Maintenance #2

I saw my consultant this week and all seems well.  In May I had received the excellent news that my paraprotein had reduced from 8 to 4. It has further reduced to 3.  This indicates that I am responding positively to treatment.  At this latest clinic, my general blood test results also showed a general recovery (having been previously influenced by the intensity if treatment during stem cell transplant in December and subsequent consolidation cycles).  Also one by one, the side effects of consolidation are wearing off.

As mentioned in my last post, I was also subject to yet another bone marrow biopsy.  It seems that on two occasions since my last clinic, I had been allocated appointments but nobody had told me!  Accordingly I was "treated" to the procedure after the clinic !

Also as mentioned in my last post, age has rather caught up with me.  In the run up to my 70th birthday I was retired from the Magistracy.  At my last day in court, one of the Deputy Bench Chairmen said nice things about me and presented me with this paperweight.

Recognising service in Bristol Magistrates Court, it is made from Bristol Blue Glass.

I should perhaps explain my relatively short service.  Having been previously employed by the local police, there was a period of two years before I could be appointed.



On the weekend of my birthday, my two sons, my daughter-in-law, my grandson, and my favourite dog all joined Margaret and I for a grand "Ken".  (Australians refer to barbecues as a "barbie" so it only seems right to call ours as "Ken").  On the Sunday Margaret and I went out for a slap up restaurant meal.  All in all a great weekend.

I'm now actively looking for another role to keep me busy.  In the meantime my Mazda MX5 (see my August 2018 post, and named Brabinger), which is something of a hobby, has passed its MOT but now requires yet more work.

When purchased, the car did not come with any maintenance records.  Accordingly I don't know if (or when) the camshaft timing belt was changed.   Looking at this image, you will see that the engine is surrounded with pipes and wires, making the task somewhat complicated.  To gain better access, I've taken out the radiator which, on inspection, has needed replacement.  Mazda did not see fit to provide any protection and it was found to be stone damaged.

Since so much stripping is needed to change the cam belt, it also makes sense to change the water pump and the two auxiliary drive belts (power steering and alternator).  I've also found that the front crankshaft oil seal is leaking and will need replacement.  I'll certainly be kept busy !

Readers will be aware that I normally conclude posts with an apt quotation.  I recently found on the net that Abraham Lincoln (16th President of the United States) warned that not all internet quotes are to be trusted !

My quote for this post is:

“Choose to be optimistic, it feels better.” 
Dalai Lama

Keep well

Stephen