Deborah ( vancouverdeb) Thread 3

Garry Point Park during the Cherry Blossom Season

I'm Deborah, married for 42 years and counting. I have two adult sons and one is married and they have two young children. This will be my 16 th year in the 75's. Both Dave and I are retired and we have a dog named Muffin who just turned 2 at the end of December 2025.

1) The Wake by Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, F, mine, Iceland, 4 stars
2) Ripeness by Sarah Moss, F, library, UK, 3 stars
3) Benbecula by Graeme MacCrae Burnet,M, library, Scotland, 3.5 stars
4)Murder by Invitation Only by Colleen Cambridge, F, library, UK, 4 stars
5) The Five: The Untold Lives of the Women Killed by Jack the Ripper by Hallie Rubenhold, F , library, F, UK, 4 stars
6)Walk the Blue Fields by Claire Keegan, F, mine, Ireland, 3.5 stars
7) Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen, F, library, UK, 4 stars

February

8) Jane Austen at Home by Lucy Worsely, F, mine, UK, 4 stars
9) Missing Sam by Thrity Umrigar, F, library, India/ USA, 3.5 stars
10)A Christian Case Against Donald Trump by by Patrick Kahnke, M, mine, kindle, USA, 5 stars
11)Two Truths and a Murder by Colleen CambridgeUSA, library, M, 4 stars
12) ‎Jesus Calling, with Scripture References: Enjoying Peace in His Presence (A 365-Day Devotional) by Sarah Young , F, mine, USA, 5 stars
13) This Is Not About Us: Fiction by Allegra Goodman, USA, library, F, 3.5 stars
14)The Fourth Princess: A Gothic Novel of Old Shanghai by Janie Chang, Canada, library, F, 4.5 stars
15) The Exvangelicals: Loving, Living, and Leaving the White Evangelical Church by Sarah McCammon, USA, library, F, 4 stars
16)The Midnight Taxi by Yosha Gunasekera USA, mine, F, 3.5 stars

March

17) The Barbecue at No. 9 by Jenny Godfrey,UK, mine, F, 4 stars
18)When The Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen,Sweden, library F, 5 stars
19 )Dominion by Addie E. Citchens, USA, F, library, 4.5 stars
20) A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing: A Novel byAlice Evelyn Yang, USA,F, mine, 4.5 stars
21) A Family Matter by Claire Lynch, UK, F, library,4.25 stars
22) Audition by Katie Kitamura, USA, library, F,2.5 stars,
23)Flashlight by Susan Choi, USA,mine,F , 3 stars
24) The Murder at World's End by Ross Montgomery, UK, mine, 4 stars

April

25) The Benefactors by Wendy Erskine, Ireland, mine, F, 4 stars
26) We Begin At The End by Chris Whittaker, USA, library, M, 3.5 stars
27) Bookish by Lucy Magnan, UK, mine, F, 4 stars
28) Imposter by L J Ross UK, mine, F, 4 stars
29)A Guardian and a Thief by Megha Majumdar ,library, F , 3.5 stars
30 ) The Close by Jane Casey UK, library, F 3. 5 stars
31) Heart the Lover by Lily King, USA, library, F, 2.5 stars

May

32) Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth, Australia, library, F , 4. 5 stars
33)Kingfisher by Rozie Kelly, UK, mine, F, 2.5 stars
34)Moonlight Murder by Uzma Jalaluddin, Canada, library, F, 3.5 stars
35) A Far-Flung Life by M.L. Stedman, Australia, library, F, 4.5 stars

spare

Prize Winners and Nominees
Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen, 1001 books to read before you die
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen , Årets bok (2024)
Dominion by Addie E. Citchens Women's Prize for Fiction Longlist , 2026
A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing: A Novel byAlice Evelyn Yang. Women's Prize For Fiction Longlist,2026
A Family Matter by Claire Lynch, Nero Prize Winner 2026,
Audition by Katie Kitamura, Booker Short List 2025, Women's Prize Long-list 2026,
Flashlight by Susan Choi, Booker List 2025, Women's Prize Longlist 2026
Benefactors by Wendy Erskine Women's Prize Longlist 2026
A Guardian and a Thief by Megha Majumdar Women's Prize Longlist, 2026.
Heart the Lover by Lily King, Womens Prize Shortlist , 2026,

Currently Reading
The Mercy Step by Marcia Hutchinson
""

Welcome to my thread! All are welcome, drop a star, lurk, de - lurk, whatever suits you.

The Benefactors by Wendy Erskine 4 stars

This was a fascinating and at times, heartbreaking, novel.

Bronagh, Miriam and Frankie all live in Belfast. Each has an eighteen year old son, who has taken part in sexually assaulting a young woman, Misty. Bronagh is married to Donal, and they have a son, Lyness or ' Line Up" . Bronagh is the CEO of a children's charity. Frankie grew up in care, and is married to a well off man, and is step mother to Chris. Miriam has recently been widowed, and is mother to Rami. When they find out that their sons' have sexually assaulted Misty, they gather together to protect their sons as best they can.

Young Misty has been brought up by her step father Boogie, abandoned by her drug addicted mother at a very young age. Boogie's mother, Misty's step grandmother, Nana D, does her best to see Misty's best interests are served. Though still in high school, and working part time at a hotel, she has secretly made money on the side. In a less than ideal way, Misty has worked doing phone sex.

There are multiple narrators, but for the most part I found it easy to identity them and keep track of who was who.

A thought provoking read, and highly recommended .

>12 vancouverdeb: I may read that one in April too, Deb.

Nice review.

Happy new thread, dear lady. xx

Happy new thread, Deborah!

Happy new one, Deborah :)

Happy new thread, Deb. I like the topper and also >2 vancouverdeb:, though it's a bit blurry.

Happy April, Deborah. Happy New Thread. Love the park topper. We had Jack over for a sleepover Thursday night and he stayed all day yesterday. He is adorable as ever. That said, I did start We Begin at the End but did not get far. I hope you are enjoying it.

Have a great weekend.

Happy new thread, Deborah. I am glad you liked The Benefactors. I will get to it eventually. Right now I am working on book club books.

Happy new thread!

>1 vancouverdeb: so nice!

Happy new thread!

Happy new thread! Beautiful topper!

Happy new thread, Deborah!

Happy new one Deborah. I am enjoying the spring blossom here too.

What did you think of the ending of The Benefactors?

Happy new thread, Deborah. I hope you got out to enjoy the warm weather!

Happy new thread, Deborah! And a Happy Easter to you!

Hi Deborah and a very Happy Easter to you and family. And happy new thread too! Love the topper!

>13 PaulCranswick: I think you find The Benefactors well worth your time, Paul, and it's one I hope might be shortlisted. An interesting read for sure.

>14 quondame: Thanks Susan, and Happy Easter!

>15 RebaRelishesReading: Thanks Reba! Happy Easter!

>16 jessibud2: Glad you like the topper, Shelley and yes unfortunately the second image is a bit blurry. I noticed too.

>17 msf59: Garry Point Park is very pretty all year round and a popular place, for the most part - not so much in the rain. I like taking Muffin to different places for our walks. I'm glad you got to see Jackson and overnight too! I did see the M and M's today , not for that long, just taking them some Easter gifts and card - Lego for each of them. Miles was excited to see Muffin. I am enjoying We Begin at The End and I am about 65 pages in and hope to get more read tonight. Tomorrow Dave and I are heading out for a family Easter Dinner.

>18 BLBera: Thanks Beth, and Happy Easter. I understand about needing to read book club books. I think you will find The Benefactors very interesting.

>19 foggidawn: Thanks Foggi and I am glad your insurance paid for most of your crown. I have one too and my insurance paid for most of it, but now with Dave retired our insurance covers less for dental.

>20 figsfromthistle: Good to see you, Anita! Happy Easter and I know you have been busy.

>21 Storeetllr: Thanks Mary and Happy Easter!

>22 drneutron: Thanks Jim and Happy Easter!

