Thoughts from the Landlord's desk

Ernie's personal blog

Improving all the time!

29/01/2022

I'm starting to feel more like my old self. My weight is up to 14st 12lb and I'm happy to stay below 15st.
I am booked in next week now at Brio Lesiure to start my fitness programme, three days a week initially.
I went to Leighton on Monday for my normal weekly checks and my magnesium is holding its own at 0.75 reading. All my other observations and tests came back normal.
So I now don't go back until next Wednesday as The SACU team are happy with my progress.
We released the song on sunday called Your not Gonna Win. It's on You tube and Spotify (click on the links to hear the song). It also was loaded on to Facebook where the response has been brilliant and already we are on 15000 views. We are linking everything to a just giving page for bowel cancer so hopefully we will raise some decent money for this very worthy cause.
Thanks as usual to everyone for supporting me and taking time to read my blog.
Can't believe this time next week we will be into February already!

Stay safe everyone and have a great week.

Ernie.

STARDOM BECKONS

22/01/2022

Another good week for me. I went to Leighton on Monday to see my SACU team and all was well. My magnesium level was steady at .67 and all other functions were good. I've put a little bit of weight back on and am a steady 14st 7 lb.
My referral came through for The Brio Gym and I went for an induction on Tuesday Afternoon. I will initially be attending three times a week and trying four different pieces of gym apparatus; Spin Bikes, Concept Rowing Machine, Treadmill and Step machine, coupled with sauna and steam room.
On Wednesday I had Martin Logan and his good lady Annette from Irish Tv in the UK call to the pub and record an interview to relate my health journey over the past year talking about the peaks and troughs and how far I have come in a short time. It will broadcast in the next few weeks on Sky Channel 191; Usually on a Thursday evening at 7:30 pm.

Now to finish my week off I recorded the video to go with my song and it is going to be released very shortly. It is already on Spotify and You Tube. I did the final recording this afternoon and all proceeds will be going to Bowel Cancer UK.
I will be doing a full press release giving all details for downloading the song and donating to the just giving page.
Have a good week folks it looks like omicron Covid is at last being controlled so some normality will be back soon.
In the meantime stay safe!

YOUR NOT GONNA WIN 🌟 💚
Ernie.

YOU'RE NOT GONNA WIN

14/01/2022

What a week! I'm pleased to say that when I went on Monday for my weekly checks to Leighton everything was in good shape. My magnesium had dropped a little to .63 however my tablet intake was adjusted to compensate for it.
A very talented good friend of mine Rob Lane has written me a song to reflect my cancer journey and how I've dealt with it.
It's called "You're not gonna win".
It's on Spotify and also on YouTube. There will be a video to accompany the song in the near future.
I'm also linking it to the site for Bowel Cancer and hopefully it will raise some money to assist their fight.
You're Not Gonna Win!
I want to share another experience with you and hope it helps and saves someone else having to go through the ordeal my family have been through this week.
My granddaughter Annie who will be three in a few weeks took sick last Sunday. She eventually went to Leighton and was immediately transferred to Alder-hey by ambulance.
She had apparently swallowed 20 tiny magnetic ball bearings approximately 3 weeks earlier. They had settled in her bowel and because they are highly magnetic had worked their way around her small intestine damaging and perforating her bowel in numerous places.
Some three hours later after corrective surgery to remove part of the bowel and repair the rest she was back on the ward and is recovering. She is still in Alder Hey and hoping to be discharged soon.
It was so frightening for all of us and for her to have to go through such an ordeal at a young age is awful.
The surgeon said it is happening more and more and needs to make people aware.
So to conclude this weeks blog if you have young children please please please be extra careful when they are playing with modern toys.
Enjoy your week folks and with a bit of luck and support my song should reach number one in The Isle of Skye Top Twenty!
🌟 💚
Ernie.

STEADY WEEK

07/01/2022

STEADY WEEK Back to normality after the festive season. Not much to report really apart from positivity.
My week started with my weekly visit to the SACU team at Leighton, a cup of coffee and blood tests and all once again was positive with my magnesium level set at .71.
Since then I have had the results from my latest CT scan which has showed all areas are clear and continue to heal up.
My liver function level has settled down so no decision on my gall bladder/stones has been made yet.
I'm also getting a referral to Brio Leisure to start a fitness rebuilding programme.
Away from the health issue I am hoping to finish recording my song/video next week and will be releasing it ASAP along with a just giving page for Bowel Cancer.

Hope you are all coping with Covid and staying safe.
The nights are getting lighter.
Hopefully the world is getting brighter.
🌟 💚
Ernie.

