Unlucky Twelve?
The CBB -> Cookies & Drabbles
#1: Unlucky Twelve? Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 10:44 pm

My first attempt...


----------------------------------------

There was silence in the little room as the doctor finished his examination. He nodded to Nurse, who laid the tiny bundle back in its cot, and turned to the man standing a little way off.
“We shall wait for the tests,” he said slowly, “But... I fear you are right, my friend.”
Jack Maynard sat down heavily in the nearest chair.
“I had hoped... not,” he admitted.
Dr Gottfreid Mensch came and stood by his friend.
“I have listened to the heart, and he is sound – your daughter will be healthy in that way, at least” even as he said it, Gottefreid knew that it was scant consolation.
Jack lifted his head and turned to the bed where his wife slept. Gottefreid watched him with eyes brimming full of sympathy.
“When she wakes, I will tell her,” he offered. Jack shook his head.
“No, I'll do it,” he heaved a sigh, “But how, I don't know. We've had trouble before – Margot and Charles were enough to turn our hair grey at times! But it was never like this.” he looked again at the woman on the bed who meant more to him than anything. “How do I tell her?” he demanded, “How do I tell her that our child is...” he swallowed hard, “Is like this?”
Wordlessly, Gottefried laid a hand on his friend's shoulder. There was nothing he could say.

 

#2:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 10:56 pm

Brilliant beginning Joan - i know it's only the first post, but I'm going to ask for more and soon please!!

*Intensely curious as to what is wrong with Joey and Jack's baby*

 

#3:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Mon Sep 20, 2004 10:57 pm

Wow! Look at the size of that cliff! Are you another graduate of Lesley's school?

Good start, Joan!

 

#4:  Author: Kate, Location: Ireland PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 1:00 am

Aaaargh! Usually I come to stories quite late so I'm only a victim of cliffs well into the story, which is mch easier to handle than when you're faced with them straight off! Smile Great start though, I'd love to hear the rest!

 

#5:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 1:12 am

oooooh!!!
Very intrigueing! And I think I may have an inkling of what's wrong with the baby!

 

#6:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:26 am

Very intrigued, Joan. More, please.

*has a feeling this might be a good place to leave the tissue box*

 

#7:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 10:08 am

Ooh an extremely interesting beginning Joan. I think I may need a tissue, thank you Pat.

 

#8:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:07 pm

“Reg! Hi, Reg, wait!”
Reg Entwhistle paused and looked back along the path, a broad grin spreading over his features.
“Len!” he called, and bounded back towards her, lost his footing, and cannoned into the tall girl. The pair of them rolled backwards and fetched up against the trunk of a nearby tree. Reg scrambled to his feet, horrified, and turned to Len who was making funny gasping noises. It took him a minute to realise that she was laughing and, when he had made sure that she was not hurt, the narrow path rang with their laughter.
“Ass!” Len gasped when she could speak again, “Is that how you greet your long-lost fiancé?” She grinned up at Reg.
“Well, if you will try and startle me out of ten years' growth by turning up a whole week before you said you would, what do you expect?” he retorted, and hauled her up from the ground with a will.
“Oh, gosh!” Len exclaimed with dismay when she had got to her feet, regarding her coat with horror. The spring thaw had come to the Platz a few weeks earlier and the ground had still not dried fully. Len's coat, as a consequence, was liberally covered in sticky brown mud. She suddenly giggled, “At least I don't have to face Matey about it!”.
Reg joined in the laughter. He had met `Matey' several times now and, like most people who knew that worthy, stood in wholehearted awe of her.
Len gave up trying to brush the mud off and turned her attention to Reg.
“And just look at you!” she exclaimed in between giggles, “You look like you've been in a free-fight! I'm not sure it's really in keeping with your dignified position to go around like that.”
“I'll brush up at San before I see my next patient,” Reg promised. He suddenly clasped Len. “You don't know how good it is to see you!” she returned his embrace with interest, and it was a few minutes before either of them took much notice of things around them. Eventually, though, Reg released her.
“Now,” he said with emphasis, “Kindly tell me what you mean by turning up early and startling me like this! Not,” he continued, “that I object to seeing you again.”
“Glad to hear it!” Len retorted, then consented to explain, “I was going to go and stay with Prunella for a wek then fly back with Con and Margot, but her sister decided to indulge in measles on the last day of term. Prunella couldn't go back as she hasn't had it, so went to her cousin, who only has a tiny house so I was decidedly not welcome! So I thought, as no-one loved me in Oxford I'd come back early. And here I am!” she wound up.
“And jolly glad I am too,” Reg replied warmly, “Shall we wander on? I'm going to San, and I suppose you are too?”
“Yes,” Len suddenly became sober, “Reg, what's happened to Mamma?” Reg looked at her gravely as she went on, “I came home to find no sign of Mamma or Papa, Rosli out with the babes and Anna just said Mamma had gone into San. Oh, is it Number Twelve?” she asked excitedly, “Or,” she grinned wickedly, “is it twelve, thirteen, fourteen and fifteen?” she looked into Reg's face, and what she saw there made the laughter die from her eyes.
“I'm so sorry, Len,” Reg got out. Len interrupted him with a cry.
“No, not Mamma! Reg, not Mamma!”
“It's OK, darling!” Reg slipped an arm around Len, who stared at him almost numb with terror, “Mrs Maynard is very well, and getting better. She gave you a new sister late yesterday evening.”
Something in Reg's voice stopped Len's glad exclamation
“Then what is it?” she asked, wonderingly, “What's wrong?”
“I don't... that is...” Reg took a deep breath, “Why don't we carry on to San, and your father can tell you all about it.”
“No!” Len cried, clutching his arm, “Tell me, Reg! I won't go a step further until I know what has happened!”

 

#9:  Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:15 pm

And we won't stop poking you until you tell us what is going on!!!


*has a guess - that is likely wrong

 

#10:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:18 pm

Chelsea wrote:
And we won't stop poking you until you tell us what is going on!!!


*has a guess - that is likely wrong


*grin*
we can do a poll after the next one and see who was right... Cool

 

#11:  Author: Kate, Location: Ireland PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:20 pm

fume poke I want to know MORE!! Smile

 

#12:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:37 pm

I'm alternating between a serious medical problem (as the story so far has seemed serious) or a FCS Swiss gnome (because Joan is devious!)

Either way we shall need the tissue box to laugh or cry Wink

But, of course, not till we get MORE






please!

 

#13:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:43 pm

Please could we have some more. I've got an inkling what it might be as well. But I'm not sure if I want it to be as I don't know how they dealt with it back then (it makes sense to me *shrug*)

JackieJ

 

#14:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:44 pm

LOL! You've definitely got the hang of this cliff business, Joan!!

Hope you're going to relent and tell us soon - I don't think I could bare to go through the individual reactions of the rest of the Maynard clan beore finding out ...

ETA - ooh, I've just had an idea what it might be ... thanks to Jackie's post about how it was handled then ...

 

#15:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 12:46 pm

It made sense?..... I thought I was the only one who could understand my mad thought processes..... *worries*

JackieJ

 

#16:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 1:00 pm

Well, we could be thinking about two completely different things! Laughing Wink

 

#17:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 1:14 pm

Wonderfuk beginning to the story Joan, but did you have to put a cliff so early? Waiting now to find out whats wrong!

Also have two ideas one SCS and one FCS - also wondering how they handled the particular problem I am thinking of back then.

 

#18:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 1:21 pm

How tantalising, I definatly have no idea what it could be, although a fcs version springs to mind.

Come on Joan, put us out of our misery soon, pretty please?

 

#19:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:13 pm

I think I might know what's going on - might be wrong though! Joan, please come here and let us know what's going on! There's an awful lot of wibbling CBBers in your thread!!

*trying to figure out how to wibble in several threads at once*

 

#20:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:18 pm

LOL at the idea that Jo has had one of the Gnomes of Zurich.

Seriously Joan, tell us what is wrong with the baby!

 

#21:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:23 pm

I have an idea what this might be too

Please can you put us out of our misery Joan (and save Gem from what could be a nasty injury from wibbling in too many places at once!)

Pleading smiley (someone really should design one of those btw!)

 

#22:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:44 pm

All this wibbling's made me wonder if I can put in another cliff! Wink Maybe next time, when I write about that gnome Shocked

Anyway, you're all not to stop reading just cos you know what's wrong! There's plenty more to come...



-----------------------------------------------------


Seeing that she was working herself up Reg, wishing fervently that Jack was there, decided that he would have to tell her the bare outlines at least. He pulled her off the public path and into a clump of trees. There was silence for a minute as he tried to think how to break the news. Finally, he looked up.
“Your mother is well, as I said,” he began, “And your sister is healthy and a good weight. But she's not... not.., She's not like you, or Con or Margot, or the rest. She never will be like you.”
“What do you mean?” Len asked fearfully, her face white and drawn.
“She will never be able to do the things you all have done, like go to school and university or have a career.” Reg explained, “There's something wrong with her brain, she will never be able to think as you do.”
Len's eyes widened in horror,
“You mean – she's a...” Len gulped, “A half-wit?”
“Honey, don't say that!” Reg exclaimed.
“But that's what you mean, isn't it?” Len cried, “Oh, poor Mamma!”
Reg looked at the distraught girl. There was more to tell, but he was not sure she would be able to take it. He had just decided not to say anthing yet, when Len noticed his expression.
“What else?” she demanded, “What else is there?”
Realising that she would simply work herself up further until she was told, Reg saw there was nothing for it but to let her know everything.
“The problem is something that sometimes happens to later children in a long family,” Reg explained, “The technical term for it is Down's Syndrome.”
Len went white.
“Isn't that what is wrong with Frau Heinrich's son?” she asked, “I heard Papa say so.” Reg nodded. “But does that mean...” Len could not go on.
“Yes, people like Karl – and your sister – do look a little different from other people,” Reg told her gently.
“But Karl looks like a monster!” as soon as the words were out, Len clapped a hand over her mouth. She could not bear the look on Reg's face. With a sob, she flung herself at him and cried until she could cry no more. He held her gently, stroking her hair.