>23 charl08: What did I think of the ending of The Benefactors, Charlotte. I will put that in spoilers and let me know what you thought. I wish that Nan D hadn't encouraged Misty to settle for a cash settlement and let it go through the legal channels. The choice to go away with that money seems extravagant to me. But Misty's choice to work in a funeral home is interesting and perhaps a sense of her growing maturity. I'm a little concerned that Rami has gone away without taking his phone or cash card. What does that mean? I was pleased the Bronagh finally lost her temper with Lyness, but I think she may have gone to far. I wish we knew more about what happened at the end.

>24 Familyhistorian: Thanks Meg, I did get out for a walk with Muffin this afternoon and it was warm and sunny ,yes. I only needed short sleeves - no fleece needed even.

>25 atozgrl: Thanks and Happy Easter to you too, Irene.

>26 mdoris: Hi Mary! Happy Easter to you too! I saw the grandchildren for a little while this afternoon and tomorrow Muffin is going overnight to her doggie daycare so Dave and I can join the family for Easter Dinner. I hope you have a wonderful Easter too.

Happy Easter Deborah and happy new thread. We are currently reading the same book. We Begin at the End. Happy April reading!

Happy Easter, Deborah. Enjoy your holiday dinner. It looks like we are at the same place in We Begin at the End. Like you, I should be able to read a nice chunk today before Matt and Hannah come over.

>32 Kristelh: Thanks Kristel! Happy April Reading to you too!

>33 msf59: I hope you had a nice time with your family yesterday. I am on about page 179 of We Begin At the End right now. It's very interesting and I wonder what actually happened to Star. I don't think we know for certain.

Updated Women's Prize for Fiction that I have Read so far

Would like to see on the short list

The Benefactors by Wendy Erskine
A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing
Dominion by Addie E. Critchens

Fine if on the shortlist

The Correspondent By Virginia Evans
The Best of Everything by Kit De Waal

Would not like on the shortlist

Flashlight by Susan Choi
Audition by Katie Kitamura
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

to read -

I own a copy of The Others by Sheena Kalayil
and have Gloria Don't Speak byi Lucy Apps on my kindle.

I'm not sure which of the rest I will read.

Hello Deborah. I just got Dominion from my holds yesterday. Now to get it read.

My hold for A Beast Slinks… is “several months” out. I’m 24th in line.

I agree about Wild Dark Shore.

I will be reading A Gaurdian and a Thief (that is on the list?)

>12 vancouverdeb: That one is already in the BlackHole or I would be adding it again. Thanks for your thoughts on the book, Deborah!

Happy new-ish thread! Have a terrific Tuesday!

Happy newish thread! Love the topper and the book quote.

Hope you had a nice holiday.

>36 Kristelh: I hope you enjoy Dominion, Kristel. I did. Wow, 24 holds ahead of you for A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing. That's a lot . I checked my library just now and no holds and just one copy.

>37 alcottacre: I think you'll find The Benefactors very interesting, Stasia.I did have a nice day, sunny and warm and good walk .

>38 witchyrichy: Thanks Karen! I did have a nice Easter thanks. I hope you did too.

You're doing so well with the long list, Deborah. I think it was you who inspired me to hunt for A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing between your post and the title, I had to have a look for the book. I'm second in the hold line at a library that has the book on order.

>40 Familyhistorian: I am always eager to read the Women's Prize Longlist, Meg, and this year has been quite rewarding. I hope you enjoy A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing. My library in Richmond,just one copy, no holds at the moment.

I am starting A Guardian and a Thief, then Moderation, and then Dominion.

You are doing well with the longlist, Deborah. I loved Wild Dark Shore and wouldn't mind seeing it on the shortlist. I did like Dominion, too. A Guardian and a Thief is amazing, but tough to read, pretty harrowing.

>41 vancouverdeb: Nice that the books on the list are good reads for the most part, Deborah. The Coquitlam library has one copy of A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing on order and I'm second in the hold line. It might take a while but I think I have enough books to keep me busy while I wait.

Happy Friday, Deborah. I am sure you finished WBATE. I wrapped it up on Wednesday and still working on my mini-review. Short version- I really enjoyed it.

I've started Moderation now. Interesting...

Hi Deb my dear, Happy New Thread, dear friend.

>42 Kristelh: That is a great lineup of books, Kristel. I hope you like /enjoy them or at least most of them.

>43 BLBera: Thanks Beth. I am trying to read quite a few books from the longlist. I wasn't going to read A Guardian and a Thief, but I think you and other have liked it, so I may give it a try.

>44 Familyhistorian: For the most part, the books on the Women's Prize Longlist have been good, even great, but I have not enjoyed Wild Dark Shore or Flashlight much. I hope you get A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing, Meg.

>45 msf59: Yes, I did like We Begin at the End,Mark, and like you, have yet to cook up a mini review. Happy Saturday, Mark.

>46 Kristelh: I can't wait to hear your thoughts on Moderation, Kristel.

>47 johnsimpson: Hi John! Thanks for stopping by with the new thread wishes.

We Begin at the End by Chris Whittaker 3.5 stars

The novel takes place in small town America. Star is the troubled mother to feisty Duchess and younger son Robin. Duchess and her brother have a hard life, and Duchess is largely the mother to six year old Robin. When Vincent King, Star's former boyfriend , is released from prison, tragedy soon strikes. Walk, Sheriff Walker , grew up with Vincent and Star and tries to protect to protect both as well as Duchess and Robin. Walk is suffering from an illness and and popping pills to get through the day.

A coming of age story and a mystery.

>50 vancouverdeb: It still fails to appeal to me as a reader, though your response makes me think there *is* a reason people want to read the story.

Sunday orisons, Deborah!

Good review of WBATE. I just posted my review too. I am glad you were able to join us for this shared read. I think most of us were happy with it.

Happy Sunday, Deborah.

Happy Sunday Deborah. I started Dominion today.

>51 richardderus: Well, we can't all like the same book, Richard. No problem. Happy Monday to you!

>52 msf59: I was glad I joined the group read of We Begin at The End, Mark. Thanks for hosting it.

>53 Kristelh: Happy Sunday, Kristel. I hope you enjoy Dominion. I did.

>50 vancouverdeb: Nice review, Deborah. I've been distracted by other books but need to finish the last part of We Begin at the End. My review should be soon, I hope.

>35 vancouverdeb: Hello Deborah. i love seeing your updates about the Women's Prize longlist reads. Have you read more?

>55 Familyhistorian: I hope you have been able to finish We Begin at the End, Meg. It's easy to get distracted.

>56 mdoris: Thanks Mary. I decided I needed a break from the Women's Prize Longlist, so I read two different books, but am now about 1/2 through A Guardian and a Thief, so I should finish that in a day or two. The short list announcement is April 22, so not long now!

Bookish by Lucy Mangan 4 stars

A book about books for people who love books. The author is a book lover , and details her life from student, to bookseller and eventually a journalist, as well as a mother and a wife. Most of us will be able to recognize ourselves , as book buyers , hoarders, loving reading and our favourite titles. I picked up several new titles to explore as I read the book.

Recommended.

Impostor: An Alexander Gregory Thriller (The Alexander Gregory Thrillers) by LJ Ross 4 stars

The first in a new to me series, an Alexander Gregory thriller. This and other series by the author were released years ago in the UK, and now are being slowly released in North America.

Alexander Gregory is psychologist who works at a high security psychiatric hospital. When a woman is found dead in small town Ireland, Gregory is asked by the mayor to assist the local garda in profiling the the killer. Unfortunately, the dead woman is the first in a series of suspicious deaths. Fast paced, and gripping, I look very forward to the next in the series.

Highly recommended.

Bookish sounds like one I would love, Deborah.

<58 I really loved Bookish

> 60 Bookish is very popular here on LT , Beth and I have no doubt you would enjoy it.

>61 SandDune: I am glad you loved Bookish too, Rhian.

>58 vancouverdeb: I hadn’t heard of Bookish, Deborah. I need to check it out!

