Helen has suffered a stroke and is struggling to communicate what has happened to her. When her carer Jill arrives, Helen tries to tell her about the stroke but is unable to get the words out. Jill does not understand and goes about her morning tasks. In the ambulance, the paramedic examines Helen but she is unable to answer his questions coherently or recall important words like "stroke". Helen's language and memory abilities have been impaired by the medical emergency she has experienced.
'Lost' is the maiden release made by Arthut - it features the downtrodden Vivian, a rape victim as the protagonist of the issue.
She is lost in thoughts and life as but who does she drag down the hole with her?
The story is an anecdote that sets up to ask the questions of 'What goes on in the mind' of victims and who in turn does this pain go to? and it also contains 'poetry , quotes - sayings and even an article on the issue raised.'
The invitation came in the way that she’d grown to expect them. At exactly 10:00am, a man in a dark suit knocked softly on the wall of Liya’s cubicle, a tiny space stuck in the middle of one of the Tower office blocks in the center of Clementi, Singapore.
'Lost' is the maiden release made by Arthut - it features the downtrodden Vivian, a rape victim as the protagonist of the issue.
She is lost in thoughts and life as but who does she drag down the hole with her?
The story is an anecdote that sets up to ask the questions of 'What goes on in the mind' of victims and who in turn does this pain go to? and it also contains 'poetry , quotes - sayings and even an article on the issue raised.'
The invitation came in the way that she’d grown to expect them. At exactly 10:00am, a man in a dark suit knocked softly on the wall of Liya’s cubicle, a tiny space stuck in the middle of one of the Tower office blocks in the center of Clementi, Singapore.
The Jilting of Granny WeatherallThe Jilting of Granny Weatherall.docxjmindy
The Jilting of Granny Weatherall
The Jilting of Granny Weatherall
By Katherine Anne Porter
(1930)
She flicked her wrist neatly out of Doctor Harry’s pudgy careful fingers and pulled the sheet up to her chin. The brat ought to be in knee breeches. Doctoring around the country with spectacles on his nose! “Get along now. Take your schoolbooks and go. There’s nothing wrong with me.”
Doctor Harry spread a warm paw like a cushion on her forehead where the forked green vein danced and made her eyelids twitch. “Now, now, be a good girl, and we’ll have you up in no time.”
“That’s no way to speak to a woman nearly eighty years old just because she’s down. I’d have you respect your elders, young man.”
“Well, Missy, excuse me.” Doctor Harry patted her cheek. “But I’ve got to warn you, haven’t I? You’re a marvel, but you must be careful or you’re going to be good and sorry.”
“Don’t tell me what I’m going to be. I’m on my feet now, morally speaking. It’s Cornelia. I had to go to bed to get rid of her.”
Her bones felt loose, and floated around in her skin, and Doctor Harry floated like a balloon around the foot of the bed. He floated and pulled down his waistcoat, and swung his glasses on a cord. “Well, stay where you are, it certainly can’t hurt you.”
“Get along and doctor your sick,” said Granny Weatherall. “Leave a well woman alone. I’ll call for you when I want you…Where were you forty years ago when I pulled through milk-leg and double pneumonia? You weren’t even born. Don’t let Cornelia lead you on,” she shouted, because Doctor Harry appeared to float up to the ceiling and out. “I pay my own bills, and I don’t throw my money away on nonsense!”
She meant to wave good-by, but it was too much trouble. Her eyes closed of themselves, it was like a dark curtain drawn around the bed. The pillow rose and floated under her, pleasant as a hammock in a light wind. She listened to the leaves rustling outside the window. No, somebody was swishing newspapers: no, Cornelia and Doctor Harry were whispering together. She leaped broad awake, thinking they whispered in her ear.