NEW YEARS EVE

31/12/2021

It's just coming up to 6:00pm and I'm sat listening to The Bee Gees on Sky Arts.
I'll be heading to The Old Star in about an hour to start the celebration of bringing in a New Year.
This time last year, we were in lockdown and I decided then to have a break from drinking for the first time in years. As I look back, that decision was a defining moment in my cancer journey because in the coming weeks, I would notice blood when I went to the toilet for my morning constitutional.
Under normal circumstances, everything would have been black because of the Guinness and I wouldn't have seen anything.
There have been many key factors throughout this journey. Making a quick decision to see Dr. Fallon straight away, his swift action in sending me to Leighton for a colonoscopy and their fast moving teamwork that, within a matter of weeks, took me through a number of scans; MRI, CT, PET and an ultrasound heart scan. Along the way, I met many highly skilled medical staff headed by Miss Nockhold the Cancer Surgeon who, on 2nd June took me to theatre (Not to see a play!) to remove the tumour that had grown in my bowel and remove it she did! It wasn't simple and things went wrong. I ended up with sepsis and left hospital six weeks later fitted with a colostomy bag that I became attached to for six months.
On 2nd November, I went back into surgery for the reversal operation to remove the bag and reconnect what was left of my bowel.
So here I am ready for 2022, some 5 1/2 stones lighter, feeling good and forever thankful to everyone who has helped me along the way.
Without my family, special friend and strangers, I wouldn't have made it.
When I look at people who are worse off than me, it makes me realise how precious our lives are.
Music has always been a big part of my life and has played a major part in my journey. I've had happy moments and emotional ones listening to all different genres.
My good friend Rob Lane has written a song for me and we have been in the studio all week recording it ready for release soon. It's a country song so the video will have plenty of cowboys and cowgirls in it.
It's called "You're not gonna win" and it is about my attitude towards my fight with cancer.
We will be setting up a just giving page to try and raise money for the Bowel Cancer charity.
Just to bring my year to a close, I need to share this with all of you. From the first couple of weeks after my diagnosis and after having a very emotional time with my family, I decided to face this challenge full on. After my first operation in June, I was in High Dependency Unit for 8 days and then on a Friday morning, was moved to Ward 13 as the bed was needed in HDU.
I moved in at 9:30 and by mid afternoon I had a high temperature due to sepsis. My wound had leaked internally and I as full of poison. The temperature outside was 27�C so boy, oh boy, it was hot!!
There was a clock on the wall in my room and when it started moving around the walls, that was when I realised how poorly I was and I truly though I was on my way out.
What happened next will stay with me forever. As I lay there, a huge figure of a man stood at the end of my bed leaning over an right in my face. He was something like 7 feet tall with long silver hair. A giant of a man with a large nose. He said "COME ON ERNIE. YOU ARE COMING WITH ME! IT'S TIME TO GO" I shouted "NO. GO AWAY." He said it again and I shouted back "NO. GO AWAY!"
He said it again and the third time I told him "NO" he disappeared and the nurses came running in.
Over the following few days, I started to improve and thankfully I am where I am today.
To conclude, I don't have any idea what it's all about. I have taken professional opinions and all I can say is I hope to continue to fight the good fight with all my might.
The Bee Gees are singing "Run to Me". How appropriate!
Happy New Year to everyone.
Thanks for being part of my journey.
2022! bring it on!! 🌟 💚
Ernie.

CHRISTMAS EVE

24/12/2021

What a difference a year makes! (well some things don't change)
This time last year Boris put us in Lockdown after Christmas Day. I wonder what little surprise he thinks he has this year. 🤔
Little did I know what was waiting for me as I celebrated Christmas and moved into the New Year.
Well almost a year on and I'm pleased to say the initial diagnosis which was extremely daunting and the subsequent first class care and treatment I've had has really made me realise the importance and more so how precious life is.
I still have a way to go and I hope to have the current problem of Gallstones sorted very soon.
I've met many people over the last year, fellow cancer sufferers and lots of professionals who tirelessly take care of their patients.
I'm very optimistic and positive moving into 2022.
I would like to wish all of you a merry Christmas and a safe and prosperous and most of all healthy 2022.
In the past year a cousin of mine passed away in Ireland, Michael Keane, who was one of life's gentlemen.
I have attached a copy of a poem called "Indispensable Man" that my family sent me it is such a beautiful meaningful piece of literature.

Indispensable Message

HAPPY CHRISTMAS FOLKS 🌟 💚
Ernie.

Restrictions!

17/12/2021

Well, the latest Covid variant has put our NHS staff under more pressure that they could do without.
My CT scan was postponed last Friday due to the scanner being broke. I've now got a new appointment for Dec 29th.
I've also got a virtual Appointment on June 22 nd next year to monitor my progress.
My magnesium level was up again at .74 which is great! My Gall Bladder issue has still to be sorted however generally my condition is good and steadily improving.
I actually went to The Old Star on Saturday night and sampled my first Guinness in almost a year! Enough said! Sunday was a quiet day with me mostly sitting in my chair.
(well Sunday is a day of rest!)
Not much else to report this week except a good friend of mine has written a song for me based on my journey.
I'm going into the studio to record it next week and will be releasing it with a video in the next couple of weeks.
One more week and it's Christmas so I'll hopefully write a nice blog next week to finish the year off.
Have a nice weekend and please stay safe safe safe!

💚
Ernie.

Stoned!

10/12/2021

Quite a week this week. I went to Leighton on Monday to have my usual magnesium level checked and for the fourth week in a row it was holding its own at .69. Great, however there's always a flip side.
When the staff were checking my bloods they picked up that my liver count wasn't normal, so off I went for an MRI scan on Tuesday and the result showed that I have a problem with my Gall Bladder showing gallstones that have become active since my bowel operation. One has lodged and is causing severe cramps in my stomach.
I was due to have a CT scan today Friday however the machine is broken so it is cancelled until I get a phone call I go back now on Monday to the team for my my weekly checks and hopefully next week I will receive a treatment program for the stones, which I'm hoping will be key hole laser treatment or at worst the removal of my gall bladder.
Whatever is decided I will have it done with a positive attitude. Onwards and upwards!
Everything else is coming along fine and I'm looking forward to a new wardrobe of clothes as all mine are far to big on me.
I'm down to XL if anyone wants to buy me anything!

Have a great weekend folks

Only two weeks to Christmas Day

💚
Ernie.

IT'S DECEMBER

04/12/2021

The year has flown by for many different reasons.
For the third week in a row since my reversal operation my magnesium level is holding its own .71 on Monday so I didn't need an infusion.
I had a telephone support call from The Bowel Cancer Support team from Mary whom I had the pleasure of meeting while I was in Leighton. She was really thorough and asked about all aspects of my recovery including personal, financial and how I was coping mentally, which is really good, I shared some issues with her and just talking has helped.
Sometimes you just have to give yourself a shake and not dwell on things and thank your lucky stars how far you have come.
I go again Monday for magnesium tests also next week I have a CT scan on Friday so that will determine how far I have come. I would normally be due for a consultation with Miss Nockhold after this, however, after the increase in Covid restrictions I am now going to have a virtual chat with her.
We had a curry and quiz night at The Old Star last night in aid of Leighton Hospital Bowel Cancer. It was lovely to see one of the prize winners Marion and her family (A lady whom I've met because of us both travelling the same road). She kindly auctioned her prize off for the cause.
We raised �112 in total however we have a Christmas prize bingo and other events to add to it so it will increase.
To conclude this weeks blog I am improving as the days go by I'm still as the song says taking ONE DAY AT A TIME however I can only be positive and thankful for everything.

HAVE A GOOD WEEKEND
3 more weeks and Christmas is upon us.

💚
Ernie.

More Progress

26/11/2021

Hello Everyone
I always enjoy songs with meaning and a family member sent me Don Williams this week so I'm sharing it with you.

