Now that it’s getting closer, the time seems to be dragging and I just want it done and finished. Unfortunately, my cough is showing no signs of shifting anytime soon and it could delay the surgery if it is still hanging around in two weeks.

In preparation, I’ve been practicing going down the stairs backwards as I will need a handrail and it is on the ‘wrong’ side going down – sideways doesn’t seem to work as easily. I’m also keeping a bag upstairs so that I can carry things downstairs if I need to. Lots of things are going to be difficult without the use of both arms. Silly things you take for granted like putting in contact lenses, earrings, doing your own hair and making a cup of tea – and don’t even get me started on wiping my bum!