“She was never like this, never like this!” “Well, what can we expect?” “Yes, eighty years old…”
Well, and what if she was? She still had ears. It was like Cornelia to whisper around doors. She always kept things secret in such a public way. She was always being tactful and kind. Cornelia was dutiful; that was the trouble with her. Dutiful and good: “So good and dutiful,” said Granny, “that I’d like to spank her.” She saw herself spanking Cornelia and making a fine job of it.
“What’d you say, mother?”
Granny felt her face tying up in hard knots.
“Can’t a body think, I’d like to know?”
“I thought you might like something.”
“I do. I want a lot of things. First off, go away and don’t whisper.”
She lay and drowsed, hoping in her sleep that the children would keep out and let her rest a minute. It had been a long day. Not that she was tired. It was a.
Meet Dinah Mattingly – Larry Bird’s Partner in Life and Loveget joys
Get an intimate look at Dinah Mattingly’s life alongside NBA icon Larry Bird. From their humble beginnings to their life today, discover the love and partnership that have defined their relationship.
Panchayat Season 3 - Official Trailer.pdfSuleman Rana
The dearest series "Panchayat" is set to make a victorious return with its third season, and the fervor is discernible. The authority trailer, delivered on May 28, guarantees one more enamoring venture through the country heartland of India.
Jitendra Kumar keeps on sparkling as Abhishek Tripathi, the city-reared engineer who ends up functioning as the secretary of the Panchayat office in the curious town of Phulera. His nuanced depiction of a young fellow exploring the difficulties of country life while endeavoring to adjust to his new environmental factors has earned far and wide recognition.
Neena Gupta and Raghubir Yadav return as Manju Devi and Brij Bhushan Dubey, separately. Their dynamic science and immaculate acting rejuvenate the hardships of town administration. Gupta's depiction of the town Pradhan with an ever-evolving outlook, matched with Yadav's carefully prepared exhibition, adds profundity and credibility to the story.
New Difficulties and Experiences
The trailer indicates new difficulties anticipating the characters, as Abhishek keeps on wrestling with his part in the town and his yearnings for a superior future. The series has reliably offset humor with social editorial, and Season 3 looks ready to dig much more profound into the intricacies of rustic organization and self-awareness.
Watchers can hope to see a greater amount of the enchanting and particular residents who have become fan top picks. Their connections and the one of a kind cut of-life situations give a reviving and interesting portrayal of provincial India, featuring the two its appeal and its difficulties.
A Mix of Humor and Heart
One of the signs of "Panchayat" is its capacity to mix humor with sincere narrating. The trailer features minutes that guarantee to convey giggles, as well as scenes that pull at the heartstrings. This equilibrium has been a critical calculate the show's prosperity, resounding with crowds across different socioeconomics.
Creation Greatness
The creation quality remaining parts first rate, with the beautiful setting of Phulera town filling in as a scenery that upgrades the narrating. The meticulousness in portraying provincial life, joined with sharp composition and solid exhibitions, guarantees that "Panchayat" keeps on hanging out in the packed web series scene.
Expectation and Delivery
As the delivery date draws near, expectation for "Panchayat" Season 3 is at a record-breaking high. The authority trailer has previously created critical buzz, with fans enthusiastically anticipating the continuation of Abhishek Tripathi's excursion and the new undertakings that lie ahead in Phulera.
All in all, the authority trailer for "Panchayat" Season 3 recommends that watchers are in for another drawing in and engaging ride. Yet again with its charming characters, convincing story, and ideal mix of humor and show, the new season is set to enamor crowds. Write in your schedules and prepare to get back to the endearing universe of "Panchayat."
As a film director, I have always been awestruck by the magic of animation. Animation, a medium once considered solely for the amusement of children, has undergone a significant transformation over the years. Its evolution from a rudimentary form of entertainment to a sophisticated form of storytelling has stirred my creativity and expanded my vision, offering limitless possibilities in the realm of cinematic storytelling.
Skeem Saam in June 2024 available on ForumIsaac More
Monday, June 3, 2024 - Episode 241: Sergeant Rathebe nabs a top scammer in Turfloop. Meikie is furious at her uncle's reaction to the truth about Ntswaki.