My visit to Leighton on Monday was a good positive one again with my magnesium level holding at .69 so no infusion was required.
My fitness levels are improving and I'm starting to walk a bit further each day.
I have a CT scan on Dec 10th followed by a consultation with Miss Nockhold and hopefully I will receive good long term news.
Once again this week close friends have passed away and it hits hard emotionally and mentally.
I feel very humble lucky and thankful for my improving health and fitness , I keep pinching myself and I'm as always being positive.
It's only a few days away and it will be December and that means I traditionally am nice to everyone for a whole month and believe me, I intend for this Festive period to be a happy thankful time and look forward to 2022 with confidence.
Have a great weekend folks and stay safe as we move into the festive season

LookBack Message

💚
Ernie.

FREEDOM!

19/11/2021

Yes Freedom is right !
I went to Leighton on Monday to the SACU department for my magnesium level check and for the first time in months it was good .72 and they sent me straight home and I go back next Monday to have it checked and hopefully it is stable.
I've started some excersise to start to build my fitness levels back up. It's amazing how quickly you lose muscle strength when you are laid up.
I have a CT scan on Dec 10 th so that will give me a good indication on how everything is healing and I will shortly after that have a consultation with Miss Nockhold to give me a full update.
It will be three weeks on Monday since my reversal operation. I was advised that it would take a good few weeks for my movements to get back to normal. What you have to realise when going through all this is that all my muscles ligaments glands etc have all been on full shutdown since my main operation on June 2nd when I had the Stoma bag fitted.
The bowel just like the rest of the human body is an amazing component. It automatically readjusts itself to its shortened size and shape. At first after the operation it has a mind of its own however, this week, mine has started to settle and my muscles etc have started to work normally.
There's not a lot more to say this week except the mental side of what I have been through can still drag you down and make you feel emotional.
As I have started to get out and about a bit more and have met people for the first time in months it does get me thinking on how lucky and fortunate I am.
Well folks Christmas Day is five weeks tomorrow And it's only ten days until Dec 1st when I have to be nice to everyone for a full month.

Enjoy your weekend please and most of all Stay Safe!

LookBack Message

💚
Ernie.

ITS GOOD TO BE BACK!

13/11/2021

Well, I'm back in circulation after my last hospital stay!
Monday morning, I had to go for magnesium check as it is anticipated it will take a couple of weeks for levels to normalise. The reading was .61 so infusion required.
Everything else seems to be settling down my weight is 14st 3 lb and will now level out and maybe climb back to 15 stone max. My movements are starting to stabilise and become more regular. They are still very painful and sore however once my muscles and body gets used to having to work again it will all settle down.
Each week the responses and feedback to my blog have been excellent with many people contacting me to either advise reassure or ask me questions.
I have included below a couple of messages I have received ,the first one which addresses me personally is from a lifelong friend who is currently suffering with incurable cancer and he had the time and the strength of character to send me a humorous message (very humbling).

That is wonderful news Ernie.
I only hope you have kept your first motion and brought it home with you.
Put it in a glass jar and place it in your trophy cabinet for all to see. (Stools of the trade🤣)xx

I then received a message from my sister in law Rosa with a lovely short message of reality

Rosa Message

The rest of my first week out has consisted of some walking, building my appetite and starting to plan a few things for The Old Star for Christmas to make sure we have a special memorable one bearing in mind how grim the last year has been.
I went for my magnesium test yesterday and, wait for it, the reading was .96 almost perfect so we had a party in SACU to celebrate. Hopefully on Monday when I go back it will now start to maintain its level.
To bring the week to a close I've had a very positive week all in all. I had my staples removed on Wednesday and while the nurse was removing them my little granddaughter,� Annie held my hand tightly saying "It's OK Pops" as I squealed a couple of times.
I managed to pick up a parking ticket at our shopping centre as I had stayed for 31 min and should have gone after 20 min. It was busy. There was one other car and myself and only about 36 empty spaces.
I drove home and for the second time in a month managed to puncture and ruin a tyre on my car. The offending brick work has since been removed and after annoying myself and worrying I woke up the next day paid the fine and had a new tyre fitted.
There are far more things in life to worry about than material items.

Positive Message

That's all for this week folks!
Christmas is only just around the corner. I hope everything keeps moving in a positive direction.
Have a lovely weekend.
Lest we Forget. Remember with Pride 💚
Ernie.

That was the week that was!

05/11/2021

This is an understatement to say the least.
Monday morning bright and breezy getting dropped off at the Treatment centre door at 6:45am. By 7:30 I had all my required blood tests and cannula fitted ready for theatre. At 7:45, I was called in by The Registrar Anaesthetist for final pre op checks. Everything was going fine until his colleague came in to join the meeting basically to say he was going to have to postpone my operation because they didn't have a bed in HDU to put me in after the operation.
Some heavy discussions then took place and they agreed to do my operation provided I stayed in recovery room for a number of hours afterwards so they could monitor my condition.
PHEWWWWWWW!!
I then met Miss Nockhold my consultant and the next thing I remember was waking up in the recovery room on Monday evening.
The rest of my week I have spent doing breathing exercises and building up my walking up and down the ward.
The key to me being allowed home was obviously that my wound was healing, my blood levels are up and the most important thing, being able to have a normal bowel movement through my back passage that has been closed off for the past 5 months!

Scar

Well at 09:15 hours, my body came back to life and I had my movement!
So I'm that chuffed I'm going to call it ERNIE WELCH'S 1st movement in B minor supported by The Leighton Hospital orchestra. 🤣
I'm heading home at 7:00pm after I've had all my checks and tests completed and will now be concentrating on building up my strength and stamina and prepare myself for December when I traditionally am nice to everyone for a full month.
I have attached a little note about how important The Shits are. No offence intended.

shits

It's bonfire night enjoy the fireworks folks and please stay safe.

Here's a song that I think is appropriate.

I'll see this journey through

Enjoy your weekend folks

💚
Ernie.

