mile Cross Lane and Aylsham Road. There was a garage there. The Boundary pub is still there.
Lions Clubs International supports small-scale humanitarian and philanthropic projects. It consists of 46,000 local clubs with 1.4m members. It was established in Chicago in 1917.
In July 1977, mum went with her friend Heather Ferguson to the Broads Hotel in Wroxham to receive the cheque. Mum said it was a very nice meal. Mum met Michael Rayner from D’Oyly Carte there, see Chapter 122. I have found newspaper entries for the Broads Hotel in Wroxham from 1947 to 2003 giving the address as Station Road.
The Business and Professional Women’s Club
In December 1979, mum went to Gunton Hall Lowestoft at night with Jackie Aldous to receive a cheque for £100 for the Coeliac Society from the Business and Professional Women’s Club. They also gave £100 to “autistic children”. Mum said there was a lovely meal.
Gunton Hall is a large country house dating back to the 18th century. However, the hall was badly damaged by fire in 1882 and lay derelict for nearly a century before being renovated in 1980. It is now a Warner hotel.
I assume the Business and Professional Women’s Club was part of what is now Business and Professional Women UK (BPW UK). Founded in 1938 by three clubs in London, the network now has clubs across the UK divided into five regions.
Educational Meetings
There were also local meetings which may have had an educational focus.
A Film at Church
For example, in June 1976, Andrew Wright showed a Coeliac film for mum at church.
Talking to Individuals
Mum also talked to people individually about Coeliac Disease and the work of the Coeliac Society. Such individuals included her GP, Dr Welch.
Meeting at the Norfolk and Norwich Teaching Centre
In October 1977, there was a Coeliac group meeting at the Norfolk and Norwich Teaching Centre. Speakers included E Segall and Dr Stewart Hishon from the Norfolk and Norwich. Mum thought the meeting was very good. About 50 people attended.
Elizabeth Segall
Elizabeth Segall was one of the co-founders, with Peter Benenson, of the Coeliac Society, now known as Coeliac UK.
Dr Stuart Hishon
Stuart Hishon was born in Portsmouth in 1945. He qualified from Westminster Hospital in 1970. He joined the medical registrar rotation in Leeds before becoming a Senior Registrar in Norwich. In 1981, he was appointed as the first gastroenterologist at James Paget Hospital. He worked there until 1994. Sadly, he was only 49 when he retired due to ill-health. Apparently he suffered from depression. He died of hepatorenal failure in 2005. I think when he spoke at this Coeliac meeting, he must have been a Senior Registrar.
TWG Social Services Group
In March 1978, mum went to the TWG Social Services GroupNorwich on Dereham Road to talk about the Coeliac Society. I am not entirely sure who this group was. The meeting was at 626 Dereham Road. This seems to be a residential property although there is an advert for Slimming World on the fence.
Another Meeting at the Norfolk and Norwich
In October 1978, there was a Coeliac meeting in the afternoon at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. The speakers were Dr P Crowle and Mr Ward on gluten free supplies. Mum thought it was good.
Dr Peter Crowle
Dr Peter Crowle was born in Devon and worked as consultant paediatrician at the Norfolk and Norwich from 1977 to 2002. Some contributors on Facebook recalled him in a discussion of memories of the Jenny Lind Hospital. Sarah Drake described him as a lovely consultant.
Mr Ward
I don’t know who this was although a Rae Ward came to speak at the local group’s AGM in 1979.
Administrative Work
Mum also did administrative work for the Coeliac Society.
Typing
In August 1976, she noted typing Coeliac letters. I am not entirely sure what these were, whether they were her own letters related to local activities or if she was doing this for others, perhaps nationally.
Managing Money
Mum also administered some money for the Coeliac Society. Again, I am not sure if this only related to money she raised through fundraising activities or was something broader. It appears she managed some accounts and worked on these particularly in December and January. It seems to me the local group may have operated a January to December financial year which would fit with an AGM in February or March.
In December 1976, mum noted sorting out “Coeliac money”. She did this the day she came out of hospital after parathyroid surgery! About ten days later, she again “sorted out” Coeliac money and accounts. On New Year’s Eve, she typed and duplicated the Coeliac accounts. On 8 January 1978, mum “sorted” the Coeliac accounts. In December 1978, mum worked on Coeliac accounts one afternoon.
One record which might be out of keeping with a January to December financial year was in March 1979 when she referred to “sorting” out the Coeliac accounts. However, she had resigned from her leading role in the local group at the AGM in February 1979 so perhaps this was some final work before handing the accounts over. But, it is still a bit odd as the group had a Treasurer, Jackie Aldous, from at least 1978 so I am not sure why mum was still dealing with the accounts.