>63 Copperskye: I think you will enjoy Bookish, Joanne! Let me know.

My order of preference for the Women's Prize for Fiction so far
Ii hope these are on the shortlist.

A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing
The Benefactors
Dominion

Fine if on the short list

The Correspondent
The Best of Everything

Not keen about these on the shortlist

A Guardian and A Thief
Flashlight
Wild Dark Shore
Audition

>50 vancouverdeb: I liked that one a bit better than you did, Deborah. I very much enjoyed the character of Duchess.

>58 vancouverdeb: I am glad to see you liked that one. I did as well.

>59 vancouverdeb: Adding that one to the BlackHole despite the fact that I do not need to start another series, lol. Thanks for the review and recommendation, Deborah!

>65 vancouverdeb: I have not read much off the longlist as my local library does not help me out there. However, I loved The Correspondent and did not much care for A Guardian and A Thief - pretty much the same as you.

Have a wonderful Wednesday, Deborah!

>65 vancouverdeb: Interesting list, just waiting to see what makes it, Deborah.

>66 alcottacre: Glad you enjoyed We Begin at the End more than I did, Stasia. Bookish was very good and has lead me to my current read by Jane Casey. At least you have read The Correspondent which so many of us on LT have enjoyed. My library also does not have quite a few of the longlist and shortlist, though I have found quite a few.

Have a great day, Stasia.

>67 charl08: I watched the Shortlist announcement at 6 am my time, Charlotte. A mostly surprisingly list. At least I have already read Flashlight.

Women's Prize for Fiction Shortlist 2026

Flashlight by Susan Choi
Dominion by Addie E. Citchens
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
The Mercy Step by Marcia Hutchinson
KingFisher by Rozie Kelly
Heart The Lover by Lily King

I have read Flashlight , Dominion and The Correspondent. I had hoped that Dominion would be on the shortlist. I am disappointed that The Benefactors did not make the shortlist.

Hello Deborah, Who knows the criteria for selection for the short list! You have done very well reading so many from the longlist and although disappointed with some that did not make the shorter list, we vote YOU to be a judge next year!

Hi Deborah: I've read Dominion, Heart the Lover and The Correspondent. I was sorry that Moderation didn't make the list. I will try to get to the ones I haven't read yet.

>68 vancouverdeb: 6am is super keen, Deborah.

I would skip Kingfisher, I think.

I’ve read 3 of them. I might get 1 or 2 more read before the winner is announce.

>69 vancouverdeb: Of the list I have four of them and have read only The Correspondent which I really liked but maybe not quite as unreservedly as some did. A couple of the picks surprise me and I am a little pleased to see that Audition didn't quite make the cut as the whole thing was calculated to baffle.

I am currently reading The Others which didn't make the shortlist either and which I think is a tremendous novel. Proper good old fashioned storytelling.

>71 mdoris: You are too kind, Mary, suggesting I judge the next Women's Prize for Literature. What they are looking for, I don't know. I was surprised that neither climate fiction book made the list, not that I enjoyed either one.

>72 BLBera: Like you, Beth, I hope to read the three that I have not read from the shortlist. I will have to order two of the books from the UK.

>73 charl08: Yes, Charlotte, I am keen. But I think you have read the entire longlist , which is very keen indeed. I have read 9 from the long list, I think. I'll keep your advice re Kingfisher in mind.

>74 Kristelh: Like you, Kristel, I have read three from the longlist and I will try to read the other three.

>75 PaulCranswick: I agree, Paul, I am glad that Audition did not make the shortlist. It made not a lot of sense to me either. I did purchase The Others, but have not yet read it. Sounds like a good one.

Too bad more of the ones you were more keen to see on the shortlist didn't make it, Deborah. I'm still waiting on my hold for A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing.

Imposter looks interesting.

Sweet Thursday, Deborah. Have a great time with the M & Ms tomorrow. I enjoyed my time with Jack on Tuesday.

>78 Familyhistorian: I agree, Meg. It would have liked more books on the shortlist that I was keen on. I hope you enjoy A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing when you finally get it. I am quite sure you would like Imposter.

>79 msf59: Thanks Mark. We did have fun with the M and M's last night. Played indoor soccer, ate dinner together, read a book or two with Miles and they showed us some of their Lego. I am glad you had fun with Jack .

>80 vancouverdeb: I just picked A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing from the library today, Deborah. Haven't cracked the covers yet though. I have a feeling that I might have too many library books waiting to be read right now. Will see how I make out.

>81 Familyhistorian: I hope you enjoy A Beast Slinks toward Beijing, Meg, if you get a chance to read it right now. I saw in on the shelves of my library yesterday when I was there.

The Close by Jane Casey 3.5 stars

This was a book I enjoyed. A mystery that takes place on Jellicoe Close in the UK. Maeve and Josh are police officers who are tasked with posing a couple as they move onto the Close. They are there to watch a specific house. In the meantime they get to know the neighbours, and it seems there is a ruthless criminal in their midst. The drawback for me in the novel is the possible romance between Maeve and Josh, which took up a bit too much time. Still, I will read more in this series

Heart the Lover by Lily King 2.5 stars

I know many people enjoyed this book, but I did not. I read it because it is on the Women's Prize for Fiction Shortlist for 2026.

In part one, I felt like a was reading a young adult novel about college romance. Generally, romance is not a genre I enjoy reading , and this was no exception. Later , our main protagonist is married and spends time with a former boyfriend as he is dying of cancer and meanwhile her young son is awaiting life saving surgery. This was over the top for me. I felt the characters were thinly drawn and the author tried to hard to create drama and " tug at my heartstrings".

>84 vancouverdeb: You rated Heart the Lover lower than I did, and I agree with everything you say - though my tolerance for romance is higher. I only finished it because it was for the RL book club.

>85 quondame: I would have DNF'd it had it not been on the Women's Prize Shorlist, Susan . At least it was blessedly short . Thanks for agreeing with my take on the book. I usually kind of bad giving a book a bad rating when so many have loved it.

>84 vancouverdeb:. Oh, my. thanks for that review. I have it on my list to read next month. Maybe I will skip that one.

>87 Kristelh: You might enjoy Heart the Lover as so many did, Kristel. But I didn't . I am still going to read Kingfisher from the shortlist, though Charlotte advised skipping it. It's only 224 pages, so I think I can get through it, good or bad . I also plan to read The Mercy Step though it will be awhile until I get to that one. I ordered it from Blackwell's in the UK and I am waiting until it comes out in paperback, which I think is tomorrow and it will be another 2 - 3 weeks shipping time.

Hear the Lover will be available in 2 weeks and The Mercy Step is 12 weeks so it will be awhile before I can get to that one.

>82 vancouverdeb: I've started A Beast Slinks Towards Beijing, Deborah. I'm just in the beginning chapters so far but Ba's alcoholism has put me off a bit.

>84 vancouverdeb: I didn't even make it through the sample...it's a supersaccharine sentimental slop-bucket of clichés. I know you weren't excited by The Correspondent but if we're going down the clichéd heartstring-tugging road Sybil is a much more fun guide to the unsurprising ending.

Stay well! Being ill stinks.

I enjoyed Heart the Lover more than you did, Deborah, but I loved Writers & Lovers and thought the new one did a good job of the before and after. I did love Cassie.

>84 vancouverdeb:, >91 richardderus:. Duly warned. Thank you both for taking one for the team.

>89 Kristelh: At least your library has The Mercy Step, Kristel. As far as I know, mine does not.

>90 Familyhistorian: Ihope The Beast Slinks Towards Beijing turns out to be a decent read for you, Meg. I really enjoyed it, but we are all different in our tastes.

>91 richardderus: I agree, Richard, Heart the Lover was very saccharine bucket of cliches. Well said. I did actually like The Correspondent, I think I gave it 4 stars . Thanks for the well wishes, Richard. So far so good, but my husband is having some heart issues. We aren't entirely sure what it is, but he has gone for an EKG, and Holter Monitor and had an echo cardiogram this week. It is maybe some sort of electrical conduction problem in his heart. I hope we will hear more from the doctor soon. Ironically , he is very slim, exercises every day, so , bad luck or genetics?