 

#23:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:47 pm

Well, that was a terrible shock for Len, I'm glad that Reg was so supportive.

Aren't there varying degrees of Downs Syndrome?

 

#24:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:53 pm

Jennie wrote:

Aren't there varying degrees of Downs Syndrome?


Yes - as with most learning disabilities. Even in the Sixties, though, most people with DS were thought of as "vegetables" (actual quote from Sixties doctor to parent of child with DS Shocked ).

 

#25:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:57 pm

Oh no! Poor child. Hopefully Reg will be able to set Len right on a few certain aspects though!!

 

#26:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 3:59 pm

Hmmm - so I guessed right with the Down's Syndrome ... (thanks, Jackie!)

This is a difficult subject area, Joan, but very interesting, especially to see the characters' initial reactions to it -

I hope we also get to see their (eventual) acceptance and understanding of the condition ...

 

#27:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:00 pm

Sadly Len's reaction is all too true of her time but I hope that Reg will set her straight with some medical knowledge. Thank you for that Joan and I look forward to more Very Happy

 

#28:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:10 pm

More is fermenting away up top Smile

(NB before someone takes me to task for Reg's description of Down's, they did think then that kids with DS couldn't go to school or have careers. Thank goodness we know different now!)

 

#29:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:37 pm

This is really interesting Joan, I hope the fermenting process doesn't take too long so we get to see more soon!

 

#30:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:39 pm

Joan this is fascinating... *hoping for some more soon*

 

#31:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:46 pm

Joan, this is amazingly touching already. Really looking forward to the rest of it. Can't wait to see how Joey and Jack will react, and the rest of the family.

Miss A's responce should be interesting too.

*Kat greatly looking forward to this*

More soon Joan!

 

#32:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 4:56 pm

Fantabulous! This is fantastic, Joan - and so well written! All these talented writers *sigh*, so much to read, so little time Wink

 

#33:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 5:06 pm

My first reaction to Len was horror and disgust at her reaction but, thinking back, it was typical of the time.

I have a proxy grandson (daughter-in-law's sister's adopted child who thinks I'm his grandmother) with Downs and he is so sweet and loving but I do worry about his future.

I'm fascinated with this, Joan.

 

#34:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 5:09 pm

Kat wrote:

Miss A's responce should be interesting too.


Oooh, I hadn't thought about Miss A... *ferment*

--------------------------------------------------------

Len and Reg walked slowly on to the great Sanatorium at the far end of the Platz. They went in companionable silence, for which Len was grateful – tears were alien to her, and she felt drained by her outburst. By the time they had reached the building, she was leaning heavily on Reg's arm and he shot a worried look at her pinched face. He all but carried her up the steps to the front door and, with a quick word to the receptionist, made straight for Matron's room. That lady took in the situation at a glance and installed Len in a comfortable chair by the radiator, then went off to order coffee for her. She came back to find Reg, having hung up Len's damp coat, wrapping his fiancé in a rug.
“Here you are, dear,” Matron handed Len a steaming mug, “Drink this.”
Len obeyed, and presently the blue look began to fade from her face. Reg noted it thankfully. Len finished her coffee then turned to Matron.
“May I see Mamma?” she enquired. Matron looked doubtful.
“She is not very strong at the moment,” she said slowly, “We shall have to ask... Ah! Dr Maynard.” as the door opened and the doctor came in. His face lit up when he saw his first-born.
“It is you, Len!” he said heartily, “I thought Ella was pulling my leg when she said you were here.”
He turned to say a word to Matron, but that sympathetic worthy had already left them to themselves. He turned back to Len, who was demanding to see her mother.
“Not just yet, Len,” he said, heavily, “She's fretting badly at the moment, and I don't think that visitors would help.” he broke off and looked over to Reg, “What have you said?” he demanded.
“Everything.” Reg replied shortly. Jack nodded, gratefully.
“Len,” Jack continued, “Your mother is still weak, and when we told her about your sister she was very upset. I've given her something to calm down, but it is important that she is kept quiet for the next few days. When I left her she was sleeping.”
Len nodded.
“I understand, Papa,” she said, “But may I take a peek at Mamma while she's asleep?”
“I don't see why not,” Jack agreed, “Go and ask Matron to take you.”
Len jumped out of her chair and Reg helped her out of the rug.
“Oh, and Len,” Jack called as she prepared to leave, “If you wake her you'll answer to me!”
With a fleeting grin, Len shut the door behind her. Jack let out a long sigh.
“Thank goodness!” he expostulated, “I was afraid she'd ask more questions. She's normally far too quick for her own good.” Reg nodded, feelingly.
The truth of the matter was that Joey had reacted to the news in much the same way as her eldest daughter. Already weak, she had become distraught and had refused to have her newest daughter in the same room, clinging to Jack and sobbing piteously when he tried gently to dissuade her. In the end, much as he disliked it, Jack had to order the little cot to be taken to a side-room, and even then it had taken an injection to calm Joey. Jack was not anxious for anyone else to know about this episode. If all went well, Joey would feel much better after a few quiet days and would be herself again. Until then, he did not want even Len to see her as she was.
“Is Mrs Maynard any better?” Reg ventured at this point. Jack shook his head.
“She still won't see the child,” he heaved a sigh, “I don't like it, Reg! It's not right for any child to be away from its mother, not even... even children like this. And,” he said, turning around suddenly, “What happens if she carries on like this? What happens if she won't have anything whatsoever to do with the child?”
“There are... homes,” Reg said slowly. Jack turned to stare, unseeing, out of the window.
“I hope it won't come to that.”
“If there is anything I can do, you just have to say the word,” Reg said, sympathetically. Jack turned the ghost of a smile on him.
“Thanks Reg,” he said, “As the boys would say, you're a brick.”
Wordlessly, Reg shook his hand and then left to find his fiancé.

 

#35:  Author: Chelsea, Location: Your Imagination PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 5:13 pm

Poor little kiddie - not so much because of the Down's but because of the reaction.

Nice to know that my guess was right, though

 

#36:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 5:15 pm

Shocked

*gripped*

 

#37:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 5:22 pm

PatMac wrote:
My first reaction to Len was horror and disgust at her reaction but, thinking back, it was typical of the time.


I bet there are people who would react like this today, as well Crying or Very sad fume

Yay for people like your daughter-in-law's sister (that's a bit of a mouthful!)!

 

#38:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:10 pm

The next few days passed slowly. A frantic wire from Len brought Con and Margot back to the Platz post-haste to be with their sister. Between them, they took on a lot of the care for the Freudesheim small fry, freeing Rosli and Anna to prepare for the arrival of the boys from their schools in England, and the end of term for the girls at the Chalet School next door. The news from San was unchanged, Joey in the main having to be kept sedated. The triplets all saw her when she was asleep, but as yet they could not talk to her.
Len had broken the news to Con and Margot as soon as they arrived. Although she had tried to keep the horror she felt to herself, it was painfully obvious to her sisters. Con, imaginative and highly strung, began imagining all sorts of horrors to herself, most of which were wildly inaccurate. Margot, on the other hand, beyond asking how Joey was, said nothing. However, whenever she had a spare moment the others quickly learnt that she would be found with her textbooks. When Len asked what she was doing, she replied simply
“I want to understand my sister.”
So far, nothing had been said to any of the younger children. They knew that Mamma was poorly and was resting in San, but they did not know that they had a new sister. At the school, Jack had told Miss Annersley in the strictest confidence, and asked her to head off any staff gossip about Joey's whereabouts. Miss Annersley had been deeply sympathetic and had promised to do so, adding that she would keep all concerned in her prayers. Jack had thanked her and rung off feeling inexplicably light-hearted. Later that evening, there was a telephone call while the triplets were helping with nursery tea.
“Bother!” exclaimed Len, “Get that, will you Margot? Con and I are all over jam.”
Margot sprang to her feet and raced down the stairs to the extension in the hall. Len and Con heard her delighted exclamation, and then the noise as she took the stairs two at a time back up. She burst into the nursery, her face shining. She stopped short when she remembered the babies.
“I'll tell you later,” she said shortly, resuming her seat.
Tea seemed endless to the triplets. Eventually, though, the last twist was eaten and the last spoonful of jam taken, and Rosli bore her charges off to be freed of stickiness. As soon as they had gone, Len and Con fell on their third.
“Was that Papa?” Con asked, for once all the dreaminess gone from her expression.
“Yes!” Margot beamed, “Mamma has come round and they think she really is getting better – we three can go and see her tomorrow!”
The other two exclaimed delightedly, only just remembering to moderate their raptures as the nursery bathroom was across the landing.
“Papa says we can't all go in together,” Margot continued, “But we can each have five minutes with her.”
“Scrummy!” exclaimed Con.

 

#39:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:14 pm

Brilliant, Joan! Love Margot's reaction in particular - so very true to form. Hopefully she will be able to help Len understand as well, and head off some of Con's imaginings!

Hope that Joey's okay and that she's willing to accept her daughter *wibbles*

 

#40:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:23 pm

I did guess right then (glad I could help you Rachael, still puzzled as to how you figured out my thoughts though Confused). That sprung to mind as I used to go to a youth club where there were a lot of members with Downs. The fact that I had to help them with some things when they were older than me was unnerving. But they were all lovely people and when I look back on it I count myself lucky that I was able to help in a small way.

Poor baby Maynard though. I hope Margot can help Len understand.

JackieJ

 

#41:  Author: ali, Location: medway, kent PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:40 pm

The reaction is still normal today, even from people who know otherwise. When our baby had to have tests for chromosomal abnormalities as they called it I was devastated. It wasn't a rational reaction and I'm ashamed of it but I dreaded a future for her knowing how life was for several relations with downs syndrome. The tests came back negative so I didn't have to deal any further with my thoughts but this story makes me sad and makes me think about what could have been. Sad

 

#42:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 6:56 pm

Thank you Joan its very interesting to see peoples reactions to the news and I do hope Joey will be able to see her baby.