Gayle Swan
In July 1977, the month after the national AGM, mum met Gayle Swan. She was a new Coeliac member and mum thought she might become the secretary. I presume this would have been of the local group, possibly in mum’s place now that she had national responsibility. I don’t know exactly who this was. This is the only reference to her in the diaries that I have come across. I don’t know if she took on the role of secretary.
National Annual General Meetings (AGMs)
Mum attended national AGMs in London in June from 1975 to 1979. In 1975, we went too and my sister Tricia drove. We went to dad’s and mum went to the meeting by tube. Initially, mum attended these meetings by herself. However, in 1978, Paul Burgess and Jackie Aldous attended too. They met mum there. In June 1979, mum and Jackie Aldous went together.
Mum sometimes noted speakers at these meetings. In 1975, she noted it was Dr Peter Baker from Bristol. She considered him excellent. In 1977, she said there was a very good speaker, an Indian, Dr Annan. I have not found any details of them.
Dr Peter Baker
I am not entirely sure who this was. I did find a doctor by this name who was senior house officer at Frenchay Hospital at this time. However, I think he would have been too junior to be a national authority on the topic unless he was speaking about his own personal experience of the disease.
National Vice Chairman
At the 1977 AGM, mum was elected the Vice Chairman of the Society.
Other National Meetings
There were also, what I assume were, national meetings held outside London. For example, in November 1977, mum went to Doncaster for a Coeliac meeting. She said it was good. She met Kay and Roger on the train in Peterborough.
Kay
I don’t know exactly who Kay was but presumably an officer of the Coeliac Society.
Roger Atkinson
Roger refers to Roger Atkinson. I am not entirely sure who he was but it seems he was an officer in the Coeliac Society. He often gave mum lifts to Liverpool Street Station after officers’ meetings.
Officers’ Meetings
As Vice Chairman of the Coeliac Society, mum attended national officers’ meetings. I am not sure if these occurred regularly and, if so, with what frequency. I also don’t know if mum recorded all such meetings but she recorded two in 1977, four in 1978 and six in 1979. The 1978 total includes one meeting that was cancelled as Brian Brass, who I assume was anational officer, had a slipped disc. The 1979 total includes one that mum could not attend due to bad weather. I don’t know if that meeting went ahead or was cancelled.
Meetings Were in London in the Evening
Mostly, the meetings were in the evenings so she usually travelled down by train in the afternoon and came back the same night, often quite late. On one occasion, at least, she stayed overnight with Brian Brass. Often, someone dropped her at Liverpool Street Station. Usually, this was Roger Atkinson but, on at least one occasion, it was Brian Brass.
Getting To and From Norwich Station
I think mum’s preference was to park the car at Norwich railway station so she had it when she got back. However, it was not always easy to park in the afternoon when she wanted to so she resorted to various other tactics, including taking the car earlier to the station so she could park. However, this did not always work. For example, in October 1978, mum noted taking a taxi home as she hadn’t been able to park the car at the station when she had tried at lunch-time.
In March 1979, mum parked the car at the railway station before work and then got a taxi to work. She noted when she got back that it was nice to have the car at the station. So, in September 1979, she took the car to the station then walked to work and home and then got a taxi to the station. However, her well-laid plans fell apart as she had forgotten the car keys!! My sister Liz, who was 14, had to come in a taxi to bring them. I am not quite sure why mum didn’t get a taxi to take her to get the keys and to bring her back to the station.
Mum Resigns as Vice-Chairman
In December 1979, mum went to a Coeliac meeting in London. I assume this was an officers’ meeting. She agreed to resign in June 1980, presumably at the next AGM, but seemed disappointed that no-one pressed her to continue! I find this a bit hard to follow. If she agreed to resign, presumably someone asked her or rules/the constitution required it. It seems pretty clear that she did not want to step down and was hoping someone would ask her to stay. They didn’t!
Coeliac Helpers’ Meetings
Mum also attended what were called Coeliac helpers’ meetings in London. She went to such a meeting in March 1976. She went by train and described it as a very good meeting. In March 1978, mum attended a Coeliac Helpers Day Conference with Paul Burgess and Jackie Aldous. Mum described it as a good day.
Coeliac Society Offices
On at least occasion, mum went to the Coeliac Society’s London offices and did some work there.
I suspect these were the offices in Willesden High Road. They moved there between 1978 and 1985. Prior to that, the offices had been in a bedsit! The Society moved to bigger offices in High Wycombe between 1986 and 1989.