>92 BLBera: I think most people enjoyed Heart the Lover more than me, Beth. I am glad you enjoyed both of her books.

>93 RebaRelishesReading: Thanks Reba!

Hi Deborah. I'm sorry to read about Dave's health issues. I hope they're able to get to the bottom of it soon so he can be treated and you will both have peace of mind.

Good day Deborah. Sorry that Dave is having some health concerns. Have a good weekend.

>95 vancouverdeb: Oh, I mistook your ranking of The Correspondent as a potential prize-winner for overall appreciation. Silly me for not checking a little deeper.

I hope the issue with Dave's heart is identified and resolved to his lasting benefit very soon. Stay well!

Good luck to Dave. I hope there is nothing serious wrong.

>95 vancouverdeb: Peace to Both of You and a Quick, Safe Recovery to your Husband.

>95 vancouverdeb: Sorry about your husband's heart concerns. Wishing you the best possible outcome from all of the testing.

I hope your husbands heart issues prove trivial. Heart problems are always nerve-wracking for me.

Best wishes to you and Dave for an early and satisfactory outcome!

Heal! Both of you! {{hugs}}

>83 vancouverdeb: I am glad to see that you enjoyed the book in the end. I will have to see if I can locate a copy.

>84 vancouverdeb: It will be interesting to see what I make of that one if and when I get a chance to read it! I enjoyed King's Writers and Lovers.

>95 vancouverdeb: I do hope that there is an answer to your husband's heart issues soon, Deborah!

>96 lauralkeet: Thanks Laura, I think we will know more this week.

>97 Kristelh: Thanks Kristel. We are having warm, sunny weather , so that is nice.

>98 richardderus: Thanks Richard. I 'll have to get over to your thread and see how you are doing.

>99 BLBera: Thanks Beth. I hope so too. We should know more later this week .

>100 m.belljackson: Thank you Marianne.

>101 RebaRelishesReading: Thanks Reba. That's my hope too.

>102 banjo123: I agree, Rhonda. Heart issues are nerve wracking.

>103 quondame: Thanks for the good wishes, Susan

>104 jessibud2: Thanks Shelley.

I have finished Mad Mabel and really loved it. I just have to cook up a review. I have just started KingFisher by Rozie Kelly, and can see why Charlotte suggested I might want to skip it. However, maybe it will improve and prove meaningful ? It's on the Women's Prize Shortlist, so I will keep on. I just don't care for the references to sex that are rather vulgar.

>105 alcottacre: I almost missed you Stasia! That would not do. The Close was a nice , easy read. Sometime those are pleasant. I mean there are some scary bits, but not bad at all. I will be interested in your thoughts on Heart the Lover Stasia, if you get. I also am hoping for a good answer to Dave's heart issues soon. He will get a call from our GP ( family doctor) later this week, and I think we will know a lot more then. The doctor told him to gain some weight. I wish that was my problem!

Hi Deborah, just adding my good wishes for Dave's health news.

I am saying nothing more about Kingfisher(!)

Hi, Deborah! Hope you're having a relaxing, fun weekend.

Sending wishes to Dave for good health news.

Hi Deb my dear, sorry to hear of Dave's heart issues, hope after all the tests there is good news and it is nothing serious. Sending love and hugs to both of you from both of us dear friend.

>111 charl08: Thanks Charlotte. As for Kingfisher, I don't like it that much, but I do prefer it to Audition andHeart the Lover .Then I am going to find something fun and enjoyable to read, I hope.

>112 Storeetllr: Thanks Mary. A relaxing enough weekend. Thanks for the good wishes for Dave.Much appreciated.

>113 johnsimpson: Thanks John, for the good wishes for Dave. I hope it is nothing too serious as well. We should here more this week.

>84 vancouverdeb: Doesn't sound like I'd like it either

>115 The_Hibernator: You likely would not like Heart The Lover, Rachel, but many people did.

Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth 4.5 stars

This was an excellent read. Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick , known as Elsie, was known as Mad Mabel in her childhood. As the story opens, Elsie is living with her close friend, Daphne. She is 81 and cantankerous. When a neighbour turns up dead, in her Melburne suburb, rumours start flying. Is she a murderer or just an old lady ? A young nieghbour , Persephone befriends her.

Gradually her past and many secrets unfold. This was a touching, thoughtful read, with lots of heart and a bit of mystery.

Highly recommended.

Kingfisher by Rozie Kelly 2.5 stars

A creative writing professor who is unnamed throughout the novel , is in a long term relationship with a man named Michael. Our narrator becomes infatuated with a female colleague, a poet, known only to us as " Kingfisher". He seeks to p. 1 " fuck her." Soon he and his long term partner are in a polyamourous relationship.He becomes very focused on the the Kingfisher and his relationship with Michael falters.

We read of his difficult childhood, that still troubles him. When two of the characters become very ill, life becomes very challenging for him

There were moments when I felt for the narrator, but his fixation on sex and he himself were offputting .

>118 vancouverdeb: Looks like that one would be a good one to miss, Deborah. Best of luck for Dave on gaining weight. I hope they come up with some answers for his heart issues.

>110 vancouverdeb: My local library still does not have Heart the Lover so it will be a while yet until I get to it. Thanks for the additional input on The Close! I am glad to hear that your GP will be able to provide some answers for you soon.

>117 vancouverdeb: Adding that one to the BlackHole. Thanks for the review and recommendation, Deborah!

Have a terrific Tuesday!

>118 vancouverdeb: Thanks for taking one for the team, Deborah. I think I can pass on that one.

>118 vancouverdeb: I think there are too many wonderful (and even just good) books out there for this one to tempt me.

>118 vancouverdeb: I really didn't like the way the novel dealt with the poet's cancer and care.

I've reserved Mad Mabel at the library but it's still on order so it may be some time before I get a chance to read it. According to Waterstones it only came out here on the 23rd April, so I should probably be glad they ordered it already!

>118 vancouverdeb:, not a book for me. I will gladly take a pass on that one.

>119 Familyhistorian: Yes, I only read Kingfisher because it was on the Women's Shortlist, Meg. I have one more to read from the short list, and then I will have read all of them.

>120 alcottacre: I think you would like The Close, Stasia, but it's not need to read, just kind of a cozy mystery. I hope you enjoy Heart the Lover when you get it.

>121 lauralkeet: I think you can pass that one too, Laura.

>122 RebaRelishesReading: So true, Reba. I only read it because it was on the Women's Shortlist, though I heard some prominent booktubers liked it, but not me.

>123 charl08: That would hit close to home, Charlotte. My dad passed of cancer 19 years ago , so it was easier for me to read, not that my family didn't have complaints about his care at home when he was palliative. My mom said she later got an apology from the palliative care team that helped him at home. They were pretty blunt when the spoke with my dad and family initially. Mad Mabel was excellent. I was lucky to see it on the it on the new books shelf at the library. I hope you enjoy it.

>124 Kristelh: Yes, Kristel, a book to skip. As I mentioned, I read only because it was on the Women's Shortlist, though Charlotte warned me about it.

So, Dave spoke with our GP yesterday. We didn't find out a lot more , other than he has a very irregular heartbeat, which we knew. The doctor told him he would make a rapid referral to a cardiologist, and I don't know what rapid means. I did read that it usually means 2 - 4 weeks at a clinic in Vancouver, so that is what I have in mind. The doctor said he would usually have started him on a beta blocker, but because he usually has bradycardia, though it does also get to tachycardia each day, he would not prescribe the beta blocker because it would slow his heart rate too much. The doctor told him to start on baby aspirin for now. So I hope we soon hear from a cardiologist soon.

Have you cracked the covers on the last book on the short list yet? Sorry there are no clear answers about what to do about Dave's heart condition. Hopefully rapid means 2 weeks or less, Deborah.