When my mum was a special needs assistant she had care of a downs boy all through Primary School and they are still close even now. Very Happy

 

#43:  Author: keren,  PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 7:08 pm

I guessed what it was from the beginning of the story.
3 of my neighbors have brothers/sisters with downs.
A realtive had a child with this, maybe in the early 70s and she lived in a home.
But the sister of the neighbors graduated from regular high school.
It is only really very recently that people have began to recongnize their abilities and that there are different degress of this.
but what will she do?
this is a hard decision for what you will write.

 

#44:  Author: Lulie, Location: Middlesbrough PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 7:17 pm

*adds self to the list of people who guessed correctly!*

Some of my favourite students have Downs, and they are just adorable (except when they sneeze -yuk!). But yes, attitudes have changed enormously over the last few years.

*wibbles for Baby Maynard and hopes she isn't rejected totally by her family*

 

#45:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 7:42 pm

The next morning found the triplets nearly beside themselves with exitement. Jack had gone off to San early, and had promised to pick them up at nine o'clock sharp. Anna had good-naturedly offered to help with breakfast for the little ones, leaving the eldest three only themselves to look after. They scrambled through breakfast and bed-making, and by twenty to nine they were all ready. Len suggested that they walk out and meet the car, and they all fell in with the plan. Calling their goodbyes, they set off.
“I hope Mamma is still okay this morning, or they might not let us see her,” Con said suddenly as they swung out arm-in-arm onto the main road.
“Gosh, Con, what an awful idea!” Len stopped dead in consternation, nearly pulling her sisters off their feet. The resulting scrum effectively put an end to Con's imaginings, and by the time the other two had finished telling Len what they thought of her, the doctor had pulled up along side them.
“Hi, you three, stop scrapping and jump in.” he exclaimed. They obeyed, and presently were bowling over the newly laid road.
“How's Mamma this morning?” Len asked eagerly. Jack looked at his eldest keenly.
“She's still alright for visitors,” he said, “So you can take that look off your faces, all of you!”
The triplets cheered up, and by the time they reached the great buildings they were chattering away as usual. Jack parked the car and then turned to his daughters.
“Now listen, you three,” he said firmly, “None of that with your mother. She still needs to be kept quiet, so don't go in chattering like magpies! If you start agitating her, Nurse will bundle you out in short order. Understood?”
The triplets chorused that it was and, satisfied, Jack lead the way in.

 

#46:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 7:59 pm

Rrrr, computer just crashed and I lost a section Evil or Very Mad

 

#47:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 8:11 pm

Joan this is lovely - you've captured the time so well.i just hope Joey can find enough love in her for her newest daughter - she will need it,and return it ten-fold.



(Joan - you do save your work to a word doc or similar don't you? We occasionally get attacks from a monster that eats threads - make sure you don't lose your hard work!)

 

#48:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 8:21 pm

Joan, this is excellent. You are dealing with a sensitive subject in a touching manner. I take it the trips havn't seen their sister yet?

The trips are so spot on, and I love Margot going straigt to her textbooks.

 

#49:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 8:40 pm

I've now enabled autosave on my wordprocessor for every three minutes Smile

----------------------------------------


The triplets waited impatiently in a little waiting-room while Jack went to check that Joey was ready. He appeared after a few minutes and was promptly mobbed by his daughters.
“Down!” he cried, laughing, “You're all as bad as Bruno!”
The excited girls demanded to know who was to go first. Jack, after a keen look around, singled out Len.
“Come on,” he said, “Five minutes – and you two can sit here calmly until it's your turn.”
Con and Margot took their seats looking, as the doctor later declared, as if butter wouldn't melt in their mouths. He cast them an amused glance, and then lead his eldest out into the corridoor. He paused in front of one of the doors.
“Remember, keep her quiet,” he warned, and then ushered Len into the room. Slightly scared, now, Len peered in.
“Len, my precious!” at the sound of her mother's voice, Len forgot her worries and rushed to embrace the fragile-looking woman on the bed. Joey was sitting up, her glorious hair caught into a loose plait, a fluffy bed-jacket around her shoulders. Len was secretly horrified at her languid movements and tragic eyes, but endevoured to keep her voice cheerful.
“Well, it's nice of you to wake up finally, sleepy-head!” she bent down to kiss Joey's pale forehead, “Now Papa says you're to stay nice and quiet for a few days, and then you can come home.”
Joey's face darkened.
“Will I come home alone?” she asked quietly. Len did not know how to respond – she had never seen her mother like this before. Casting a frantic look at her father, she started talking quickly about the small people at Freudesheim and all they had been doing. Jack gave her an encouraging smile, and she embarked on an account of what had happened when Claire had found – no-one knew where – a pot of honey and had proceeded to anoint herself liberally. She had then wandered into the playroom and, before anyone could stop her, embraced Margot lovingly around the legs. Anna's expostulations when the two sets of clothing had come to her had been heard at the top of the house!
It was at this point that Len realised that her mother, normally agog at the doings of her family, was not listening to her.
“Mamma, are you alright?” Len asked, concerned.
“Yes,” Joey said in a dreamy way that made Jack stand alert, “It's good to remember... that I do have... normal children.”
Jack acted immediately, hustling Len out of the room. He was only just in time to prevent her witnessing her mother's collapse. Jack waved Nurse away, and took his wife in his arms.
“Hush, now,” he said, cradling her and murmering reassurances.
Joey suddenly wrenched herself upright.
“Jack!” she cried, “Why has this happened?” she cluched his arm feverishly, “Why has this happened to us? What did I do wrong?”
Secretly horrified, Jack tried to calm her, but Joey was by now thoroughly overwrought.
“What did I do?” she cried again, “God's punishing me for something, I know it! He's made my child like that as a punishment, oh what did I do wrong?”
“Nonsense, Jo!” Jack said, firmly, “God wouldn't do that, and you know it.”
But Joey was not to be comforted. She had said what had been on her mind for days, and was not easily going to be persuaded otherwise. Jack, with a heavy heart, could only end her agony briefly with another injection.

 

#50:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 8:41 pm

Joan the Dwarf wrote:
[Yay for people like your daughter-in-law's sister (that's a bit of a mouthful!)!


A very strong lady and I'm proud to call her daughter!

This is very insightful, Joan. I was Captain of a Guide Company in the '60's at a Barnado's home and we had quite a few DS children who had been left with Barnado's because their parents couldn't cope. It was not unusual advice for the medical profession then.

Worries a bit about how Jack will cope given the general medical lack of knowledge.

 

#51:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 8:43 pm

Poor Joey. I hope she can learn to understand, and I hope that Baby Maynard can be looked upon as a real daughter and not as a burden.

This is lovely Joan, beautifully written. Thank you.

JackieJ

 

#52:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 8:55 pm

Three pairs of eyes looked up as Jack entered the waiting-room twenty minutes later.
“How is Mamma?” Len asked in subdued tones.
“Sleeping,” Jack replied, briefly, “Rest is the best thing for her just now.” he looked at the three concerned faces, “I'm afraid there'll be no visiting for a while, so why don't I run you home?”
Margot got to her feet.
“Thanks, dad,” she said, “But could I... could I see the baby before we go?”
Len and Con stared at their third in horror. Margot flushed, but stuck to her guns.
“Please, dad,” she asked, “I haven't seen her yet – none of us have,” she added, looking at the other two meaningfully. Len shook her head emphatically.
“We'll wait for you outside,” she said, and she and Con almost ran from the room. Jack turned to Margot.
“Do you really want to see her?” he asked quietly. Margot nodded.
“Yes,” she said with decision, “She's family”
Jack's strained face relaxed into a smile.
“Come on,” he offered, “I'll take you to her.”
Arm in arm, father and daughter left the room.

 

#53:  Author: Beth, Location: Durham, apparently... PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 9:09 pm

Hurray for Margot!!!!

Over here we don't have separate special needs schools, just units attatched to the state schools, so I know a number of doods with downs syndrome. Without exception, they are the most loving, friendly and charming people you could ever wish to meet. It really saddens me that the attitude of people in the not-so-distant past could be so harsh and unfeeling.

Great story, Joan! Thank-you! Smile

 

#54:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 10:00 pm

Yay Margot!!! Very Happy I'm glad she is so accepting and I really hope Len and Con come round to their new sister Smile

*********************************

Joan the Dwarf wrote:
Kat wrote:

Miss A's responce should be interesting too.


Oooh, I hadn't thought about Miss A... *ferment*


Twisted Evil Glad I've given you a new line of thought! May we see more of her and her reaction to Baby Maynard?

 

#55:  Author: Pat, Location: Doncaster PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 10:13 pm

This is very powerful Joan. Thank you and may we please have more? Soon?

 

#56:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 10:18 pm

This is brilliant Joan, and it's really nice to see such a good side to Margot, where she is being the more thoughtful one. The difference between then and now is also interesting, although I'm sure there are still some people who would react in the same way as Joey and Len.

 

#57:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 10:22 pm

Probably the last bit tonight...