I am not sure what work she did there. She was in London to see Rev Dowson, see Chapter 114, and presumably had some free time so decided to go to the Coeliac Society offices to do some work.
Other Deaths
In addition to grandad, a number of other people died during this period
Close Family and Friends
This included a number of close family and friends.
Bertha Seville
At the end of April 1975, Frank Seville phoned. He was known to me as Uncle Jim as his father’s name was also Frank. The reason for the call was that his mother Bertha Seville was very ill. She was known to me as Auntie Bertha even though she was my grandmother’s maternal aunt, see Chapter 16, so my great, great aunt. She was grandma’s mother’s younger sister. Since grandma’s mother had died in 1937, Auntie Bertha had been a kind of maternal figure to grandma from then on.
The next day, Uncle Jim phoned again to say that Auntie Bertha had died at 10.30. A friend called Vera had been with her. The funeral was scheduled for Monday, 5 May 1975. Mum noted the news that Auntie Bertha had died and that grandma was quite upset. Mum took grandma to Mansfield for the funeral. Also, mum noted that the services were nice but that the car broke down on the way there, see Chapter 127.
Tom Wilson
In April 1975, Amy Wilson had told grandma and grandad that her husband Tom was ill. Almost a month later, grandma noted that Tom was very ill. Two months after that, in July 1975, grandma noted again that Tom was very ill. On the 16th, he was still very ill. Two days later, Amy phoned to say that Tom had passed away at 5.30. Mum noted that Uncle Tom (Wilson) died at 5.30pm. Tom was cremated on 23 July 1975. Neither grandma nor mum seems to have attended this.
Although mum referred to Tom as Uncle Tom, and we were expected to do the same, he and Amy were not in fact related to us but they were very close friends of grandma’s and grandad’s. They visited them often in Norfolk and they also went on holiday to Scotland together, see Chapter 92.
Eva Evans
On 9 June 1977, mum noted that Olive Holland phoned at night to say that her mother, grandad’s sister, Auntie Eva (Evans), see Chapter 1, had died suddenly on Wednesday night. Mum rang grandma to tell her. Apparently, grandma said mum need not go to the funeral. This surprises me a bit but perhaps grandma just gave mum the answer she wanted!
Heather Taylor
The Lofthouses were close family friends of grandma and grandad’s. Arthur had been the Minister at Bourne Methodist Chapel in Kirkby for the first part of the second world war, see Chapter 31. His adopted daughter, Dorothy, whose married name was Taylor, was a very close friend of mum’s.
Tragically, in February 1976, mum received a letter from Arthur Lofthouse telling her that Dorothy’s daughter Heather had been killed on Sunday night in a car accident in York. According to a news article, she was a passenger in a car which hit a tree. She was 16 years old. Also killed was a soldier, Corporal David Fradley who was 26. The car driver Corporal David McNeil suffered head injuries and had to be cut from the wreckage by the fire brigade. The accident was blamed on icy conditions. Heather had been studying child care at the now-demolished Marygate Centre in York. She was formerly a pupil at Grantley Infants School (possibly now Fountains CE Primary School) and St Aidan’s School in Harrogate.
Mum Visited Dorothy After the Funeral
Mum phoned Dorothy. She decided not to go for the funeral but to go a few weeks later for a few days. She thought she might go from 3-6 March but that clashed with Tricia’s exams. So, she decided not to go until the Thursday if Tricia agreed. She went on 4 March 1976. She arrived at 2.45 and Dorothy met her. They talked until 1.15am. On the 5th, she helped Dorothy write letters of thanks for sympathies etc. They went to the pub in the evening. Mum had two bitter lemons but commented that it seemed so pointless just drinking! On the 6th, Dorothy’s husband, Alf took mum to Harrogate for the 8.49 train. Mum arrived in Norwich at 2.15pm and Tricia met her.
Deaths Affecting People I Knew
During this period, there were deaths affecting people I knew.
Aloysius Mascarenhas
In September 1975, my friend Everard’s father died. His name was Aloysius Joseph Mascarenhas. He was born on 29 November 1917 so he would have been 57. I went there at 8pm and was not back by 11.15pm. Mum was worried but did not know where Everard lived. She noted that I came in at 11.18!
Mum also noted that Everard had lost a sister five years ago. Her name was Louella M C Mascarenhas. She died in 1969 and was seven years old. Mum considered that her death had been due to neglect by her GP Dr Ronaldson and she thought the same thing had happened again.
On 14 September 1976, I noted that Everard and his family were going to church as it was the first anniversary of his father’s death.