>128 Familyhistorian: I hope it means two weeks, Meg. I am listening for the phone when I am home. Thanks! I just have one more book from the short list to read, The Mercy Step and it's on it's way to me from Blackwell's in the UK, so it will be a couple of weeks until it arrives.

Just now Dave tells me that the doctor told him he has heart block type 2 , and the doctor tells him he hopes to get him into a cardiologist next week . I should talk to the GP myself.

>130 vancouverdeb: Next week is better than 2-4 weeks. Fingers crossed. Are you able to go with Dave to the appointment? It might be useful to be a second pair of ears, and to get information directly from the docs. Keeping you both in my thoughts, Deborah.

Hope he gets to see the cardiologist real soon, Deborah. How does he feel?

You've made a great dent in that Women's list this year. They did seem more accessible than some years.

Good luck with the cardiologist, Deborah. I hope you can go with Dave; an extra set of ears is a great idea.

>127 vancouverdeb: I hope you hear from a cardiologist soon too! The uncertainty would be driving me crazy. I am sorry that you did not get more help from the GP.

>130 vancouverdeb: You should go with him, Deborah! I know that I miss a lot when I go to the doctor and often wish I had someone to go with me and remind me to ask the questions I forget to ask and note the things the doctor says that I miss. I hope he gets to see the cardiologist next week. Early next week. Sending him (and you) healing thoughts.

>131 lauralkeet: Next week would be great, if it actually happens. So far, we have not heard from a cardiologist. Thanks for thinking of us. I plan to go with Dave to the cardiology department when we get an appointment.

>132 Kristelh: Thanks Kristel. He tells me his heart always feels like it is beating irregularly. He says he has palpatations , he gets short of breath when at rest, sometimes lightheaded and very tired. Just one more book to read from the Short List, Kristel. I think I have read 11 books from the Longlist in total.

>133 BLBera: Thanks Beth. I will go with him , once we get an appointment .

>134 alcottacre: The uncertainty is hard to live with, Stasia. I also hope we hear from a cardiologist very soon. I think we did get pretty good help from our GP, but had it been me, I would asked - what cardiologist or clinic are you referring me too and if I don't by Monday, what is my next step.

>135 Storeetllr: Thanks Mary. I also we hear from the cardiologist soon. I plan to with him , yes. Thanks for the healing thoughts.

>127 vancouverdeb: I can imagine the doctor's report was upsetting. Hope you get to see the cardiologist very soon and that there's a good, easy fix for the problem. I'll be thinking about you both.

>136 vancouverdeb: that is worrisome. I will keep him and you in my prayers and thoughts.

>138 RebaRelishesReading: Thanks so much ,Reba. I hope will hear from the cardiologist's office soon too.

>139 Kristelh: It is worrisome , yes, Kristel. I am feeling better than the day I learned information. I guess I am taking it in . Thanks for keeping in your prayers and thoughts.

I'm sorry to read about your husband's heart ailment, Deb. Back in 2008, on a Saturday afternoon when I wasn't working and was relaxing at home after lunch, I suddenly felt my heart race and beat abnormally. I felt my radial pulse, then listened to my heart with my stethoscope, and I knew that something wasn't right, although I didn't know what that something was. I thought that I should get it checked out right away, even though I didn't think it was serious enough to call an ambulance (good idea) or ask one of my friends to bring me to the emergency department of a local hospital (bad idea). I drove myself to the ED, and while I was walking from my car to the front entrance I felt lightheaded but I arrived there without difficulty. When I arrived I told the intake person that I was having an abnormal heart rhythm and chest pain, which wasn't exactly true but saying those two magic words allowed me to be brought to a triage room barely after I had arrived, to the chagrin of people who had already been seated in the waiting area. After a brief examination of my heart I was connected to a 12 lead EKG, and after I asked the nurse to show me the printout I could see what the problem was: atrial fibrillation. I was brought to a bed in the ED, and shortly after I arrived the nurses put in two peripheral IV lines, and after taking a history and physical exam the ED physician started me on a continuous IV medication to convert my heart to a normal sinus rhythm. A couple of hours later my A-fib had not yet resolved, so he arranged for me to be admitted to the hospital's Cardiology service. I eventually did convert to NSR (normal sinus rhythm) while I was in my hospital room late that evening, and once I was weaned off the IV medication and converted to an oral one I was discharged home, on Sunday afternoon or Monday morning.

I mention my experience to suggest that I might have a low threshold to go to an ED if your husband can't be seen by a cardiologist early next week, although needless to say I know nothing about the Canadian healthcare system and if my experience would be applicable or feasible there. The suggestion to take a baby aspirin indicates to me that your husband's condition, perhaps Mobitz type II based on what you said, is associated with intracardiac blood clot formation, as blood which isn't pumped efficiently through the heart can pool in one or more of its chambers. These clots can travel to other parts of the body and cause serious problems, especially if they travel to the lungs or brain. I was also placed on a baby aspirin after my initial diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, but my current cardiologist took me off of it when I first saw him three years ago, because I had not had any episodes of A-fib in several years.

>130 vancouverdeb: It's strange how the message gets mixed up when dealing with health issues. Especially those that aren't your own. Hopefully there will be a connection with a cardiologist early in the coming week, Deborah.

>141 kidzdoc: Thanks Darryl. I appreciate you telling me about your heart issues , and the very good idea of going to the ED. Unfortunately, Dave has a very high - too high, threshold before he will go to ED. About 4 weeks ago, his heart rate was 26- 29 beats a minute , and he was feeling tired, palpation's and short of breath. So I called what is called " Health Link" in BC. It's a free service that puts you into contact with a registered nurse when you call. I spoke to her and then Dave did and she wanted 911 for Dave but he refused. She spoke to me again and advised me to call 911. But Dave told me he would refuse the ambulance, so there was nothing I could do. I have offered multiple times to take him the ER - nearly every day , but he says no. It would expedite his treatment, yes. One of my sons thought he was having a heart attack about 4 years ago, and drove himself to the ER. He was about 32 , slim, fit but they saw him as soon as he walked in, did a EKG, Echo cardiogram and an MRI of his heart. It turned he had either myocarditis or pericarditis, the result of covid plus influenza. They released him about 7- 8 hours later with a referral to cardiologist for follow up. He is was fine and still is.

I thought it might be Mobitz type 11 as well, just looking his EKG - we have a Kardia to check his heart rhythm. I have been desperately trying to crash course understand a bit about EGK's. I mentioned to Dave this evening that I thought it might be Mobitz type 11 , and he said that is was our GP ( PCP) said to him. He will likely need a pacemaker, our GP thinks. The sooner the better, I think. So I very much hope we will hear from a cardiologist on Monday, and if we don't , I may call or GP and ask - when will hear from a cardiologist. The nice part about the Canadian system is that is all free, except you have to pay for parking.

Thanks for you input, Darryl. It helped reassure me and mention the Mobitz type 11 to Dave. He's a stubborn man.

>142 Familyhistorian: Dave told me the information is on a " need to know basis" as far as his heart goes. I think maybe he is processing the information before he shares it with me. I shall certainly go with him to the cardiologist when we get the appointment. Thanks Meg, I do indeed hope will hear early in the week.

This sounds like a very stressful situation for you, Deborah. I wouldn't blame you for calling the GP yourself on Monday. Take care.

Indeed, Deborah, sounds like a very stressful situation. I do hope it resolves soon.

>143 vancouverdeb: You're welcome, Deb. It seems as though your husband's GP also thinks he has Mobitz type II—it's actually type 2 with two I's, and not type 11—heart block, and his very significant bradycardia, with a heart rate below 30 beats per minute would be consistent with it. It's a far more serious condition than atrial fibrillation, and people with it typically require placement of a pacemaker to prevent the development of a complete heart block (type III), which isn't necessary with atrial fibrillation, a far more common and benign condition, especially in older adults like myself. I'm even more convinced that going to an ED ASAP would be the best course of action, but since he refuses to go to an emergency department it may be ideal if a medical professional he trusts, if one even exists, can talk with him face to face and discuss the risks he faces if he can't see a cardiologist early next week.

