How are we all doing ?

Hi Jane. Two things. If the calcium pills are calcium carbonate, according to our wonderful former physio [previously worked at Royal Nat. Orthopaedic Hosp. and widely read], all they will do is very slightly raise Mum's risk of a heart attack. The body does not absorb this version of calcium well. I have had better results [I have osteoporosis myself and regular DEXA scans] from buying my own Calcium Citrate tablets.

Secondly have you had your own bone density checked? If not, please insist on it, the bisphosphonate drugs that are given for osteoporosis eg alendronic acid can be really nasty. Including [info from NHS dentist] causing osteonecrosis [=bone death] of the jawbone.  So prevention is much better than cure. Your back symptoms could be due to osteoporosis if you have not been checked or not very recently.

Best, Denby

Not bad thanks. Walked on the beach which helped. Very on edge but okay. Xx

Sorry to hear things remain difficult for you. I thought I had replied several days ago but I can't see it so probably made another error. Hope things improve soon for you and your Mum. Best wishes J

Hi H,I have a slight reprieve with mum as they plan to send her for rehab.She is having a 24 hour heart monitor fitted and has been walking with the physio’s today.It’s hard not being able to visit.love Jane xx

Hi Denby,Mum is on calcium carbonate.I have never had a bone density scan but I was aware about the horrible effects of the drugs you mention.Mum used to work at the Royal National Orthopaedic hospital in the 1950’s.She often used to talk about it.love Jane xx

Glad to hear you managed a walk on the beach.I miss living near the sea.love Jane xx

Hi Jenny,How are things with you ? Xx

Hi it must be really hard not seeing her and then worrying about not being able to visit either. Hope she is soon on the mend xx Maria 

Ray is still in RUH.They haven't found out what has been wrong with him but he is beginning to put on some weight.. Still looking for cause and due a n endoscopy but due to  covid if no appointment available before Tuesday they will be sending him home and do it as an outpatient. They'd like him home now but I'm not happy as he still has low blood pressure especially when standing and I don't want to be trying to pick him up from the floor. I'm not a happy bunny

Hi Jenny,Sorry to hear Ray is still in hospital.I’m not suprised you are not very happy to have him home with low blood pressure.Mum’s b.p has been erratic lately.I hope they can find out why Ray has been so unwell,it’s so tough for you both.It’s good that he is starting to put on weight.What a worry though.My love and best wishes to you both.Love Jane xx