Andrew Christopher Ames
In April 1976, I learned that Mr Ames’ five-day old son, Andrew Christopher Ames, had died. I wrote Mr Ames a letter. Mr Ames was one of my teachers at the Hewett School, see Chapter 118.
Deaths Affecting People Mum Knew from Work
There were also deaths affecting people mum knew through work.
Dr and Mrs Watkins’ Mothers
In November 1978, Mrs Watkins’ mother died and in December 1979, Dr Watkins’ mother died. She was in St Andrews and had been there for three years or more.
Mrs Byles
In November 1979, mum heard that the wife of Alan Byles, a consultant gynaecologist, was killed in a road traffic accident possibly deliberately.
Other Deaths
There were a number of other deaths among people known to mum, grandma and grandad.
Mrs Chambers
On 8 January 1975, grandma heard that Mrs Chambers had died. This was possibly Gladys May Chambers. She was born on 8 October 1916 and died in the first quarter of 1975. According to the diaries, Mrs Chambers died the previous day and was one of the first members of Drayton Ladies’ Meeting (DLM). On the 11th, grandma went to her funeral with other women from Drayton Ladies’ Group. The funeral was held at St Margaret’s Drayton.
Mr Haymer
On 22 January 1975, Mrs Pointer took grandma to St Faith’s crematorium for the cremation of Mr Haymer. I don’t know who this was and have not found any details.
Richard and Victoria Davies
On 22 January 1975, mum noted that it was the funeral of “the two Selsey children”. This is a reference to brother and sister Richard and Victoria Davies, see Chapter 114. On 4 February 1975, mum noted that Rev Dowson’s newsletter had the address of their funeral in it.
Tom Meakin
On 26 October 1975, mum noted that Tom Meakin died at 7am. On the 30th, mum noted going to Rev Tom Meakin’s funeral service in the afternoon. She took the names of people who attended for Sister Margaret. She came to ours in the evening and stayed over an hour.
Tom Meakin was born on 28 May 1903. According to probate, his date of death was 26 October 1975. He had been living at 15 Kingston Square Norwich. In addition, he could have been the Thomas Meakin who was based in Shetland from September 1952. He was there until at least 1957. He may have been in Staffordshire in 1933. I found a reference to him being in Thetford in 1973. From 1964, he was Superintendent Minister for the Teignmouth Circuit.
I found quite a detailed article about him including a photo. Based on that, he was born at Ashton-under-Lyme and he left school at 13. He worked for 14 years in the cotton mills. He then went to theological college for three years. By my calculations, that would bring us to 1933. He then spent three years in Cannock in Staffordshire and eight years in Birstall in Yorkshire. Immediately before moving to Teignmouth, he was in Hemel Hempstead.
He was originally a Minister in the United Methodist Church. The My United Methodists website gives his place of birth as Dukinfield, Cheshire on 28 May 1903. Dukinfield is now part of Greater Manchester and is very close to Ashton-under-Lyme. Apparently, he was ordained in 1933 but this is odd as this was after Methodist Union had happened yet he is recorded as having been ordained as a United Methodist Minister.
Rev Wagstaffe
On 3 March 1976, mum noted that Rev Wagstaffe was found dead on the doorstep in the morning. She thought he had been there since Tuesday after returning from the library. Five days later, on the 8th, mum went to Rev Wagstaffe’s funeral. She noted that Mr Ream spoke “quite nicely”.
I think this refers to Reginald Thomas Wagstaff who had been a Primitive Methodist Minister. He was born in Lowestoft in 1896. During the first world war, he served as a radio operator in France. He offered for the Primitive Methodist ministry in 1919. He spent a pre-collegiate year in the London Mission and then went to Hartley College in 1921.
After ordination, he served in the following circuits Tranent, Glasgow II, Nelson, Kelsale, Beccles, Loddon and Bungay, Bury St. Edmunds, Sheffield (North-East), Sheffield (Ecclesall), Rawtenstall, Martham, Sheffield (Carver Street), Winsford, Worksop, and Doncaster (North-East).
He became a supernumerary in 1963 and settled in Norwich. His wife was Letitia Jardine and they married in 1928. Also, he was a strong supporter of the Scout Movement. He and his wife acted as hosts in Methodist Guild Homes and they also led tours to the Austrian Tirol. His wife died in 1974.
Heather Ferguson’s Father
In January 1979, mum heard that Heather Ferguson’s father had died the previous day. Margaret Culley asked mum to write on behalf of the Young Wives. On the 27th, mum noted that she had sent Heather flowers as her father had died the previous Thursday. On the 28th, Heather was not at church as she had gone to sort out her father’s things.