Last year my closest cousin, who lives in Michigan, confided in me via text messages that she was having fevers and severe abdominal pain, which were so bad that she had to lie perfectly still in bed to remain as comfortable as possible. She had been seen at least twice in emergency departments and was sent home each time. I told her that her symptoms were consistent with a surgical abdomen, especially an intraabdominal infection such as appendicitis that required prompt attention and possibly emergency surgery. She didn't want to go back to the ED again, having been turned away those previous times, so I demanded that she immediately call the husband of her best friend, who also happens to be an hospital medicine physician in Atlanta, to get his opinion. She did so, and he completely agreed with my assessment. Fortunately she took our advice, and after a physical examination she had a STAT CT scan in the ED, which showed that she had an infected and ruptured gallbladder with probable peritonitis, a life threatening condition in which pus forms in the abdominal cavity, in this case from her ruptured gallbladder, and she was was immediately whisked away to the OR for emergency surgery. She required a two week stay in the hospital for a condition that could have been much more easily treated if it had been diagnosed correctly at her onset of symptoms (acute cholecystitis, or an infected gallbladder), and had she waited another day or two at home she could have easily died as a result of septic shock. That's a particularly vivid example of why it can be extremely helpful to have a trusted medical professional, especially a nurse or physician, in your family or group of close friends!

I pray that everything goes well for your husband, you, and your family.

hi Deborah! I hope your husband gets to the hospital and taken care of soon. My wife's family has a history of heart valve problems (luckily she has escaped them so far.) Those that got treatment have done fine. (and her cousins are also in Canada, so the same health system as yours.)

It seems unfair when folks who have a health life-style and look super fit have heart issues, doesn't it?

>145 lauralkeet: Thanks Laura. I think I will wait for Monday to pass , and see if we hear from the cardiologist at all, and if not, call on Tuesday.

>146 Kristelh: Thanks Kristel. I also hope it resolves soon.

>147 kidzdoc: Thanks Darryl . We do have a family member who is a pediatrician, my brother's wife, but I don't think she appreciates being asked medical advice. Dave is well aware of the risks that go with his condition, as am I , but he will do what he deems best . I'm glad you helped out your cousin so much, a much better outcome for her had you not intervened. Thanks for your prayers.

>148 banjo123: Thanks Rhonda. I know what you mean, when people who have healthy lifestyles get heart issues. Dave is 6 ft tall, 150 pounds, exercises every day, does not have high cholesterol, type two diabetes , never smoked etc, yet finds he has heart problems. I suppose their might be some genetics involved, as his mom had a AFib and died of a stroke at age 70. His dad had a pacemaker put it in his late 70's , I believe it was. I am glad your wife has escaped the family history heart valve problems.

Hi Deborah, am thinking of you. I hope you get an update from the GP soon.

Catching up here, Deborah. I am so sorry to hear about your husband's health problems. I hope you have heard from the doctor today. I'll be thinking about you both, and will keep you in my prayers.

Hi Deborah, I hope you heard about next steps for your husband today.

Yes Deborah, I am thinking about you both too!

>151 charl08:
>152 atozgrl:
>153 Familyhistorian:
>154 mdoris:

Thanks Charlotte, Irene , Meg and Mary. I phoned our GP's office today and expressed my concerns. She said she was " chasing the referral " and we did a call from the cardiologist office this afternoon. But unfortunately it was just for a stress test of his heart, and he already has one booked at the local hospital May 27. They were offering June 10. So not quite what I was hoping for, nor Dave. I guess barring him feeling really unwell, we are stuck waiting a while. A friend of mine who is a nurse did tell that if you call 911 and the other person refuses, the paramedics are very assertive , trying to get you to the hospital. But , unless things were bad, I would be reluctant to do that, but I will keep it in mind. Thanks all, for caring so much and your support.

>155 vancouverdeb: Sigh. Sorry to see things aren't moving along more quickly. May 27 seems far away now but time will pass, as it does. I hope Dave continues to feel all right between now and then.

>155 vancouverdeb: Well, rats. I was sure hoping Dave would get into see the cardiologist a lot sooner!

I hope all goes well, Deborah. Take care.

Adding my wishes for some quicker responses for Dave!

Sorry to see that things aren't moving quicker, Deborah.

>155 vancouverdeb: Wishing you all the best for Dave. Sorry dealing with the medical system is being so stressful.

I looked at your original post in >95 vancouverdeb:, and saw that Dave has already had an EKG, Holter monitor and a cardiac ultrasound. I was going to suggest asking your GP if an ambulatory Holter monitor could be ordered, but now that that box has been checked a stress test would seem to be the logical next step. The only other thing I can think of would be to have him added to the cardiologist's and hospital's cancellation lists, as in my experience it's not uncommon that a patient calls to cancel an appointment, and another patient can take that opened time slot.

>155 vancouverdeb: >157 alcottacre: Stasia said exactly what I was thinking. I certainly hope that Dave continues to do well until he can get in to be seen. Wishing the best for you both!

Adding to those wishes, Deborah. Waiting can be so stressfull! But you’ll get there.

Deb, I am so very sorry that your husband is experiencing heart issues. I sincerely hope that he can get the care he needs and deserves. I'll be checking back to see if there is progress. In the meantime, I'm praying, and thinking of both of you..sending love!

I’m so sorry you and Dave are going through this, Deborah. It’s the waiting and not knowing that’s the hardest now. As doc said above, maybe asking to be placed on a cancellation list would speed things along.

My husband had a heart attack about 20 years ago, out of the blue. Luckily, after having a couple stents placed, he’s had no recurrence of any heart issues.

Will be thinking all good thoughts for you both!

Thinking about you and Dave. Wishing you a happy Victoria day.

Just to let you know our family doctor advised Dave to go to Emergency today, and I dropped him off . I can’t leave our dog alone, so I have arranged over night boarding at her doggy day care. Dave is doing okay, at least we have his care in action . I will go back to the hospital once I have her at doggy daycare/ boarding.

Good move, Deb. Action is better than waiting. Keep us posted

>168 vancouverdeb: I’m glad to see Dave is starting to get the care he needs, and that you’re able to board Muffin so you can be with him. Take care.

Let’s hope you all get some answers soon, Deborah.

>168 vancouverdeb: That is good news. Hopefully the physician(s) who see Dave were made aware in advance of the reason why he was referred there, particularly the ED physician and the cardiologist on call, so that he isn't sent home if his EKG is somehow read as normal.

It's good to know Dave's getting care and co-operating in his treatment. It's so scary when you know you're coming up on a deadline but are prevented from acting.

Good for your doctor! Glad Dave is getting the care he needs!

Wonderful that Dave is finally receiving needed care. What a wonderful relief this must be for all! Good luck to both of you.

Thanks so much to each of your for your kindness and support. It means so much to me. I'll try to get back to each of you when time allows.

Dave was admitted to our local hospital to the cardiac telemetry unit today . As best I know, he will be released tomorrow. He will have the stress test at the hospital tomorrow . I'll let you know more when I know .

Thanks again to each you.

Thanks Deborah for keeping us posted. Thoughts and prayers.

>176 vancouverdeb: Thanks for the update, Deborah. I hope all goes well and that you get the answers you need.

Bravos to your husband's GP for recommending that he go to the Emergency Department yesterday, and to the inpatient Cardiology team for arranging and prioritizing his stress test. This must be a huge relief to each of you!

Hi Deb my dear, so glad that the GP recommended he go to the emergency department and that they are prioritizing his stress test, this must be a great relief to both of you. Hopefully more information will be garnered and then they can make a plan for what they need to do for Dave to make sure everything is sorted out medically. Sending love and hugs to both you and Dave from both of us my dear friend.