----------------------------------------------

Jack lead Margot along the corridoor to a tiny side-room. The blue-uniformed nurse looked up as they entered and smiled.
“Have you come to see the little one?” she asked in her native German. Margot nodded, suddenly unable to speak. The good-natured nurse bent down over the cot and lifted out the tiny bundle, and offered it to Margot. With a last inward quake, Margot took her sister and turned back the wrap from her face.
What a ducky little face it was! The two little eyes were slightly pointed at the edges, but there was certainly nothing in the tiny, puckered visage that came close to any of Len's horrors or Con's wild imaginings. Margot gave a grin of pure delight as she looked at the tiny thing in her arms. She swiftly bent to kiss the wisp of dark hair peeking out from the blanket, then turned to her father.
“What's her name, Papa?” she demanded. Jack sat down suddenly and gave a slightly shakey laugh.
“To be honest,” he replied, “We haven't decided a thing.”
Margot looked at her newest sister, her head cocked to one side.
“Well,” she began, “I think she looks like an Elizabeth. Beth, no, I've got it, Bethy!” Jack grinned as Margot continued, “She's got to have Our Lady's name, of course – how about Elizabeth Marie?”
“Perfect!” Jack said, heartily, “Elizabeth Marie Maynard it is. Let's just hope,” he grinned wickedly at his daughter, “That no-one is moved to make Lizzy out of it!”
Margot shouted at this suggestion, and then hurredly moderated her tones for the child in her arms. Baby Bethy, however, seemed little bothered by the noise, short of opening one eye and chuckling sleepily.
“Isn't she a complete pet!” Margot exclaimed, then added angrily “The others are such idiots!”
“Give them time,” Jack told her, “Try to help them understand. Meet them where they are – but don't leave them there!” he wound up. Margot nodded.
“I'll try,” she promised, then turned back to the nurse, “Danke sehr,” she said very properly as she handed her burden back. She turned to her father, “I'll go and get the others.”
He nodded, but caught her shoulder as she was about to leave the room.
“Margot,” he said quietly, “You are a real blessing to us all.”
Margot flushed at this unexpected praise.
“I wasn't always,” she murmered unevenly.
“No,” Jack agreed, “But you certainly are now.”
Margot smiled gratefully up at her father. Anything further either of them might say had to wait just then, as a nurse came flying into the room to tell Jack that he was needed urgently in the operating theatre. Pausing only to tell Margot that the three of them must make their own way home and not wait for him, Jack departed. Margot bestowed a last kiss on her sister, and then quit the room to find her remaining triplets.

 

#58:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 10:33 pm

Good for Margot -and regardless of their fears I think Len and Con should at least see their baby sister before making their minds up that she will be a monster! Mad

Thanks Joan

 

#59:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Tue Sep 21, 2004 11:59 pm

Thank you Joan!
This is very thought provoking, and could well be a tear jerker!

Margot is a star though, hope she can help her trips, and possibly even her mother, to accept baby Bethy!


ETA: just to add myself to the list of successful guessers!

Last edited by Vikki on Wed Sep 22, 2004 12:15 am; edited 1 time in total

 

#60:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 12:10 am

Yes I too guessed at Downs Syndrome. Thank you Joan this is a very moving story. Margot is wonderful, hope she can help the others over their imaginings and horrors.

My friends have a DS son and where advised to out him in a home by the hospital staff. My friend and her husband told the staff where to go. My friend's exact words were'He's my son, he is coming home to his family.' It has not been easy (her dad has still not accepted him) but now he is nearly 21 and at college and this year (his 2nd) is considered able enough to live in a house off campus. He is a wonderful, loving boy and has even been on stage in some of the musicals put on by the group his mum and sister attend.

Looking forward to seeing more of this Joan.

 

#61:  Author: Cathy, Location: Australia PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:49 am

I'm glad that Margot has been able to accept her new sister -- hope that she can make the rest of the family see sense.

More please, this is great.

 

#62:  Author: keren,  PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 6:21 am

very thoughtful thread.
I wonder what joey you will write.
Spineless jellyfish or not?
Can she put into action the things she said about her faith to everyone else when they have troubles?
will there be someone who can reconcile her?
I am sure it is not easy to write

 

#63:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 7:09 am

that was wonderful. I think the over-reaction from the other triplets (and Joey for that matter) is actually natural and some of it is the result of shock. they've none of them met the situation before or probably come in contact with Downs. they are just fearing the worst. Joey's guilt trip is quite normal too I think. Mothers always think they have done something wrong. I do hope they come round quickly, though.

I loved "Meet them where they are – but don't leave them there!" and it made me a little weepy. Such good advice.

Very insightful, Joan. thank you.

 

#64:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:23 am

Yes - this is brilliant - very moving and thought-provoking and Margot and Jack are absolutely wonderful ...The take on Len is very interesting as it seems easy for her to be understanding in her own world but take her out of her comfort zone and she struggles ...

I think this is so realistically drawn, and even in today's world, although there is now a wealth of knowledge about Down's Syndrome, I'm sure many parents are still devastated by the initial diagnosis - and I don't think that's anything to be ashamed about ... After all, you (presumably) begin a pregnancy with certain hopes and dreams for your children ... hoping that there's better prospects for them, wondering what career they may end up with, what grandchildren they may bring you etc ... you probably don't consider in any great depth that your children may actually never be quite as self-sufficient as you or might never have the same scope of opportunities as you ...
I think I'm trying to say (and I hope it's coming out OK) that many parents, whatever their passing understanding of DS, are going to have very legitimate concerns about the situation and that some distress is a very human reaction. You would probably reconsider your role as parents in terms of dealing with your own additional worries and fears - will you be able to help your child become as independent as possible? ... will they be OK when you die? ... etc etc. In the first instance, it must feel very over-whelming ...

Poor Joey - I hope this doesn't lead her to question herself that this is actually her "fault" - did they know then that there was a higher risk for older parents?
*hoping that Jack is able to explain things and support her*

 

#65:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:25 am

Rachael - I completely agree, a diagnosis of Downs can be absolutely devastating. It can be extremely hard to come to terms with, and that's OK. The rewards, in the end, I think far outweigh the pain.

Here's some more... You might need to go back to page 1 again for this to make sense.

----------------------------------------------

Margot found her sisters waiting somewhat uneasily at the foot of the steps up to the main entrance. Mindful of her father's words, she said nothing beyond telling them that they would have to walk home now. Len and Con were more than happy to shelve the subject of their newest sister, and they turned their minds instead to deciding the plan for the rest of the morning.
“Shall we walk the back way home?” Len suggested, “I think we've missed our elevenses, but we can make up for it at lunch.”
“We've got acres of time until lunch, though,” Con objected, “Why don't we go into the woods a way and see if we can pick some flowers for Mamma? You know how much she likes them. We can give them to Nurse and then she'll see them when she wakes up.”
Len and Margot fell on the suggestion with enthusiasm.
“We can go along the path around the back,” Len suggested, “There should be some crocuses at least by now.”
Arm in arm the triplets followed the path from the side of the sanatorium, and were soon amongst the pine trees that grew all along the mountain edge. Chattering cheerfully, they made their way to a sheltered spot near the edge of the plateau, where flowers were normally to be found in abundance. They had nearly reached it when there came through the trees the unmistakable sound of someone crying. They all took to their heels and raced into the clearing, where they saw a boy of about fourteen or fifteen huddled on the ground, bellowing his woes for all to hear. He looked up as he heard the sound of their headlong flight, and Len gasped, paling. All three of them stopped short.
It was Karl Heinrich.

 

#66:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:43 am

This is so compelling Joan, thank you!

There was a girl with Down's in the guide company I helped with. She was hard work at times, but that made it all the more rewarding when you did manage to "connect" with her. And she was so loving and affectionate!

 

#67:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:54 am

Joan, this really is incredible. So sensitive and realistic, and you have the characters and EBD's style off to a tee as well. Your productivity is amazing too - you haven't even given anyone time to chant!

 

#68:  Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 11:20 am

Wow - I didn't get on the computer since yesterday afternoon, and I come back to find all this!

Joan, this is really good - and totally fascinating. (I guessed right too!)

I hope it keeps on coming at this speed Smile

 

#69:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 11:37 am

Please may we have the next bit please Joan? This is totally gripping, and I want to know what happens next!!!

 

#70:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 11:39 am

Echoes all that has been said.
Longing to hear what happens next.

 

#71:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 12:11 pm

This is wonderful. Eager to see how it develops.

One thing I've heard is that for parents in this situation it's almost like grieving for the child you were expecting before being able to accept and cherish the child you have. Don't know how true it is, but it certainly makes sense.

 

#72:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 12:29 pm

Thank you Joan. Really like the way this is going. Eagerly awaiting the next part!

 

#73:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 1:14 pm

Margot paused for only a second. Her quick eye had noticed that the boy was cradling one of his arms, and she was at his side in a second, uttering reassurance in her quick patois as she took the injured member. A glance was all that was needed, and then she turned to her triplets.
“Give me your hankies,” she ordered. Then, as neither of them made any attempt to move, “Now, you idiots, he's hurt!”
The sharp tones woke up Con from her shock. She snatched up her handkerchief and rushed over to thrust it into Margot's hand. Len followed, and Margot was able to bandage the deep cut in the boy's arm.
Len sat back on her heels and stared at Karl, politeness forgotten. She had seen him from a distance before with his mother, Frau Heinrich, who cleaned at the sanatorium. She gazed at his moon-like face and almond-shaped eyes with a fascination. This is what her sister would look like!
Suddenly, Karl himself cut across her thoughts. With a grunt he got to his feet and tugged at Margot's sleeve, pointing towards the edge of the plateau and talking hard. Slightly out of practise in the dense patois of the region, it took Margot a minute to realise what he was saying. Then she sprang into action.
“Come on, you two!” she cried, “He says his mother's hurt, down the path there!” Con leapt to her feet to follow Margot and the urgent Karl, but Len stopped her with a cry.
“The San!” she exclaimed, “If Frau Heinrich is hurt, they can send men to help!”
“Good idea,” Margot said quickly, “Len, you're the best runner – go as fast as you can. Yes, Karl, we're coming!”
Karl slipped his hand into Margot's and the three of them set off post-haste towards the mountain path, while Len ran fleet-footedly back towards San. They reached the head of the path, and Margot glanced at Karl anxiously. He was making short, grunting noises, but he seemed to be unharmed apart from his arm, which was still firmly bandaged.
“Is you mother down here?” she asked him. He bounded up and down, nodding his head vigorously, and tried to scramble down. Margot stopped him just in time.
“It's alright, Karl, I'll go and look for her,” she told him, “You stay here with Con.”
Con shot her a startled glance. Margot caught it and pointed impatiently down the path.
“Look at it!” she jerked, “There's been a landslip. If we all go down, we'll bring the lot down on Frau Heinrich.”
Con nodded, and gingerly reached out to take Karl's arm.
“Margot will find your mother,” she said reassuringly.
“Mother's hurt,” Karl said thickly, “She's under the rock.” tears started to drip down his face again. Con hastened to comfort him.
“It will be alright,” like Margot, she stumbled slightly on the patois, “Margot is training to be a doctor, she will help your mother. And men from San are coming. Oh, don't cry!” for Karl was well away again. Instinctively, Con slipped an arm around him and he buried his head in her shoulder, weeping.