Tuesday, June 4, 2024 - Episode 242: Babeile uncovers the truth behind Rathebe’s latest actions. Leeto's announcement shocks his employees, and Ntswaki’s ordeal haunts her family.
Wednesday, June 5, 2024 - Episode 243: Rathebe blocks Babeile from investigating further. Melita warns Eunice to stay clear of Mr. Kgomo.
Thursday, June 6, 2024 - Episode 244: Tbose surrenders to the police while an intruder meddles in his affairs. Rathebe's secret mission faces a setback.
Friday, June 7, 2024 - Episode 245: Rathebe’s antics reach Kganyago. Tbose dodges a bullet, but a nightmare looms. Mr. Kgomo accuses Melita of witchcraft.
Monday, June 10, 2024 - Episode 246: Ntswaki struggles on her first day back at school. Babeile is stunned by Rathebe’s romance with Bullet Mabuza.
Tuesday, June 11, 2024 - Episode 247: An unexpected turn halts Rathebe’s investigation. The press discovers Mr. Kgomo’s affair with a young employee.
Wednesday, June 12, 2024 - Episode 248: Rathebe chases a criminal, resorting to gunfire. Turf High is rife with tension and transfer threats.
Thursday, June 13, 2024 - Episode 249: Rathebe traps Kganyago. John warns Toby to stop harassing Ntswaki.
Friday, June 14, 2024 - Episode 250: Babeile is cleared to investigate Rathebe. Melita gains Mr. Kgomo’s trust, and Jacobeth devises a financial solution.
Monday, June 17, 2024 - Episode 251: Rathebe feels the pressure as Babeile closes in. Mr. Kgomo and Eunice clash. Jacobeth risks her safety in pursuit of Kganyago.
Tuesday, June 18, 2024 - Episode 252: Bullet Mabuza retaliates against Jacobeth. Pitsi inadvertently reveals his parents’ plans. Nkosi is shocked by Khwezi’s decision on LJ’s future.
Wednesday, June 19, 2024 - Episode 253: Jacobeth is ensnared in deceit. Evelyn is stressed over Toby’s case, and Letetswe reveals shocking academic results.
Thursday, June 20, 2024 - Episode 254: Elizabeth learns Jacobeth is in Mpumalanga. Kganyago's past is exposed, and Lehasa discovers his son is in KZN.
Friday, June 21, 2024 - Episode 255: Elizabeth confirms Jacobeth’s dubious activities in Mpumalanga. Rathebe lies about her relationship with Bullet, and Jacobeth faces theft accusations.
Monday, June 24, 2024 - Episode 256: Rathebe spies on Kganyago. Lehasa plans to retrieve his son from KZN, fearing what awaits.
Tuesday, June 25, 2024 - Episode 257: MaNtuli fears for Kwaito’s safety in Mpumalanga. Mr. Kgomo and Melita reconcile.
Wednesday, June 26, 2024 - Episode 258: Kganyago makes a bold escape. Elizabeth receives a shocking message from Kwaito. Mrs. Khoza defends her husband against scam accusations.
Thursday, June 27, 2024 - Episode 259: Babeile's skillful arrest changes the game. Tbose and Kwaito face a hostage crisis.
Friday, June 28, 2024 - Episode 260: Two women face the reality of being scammed. Turf is rocked by breaking
240529_Teleprotection Global Market Report 2024.pdfMadhura TBRC
The teleprotection market size has grown
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exponential growth in the next few years. It will grow
to $70.77 billion in 2028 at a compound annual
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From the Editor's Desk: 115th Father's day Celebration - When we see Father's day in Hindu context, Nanda Baba is the most vivid figure which comes to the mind. Nanda Baba who was the foster father of Lord Krishna is known to provide love, care and affection to Lord Krishna and Balarama along with his wife Yashoda; Letter’s to the Editor: Mother's Day - Mother is a precious life for their children. Mother is life breath for her children. Mother's lap is the world happiness whose debt can never be paid.