Trick or Treat

30/10/2021

It has been a long week preparing for Nov 1st and my reversal operation.
I've been doing some walking to build my strength up coupled with using a gadget to practice breathing through which makes you breathe through the full length of your lung.
I came for magnesium fusion on Monday and my level was 0.61 and today Friday I am here again at 0.60 so the sooner I get reconnected the better.
I had my Covid test first thing and then settled in for what I thought was a routine day on SACU for my infusion. I then received a call to say we are having to put your operation back until November 9th as we are struggling for beds on the HD ward where you will be going after your operation. I then informed them that Miss Nockhold my consultant had booked me a bed.
The surgical department then said I needed an ECG and a pre op even though I was previously informed I didn't need them as I had only previously had those procedures prior to my first operation.
Well without a doubt the SACU Team sprang into action and I now have had all the necessary pre op examinations and an ECG and I'm ready to go down to theatre at 700am on Monday.
I had a lovely surprise earlier in the week when a lady called Marion came to see me and compare notes as she has had her bowel cancer operation in early March and her Reversal operation 7 weeks ago.
She was such a boost to me giving me advice and letting me know her own personal experience with the reversal operation and greatly reassured me.
This time next week folks I should be all done and on the road back to full recovery.
Thanks to all of you for your continued support and enjoy your Halloween weekend. 💚

Ernie.

Carpe Diem

22/10/2021

Well folks great news for me!
November 1st 7:00am my reversal operation has been confirmed at Leighton Hospital.
I will be in theatre for approximately 2 hours and then transferred to ward 18 for about a week and then it's all up to me to build myself back up to fitness.
Hopefully i'll be starting 2022 off fully fit. Apart from that great news, everything else is ticking over. My magnesium level is still fluctuating between .56 and .79. This will settle down once I've had my operation and everything starts working again.
Just to finish off this weeks blog, I couldn't resist letting everyone know about my operation date. The response I've had with all the positive comments is so uplifting and morale boosting.
Thanks once again to all of you for helping me along this journey. I've also spoken to other cancer sufferers this week and believe me it is good to talk.
I'm hoping to meet some more people who have already been down the cancer road so I'll share their stories with you next week.
Enjoy the weekend. 9 weeks and it's Christmas Day and that means come December I have to be nice to all of you for a whole month!

CARPE DIEM is right 💚
Ernie.

Latest News!

15/10/2021

Another week floats by with my magnesium level up and down from .79 down to .61.
I'm still waiting for my official notification regarding my reversal operation on November 1st, otherwise everything else is good. I've visited a couple of people who are currently in the middle of treatment for various types of cancer and basically we share our stories.
I am still taking this journey as positively as I can. I have come to realise in life it's best to be a listener, taking everything on board and using the information to my best advantage.
All of you have a great weekend and please remember :-

💚
Ernie.

Provisional good news!

08/10/2021

I have received a phone call to say my Reversal Operation is provisionally booked for Monday November 1st. That folks is the most wonderful news I could have wished for. Yes it says provisional however I am in The Diary. 💚
This week has been an up and down again on my magnesium levels and yes to be honest my own mood has dipped a bit, however I've a date to work to now so work is what I will do; daily walks, breathing exercises and the main thing is focus positively on the road ahead.
I've spoken to a couple of people this week and tried to get them thinking positive about their own situations so if I'm encouraging them, I need to lead by example!
I've included another song/video to this weeks blog I hope you like it.

THE OLDER I GET

Enjoy your weekend folks

💚
Ernie.

Another day another week another month flies by.

01/10/2021

The only thing to talk about this week is my magnesium fluctuation from .84 down to .56 finishing the week on .60 so I've persevered with my infusions on two 6 hour sessions.
I went to a workshop on Wednesday which basically refreshed my memory on all the things I should and shouldn't be doing to help my recovery.
Everything is in place now for my reversal operation so I will be checking the mail every morning hoping my letter arrives.
My week has been up and down and as I have mentioned on I'm sure many occasions it is very tough to deal with what cancer puts you through physically and mentally while dealing with everything else that life tests you with.
It is lovely and also very supportive when I receive responses to my Blog. One of my staff has written a poem which I am going to put at the end of today's script.
It's October 2nd tomorrow exactly four months since my original operation at the beginning of June. Let's hope my next one is done and dusted within a couple of weeks.

Enjoy your week

💚
Ernie.

My boss Ernie owns The Old Star
And it's one of the best pubs in our town by far
He's a chap who makes a difference to our local community,
always helping others and doing his bit for charity

It's fair to say he's a real smashing fella
Loves a warm Guinness but never a Stella!
Our pub like many has a character or two
Alan, Frank and Bob just to name a few!

Then there's Paul Day who loves a good moan,
and brummie Shane who's always after a lift home!
Matty and Kev who love a Carling Prem
I'm sure Ernie could tell us a tale or two about Them ;)
They gather in Cowboy corner every night
driving Ernie crazy talking absolute shite!
Mark Bland, well there's enough said
and Phil Teece who's never out of bloody bed!

Our cuddly Pete with his cheeky little grin
Who also loves a Guinness but occasionally a gin.
Worthy Wednesdays sees in those who love a stout,
Magistrate Tony especially he has no messing about.

Then just before close Mr M might call by
He's one of our favourites, a lovely guy.
Saturday afternoons is all about the Footy
And looking for the right TV remotes drives us barmaids nutty!
Ammo, Ray , Pat Fitz and Jimmy Mcgurty
Drink buds all afternoon then start to get all flirty!

All Jokes aside though they are a fantastic crowd.
A pleasure to serve and do the pub proud
It's proper Irish themed our cozy little bar
You may find us downing Guinness singing whiskey in the jar.

A place for fun and laughter that's always trouble free
The Old Star on a Saturday night it is the place to be
Anyone after a few looking for a fight
Ernie says “come on lads it's time to call it a night”

So Ernie as you read this I hope it makes you smile,
because many of us in here haven't seen you in a while
So when you are feeling ready to down a Guinness or even two,
hurry back Ernie because we all love and miss you.