 

#74:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 1:47 pm

Joan, this is absolutely incredible. I really hope that Con and Len will realise how much of a 'normal' person Karl is, for all his difficulties, and that they will put aside any fears they have and be able to spend time with baby Bethy.

Hope Karl's mum is ok... let us know soon please!

 

#75:  Author: Shander, Location: Canada PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 1:51 pm

What a wonderful drabble. This is incredibly well done, and I hope we get more soon.

 

#76:  Author: Elzbie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 1:53 pm

Have just read all so far in one go- it's absolutely brilliant, and my bottom lip keeps wobbleing (a bit embarrasing at work!)

It's really fascinating to see that the caring Len, who you'd think would be the most sympathetic, is showing the most fear, whereas 'heedless' Margot is being incredibly understanding. Maybe it's because she knows how it feels to be the black sheep...

Can't wait for more!

 

#77:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 1:58 pm

superb! I do hope Frau Heinrich is all right!

*wibbles along with all the others*

 

#78:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:01 pm

Meanwhile, Margot was making her way gingerly downhill. The path was strewn with the results of a landslip at the top, and the loose surface made her struggle to keep her footing. She became more and more amazed that anyone could have climbed up this treacherous path unaided. As she went, she called Frau Heinrich's name, and was soon rewarded by a faint cry. She quickened her steps and that was nearly her undoing, as she caught her heel on a loose rock and slid downhill, fetching up with a smack against a boulder in the path. She lay there for a minute recovering her wits, and then called Frau Heinrich's name again. The answering cry came much closer now, and Margot realised that the injured woman was on the other side of the boulder.
“Oh, goodness!” she muttered to herself in dismay, “Karl said she was trapped, what if she's under this thing?”
Her nerve nearly failed at this point, but then her common sense re-asserted itself. If Frau Heinrich had been crushed by a boulder this size, she would not still be conscious enough to call out to her rescuer. Heartened, Margot cried out
“I'm coming, Frau Heinrich!” and she started to look for a way around the boulder. That was not easy, for just here the path took a sharp turn, and on one side was the steep mountain wall, the other falling shear into the valley far below. Margot did not dare to climb the rock itself in case she sent the boulder crashing onto the woman below. That left the valley side. Setting her teeth, she inched around the boulder, thankful at least that she was out of sight of the plateau above. She firmly shut out of her mind the awful drop beneath her, telling herself that there was an injured woman who needed her. Finally, with a last heave she got herself around the rock and looked hastily around for her patient. Her heart gave a lurch – Frau Heinrich was trapped under the boulder after all.

 

#79:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:07 pm

Wow - this is consistently moving (and draining!)

*joining the people hoping that Karl can help Con and Len*
*and that Margot can help Frau H*

(And how on earth are you able to post so much so quickly?!!)

 

#80:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:22 pm

Wow! Didn't expect this turn of events! Hope they all help each other and that it works out well, for all concerned,

 

#81:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:27 pm

Shocked Nice one Margot!

*Wibbles quietly to self... please please please let Frau H be ok*

 

#82:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:40 pm

Her shock lasted a second only, then Frau Heinrich groaned. Margot was at her side in a moment, taking in the situation.
At first sight it looked a grim state of affairs. One of Frau Heinrich's legs was trapped under the great boulder, and she was cut and bruised from flying stones. It was only when Margot bent down to examine the leg that she realised that it was not in fact crushed by the boulder, but lay in a small dip in the path, covered in loose stones. It was the work of a moment to dig her out, but when she tried to move the leg, Frau Heinrich gasped.
“She hurts, she hurts,” the poor woman moaned. Margot hastily ran her hands over the injured leg, feeling the bone. As she had suspected, it was broken. She turned to her patient.
“It is a nasty break, meine Frau,” she said authoritatively, “But do not have fear, men are coming who will take you to the Sanatorium. Until then, do not move and all shall be well.”
Frau Heinrich nodded, and lay still. Margot was thankful – she did not like the woman's grey pallor, and she was anxious not to move her until the leg could be strapped up properly. She settled down to wait, confident that it would not be long before help arrived. A slight movement from her patient caught her attention.
“No, Frau Heinrich, do not move,” she told her quickly. Frau Heinrich looked up.
“My Karl?” she whispered.
“He is well,” Margot replied quickly, “He is with my sister up at the top of the path. He told us where you were. You must be very proud of him.”
Frau Heinrich gave a smile.
“He is a good boy,” she murmured. Margot smiled back.
Suddenly, a long yodel sounded from above. Margot returned it with a will, and voices told her that the rescuers were close at hand. She turned back to Frau Heinrich.
“Soon, you will be in the Sanatorium,” she said, hearteningly. Frau Heinrich nodded and then, to Margot's utter dismay, fainted dead away.

 

#83:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:43 pm

Joan, this is absolutely brilliant. You've got Margot's feelings perfectly, and this adventurous bit reads just like EBD (in the best sense)! Looking forward to lots more Smile

 

#84:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:45 pm

Joan the Dwarf wrote:
...to Margot's utter dismay, fainted dead away.


I hope this means she is just deeply unconscious and no dead!!

 

#85:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:49 pm

Kat wrote:
Joan the Dwarf wrote:
...to Margot's utter dismay, fainted dead away.


I hope this means she is just deeply unconscious and no dead!!


*g* I decided against "gey, motionless and to all appearances dead" Very Happy

 

#86:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:51 pm

Thanks Joan! Razz

By the way, more? Pwease? Pwetty pwease wif chewwies on top? Wink

 

#87:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:51 pm

I'm so impressed by your productivity Joan! Keep it up!

 

#88:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:52 pm

At the top of the path, Con had her hands full trying to restrain Karl now that help had arrived. The boy was desperate to help his mother but, as Con truthfully said, there was nothing either of them could do but keep out of the way. The rescue party, headed by Reg whom Len had literally run into on her wild dash back to San, had gone over the edge with ropes and pickaxes, and were at that moment lashing down the big boulder. Con held tight to Karl, using all her powers of persuasion to keep him from going down after them.
It was at this point that Len, trailing after the rescuers, arrived in the clearing. She stopped dead at the sight of Con hugging the boy to her, and alternately scolding and comforting him. Con glanced up and saw her.
“Len, thank goodness!” she exclaimed with relief, “He wants to go and help, but Reg said we were to stay here.”
Len took an uncertain step towards her sister. Karl gave a great cry and nearly wrenched himself out of Con's arms.
“Help me, Len!” Con cried.
That finally galvanised Len into action. Springing forward, she grasped Karl's uninjured arm, and she and Con steered him firmly towards a fallen log. The sisters set to work to calm the boy down, and by the time the stretcher appeared over the top of the path they were all three gathering crocuses – at Con's suggestion – to give to Frau Heinrich when she was finally installed in San.

 

#89:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 2:57 pm

Awww! So glad that Con was so helpful Smile

And thank you Joan! Keep up the good production, we like!!

 

#90:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 3:02 pm

Wow, this is developing so well poor Karl and Frau Heinrich and I'm gald Len and Con have been able to look after Karl Very Happy

 

#91:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 3:30 pm

I'm going to have a bit of a breather after this next bit!

------------------------------------------------------

At the sight of his mother, Karl raced over the springy carpet of pine-needles, and it was only Reg's warning hand that prevented him from embracing her vehemently. Frau Heinrich had come round as the stretcher was being manoeuvred over the boulder, and although she was feeling weak and sleepy from the painkilling injection that Reg had administered, she managed to smile up at her son.
“All is well, Hertzleibchen,” she murmured. Very gently, Karl bent down and kissed her dusty forehead. Reg laid a hand on his shoulder and steered him away, motioning for the stretcher-bearers to carry their burden back to San. He looked down at the face turned up to his in enquiry.
“Your mother will be well again soon,” he told the boy, “She has a broken leg so will not be able to walk for a few weeks, but apart from that there is no damage.”
Karl's face relaxed into a broad grin. The Herr Doktor had said his mother would get better, so all was well. Reg favoured him with a smile, and then turned to the triplets. Len and Con were anxiously checking that their third had come to no harm, and Margot had perched herself on the log with a sigh of relief – even with ropes, the pull up the path had been a hard one. Reg went over to them.
“Can you three bring Karl back?” he asked, “That arm needs looking at, but I must see to Frau Heinrich.”
“Of course,” Len said quickly, and Reg gave her a dazzling smile and then was away, running to catch up with the stretcher.
Len helped a very weary Margot to her feet, while Con went over to Karl with a smile.
“Let's go after your mother,” she offered. Karl nodded, smiling, and then noticed Margot. With a bound he had crossed the clearing and was hugging her ecstatically.
“You saved my mother!” he declared. Margot laughed.
“Len and Con helped too,” she said, “Len got help and Con looked after you.”
Of course, nothing would do then but that Len and Con were embraced as well. Con returned the hug with a will and so, after the initial shock, did Len. Then the four of them set off back to San, Karl slipping a hand into Len's and Con taking the other.
“What will you do until your mother gets better?” Con asked Karl anxiously. Karl was not worried.
“I can cook and clean,” he declared proudly, “I can look after Mother. And Auntie can stay with us,” he added as an afterthought.
“Where does your Auntie live?” Len asked him.
“Up there,” Karl pointed up the mountain, “On the Rosleinalp. She's got five children – they're my cousins.”
Margot followed the three as they walked slowly down the path, listening as Karl chattered about his family. Con replied by telling him about the long Maynard line, and thus occupied they made their way back to San. They handed Karl over to Matron, who bore him off to have his arm bathed and bandaged. The triplets all promised they would come and see him before they left San, and he went happily.
When they were finally alone, Len and Con exchanged glances, then Len turned to Margot.
“Margot,” she said quietly, “Will you take us to see our sister?”
Margot's weary face lit up.
“Of course I will!” she said eagerly, “You'll love her, she's an absolute pet!” she grinned at them, “She's called Bethy – Elizabeth Marie. I named her,” she added, proudly, “And if any of you try to call her Lizzy, you'll answer to me!” she wound up with a ferocious glare that reduced the others to helpless giggles.
“Don't worry,” Len assured her, “Bethy it is. Now, let's see her!”
Margot lead her sisters out of Matron's room.