Good to see that there has been some action about Dave's health. Be prepared that they might want to keep him in the cardiac until for longer.

Quick update: Dave is spending another night in hospital. At 7:30 am this morning, he will have the stress test. I expect he will need a pacemaker, and I expect he be in hospital until they can insert the pacemaker. I’ll know more later today when I visit him in the afternoon. Thanks, everyone, for your care and good wishes.

It sounds like Dave is in good hands, Deborah. Noting the timestamp on your post, I hope you're able to rest and recharge in the midst of all this.

Thanks for the update, Deborah.

Thinking of you both today, Deborah!

Thank you for letting us know. I had to open L.T. first thing this morning to find out how you are both doing! So happy that Dave is getting the care he needs.

>186 mdoris: I had to open L.T. first thing this morning
Me too! I don't think we're alone in that.

Deborah, thanks so much for taking a minute or two to check in.

>168 vancouverdeb: Glad to hear you've been able to get Dave into the system. Sending prayers and good wishes to you both for a swift, good outcome.

Good to see that there is progress being made at the hospital, Deborah.

Thanks for the update, Deborah. So glad that Dave is getting the help that he needs. Thoughts and prayers!

>182 vancouverdeb: I am so glad to hear that Dave is finally getting the medical care that he needs. It must be a huge relief to you. I'm keeping you both in my prayers.

Hoping that all is going well with Dave. Thanks for the update.

Dear Deb, This is a lot of stress to go through, yet, to receive good news about Dave's admittance in the hospital and care he is receiving must be ever so relieving.

Thanks for taking time to keep us updated regarding the progress, and to know we care deeply for you and Dave.

My former husband had a pace maker. It was literally, a life saver.

All good wishes for continued progress and healing.

Thanks everyone for your care and thoughts. I am just home from the nightly dog walk. I saw Dave today, he had a nuclear heart stress test. So far, we don't know much about what will happen. The cardiologist will see him tomorrow, and I hope we will know more. The food is not enough, Dave has lost 9 lbs in 2 days , seems impossible. He is 6 ft and started at 150 lbs. I wish I could lose weight like that! I am taking him food to eat.

Thanks again.

Fingers greatly crossed Deborah that the cardiologist comes up with a great plan for Dave today. Thinking of you and Dave and family! You are very good to keep us up to date!

>194 vancouverdeb: I hope all goes well and you get some answers, Deborah.

I am just getting caught up after a busy few weeks. Sorry to hear about Dave. It sounds like he is getting good care although the weight loss is a bit concerning. Glad you are getting him some food.

My father got a pacemaker some years ago and it made a world of difference to him.

Sending lots of love and healing energy your way.

Thinking of you and Dave and sending good vibes your way.

>194 vancouverdeb: The food issues are frustrating since doctors want patients to be a healthy weight for their operations but it's hard to maintain on a hospital diet. Take care of yourself, Deborah. It's a lot of work being the outside carer for someone in hospital.

Thanks every one . Sorry I can't return individual replies , I am just setting off to hospital to see Dave now. Just got word they will put a pacemaker in the week. I am so relieved! Thanks again!

Deborah, that is the best news. Hope Dave is feeling okay!

That’s great news Deborah!

>200 vancouverdeb: I am so glad to hear that! I hope Dave doesn't lose any more weight. Don't forget to take care of yourself too.

Dave is getting a pacemaker this Tuesday!

Yay for the pacemaker! I hope you both can now relax a bit which will be good for both of your hearts.

I'm so glad to hear that Dave's health problems are receiving attention and I hope the pacemaker will improve things - for both of you!

>204 vancouverdeb: Fabulous news! I'm very happy for both of you.

>200 vancouverdeb: That's great news, Deborah. Fingers crossed that you will soon be back to normal.

>204 vancouverdeb: That's great news, Deborah! Hopefully your husband will be able to go home within a day or two after the pacemaker is placed.

So glad to hear this, Deborah. I have been thinking of you so you can take care of Dave.

Good news, Deborah! Glad things get back to the good new normal quickly.

Good news Deborah. My youngest brother has a device a bit like a pacemaker for his heart. Once the operation was done it never bothered him anymore. Wishing Dave a similar experience.

So glad to hear the updates re Dave's treatment.

Great news indeed! My sister has had a pacemaker for many years, and it has worked fine for her. I hope Dave will be able to go home soon after the operation. And I hope they feed him better in the meantime.

Sounds like things are moving quickly. Dave will be home before you know it, Deborah.

It is wonderful that you were able to get good care for Dave in the hospital. Pace makers are remarkable. All the best to you and Dave, This very loving group cares a lot. Thanks for taking time to keep us posted. Much Love!

I am so glad to hear that the pacemaker will be in soon and that hopefully Dave will be feeling much better soon!

((Hugs)) and hopes that you get the rest you need!

Sounds like things are going well for you and Dave -- so happy to hear that.

Whew!

>204 vancouverdeb: Excellent news! I'm getting home from the weekend in hospital after a TIA with a clean bill of health. Dave now needs to do the same!

Another update

Dave was discharged from the hospital at 4 pm on Sunday. We got a call from the cardiologist this morning to tell him to go back to Emergency tomorrow morning to get readmitted. Apparently the internal medicine doctor felt that pacemaker was not that urgent and could be done this week or next . However the cardiologist feels it is urgent and thus the re admission. I'm not sure when he will get the pacemaker, but I hoping this Wednesday. It is frustrating, but at least Dave got to sleep in his own bed for two nights and get fed properly. I hope have something definite soon.

>221 vancouverdeb: Now that does sound frustrating, Deborah. It all depends on who you see what they feel is the correct procedure to follow.

Deborah I am so sorry there is this hitch in the management. You are on a roller coaster ride and this just adds to the challenge. I don't really understand how the internal medicine doctor trumps the cardiologist's medical opinions.

>221 vancouverdeb: Argh. That is frustrating, and IMO inexcusable by the internal medicine physician. From what you said it would seem as though that doctor either made a unilateral decision to discharge your husband on Sunday, or the weekend cardiologist agreed with that decision without discussing Dave's case with the cardiologist who saw him during the week. During my career as an inpatient pediatrician I would often manage patients alongside specialists, and it was vitally important for me to coordinate care with these specialists and with the child's primary care pediatrician during the hospitalization and especially at the time of discharge. I hope that this mismanagement doesn't adversely affect your husband's care or the timing of his pacemaker surgery.

Of course, I missed this alarming news, Deborah. I am so sorry to hear about Dave's health issues. It sounds like you both are getting the attention you need. Good luck with the pacemaker. I hope that happens tomorrow. Give Dave all our best. 🙏🙏

>221 vancouverdeb: Well that's frustrating. I'm glad you can see the silver lining of Dave being at home. I hope he gets the pacemaker tomorrow.

>222 Familyhistorian: Thanks for the update, Deb.

Keeping both Dave and yourself in my thoughts and prayers and I hope his procedure goes smoothly tomorrow. xx

Just dropping in to say hello and catch up!

>221 vancouverdeb: How frustrating! I hope Dave gets the pacemaker soon. My cousin received one five years ago and has noticed a good change in her energy levels.

Frustrating. And evidence of poor communication between the internal medicine and the cardiologist. Glad the cardiologist was able to intervene and I hope that pacemaker is done soon.

Since when does an internist overrule a cardiologist? Bummer.

Unless, of course, it was Dave who questioned the necessity.

>230 ffortsa: The admitting physician, whether an internist/pediatrician, a cardiologist or another specialist, is the one who decides when a patient gets discharged. If the weekend cardiologist disagreed with the internist's decision he could accept the patient on to his service, and the internist could either sign off or serve as a consultant to the cardiologist. For example if I admitted a patient to my service with abdominal pain and emesis who was later found to have appendicitis or another problem that required surgery the surgeon would typically take over the case, and tell me if he wanted me to stay involved if there were nonsurgical issues that he wanted me to help manage. That scenario happened to me not infrequently during my career, and vice versa, in the case of a child who was initially admitted to the Surgery service who was subsequently found to have a nonsurgical problem.