Another milestone

25/09/2021

Well, I would say getting there if I'm asked if I'm well.
I'm still back and forth having my magnesium infusions twice a week and today Wednesday I've been for a Sigmoidoscopy which is a camera investigation through my back passage.
Everything has come back clear so now I am just waiting for confirmation of when I'm going to have my reversal operation.
One reason I'm writing this weeks blog a bit earlier there is a particular part of dealing with cancer that is so important and needs people to think deeply about.
I have spoken to many people close friends other people I meet at hospital and we all have to deal with the impact of being told we all have different types forms, levels and stages of this disease. Some of us are very fortunate lucky and receive better diagnosis and long term good news than others.
For all of us the effect on our mental state is a huge aspect to deal with , your mind continually works overtime trying to work out how we will end up. Will we be fully fit after our treatment and will we be able to carry on with a good lifestyle?
Having spoke candidly to other sufferers we all sit and have moments of solitude and we can sink into depressive mode quite easily.
I have a good strong supportive family and they are always checking me out.
To all of you who are reading this if you know someone who is suffering from this or any other life changing disease please make it your business to stop and ask them if they are OK. I know they would welcome it.

Well it's Friday again I've just got back from Leighton had another day in The SCU department had an infusion and I'm pleased to say I've finished the week on a reading of .82 which is spot on my glucose has finished off at 9.2 and my weight is levelling out at just under 15 stone.
To finish the week on yet another high is once again superb and as always I am extremely grateful for all the medical help and more to the point moral and loving support from all my family and friends.
The next couple of weeks will hopefully be very interesting and I'm hoping fruitful. Have a lovely weekend folks.
I hope you all have fuel if you are going travelling.

Here's a video I felt was appropriate for this week.

💚
Ernie.

Another Week

17/09/2021

Yes! Another week has flown by and my magnesium level is up and down from Monday at .81 down to .56 today.
Everything else is going great to be honest. All tests and scans are positive and I saw my consultant on Wednesday. She is very happy with all aspects of my treatment.
She had hoped to have my reversal operation completed by September however she has a really busy schedule.
She said I need a further camera investigation that needs doing prior to my reversal so she did a physical examination there and then.
I'm having a COVID Test on Sunday and then at 9:00am next Wednesday I'm going into the treatment centre for my internal camera examination. I should hear a few days after that and receive my reversal operation date. That will mean from having my first operation on June 2nd to October 2nd Will only be a four month turnaround.
As far as I'm concerned that is simply fantastic!
Next week will hopefully be a fun packed week.
Enjoy your weekend folks.💚

Ernie.

New update

11/09/2021

Today was The All-Ireland Gaelic Football final between Mayo and Tyrone.
I had intended to travel over to watch it in a local pub in Ballyhaunis however I decided against it as I didn't feel quite strong enough to handle the 8 or 9 cups of coffee so decided to leave a visit till the New Year.
Mayo got beat so a wise decision.

Speaking of decisions it looks like I might be given my date for my reversal operation next Wednesday when I see my consultant.
This past week my magnesium level has fluctuated up and down starting at .51 on Monday and finishing at .74 on Friday.
It's amazing how you feel so much better when the level is up and almost normal.
On Friday I had another scan. It basically runs a camera up inside you with a dye to make sure everything is healed from the operation and there are no leaks. From this now I'm just about ready for my bowel reversal operation.
It takes approximately two hours with three days in hospital. When that is complete it will then all be down to time and me getting my fitness levels back.
If I achieve all this I will be really pleased because from first diagnosis to completion and full recovery will be just under six months. Normally it takes a minimum of around 12 months.
When I do get to that point I will have a lot of people to thank for my recovery and more so for the care and attention that I have received.
Have a good week everyone and who knows I might have an operation date this time next week. 💚

Ernie.

Another Month gone by!

04/09/2021

It's September!
Time flies and without a doubt and I'm hoping for a letter or maybe a phone call from my consultant Miss Nockhold to say ok Ernie I want you in to do your reversal operation.
My continued ongoing support and treatment is still top class the cellulitis on my face and head has almost cleared up so the antibiotics did the trick.
My magnesium level continues to vary it started the week at .58 and finished at .61 which is good.
My weight is hovering at around 15st and my appetite is slowly coming back. I've started to walk to start building my strength ready for the operation so patience is the key now while I wait for my surgery and of course staying fully focused and positive.
Just to finish off this week I know I always mention things that inspire me; well again this week I've had a special moment I was coming out of my daughters and a guy was walking past with two dogs. He stopped to have a chat.
He lives past the Star I and think he's been in Winsford a few years after moving this way from Lancashire. He pops in now and again and is a cask ale fan..... anyway to get the point!.....
He said
"Ernie the last time we spoke you were in your car on the car park and we had a brief chat through the window as you were self isolating before your operation we discussed all your forthcoming operation and treatment after speaking with you I went home and made an appointment with my Doctor as I had blood in my back passage and basically was trying to ignore it and had been for a while."
I have since had a colonoscopy and a couple of polyps were the problem. They have been removed and everything is fine and I've had the all clear.
It was very moving when he shook my hand and thanked me for inspiring him to go and get checked out; and I had done it without even knowing through my blog.

Happy September everyone.

Ernie.

Bank Holiday Weekend Update

29/08/2021

Running late with this weeks blog the lack of magnesium is causing me problems.
All through the past week my level has varied up and down more down than up at the minute.
I'm in a unit called SACU twice a week where I have a cannula fitted and have magnesium inserted for 6 hours each day.
By the end of the week my level has dropped to .51 which isn't any good so further work is required over the next few weeks to get it right.
My Consultant has confirmed that as soon as I have the reversal operation, the magnesium level should settle fairly quickly.
Overnight from Wednesday to Thursday my face had gone inflamed and red and I also developed a temperature.

I was sent for a scan on my head on Thursday and I was given a CT scan while there to check my bowel area and other body areas. All the scans came back clear which is fantastic news!
They have put the face inflammation down to a form of cellulitis. I am on strong antibiotics which are starting to work.
Now back to business. It's looking likely they will now do the reversal operation soon as the CT scan is clear and my magnesium level needs sorting.
I mentioned last week that I have been feeling emotionally drained this last couple of weeks. Well I have given myself the kick up the backside I needed.
They always say there are lots of people who are worse off than you. Well, on Monday I met an 82 year old man who has had his bowel cancer operation and like me is having magnesium inserted....
Oh and he's also got prostate cancer.....
Oh and he's got lung cancer!
He's very very positive, polite and clearly inspiring. He spends his time with his wife back and forth to their caravan in Wales. They love spending time at the caravan however it's a bit difficult fitting it all in but as I say he's very positive. Oh one other thing. He's Blind!

I don't think I need any more inspiration than to look at him.
I hope you all have had a great weekend and maybe soon I can say I'm having my reversal.
Take care.