 

#92:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 3:42 pm

Awwww.

Thanks for taking a breather at such a nice point Joan! Hope the break isn't too long!

 

#93:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:06 pm

Thank you so much Joan! That was wonderful. I am so so glad that Con and Len have come round.

Yay for them and Karl!! Very Happy

Btw, *looks suspiciously at Joan* how long a breather do you mean?

 

#94:  Author: Liss, Location: Harrow, London PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:13 pm

That was lovely, Joan, thanks! Looking forward to more...

smurf

 

#95:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:17 pm

Wow ... Shocked
*in awe*

*hands Joan a long glass of her favourite drink, plumps up the cushions on her sofa, provides fluffy slippers and insists that she take a well-deserved rest*

Thanks - this really is going from strength to strength ...

 

#96:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:18 pm

I'm looking forward to more too! Am v impressed at the amount which has materialised in just a few days too! Very Happy

 

#97:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:21 pm

That was SO good!

I was getting really worried about Len's reaction there for a while. I love Margot taking control and being so positive. I suppose some medical training is helping but it is different when it's your own family.

I think you got Karl absolutely right as well.

Lovely, lovely, lovely!

 

#98:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:46 pm

Flippin' eck! I was only out for the afternoon and there is LOADS more! This is getting better and better, it really is gripping! Definitely publishable (imho) Very Happy

This has to be one of the fastest written drabbles ever! Puts me to shame!

I love Margot in this!

 

#99:  Author: Elzbie, Location: London PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:48 pm

I cannot tear myself away! Enjoy your rest Joan... but come back soon!

 

#100:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:52 pm

Have agood rest, Joan and come back refreshed. This is a superb drabble.

 

#101:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 4:55 pm

Kat wrote:

Btw, *looks suspiciously at Joan* how long a breather do you mean?


Don't worry! I just need to get the next bits right... there should be some more tonight, at least.

Thanks for all the encouraging comments!

 

#102:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 5:31 pm

It was Sunday of that momentous week, and Jack and Reg were relaxing over coffee at the San after a stiff operation. The triplets had been to visit Frau Heinrich, who was well on the way to recovery, and were currently indulging in yet more baby-worship with their newest sister. Karl had departed for the Rosleinalp two days before, 'Auntie' declaring firmly that no fifteen-year-old boy was to be left to look after himself. The triplets had sworn that they would visit his mother whenever they could, and had kept their promise faithfully.
As Jack chatted amiably with Reg, he reflected that he felt more at ease about his family than he had since baby Bethy was born. The triplets obviously adored her wholeheartedly, and the children could be relied on to take their lead from them. Bethy herself smiled and chuckled her way through each day with a good nature yet to be bettered amongst the Maynard clan, and was already a firm favourite with the nurses. Joey, though, remained the problem, and Jack was nearly at his wits' end how to deal with her.
At this point in his meditations he gave vent to a gusty sigh that drew Reg's attention.
“Steady on, old chap, you nearly blew me away!” he protested.
“Sorry about that,” Jack apologised, “I was thinking about Joey.”
Reg looked grave. Len had been to see her mother the day before and tried to soften her heart towards baby Bethy, but did not succeed. Even her loving descriptions of the child had availed nothing - where her youngest daughter was concerned, Joey was implacable.
Jack put his mug down with a clatter and started pacing the bright room.
“I don't like it!” he burst out, “Jo's not eating, or sleeping except when we make her, and she looks white as a sheet when she doesn't look grey! I don't want to put Bethy into a home, but I can't let things go on like this. Either Jo comes around to it soon, or else we will have to find somewhere else for Bethy.” Jack flung himself back into his chair.
“I haven't wanted to consider a home for her even at the start,” he told Reg, “Maybe for some people it's for the best, but not for us. There's no need – Jo has Anna and Rosli, and if we need to get more help then we are in a position to get it. We can take care of her, we can give her all she needs – but only if Joey will have her. If she won't...”
Reg looked at him.
“Has Len been to see you, yet?” he asked. Jack nodded, a sudden smile playing on his lips.
“Yes, this morning,” he said, with amusement in his tones, “I have to say, as well, both Margot and Con have been to see me separately, also offering to give up their careers to help with Bethy. I don't think,” he went on pensively, “that they'll be that silly again.”
Reg raised his eyebrows and Jack laughed.
“Hasn't Len told you?” Reg shook his head, “Well,” continued Jack, “I simply asked if she'd forgotten Mary-Lou's comments, and why did she think herself indispensable?”
Reg laughed,
“How thoroughly squashing! I knew she meant to offer, and I thought I could leave it to you safely. I did try to dissuade her, but you know Len.”
That young lady's father nodded.
“So go on,” Reg urged, “How did you deal with the others?”
Nothing loath, Jack told him.
“Con was easy – I told her we would get more help if it was needed, and we had no intention of letting her throw away her life.” Reg grinned. “Margot was even easier,” Jack continued, “I asked her what she thought she was doing trying to wriggle out of a vocation. I didn't get a response.”
“In fact,” Reg laughed, “Exit all three well and truly crushed!”
“That was the idea,” Jack pointed out, “I think parents who expect their eldest to put their lives to one side to help out are selfish beyond words. Our three have decided on their careers, and they shall have them. Besides,” Jack reverted to his earlier worries, “Even if they were at home, if Joey won't have anything to do with Bethy then they could be no help at all.”
Reg nodded gravely, and was just about to speak when there came a tap on the door, which opened to show the receptionist.
“Excuse me, Doctor Maynard,” she said very properly, “you have a visitor – a Miss Annersley.”

 

#103:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 5:39 pm

Woohoo!!!! Yippee!! More!!! Ty Joan!!

Quote:
“Excuse me, Doctor Maynard,” she said very properly, “you have a visitor – a Miss Annersley.”


Does this mean Miss A will sort Joey out?! *Hope so!*

 

#104:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 5:44 pm

I've just read this all the way through, and I have to say it's superb. This is a difficult subject, and you've handled it so well, and still kept everyone in character.
It's great to see Margot being so responsible and thoughtful too.
Oh, and I'm also v impressed with the speed at which this is growing.

 

#105:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 5:45 pm

thanks Joan, this is a fantastic story (not least the rate at which it has been posted)

 

#106:  Author: Suse,  PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 5:56 pm

This is so good. I'm really enjoying the development of the characters, it's nice to see the triplets growing in compassion and understanding.

My cousin has a little girl with DS who is in a regular class at school and functions beutifully. She is one of the sweetest children you could ever want to meet.

 

#107:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 6:00 pm

Thank you so much, Joan, this is brilliant, and I particularly like Margot in this drabble. Bethy is such a cute name as well!

Hope Miss A will be able to sort Joey out!

 

#108:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 6:22 pm

I'm really liking Jack in this Razz He's just the person to deal with such a situation. I do hope someone can sort Jo out soon. I think she's had long enough to grieve for what might have been. I suppose having 11 healthy children she had never thought it could happen to her! I think most mothers worry quite a lot on the way through pregnancy about all the things that can go wrong.

Hooray for Hilda! If anyone can sort her out, she can.

btw, Reg is a sweety in this!

 

#109:  Author: Bookwormsarah, Location: Cambridge, UK PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 6:46 pm

Just read this all in one go, and it is *wonderful*. Very telling reactions. I expect when Joey actually sees her new daughter she will realise that she is gorgeous and will fall in love with her.

There was a programme on the other night about children with DS, following a young mother through the last three months of her pregnancy after her baby is diagnosed, a young woman moving into her own flat and a sixteen year old boy, who's mother had three other adopted children, all with DS. It showed the huge range of abilities, and the rewards of being a parent generally.

I was all chokey at the end when the new mother was introducing her new baby daughter to the camera "She's perfect, she's so beautiful, I know she has learning difficulties, but oh, she's perfect".

One of Mum's friends has a daughter who wasn't diagnosed in the womb. As she was born one of the nurses said "Oh. It's a Downs." and someone else said (through gritted teeth) "No, It's a girl". I hope the nurse got in trouble after...

 

#110:  Author: claire, Location: South Wales PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 6:48 pm

I can understand Jo blaming herself, if anything is found to deviate slightly from 'normal' then the mother does blame herself (and no matter how much you get told that it's not your fault you will deep down blame yourself (if I hadn't had that drink before I knew, if I had taken those antibiotics (despite being assured that they were safe), if I hadn't gone swimming once a week - you will find a reason and the logical part of your brain will never quite override that - believe me) but I'm having a problem with them just letting Jo ignore Bethy, maybe if they brought her in to see her then Jo would be a little more accepting - as it is she's just going to be building it all up in her head to be 100 times worse than it actually is.
Loving the drabble though

 

#111:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 7:13 pm

I think this is a really good drabble, tackling a very difficult subject in a sensitive way.

 

#112:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 8:15 pm

Joan, thank you so much for all the hard work you've put into this today - absolutely captivating story, so glad that Len and Con came round, so proud of Margot and Jack.

Can understand Joey's reaction - up to a point -but she has got to look past the bad and see the good, her daughter needs her.

