In reply to the myriad of concerned emails, facebook wall postings and queries sent to this website, I apologise for the missed post last week. I had no idea so many people would be disconcerted and emotionally deprived! (Don’t cut yourself on the sarcasm, it can sting like lemon juice on a paper cut!)

I’ve had a severe reaction to the medication given through the IV a couple of weeks ago. The only thing I can compare the pain to, was when I had shingles in my left eye. In both cases the painkillers were a joke. I couldn’t walk properly; I needed help to get back off the toilet; I couldn’t hold a mug and consequently haven’t had a cup of coffee for over two weeks now. The headache and neck pain was so severe I could barely stand to keep my eyes open. Food and I have become passing acquaintances, but I haven’t noticed any reduction in my body fat. (B*st**d! I guess the Universe is determined that I be a fat woman. Just as well I’m so good at it.)

Anyhoo – I’m now on the mend but still a long way from being okay. Unfortunately low blood pressure has joined the party, so I can only remain upright for a short period of time. I had to have a rest before I could write this, and I’m heading to bed as soon as it’s done. Ain’t life just grand?!

I feel sorry for my clients who will have to wait longer than they first expected for their manuscripts to be edited. I’ve given all of them the option of going elsewhere, so we’ll see what happens. It’d be lovely if they could stick with it, but I wouldn’t blame them if they moved on.

I’m seeing the specialist next week to discuss an alternate medication. YAY! I’ve already decided I’m not going through this every month for six months. Mind you, I’m asking for a full disclosure of side effects before I agree to anything else. It might be better not to do anything. I want my life back.

For all the writers out there who are (im)patiently waiting to hear back from that editor/agent/publisher (like I am), take my situation into your calculations. Perhaps that editor/agent/publisher is fighting a nasty illness; perhaps they have serious family problems; perhaps they’ve been in a car accident… Editors, Agents and Publishers are more than their job. They’re people too, with all the issues in their lives that we face in ours.

Meanwhile, thanks to that one faithful blog-reader who asked how I was. God bless you. As for everyone else: Is it worth my while writing these things? Is anyone out there? Helloo – oo- oo?