Ernie

Another week ticks by

20/08/2021

Not much to report this week. I've Still got a variance in my magnesium levels and have visited SACU twice this week for blood tests and magnesium infusion.
It's a great unit with a team who work closely on patients with all kinds of issues on a daily basis I'm one of their regulars now so think I will be invited to the staff Christmas party.
My magnesium level keeps fluctuating so I believe I will continue to have the treatment up until my reversal operation.
I'm having a CT scan next week followed within a couple of weeks with an appointment with the Bowel cancer team to check everything is on track for my operation.
Today, Friday, I have been given the nod to step up my fitness campaign so I will be seen walking and hopefully doing a little bit of cycling over the next few weeks to enhance my fitness level in readiness for the operation.
Apart from all the practical stuff, this last week I have probably struggled more with anxiety, feeling low and generally finding things tougher than at any other point. I discussed it with The Consultant and the lack of magnesium plays it's part in this.
I move on and this time next week I'm hoping to feel more upbeat after getting out and about and filling my lungs with fresh air.
Enjoy your weekend and look forward to a heatwave coming soon! 💚

Ernie.

Latest Blog

13/08/2021

This week has had some positive moments and a mixture of events.
My magnesium level reached .68 on Monday. Time to celebrate? No it's down to .61 by the end of the week.
The Stoma bag that I've had fitted needs time to settle and dependant on what food I digest is how it works. If it's full of liquid day after day the body isn't getting the nourishment it needs.
We are sticking with the infusions at least once a week up to the point when I have my reversal operation and then my system should return to normal within a period of around 4 weeks. My friend who was deliberating whether to have any treatment called to see me and is now starting a full program of treatment. He has been advised that he is in good shape and it can be dealt with giving him a good life expectancy. A very good friend has today been diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus so he is at the beginning of his journey.
This last week some of my days and nights have been at a bit of a low ebb then I think of all the positive vibes my journey has created so I kick myself and move forward with purpose.
Friday 13th have a good weekend folks 💚

Ernie.

Onwards and Upwards!

06/08/2021

Wow what a week! I went to Leighton on Monday for my usual magnesium infusion and had my blood observations done.
Since taking the chewable tablets my level has gone up to .62 so they have decided from next week if it has increased again I will stop having infusions and just take the chewable sweets, still calling in once a week for usual blood tests etc.
I still continue to have visitors and yesterday Father Simon from St Joseph's called. He's been on holiday so we had a positive chat he blessed me and gave me a bottle of whiskey from The Arran islands.
It's now Wednesday time to see Miss Nockold my consultant. I had a chest X Ray last week as when I went in to hospital originally, there was what might have been an infection. Anyway it's clear.
Now Miss Nockold is extremely pleased with my progress. I'm having a scan and some other tests in the next two weeks and she is hoping to do the reverse operation on my Stoma in September.
It will hopefully be a two hour operation and by the end of October. I'm hoping to be back to full fitness.
On a lighter note, I've noticed that nearly every trolley ,wheel chair , stretcher and the wheel around stands that carry the insertion drips ALL SQUEAK, so I'm taking some WD40 on Friday when I'm due back in and I'm going to systematically spray all the Wheels! 😂

Friday 6th Aug and another week has flown by. My magnesium reading is now at .66 so in the past week it has really started to move in the right direction. I'm having an infusion today however when I come next Monday, I will only be having my usual blood checks and should be straight back home.
I'm now only having a partial infusion today and will be going home early afternoon so hopefully I'll be able to get in the garden and do a bit of sun bathing.
This week, small steps have most certainly turned into big strides and I'm happy at the progress that has been made.
I'm back on Monday to start off a fresh chapter and hopefully make further advances.

Ernie.

2 Months on!

30/07/2021

Well on Monday it will be exactly two months since I was wheeled into the operating theatre for my operation.
This past week has been pretty much routine. I have been back in for two six hour sessions to have further infusions of magnesium. It is a slow process and my level is still only at 0.58 where it should be between 0.60 and 0.70 so the medical people have introduced me to some chewable tablets to add to the daily intake.
Next week I am seeing my consultant Miss Nockold for a full update and check over on Wednesday so I'm hoping to continue to make steady progress with my recovery.
I continue to receive first class treatment and care from Leighton Hospital, my own GP Doctor Fallon and the staff from Pondas Chemist on Mount Pleasant, who are so efficient and dedicated, making sure I receive my medication as soon as it is required despite them having to buy a new van to cope with all the additional stuff they have to put into stock to satisfy my requirements. 😂
On a serious or satisfying point, a lifelong friend sent me a private message late on last week telling me he has had a problem for sometime with what he thought was blood in his back passage and he hadn't done anything about it. When he read my blog and went to the Doctors and since then had a colonoscopy and this week has been given the all clear apart from a couple of Haemorrhoids so he is delighted to say the least.
I will continue to write my weekly blog for as long as it takes and I want to thank you all for reading it.
When I receive comments it is so uplifting.

Ernie.

Week 7 - Update from Ernie

23/07/2021

Another week has passed since I last updated you.
Well Monday was freedom day as I think they called it.
When I got to Leighton they hauled me in and strapped me back into my Chair number 10 (they are putting my name on it this weekend) and infused magnesium into me for 6 hours. My reading level was .56 and it should be between .6 and .7. Everything else is still slowly settling down.
The Stoma Bag I had fitted is starting to thicken up so it looks like the gravy mix worked 🤩
I went back again yesterday and the reading was .58 so slow steady steps and another 6 hours on a drip. I have some magnesium tablets prescribed for the weekend so along with the other 29 tablets a day I'm taking should do something.
By Monday I hope the reading will have gone up enough to stop having the infusions. I also meet the consultant in another week to have a full check up including scans so with a bit of luck, good faith and the support I get day after day I'm hoping for positive steps.
Over the past weeks I've met many many people who are in similar or worse situations than me and the key has to be a positive attitude.
Someone I know who is a bit older than me has been diagnosed with cancer and he up until this week was not going to have any treatment. I'm so pleased to hear that he has now decided to go for it and try the treatment which is wonderful news!
Never give up on Life! It's for living. It's not a dress rehearsal it's rhe real thing.
Enjoy your weekend folks.