Hope Hilda can persuade her! Wink

 

#113:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 8:40 pm

Jack's face brightened at this news.
“Excellent, Ella,” he exclaimed heartily, “Show her in, would you – and would you send us some coffee?”
Ella agreed with a smile and withdrew. Reg turned to Jack sympathetically.
“I think it's time for my rounds,” he said, “Give Miss Annersley my compliments.”
Jack said that he would, and Reg departed. He was not alone for more than a moment when there was the sound of footsteps in the corridor and the door opened again.
“Miss Annersley,” Ella announced, and then withdrew.
“Hilda!” Jack greeted her and steered her into a comfortable chair, “This is an unexpected pleasure.”
Hilda Annersley took off her wraps and sat down in the chair with a sigh of relief.
“The entire school is rambling all over the Platz,” she explained, “I have three glorious hours of freedom, so I thought I would come and see Joey. Is she taking visitors?”
Jack looked at her thoughtfully. His initial reaction was to say that Joey was far too ill to see even her good friend, but he stopped himself. Perhaps – just perhaps - Hilda would be able to succeed where he and the triplets had failed? Even if she too could not persuade Joey to take on her daughter, what harm could she do?
Jack reached a decision.
“Hilda,” he said abruptly, “I need your help.”
Hilda listened in sympathetic silence as he told her of Joey's reaction to her daughter. As he finished, she nodded in understanding.
“Let me talk to her, Jack,” she said, “As you say, it can do no harm. If she will not take her daughter then yes, the child will have to go to a home. But if Joey can be brought around...”
“Exactly,” Jack agreed, “At the moment she won't even listen to Len – but maybe you can reach her.”
“I will try,” Hilda promised.

 

#114:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 8:48 pm

*Crosses fingers.*

Thanks Joan.

 

#115:  Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:01 pm

Good luck Hilda - I have every faith in you!

Thankyou Joan, I was hoping to catch another instalment before going to bed, and my wish was granted!

You must have done virtually nothing but write ever since you got bitten by this bunny - I'm impressed!

 

#116:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:06 pm

Hmmm.... 'tis a very determined bunny *feeds bunny with lots of nice bunny food*

This is still amazing. I'm keeping my fingers (and everything else) crossed in the hope that Hilda can succeed. I'm so glad that Len & Con have come round. Just let's hope Joey can accept Bethy as well.

JackieJ

 

#117:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:08 pm

Joey was sitting up in bed when Hilda was shown into the small private ward, staring unseeing out the window at the grey sky. She barely responded to her friend's loving greeting, and Hilda was secretly horrified at the change in her. She was thin and pale, and a shadow lay behind her eyes. Her movements as she lay back against her pillows were languid, and Hilda wondered no more that Jack was so worried.
“How are you feeling, Joey?” she asked gently.
“I am well,” Joey replied distantly. Hilda looked at her keenly, but said nothing. Instead, she turned the subject to the School. Warned by Jack, she refrained from mentioning any of Joey's children, instead telling her about the five new girls whom she had seen at the beginning of term. This tactic worked, and soon Joey was sitting up and taking more of an interest than she had shown in anything for many days.
Pleased with her success, Hilda went on to describe the plans for the next term's sale.
“The girls really have done us proud this time,” she declared, “We had a show of work on Friday during Hobbies and I nearly gasped at the mountain of material they have made!”
“What's the theme?” Joey asked curiously, “I will swear myself to secrecy if I have to.”
“Believe it or not,” Miss Annersley said solemnly, “The girls have decided to have a 'Pilgrim's Progress' sale!”
“Oh, how original!” Joey exclaimed, then gave the first smile that Hilda had seen, “What, may I ask, are they going to make out of the 'Slough of Despond'?”
Hilda gave a laugh.
“They haven't confided all the details in me yet,” she explained, “I shall await their ingenuity with, ah, bated breath shall we say?”
Joey giggled faintly, and Hilda decided she had chatted long enough. Facing Joey, she looked her straight in the eyes.
“Joey,” she said gently, “I came to see you and your new little daughter. Where is she?”

 

#118:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:10 pm

*Frantically crossing all parts of body that are crossable* - please let Hilda talk Joey round!

 

#119:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:21 pm

Yes, this is a dicey situation. Jo will either take to the baby, or she'll fall back into her depression - which will it be?

 

#120:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 9:58 pm

Wow so many new bits, I loved the scene between Jack and Reg and glad to see that reg is someone to be relied upon. Good for Miss A, I hope she can continue to help.

 

#121:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:03 pm

Joey stared at Hilda in shock. She opened her mouth, but no words came out.
“Where is she, Joey?” Miss Annersley repeated, still in that gentle tone, “Jack has told me all about her – as indeed have your triplets – and I would like to see her if I may.”
“Jack... told you?” Joey got out, “And you want to see her?”
“Yes,” Hilda replied simply, “She sounds like a beautiful baby.”
“She's not!” Joey cried, “She can't be! She's deformed, abnormal, a monster!”
Hilda uttered a swift prayer for help, and then lifted her head.
“How do you know, Joey?” she asked her, “How can you know if you have not seen her? Besides,” she went on, “Those are strong words to use of any of God's creatures – how can you know they are true?”
“Because it was God who did it!” Joey cried frantically, “It was God who made her like that to punish me! I want to know why! What did I do? Why am I being punished?” in her distraction, Joey clutched feverishly at her friend's arm. Hilda gently took her hand.
“Why do you think God would do something like that?” she asked gently, “Do you really think that God would create your daughter like this to punish you?”
“Yes!” Joey replied wildly, a high flush beginning to creep over her pale face. Miss Annersley took a deep breath.
“Joey,” she said, her wonderful voice deep and resonant, “Do you remember the Story of the man born blind?”
Joey stared at her mutely. Hilda closed her eyes, and quoted softly;
“As he went on his way, Jesus saw a man blind from his birth. His disciples put the question, 'Teacher, who sinned, this man or his parents? Why was he born blind?' 'It is not that this man or his parents have sinned,' Jesus answered; 'he was born blind so that God's power might be displayed through him.'.” Miss Annersely paused, “Don't you see, Joey?” she asked, “Every being that is created is made for God's glory. In that case, it was so that the blind man could be healed by Our Lord. With you and your daughter, God's glory will be shown as you care for and love this very precious and wonderful child who has been entrusted to your care.”
Joey looked at her wordlessly, her eyes dark pools of unshed tears. Miss Annersley gently pressed her hand.
“You who have given a home to so many, would you send this little one out alone into the world, amongst strangers?”
Joey buried her head in her pillow and wept. It was not the frantic, wracking sobs of the last week, but almost gently she cried away all the pain and fear that had taken hold of her since her daughter's birth.
After a while, Hilda left her on the bed and murmured something to the nurse by the door, who nodded and slipped out. Hilda returned to the still-weeping Joey.
“Joey!” she called gently, “Joey, you have cried long enough. Sit up, dear.” Joey struggled into a sitting position, her hair tumbling over her hot face. Miss Annersley regarded her thoughtfully, and then fetched a sponge from the wash-basin and calmly bathed Joey's face as if she were no older than one of her pupils. Joey submitted to this treatment humbly, and felt much better after she had dried her face on the proffered towel.
“Now,” said Hilda, still in gentle tones, “I am going to give you your daughter. No, Jo!” as Joey started to protest, “She has been away from you long enough.”
“I don't...” Joey gulped, “Hilda, I don't know how I can do it!”
“Maybe not with your own strength,” Miss Annersley agreed, her voice deep, “But if strength is needed you know that you never have far to look.”
Joey bowed her head.
“Furthemore,” Hilda continued, “You have Jack, and the triplets, and your friends – there are many people who will give you their strength, if you will let them.”
Wordlessly, Joey squeezed her hand. Then she drew a sharp breath as the door opened.
It was Margot who laid her newest sister in her mother's arms. She carefully tucked back the rug from the little face and settled her close against Joey.
“She's called Elizabeth Marie – Bethy,” she told her mother shyly.
Joey looked down at the tiny bundle in her arms as the triplets clustered around the bed. For the life of her, she could not remember what she had imagined her baby to be like. Not that she cared now – she felt such an overpowering love for the little creature that nothing else seemed to matter in the whole world. She bent over her daughter and kissed the soft black hair that wisped around her brow.
“Hello Bethy,” she murmured.
Con had been standing a little way back from the other triplets, looking from mother to newest daughter. Now she spoke.
“Mamma, “ she said thoughtfully, “I think Bethy looks like you.”
“No she doesn't,” Len disagreed, “I think she looks much more like you!”
“But her nose is all wrong for Con,” Margot objected, “Here's Papa, let's ask him!” she turned to Jack who had just entered the ward, “Papa! Con thinks Bethy looks like Mamma!”
Jack, his eyes shining, was at his wife's side in an instant. He laughingly refused to comment on his newest child's nose, and the triplets fell to settling things amongst themselves.
Joey looked at Hilda over the heads of her baby and cheerfully wrangling daughters. Hilda smiled.
“How does it feel now?” she asked, “Proud Mamma of twelve?”
To the delight of them all, it was the old Joey who replied, with an impish grin,
“Smashing!”


THE END

Last edited by Joan the Dwarf on Wed Sep 22, 2004 11:56 pm; edited 1 time in total

 

#122:  Author: patmac, Location: Yorkshire England PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:09 pm

That has been an emotional roller coaster ride from start to finish and incredibly well written and sensitive.

Thank you for one of the 'deepest' drabbles we've ever had.

 

#123:  Author: Kathy_S, Location: midwestern US PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:12 pm

Beautiful "ending"!
Well done, Margot & Hilda!
(and Joan of course... )

 

#124:  Author: Kat, Location: Swansea PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:14 pm

Wow.

Thank you Joan, so much for writing this - you've been incredibly sympathetic to the subject and the way you've written has truely brought tears to my eyes.

Well done on writing something so utterly moving.

 

#125:  Author: jacey, Location: Ireland PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:15 pm

This is so gripping, and so moving... Crying or Very sad

It's hard to keep in mind that attitudes were so different then, I feel like I want to pick Joey up and shake her hard! As a volunteer with RDA (Riding for Disabled) I work with lots of children with DS. They are all such individuals, just as every child is an individual.