>221 vancouverdeb: Oh dear!! Must be distressing to have the doctors not agreeing on treatment!. I would definitely expect the Internal Medicine doc to defer to the Cardiology in this case. Hope they get it sorted out soon.

Checking in and hoping things start to go more smoothly this week, Deborah!

>221 vancouverdeb: Oh, no, not another disruption in Dave's care! I certainly hope the pacemaker is done soon, so you don't have to keep going through all of this. I am glad Dave could be home to get better sleep and food. Hang in there!

What a stressful time, Deborah. Thank goodness for that cardiologist; it seems like they really care.

Thanks everyone. Dave will get his pacemaker Thursday morning, and home on Friday.

Thanks again.

>236 vancouverdeb: Good to see that's all be straightened out, Deborah!

>237 Familyhistorian: Me too, Meg. He was re admitted this morning. A big relief!

>238 vancouverdeb: Oh good, so he'll be there for the procedure and then home the next day and back to regular food!

(((((((HUGS))))))))
for both of you

Hoping that Dave's pacemaker placement takes place today!

>236 vancouverdeb: Great!

Glad things are back on track. Hope all continues to go well! Will be thinking about you both tomorrow morning.

Hello Deborah., I am so pleased that Dave was re-admitted today so they can keep their eyes on him! Will be thinking of you both tomorrow and hoping all goes very well. It will be very nice when the surgery is over and Dave is back home! xx Hope you are doing well! I know it has been a challenging week!

All the best for tomorrow, Deb. By the weekend, this nightmare will be behind you both.

I hope everything goes smooth for Dave tomorrow. 🙏🙏

Sending all good wishes, Deborah and Dave. We’ll all be thinking of you tomorrow.

Hope everything goes without a hitch tomorrow, Deborah.

Deb, I just read that Sir David Attenborough had a pacemaker put in in 2013. He just a few weeks ago turned 100!

Pacemakers are fairly standard now, so I hope it clears up whatever is awry with Dave.

Thanks everyone. I am just waiting to hear from Dave . I will be up to visit him at the hospital this afternoon. He’s supposed to be home on Friday.

Hooray for the pacemaker! They are a miracle.

Deborah, you are so good to keep us posted about Dave and his surgery. Hope all went well and you can start breathing yourself too!

Good to hear from you Deborah. I am sure you'll be feeling much better now. How has Muffin been doing though all this?

I hope Dave is in good spirits and raring to get back to regular food.

I'm so happy to see you're close to having Dave home with you again!

Hoping that Dave is home with you soon, Deborah!

Thanks again for your caring and good wishes. Dave is coming home this afternoon. The pacemaker was successfully installed. The cardiac surgeon believes the arrhythmia is / was Mobitz II. He will start on a beta blocker today at the hospital. I'm not sure I am going to get much reading done in the next while, between walking the dog and looking after " The Patient". I've been fortunate that Muffin's doggy daycare has been taking her 3 hours a day , so I could up to visit Dave each day.

That's wonderful news!! Enjoy your reunion with "the patient." I'm sure he'll be very happy to be in your care.

>258 vancouverdeb: Thanks for updating us, Deborah. It sounds like good news. I hope Dave recovers quickly.

>258 vancouverdeb: I am so happy for you that the procedure is done and Dave is coming home. I hope for a quick recovery for him, and rest time for you as well. Thank goodness for doggy daycare.

Wishing you both a relaxing, uneventful weekend, Deb.

Glad to hear that the implant was successful and Dave will come home and the family will all be back at home.

What everyone else has said!

Glad to hear the great news, Deborah. Good luck on the caretaking.

So great that Dave is coming home today and the surgery was a success.. I was wondering how you were juggling Muffin and the patient but it sounds like you did it perfectly. i have been on beta blockers for years and all good!

Great that the operation is done, and Dave can go home. How is he feeling about it all?

Nice to see that Dave will be home soon. Hopefully he'll be up to taking walks again soon and can return to some of the Muffin duty. Take care of yourself too, Deborah!

Glad to hear things are going well, Deborah!

>258 vancouverdeb: Delighted to see that Dave's procedure went well and that he's home. Wishing him a speedy recovery and that you and Muffin are restored to your normal lives soon.

Hi Deborah. I've been mostly away from the threads since January and am slowly catching up. I had to skip your second thread and skimmed through this one. I'm glad to see I missed the bad news about Dave and am just in time for the good news. Wishing him a speedy and full recovery.

Great news! Hope Dave will be a "good" patient...

Wishing Dave all the best for his recovery!

Great that Dave is home! Hope all is going well.

Hi Deb. I hope Dave's return home went smoothly and that you both had a restorative weekend.

Sending healing thoughts to Dave and hope that you both had a restful recuperative weekend.

Currently reading A Far-flung Life: A Noveland finding it fascinating. Finished Moonlight Murder and enjoyed it. Dave is doing well. He feels 40 years younger since he had the pacemaker put in. He's walking a lot, sometimes joining me on the dog walks. I am not finding myself with a lot of time as I walk Muffin for 30 minutes in the am, anther hour plus in the afternoon and another hour in the evening. Dave can't walk the dog by himself for about a month until the incision from the pacemaker is fully healed. He can't drive as yet, likely after this Friday , when he sees the cardiologist. He's not taking any medication, but perhaps he will after he sees the doctor this Friday. I hope eventually to get back on LT more fully .

It sounds like Dave is progressing well and it is good that there is an end in sight to you being the sole dog walker and driver, Deborah. Hang in there!

That’s great news, Deborah!

>277 vancouverdeb: Thanks for the update, Deb. Pleased and relieved that Dave is doing so well.

Hello Deborah, Such excellent news about Dave. Very pleased!

>277 vancouverdeb: Every development since Pacemaker Day has been positive, which eases All our minds. I *know* it eases y'all's minds. Maybe sub in that date for a birthday, kind of a rebirth day? I hope this trend is permanent for you both.

Hooray for a healthier Dave and starting A Far-Flung Life. As you know, I really enjoyed that one and will start her first novel The Light Between the Oceans in the beginning of June.

>277 vancouverdeb: It's great to hear Dave is doing so well, Deborah. It has to be a huge load off both of your minds. I love that he's able to join you on walks.

>277 vancouverdeb: Great news about Dave's progress!! You'll both enjoy his new-found energy I'm sure.

Great news for Dave!

Thanks for the update, Deborah. Sounds like things are going well.

>277 vancouverdeb: This is wonderful news! I'm so glad to hear that Dave feels so well and is able to walk a lot.

Don't feel obligated to be here when you have so much on your plate. Just drop in when you can.

I finished A Far-Flung Life: A Novel by M.LStedman and it was sad, overall, but also excellent. Highly recommended.

Thanks everyone, for your good wishes. As I mentioned, I am finding little time to get on LT. I think I'll pop around a few threads. I hope I can get around to starting a new thread soon.

Thanks for the update, Deborah. You and your husband will remain in my prayers.

Best of luck squeezing in the time to set up a new thread, Deborah. I hope that some of your chores are becoming more routine now and feel less onerous.

Hope today is a good day, Deborah!!

Hi Deborah. I've been following your thread and the news of Dave. I'm glad that he was able to get back in the hospital and have the pacemaker installed. All good wishes to both of you!

And, a huge thanks to Darryl for all his guidance throughout this procedure. Darryl, we are so glad you are an integral part of this group!

>293 Whisper1: Thanks, Linda! I'm glad that I could be helpful.

>277 vancouverdeb: Great news! I'm so happy for you two!

>277 vancouverdeb: Great news about Dave, Yay! Maybe we can both get back on LT a little bit more now. : )

>Thanks everyone for your help and good wishes! I finally have time to start a new thread! Muffin is doggy day care, and a couple of more weeks until Dave can walk the dog again , and then things will get back to normal! I have missed being on the threads. This feels good! Yes!

Please follow me to my new thread.