p.s. I meant to mention. . . . . .Mary was giving me my tablets earlier in the week and she gave Caroline's dog Hector my blood thinning tablet and almost gave me his Thyroid tablet! 🤦 Then people wonder why I keep barking! 😂😂 💚💚💚
Ernie

Week 6 - Update from Ernie

16/07/2021

Well I didn't even get chance to take a penalty on Sunday. I was straight back into Leighton on Monday.
My magnesium level is still low and I've been back twice this week to have infusions. Everything else seems to be settling down and I'm building my strength back up.
I'm going to attempt a short walk over the weekend and then back to hospital Monday on Monday for tests......
Again!
💚💚💚
Ernie

Week 5 - Update from Ernie

09/07/2021

Since Monday I have been coming back and forth to Leighton to have my bloods checked.
My magnesium level is low which this causes weariness and a bit of nausea so today for the second time this week I am coupled up to a drip feed for six hours to top me up.
Everything else seems to be improving and settling down ok. I just have to give my body time to heal.
The idea of being here for a six hour top up is much better than being readmitted to a ward for a number of days Is much better.
I've had a number of visitors at home and it really is uplifting to see how much people care and also it makes me cherish what I've got.
Once again, I realise there are people out there who have to go through things like this alone.
I'm hoping to be at least ready for the bench on Sunday and will give Gareth a call this evening and probably travel down to meet the squad tomorrow!
😂 😂 😂 😂 😂 😂

Ernie.

Week 4 - Further update from Kate

02/07/2021

As you're aware, Dad was admitted to Leighton again Tuesday with dehydration. He hasn't looked well all weekend to be honest however we were told it was part of the recovery and to sleep it off.
We since discovered it was his meds making him weaker. He was prescribed two codeine tablets four times a day. They made him very sleepy, his vision blurry and just generally unwell. The codeine has now been stopped. He's had intravenous fluids over the last couple of days and today they have discharged him home again. He seems much better. Much more alert and eating and drinking better.

So good to have him home again and looking better. He has a few more follow up appointments next week but hopefully he has now gone through the worst and will continue to bounce back like he always does.

Love Kate xx

Week 4 - Update from Kate

30/06/2021

Hi everyone. Little update on dad's progress.

As you know he was discharged home last Thursday. Just getting home from the hospital completely wiped him out.
Since being home he's mostly been sleeping. He's managed little walks up and down the garden but not much more than that. He's not felt up to eating much or drinking (despite my mum nagging him).
Tuesday morning he was due a follow up appointment to have his bloods rechecked at Leighton. After sitting waiting nearly 2 Hours for the results, the nurse informed us that dad had developed an acute kidney injury secondary to dehydration and they wanted to keep him in hospital so he's now back in on ward 18, having intravenous fluids to try and get his kidneys back to normal.
They have also reviewed his medication as he has been very drowsy and clammy so here's hoping he improves now things have been altered.
As you can imagine he was very frustrated at having to be back in hospital, however things could have been a lot worse if he hadn't had his bloods checked out. He's feeling positive again and over the shock which is just dad all over.

We want to thank everyone for your lovely messages and calls for dad and to us as a family. It's not the same not having him at home or not seeing him sat in his favourite corner of the pub (bullshit corner).
Let's hope we can have him home again for the weekend.

Love. Kate xx

Day 23 - Home at Last

25/06/2021

Well I finally came home at around 7pm on Thursday.
To say the last three weeks has been a rollercoaster is an understatement.
After the op, I was placed in HDU for 8 days and then released to ward 13 where they discovered a leak in the bowel which caused my kidneys to start to fail and my bloods and temperature were all over the place.
At first, they were going to take me back into theatre to repair the leak and fit another Stoma bag. They started me on antibiotics and pumped out loads of fluid then the consultant decided not to re-operate, instead sticking with the antibiotics.
Three days and several flush-outs later, the leak has sealed and I've been allowed home.
Even better news is that the tumour has been fully removed and I don't require chemotherapy.
There is still a long way to go but the expertise and dedication of the team and all of the support I've received are making me stronger every day.

Ernie

Day 19 - Update from Kate

21/06/2021

Hello all.
A little update from dad over the weekend.
He's had a couple of rough days again. His potassium levels had gone up and also his blood sugars, which they think is due to the specialised feed he's been having. He's now on an insulin pump to get his sugar levels within range.
Understandably this left him feeling exhausted and not up to doing much other than sleeping.
He had his catheter removed yesterday which is good news and one less bag for him to carry around.
He had a lovely little visit from some of his grandchildren on Father's Day to lift his spirits.

He has messaged this morning to say he's feeling slightly better after a good sleep and sat up eating some soft breakfast.
Hopefully he has turned a corner now and on the road to recovery.
Fingers crossed we can get him home some time this week.
Thank you all for your continued support and lovely messages.
It's keeping us all going.

Love Kate xx

Day 15 - Update from Kate

16/06/2021

Hi all.
I have spoken to dad today. He's doing ok but very tired still. He didn't sleep great last night as his bag leaked which takes a while to clean up and sort out.
He now has his Picc line in place which is delivering specialised food via the vein so he can absorb all the nutrients he needs.
The drainage tube from his nose has also been removed which is great news.
He's enjoyed a lovely cup of black coffee today.
The team have had him up walking again today to the ward doors and back a few times to try and build his strength back up.
The surgeons think he will be in for a further 10 days but could be home sooner if he responds well.
We can't thank you all enough for your love and best wishes.