Experience the thrill of Progressive Puzzle Adventures, like Scavenger Hunt Games and Escape Room Activities combined Solve Treasure Hunt Puzzles online.
Young Tom Selleck: A Journey Through His Early Years and Rise to Stardomgreendigital
Introduction
When one thinks of Hollywood legends, Tom Selleck is a name that comes to mind. Known for his charming smile, rugged good looks. and the iconic mustache that has become synonymous with his persona. Tom Selleck has had a prolific career spanning decades. But, the journey of young Tom Selleck, from his early years to becoming a household name. is a story filled with determination, talent, and a touch of luck. This article delves into young Tom Selleck's life, background, early struggles. and pivotal moments that led to his rise in Hollywood.
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Early Life and Background
Family Roots and Childhood
Thomas William Selleck was born in Detroit, Michigan, on January 29, 1945. He was the second of four children in a close-knit family. His father, Robert Dean Selleck, was a real estate investor and executive. while his mother, Martha Selleck, was a homemaker. The Selleck family relocated to Sherman Oaks, California. when Tom was a child, setting the stage for his future in the entertainment industry.
Education and Early Interests
Growing up, young Tom Selleck was an active and athletic child. He attended Grant High School in Van Nuys, California. where he excelled in sports, particularly basketball. His tall and athletic build made him a standout player, and he earned a basketball scholarship to the University of Southern California (U.S.C.). While at U.S.C., Selleck studied business administration. but his interests shifted toward acting.
Discovery of Acting Passion
Tom Selleck's journey into acting was serendipitous. During his time at U.S.C., a drama coach encouraged him to try acting. This nudge led him to join the Hills Playhouse, where he began honing his craft. Transitioning from an aspiring athlete to an actor took time. but young Tom Selleck became drawn to the performance world.
Early Career Struggles
Breaking Into the Industry
The path to stardom was a challenging one for young Tom Selleck. Like many aspiring actors, he faced many rejections and struggled to find steady work. A series of minor roles and guest appearances on television shows marked his early career. In 1965, he debuted on the syndicated show "The Dating Game." which gave him some exposure but did not lead to immediate success.
The Commercial Breakthrough
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, Selleck began appearing in television commercials. His rugged good looks and charismatic presence made him a popular brand choice. He starred in advertisements for Pepsi-Cola, Revlon, and Close-Up toothpaste. These commercials provided financial stability and helped him gain visibility in the industry.
Struggling Actor in Hollywood
Despite his success in commercials. breaking into large acting roles remained a challenge for young Tom Selleck. He auditioned and took on small parts in T.V. shows and movies. Some of his early television appearances included roles in popular series like Lancer, The F.B.I., and Bracken's World. But, it would take a
Maximizing Your Streaming Experience with XCIPTV- Tips for 2024.pdfXtreame HDTV
In today’s digital age, streaming services have become an integral part of our entertainment lives. Among the myriad of options available, XCIPTV stands out as a premier choice for those seeking seamless, high-quality streaming. This comprehensive guide will delve into the features, benefits, and user experience of XCIPTV, illustrating why it is a top contender in the IPTV industry.
From Slave to Scourge: The Existential Choice of Django Unchained. The Philos...Rodney Thomas Jr
#SSAPhilosophy #DjangoUnchained #DjangoFreeman #ExistentialPhilosophy #Freedom #Identity #Justice #Courage #Rebellion #Transformation
Welcome to SSA Philosophy, your ultimate destination for diving deep into the profound philosophies of iconic characters from video games, movies, and TV shows. In this episode, we explore the powerful journey and existential philosophy of Django Freeman from Quentin Tarantino’s masterful film, "Django Unchained," in our video titled, "From Slave to Scourge: The Existential Choice of Django Unchained. The Philosophy of Django Freeman!"