Thank you Joan for this thought provoking storyline, and keep it coming

 

#126:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:32 pm

Joan, this is an AMAZING story!
Thank you.
And I'm SO glad Joey was able to accept Bethy!

 

#127:  Author: Donna, Location: Liverpool PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:38 pm

This was wonderful Joan, and I'm so glad Joey was able to come round and finally see, and love, her daughter. Thank you so much.

 

#128:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:46 pm

Thankyou everyone for all your comments and suggestions during writing this. It has been a very intense couple of days - I had no idea it would be when I started out! I have been well and truly bitten by this bunny, but it's now dropped off, and I'm hoping the next one will be a bit more light-hearted and spread-out and perhaps containing gnomes... Very Happy
Thankyou all for being fab to write for!

 

#129:  Author: Catherine_B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 10:58 pm

Joan, thank you so much for this extremely moving and beautifully written drabble. I'm so glad it had a happy ending! And like everyone else, completely blown away by your prolificity (is there such a word? never mind, you know what I mean!) Congratulations and I am looking forward very much to reading your next work Kiss

 

#130:  Author: Susan, Location: Carlisle PostPosted: Wed Sep 22, 2004 11:57 pm

Joan wow. I am speechless. I have just read all tonigts episodes in one go. Very emotive, glad Lena and Con came round. And so glad Hilda was able to help Joey. The last part had the tears running down my cheeks. Thank you so much for writing it.

Looking forward to your next drabble.

 

#131:  Author: Dawn, Location: Leeds, West Yorks PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 12:07 am

As everyone else has said, this is just an amazing piece of writing Joan. It has moved me to tears and also been incredibly thought provoking

thankyou so much







would you like to give lessons to a few people on the board on the art of prolificity? Wink

 

#132: Unlucky Twelfth Author: Susanm,  PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 2:25 am

Joan, I know I'm only echoing everyone else, but you have handled a difficult topic both skilfully and sensitively - I'm sure I'm not the only one to have been waiting on tenterhooks to find out how it would end. Congratulations on a beautiful and very touching piece of writing.

 

#133:  Author: keren,  PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 6:55 am

even though everyone else has said this, I think this was very good.
I got goose pimples reading the last bit, which was a true Hilda/EBD speech.

 

#134:  Author: Jennie, Location: Cambridgeshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 7:20 am

A lovely ending to a very sensitive drabble.

 

#135:  Author: LizB, Location: Oxon, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 7:30 am

Joan thank you so much - that was superb.

Liz

 

#136:  Author: Rachael,  PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 8:27 am

Absolutely superb, Joan, from start to finish!
*joining the teary crowd*

Have a well-deserved rest ... because we'll be expecting more from you soon!!

*off to review the Fanfiction categories*
Very Happy

 

#137:  Author: Rosea, Location: Edinburgh PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 8:57 am

Have to add my thanks and congratulations to the pile. That was such a wonderful story Joan, and I look forward to seeing your next.

 

#138:  Author: Ruth B, Location: Oxford, UK PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 9:15 am

Joan that was AMAZING! A very satisfactory conclusion.

Hope the bunny bites again soon!

 

#139:  Author: Trish, Location: Australia PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 9:48 am

Wow. Just wow.

I was all choked up through the entire drabble and then that last part just completely ended what little self control I had left. Joan, this was incredible! So well-written and realistic and so moving without being in the slightest way maudlin.

Why isn't there a "I'm not worthy" emoticon??

 

#140:  Author: Ally, Location: Jack Maynard's Dressing Room!! PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 10:00 am

Thank you Joan that was a beautiful and sensitively written story and I hope you will write much more for us in the future Very Happy

 

#141:  Author: Joey, Location: Cambridge PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 12:00 pm

That was superb, Joan. Thank you so much.

This has really sustained me these last few days. My boss is away so I'm in charge, which is always stressful. This has helped keep me sane, as well as being deeply moving.

Thank you.

 

#142:  Author: Helen P, Location: Cheshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 12:02 pm

Oh... Joan. *why is there no emoticon for a happy crying face?!*

I don't know what to say... that was wonderful and I too have tears in my eyes.

Please write another drabble soon Smile

 

#143:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 12:16 pm

Just read all last nights episods in one sitting and now have tears streaming down my face. So glad it ended the way it did, with love and acceptance, and Jo's final comment was brilliant, a spark of life there once more a real contrast to the picture you painted of her a short time before when Hilda walked into the room.

This drabble has blown me away, it has been so well written, sensitive and yet still exploring the issue properly. I loved the way Jack dealt with the triplets, the way Reg was so supportive of him, the way Margot was able to use her training and her background and be the first of the trips to see Bethy, the way Len and Con came round, the way HIlda was able to reach Joey, there is so much that is good about this story.

Will you be sending it to Liss for the Sally Denny Library?

 

#144:  Author: JackieJ, Location: Kingston upon Hull PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 12:32 pm

This was wonderful Joan, I'm feeling all choked up and having to control myself as I'm at work. Please send this to the SD library as I would love to read it straight through.

Can't wait for your next drabble (don't suppose there's any further adventures of Bethy possible?)

JackieJ

 

#145:  Author: Xanthe, Location: London/Cambridge PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 12:46 pm

Joan that was absolutely brilliant: thank you so much Mr. Green

 

#146:  Author: Joan the Dwarf, Location: Er, where am I? PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 1:07 pm

Embarassed Thanks everyone! Embarassed

I might get inspiration for the next one when I go on holiday on Monday...

SD library - I've got everything in a word file, what should I do with it?

JackieJ wrote:
Can't wait for your next drabble (don't suppose there's any further adventures of Bethy possible?)


Well, she's got all that time at the Chalet School ahead of her, I'm sure she can fit in a few adventures there... Very Happy

 

#147:  Author: Carolyn P, Location: Lancaster, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 1:23 pm

Joan the Dwarf wrote:
SD library - I've got everything in a word file, what should I do with it?


The link here is to the submissions guideline


Quote:
Well, she's got all that time at the Chalet School ahead of her, I'm sure she can fit in a few adventures there... Very Happy


Look forward to reading them.

 

#148:  Author: Gem, Location: Saltash, Cornwall (holidays), Aberystwyth (termtime from September) PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 3:33 pm

Thank you Joan - that was a truly wonderful drabble! Looking forward to lots more in the future! *hint hint*

 

#149:  Author: Lisa, Location: South Coast of England PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 4:17 pm

Wow. Absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much

*heads off to fanfiction awards page ... Wink *

 

#150:  Author: Josie, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 4:36 pm

Joan, thank you, that was and amazing drabble. The characters and their reactions were so well written, especially Margot. And I'm so glad Joey came round in the end.

 

#151:  Author: Lesley, Location: Rochester, Kent PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 5:20 pm

Thank you Joan, absolutely beautiful story written with love. Hope to see many more drabbles from you. Laughing Crying or Very sad (Happy tears)

 

#152:  Author: Laura, Location: London (ish) PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 5:28 pm

Adding my congrats to the ever mounting heap!

Thanks very much, the whole thing was amazing! Very Happy

 

#153:  Author: Ciorstaidh, Location: London PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 6:04 pm

Joan - I've just read this through - this is fantastic writing Crying or Very sad (but happy!)

Maybe I should print off Miss A's speech and the next time I hear comments about SD/similar folks, I can hand it to them and say SEE??? Very Happy it is chockful of Truth and Common Sense!

You do realise that you've started a series on Bethy? Wink

*chants loudly for a sequel whilst feeding Joan's prolific shiny piece of vegetation (aka plotbunny!)

 

#154:  Author: Ellie, Location: Lincolnshire PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 6:08 pm

I agree with everything said above, and thanks for letting Joey finally acept baby Bethy.
I think that Jack and Margot have a lot to thank Karl for too - Len & Con may have come around eventually, but by then it may have been too late, and without the triplets enthusiasm Joey might still have rejected her daughter.
I'm very much looking forward to seeing your next drabble, whether it's about Bethy or something entirely different.

 

#155:  Author: Ann, Location: Newcastle upon Tyne, England PostPosted: Thu Sep 23, 2004 10:57 pm

Absolutely wonderful, Joan. I wish my writing was of such quality and quantity!

 

#156:  Author: ellend, Location: Bow, London PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 10:23 pm

I've just read this all the way through and must add to the thanks and praise of everyone else. It was a tough subject which you dealt with sensitively and beautifully true to the characters in CSland and to the attitudes of the 1950s and 1960s to people with DS.

I thought Hilda's arguments were beautiful and I'm very glad that they were sufficient to reconcile Joey to Bethy.

Thanks for sharing.


Ellen

 

#157:  Author: Ella, Location: Staffordshire PostPosted: Mon Sep 27, 2004 10:51 pm

*Adding to the pile of weepy congratulations*
Have just read this from cover to cover, and am speechless.
Thank you Smile

 

#158:  Author: Tahnee, Location: New Zealand PostPosted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 8:33 am

Joan this is wonderful. I just read the part where Jo finally accepts her baby,and it is all so true. My first baby was stillborn due to serious birth defects, I didn't see him straight away as I wasn't well enough. I had the same fears, he would look like a monster etc. I am so glad I saw him later, he was so beautiful and the tears were not for what he was or was not, but for what he could never be. And Joey has just had to work through that loss of dreams for her baby, you have done this so well!

 

#159:  Author: Vikki, Location: Sitting on an iceberg, freezing to death!!! PostPosted: Wed Sep 29, 2004 9:45 pm

*hugs Tahnee!*

 

#160:  Author: lyanne,  PostPosted: Thu Sep 30, 2004 6:45 am

i've never known any one with downs syndrome, but my mum's friend when we were young had one healthy son, same age as me. then she & mum had babies at the same time & her baby had cystic fibrosis - he died when he was 4 couple of years later, she & mum again preganant at same time - they all the tests done then (1980) & the docotrs said baby was fine. but she wasn't, had cystic fibrosis and died aged about 4. my mum felt really giutly about it as mum & dad had 4 healthy children & hadn't planned either of the last 2, but her friend who wnted moere children didn't get to keep them.

 

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