Kate xx

Day 13 - Update from Kate

13/06/2021

Hello all.
A little update from dad and his team today.
I have spoken to the sister Hannah on the ward today. Dad is starting his feed tonight which is the TPN feed.
It will go through his cannula in his arm for tonight then tomorrow morning he's going to theatre for a picc line which is a longer cannula through the arm in to his chest. It's quite straight forward. It's just better for long term so they don't have to keep stabbing him with needles.
The Surgeon performed a wash out of his bowel this morning to flush the bowel out and will do it again tomorrow. All of this will hopefully prevent a further operation and repair the leak in his bowl.
His bloods are improving. He's been up for a walk today but feels very sleepy. He's also had his staples out and his wound site is looking good.
His stoma has slowed down which they are happy about as it was over active. His drain in his nose has also slowed right down which is a good sign. There's still a long way to go but if all goes to plan, this is the best outcome for him at the moment.
Dad feeling positive again.
The love and support from you all is keeping him going

Love Kate
xx

Day 12 - Update from Kate

12/06/2021

Further update from my dad this evening. He's had bloods taken this morning which have shown his infection markers are improving.
The consultant has decided to hold off with the operation at present. They want the infection to resolve and are then hoping the leak will repair itself.
He's still unable to eat or drink at the moment which you can imagine in this heat how hard it is.
He has had another scan tonight which is the same as previous scan which is good so at the moment we are in the dark as to what's happening until his surgeon returns in the morning when they will discuss the next process.
Here's hoping for some good news tomorrow as god only knows my dad deserves a break!!
Thank you all again for your well wishes and prayers.
Keep on fighting dad 💚
Love Kate xx

Day 9 - That was the week that was

11/06/2021

Catheter in Catheter out.
Catheter back in.
Plenty of hokey pokey, Shaking me all about.
I'm now out of HDU and up into ward 13.
The staff in here are martyrs to the cause. One lady looking after my care yesterday completed a 12 hour shift plus handover whilst she could hardly bend with a back strain. The constant attention to care and duty is overwhelming and while carrying out these tasks, they are spending hour after hour searching in any cupboard for suitable dressings and PPE.
Now it's Friday, Guinness is on the horizon I hope!

Day 8 - Update from Ernie

10/06/2021

Well, without wanting to be too graphic, the bag was struggling to cope due to my fast metabolism so I'm on new medication to slow it down.
Apart from that, everything else is good. I've had the nose tube removed and all my other drips are good.
My glucose level is steady and I've been for a little walk. I've had a beard trim and a shower and I'm staying in High Dependency Unit for now who continue to provide the best care.
When you come to a place like this for major surgery, it makes you realise how precious all my family and friends are to me.💚💚💚
I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

Ernie.

Day 6 - Update from Kate

07/06/2021

I have just left from visiting my dad in intensive care.
The last few days have completely wiped him out but as you all know nothing keeps the strongest man down.
He looks and feels so much better today. Having been nil by mouth for the last few days, he's managed a drink of tonic tonight which he loved.
The surgeons are happy with his progress and are trialling him with food tomorrow.
All being well he can have his nasal tube removed.
All the staff have been phenomenal and we can't thank them enough.
My dad's still not up to having his phone on, hence me updating his blog on his behalf.
He has asked my to thank everyone for their continued support and loving messages.
They are keeping him going and spurring him on daily.

Kate X

Day 5 Update

06/06/2021

Well Thursday,Friday and Saturday were rough. I filled up with a horrible black juice in my stomach which was about 12 litres in total.
I've had drips inserted and if I'm honest my first day after the op was the calm before the storm.
I'm starting to improve now but really am being really careful.
The team in HDU have been simply amazing and without their persistence and resilience I would be struggling.
I've only had the energy to switch my phone on a couple of times and the love and support I keep receiving has kept me going thank you all so much.

I was very pleased to receive this message from my friends at Irish TV.

Hello Ernie.
We hope you're recovering well. We are thinking and praying for you.
Ernie you're on Irish TV Sky 191 this coming Thursday night at 7.30 pm,
on our website www.theirishintheuktv.com and on Facebook live and Twitter.
Best wishes always.
Martin and Annette xx

Day 2

03/06/2021

I went into theatre around 8:30 am originally for keyhole surgery to remove part of top bowel and lower rectum where tumour was situated and then rejoin.
When they start with keyhole firstly the stomach is inflated with gas to allow space to work.
It was taking too long. My heart became distressed and dropped to 39 so the doctor and consultant decided to immediately switch to open surgery.
I have a nice zip scar down my front, a temporary stoma bag fitted and a morphine pump which is controlling my pain.
I am in HDU for today being cared for by a highly professional and dedicated team.
Everything is being carefully monitored and I'm doing great.
Hoping to take a few steps around the ward shortly.

THE LONG AND WINDING ROAD

01/06/2021

I have been deliberating for a few weeks now about sharing my latest challenge with you and I've decided to go ahead and share it.
Over the years I have shared all my other positive challenges and journeys, so if this helps me and anyone else who has to cross similar Bridges in their life, well, it can only be positive and Good.
This journey is a bit different. I'm going to take you along the cancer cath.
I always have enjoyed drinking Guinness. When the second main lockdown started in December I decided to stop drinking and basically completely chill for the duration.
Going to the bathroom each morning I started to notice what looked like blood. Normally I wouldn't have noticed this if I'd been drinking the black stuff.
(At this point take note if you see anything strange when you go to the bathroom, get STRAIGHT to your doctor time really does matter!)
I went off to see Doctor Fallon whom I've known for a lot of years.
From seeing him at the end of March I have had a colonoscopy, a CT scan, a PET scan an MRI scan and also an ultrasound scan to make sure my heart is in good condition for the operation.
The diagnosis is bowel cancer and I'm going into Leighton early Wednesday morning for an operation to remove part of my rectum.
The consultant is optimistic it will be successful as the cancer hasn't appeared anywhere else.
The peaks and troughs I have gone through with my emotions this past six weeks has been unbelievable.
At first when I was told the news and I shared it with my family I pretty much had written myself off, then you suddenly realise nothing has changed . I am still Ernie Welch with or without cancer.
Mary and my 3 children have been my rocks and I will climb this mountain.
When I speak to friends and family they are so positive and supportive I couldn't be any other way than ready for the road ahead.
My sister Joyce has recently retired after working at St Lukes for the past 30 years and she is nothing but inspirational.
And for me, my doctor and all the staff at Leighton have been nothing short of phenomenal in their expertise and speed in dealing with me.
My reason for sharing this journey with you is that it will help me but also hopefully help and guide other people out there with similar situations who are alone and don't have the support I do.
I will keep this blog updated as I travel along this road.
One thing I am used to is temporary traffic lights as they are always outside The Old Star.
The good thing for this Old Star is they are always on green and are only temporary.
So this cancer has to GO GO GO! 💚

My First Blog

29/05/2021

From Time to time, I will be sharing my thoughts with you in a blog. Stay tuned for my first article which will be coming very soon.