From Slave to Scourge: The Existential Choice of Django Unchained – The Philosophy of Django Freeman!
Join me as we delve into the existential philosophy of Django Freeman, uncovering the profound lessons and timeless wisdom his character offers. Through his story, we find inspiration in the power of choice, the quest for justice, and the courage to defy oppression. Django Freeman’s philosophy is a testament to the human spirit’s unyielding drive for freedom and justice.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to SSA Philosophy for more in-depth explorations of the philosophies behind your favorite characters. Hit the notification bell to stay updated on our latest videos. Let’s discover the principles that shape these icons and the profound lessons they offer.
Django Freeman’s story is one of the most compelling narratives of transformation and empowerment in cinema. A former slave turned relentless bounty hunter, Django’s journey is not just a physical liberation but an existential quest for identity, justice, and retribution. This video delves into the core philosophical elements that define Django’s character and the profound choices he makes throughout his journey.
Link to video: https://youtu.be/GszqrXk38qk
Meet Crazyjamjam - A TikTok Sensation | Blog EternalBlog Eternal
Crazyjamjam, the TikTok star everyone's talking about! Uncover her secrets to success, viral trends, and more in this exclusive feature on Blog Eternal.
Source: https://blogeternal.com/celebrity/crazyjamjam-leaks/
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Create a Seamless Viewing Experience with Your Own Custom OTT Player.pdfGenny Knight
As the popularity of online streaming continues to rise, the significance of providing outstanding viewing experiences cannot be emphasized enough. Tailored OTT players present a robust solution for service providers aiming to enhance their offerings and engage audiences in a competitive market. Through embracing customization, companies can craft immersive, individualized experiences that effectively hold viewers' attention, entertain them, and encourage repeat usage.
In the vast landscape of cinema, stories have been told, retold, and reimagined in countless ways. At the heart of this narrative evolution lies the concept of a "remake". A successful remake allows us to revisit cherished tales through a fresh lens, often reflecting a different era's perspective or harnessing the power of advanced technology. Yet, the question remains, what makes a remake successful? Today, we will delve deeper into this subject, identifying the key ingredients that contribute to the success of a remake.
Tom Selleck Net Worth: A Comprehensive Analysisgreendigital
Over several decades, Tom Selleck, a name synonymous with charisma. From his iconic role as Thomas Magnum in the television series "Magnum, P.I." to his enduring presence in "Blue Bloods," Selleck has captivated audiences with his versatility and charm. As a result, "Tom Selleck net worth" has become a topic of great interest among fans. and financial enthusiasts alike. This article delves deep into Tom Selleck's wealth, exploring his career, assets, endorsements. and business ventures that contribute to his impressive economic standing.
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Early Life and Career Beginnings
The Foundation of Tom Selleck's Wealth
Born on January 29, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan, Tom Selleck grew up in Sherman Oaks, California. His journey towards building a large net worth began with humble origins. , Selleck pursued a business administration degree at the University of Southern California (USC) on a basketball scholarship. But, his interest shifted towards acting. leading him to study at the Hills Playhouse under Milton Katselas.
Minor roles in television and films marked Selleck's early career. He appeared in commercials and took on small parts in T.V. series such as "The Dating Game" and "Lancer." These initial steps, although modest. laid the groundwork for his future success and the growth of Tom Selleck net worth. Breakthrough with "Magnum, P.I."
The Role that Defined Tom Selleck's Career
Tom Selleck's breakthrough came with the role of Thomas Magnum in the CBS television series "Magnum, P.I." (1980-1988). This role made him a household name and boosted his net worth. The series' popularity resulted in Selleck earning large salaries. leading to financial stability and increased recognition in Hollywood.
"Magnum P.I." garnered high ratings and critical acclaim during its run. Selleck's portrayal of the charming and resourceful private investigator resonated with audiences. making him one of the most beloved television actors of the 1980s. The success of "Magnum P.I." played a pivotal role in shaping Tom Selleck net worth, establishing him as a major star.
