I have known Paul since we worked together in the eighties and have kept closely in touch since then. Having heard that Penny had to return to the UK to be there for William and Charlotte on their return... and to recuperate from a developing chest infection, I thought I would investigate and try and support an old friend and offer some company.
William fforde has given an excellent description of Feldkirch and Rankweil so I shall limit myself to a few impressions.
The absolute key was the fervent hope that despite whatever injuries Paul had, his unique dynamic persona was still there. Frankly the initial impression on entering the ward, which is spotless and marvellously and humanely run, is that there are a number of lost souls, as well as those showing signs of recovery. While we are all so concerned for Paul, this must have been a daunting prospect for Penny, particularly after initial transfer. From her accounts and those of Charles there must have been very difficult moments and concern about Paul’s prognosis.
It is against this background that I am doing my best not to get too carried away. The very first impression was that Paul the person was definitely there! Over the three days from Friday to Sunday that I visited, Paul “connected” by smile, nod or squeeze of hand. While one sided.... Paul at this stage still had a breathing tube in his trachea, it felt like conversation, and Paul showed particular interest in his family.... and the outdoors and Mull in particular. Talking about creeping up to the river bank and spotting salmon in their pools, catching mackerel and water borne activities seemed to really catch his attention!
On the second afternoon, Paul seemed uncomfortable with the tube in his windpipe and the nurse at the station checked but felt that it was more an irritation than painful. Then the realisation struck that Paul was actually lifting his left hand to touch the tube and was doing this on several occasions! Gradually I noticed other signs of movement but I will leave Penny to describe these after her talks with Dr Eiler as I would not want to misinterpret or exaggerate the position.
On the Sunday I arrived slightly later, and Joanna Lambert was visiting and cheering up Paul. Previously Paul had moved his Adam’s apple but now he seemed to want to try and form a letter or word. Joanna can describe her own feelings but as a co-visitor (as suggested by William!) I thought her warm approach brought out not just response but signs of emotion from Paul, again suggesting another step in recovery.
No doubt it will be months rather than weeks before Paul can leave hospital, and it does seem as if Rankweil is the best place to be at the moment. Penny and the medical people stress that direct one to one conversation and people contact is great stimulation for Paul... and as he spends a greater time awake each day must also help make life more interesting and pass the time. I would encourage friends to check with Penny and see when a visit would suit best.... but chatting does seem a great tonic and is welcomed by the patient!
The Alpen Rose is a warm friendly well run hotel with great food and lodgings. The Austrian train service smart modern and ultra efficient making it easy to visit Paul who is showing definite signs of his old determination and interest in life (though long conversations can still persuade the speaker of powers of hypnosis as the patient drifts off to sleep!)
Well done Paul and Penny.
William Forsyth Visit 27-29th March
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Thank you William, for your posts. Bella & I popped in to see Paul this morning. He is in Station O1, rather than G1, otherwise your instructions were accurate and most useful.
ReplyDeleteI was massively impressed by the hospital and the staff, modern, clean, VERY well equipped, caring, and some of the nurses even speak the odd word of English. He is clearly receiving outstanding treatment.
I was delighted to find our friend Paul not only winking, smiling and moving his head, but he is starting to speak, replied to us with difficulty, and although we couldn't hear all he said, it was clear that he could understand fully what we said.
He recognised us straight away, and showed interest in hearing news - both personal and general. It was such a boon to see him quite clearly on his way back and so conscious, even though his condition is very difficult and his recovery will require unimaginable courage and effort.
Miles Donnelly