Film Career and Diversification
Expanding Tom Selleck's Financial Portfolio
While "Magnum, P.I." was a cornerstone of Selleck's career, he did not limit himself to television. He ventured into films, further enhancing Tom Selleck net worth. His filmography includes notable movies such as "Three Men and a Baby" (1987). which became the highest-grossing film of the year, and its sequel, "Three Men and a Little Lady" (1990). These box office successes contributed to his wealth.
Selleck's versatility allowed him to transition between genres. from comedies like "Mr. Baseball" (1992) to westerns such as "Quigley Down Under" (1990). This diversification showcased his acting range. and provided many income streams, reinforcing Tom Selleck net worth.
Television Resurgence with "Blue Bloods"
Sustaining Wealth through Consistent Success
In 2010, Tom Selleck began starring as Frank Reagan i
Scandal! Teasers June 2024 on etv Forum.co.zaIsaac More
Monday, 3 June 2024
Episode 47
A friend is compelled to expose a manipulative scheme to prevent another from making a grave mistake. In a frantic bid to save Jojo, Phakamile agrees to a meeting that unbeknownst to her, will seal her fate.
Tuesday, 4 June 2024
Episode 48
A mother, with her son's best interests at heart, finds him unready to heed her advice. Motshabi finds herself in an unmanageable situation, sinking fast like in quicksand.
Wednesday, 5 June 2024
Episode 49
A woman fabricates a diabolical lie to cover up an indiscretion. Overwhelmed by guilt, she makes a spontaneous confession that could be devastating to another heart.
Thursday, 6 June 2024
Episode 50
Linda unwittingly discloses damning information. Nhlamulo and Vuvu try to guide their friend towards the right decision.
Friday, 7 June 2024
Episode 51
Jojo's life continues to spiral out of control. Dintle weaves a web of lies to conceal that she is not as successful as everyone believes.
Monday, 10 June 2024
Episode 52
A heated confrontation between lovers leads to a devastating admission of guilt. Dintle's desperation takes a new turn, leaving her with dwindling options.
Tuesday, 11 June 2024
Episode 53
Unable to resort to violence, Taps issues a verbal threat, leaving Mdala unsettled. A sister must explain her life choices to regain her brother's trust.
Wednesday, 12 June 2024
Episode 54
Winnie makes a very troubling discovery. Taps follows through on his threat, leaving a woman reeling. Layla, oblivious to the truth, offers an incentive.
Thursday, 13 June 2024
Episode 55
A nosy relative arrives just in time to thwart a man's fatal decision. Dintle manipulates Khanyi to tug at Mo's heartstrings and get what she wants.
Friday, 14 June 2024
Episode 56
Tlhogi is shocked by Mdala's reaction following the revelation of their indiscretion. Jojo is in disbelief when the punishment for his crime is revealed.
Monday, 17 June 2024
Episode 57
A woman reprimands another to stay in her lane, leading to a damning revelation. A man decides to leave his broken life behind.
Tuesday, 18 June 2024
Episode 58
Nhlamulo learns that due to his actions, his worst fears have come true. Caiphus' extravagant promises to suppliers get him into trouble with Ndu.
Wednesday, 19 June 2024
Episode 59
A woman manages to kill two birds with one stone. Business doom looms over Chillax. A sobering incident makes a woman realize how far she's fallen.
Thursday, 20 June 2024
Episode 60
Taps' offer to help Nhlamulo comes with hidden motives. Caiphus' new ideas for Chillax have MaHilda excited. A blast from the past recognizes Dintle, not for her newfound fame.
Friday, 21 June 2024
Episode 61
Taps is hungry for revenge and finds a rope to hang Mdala with. Chillax's new job opportunity elicits mixed reactions from the public. Roommates' initial meeting starts off on the wrong foot.
Monday, 24 June 2024
Episode 62
Taps seizes new information and recruits someone on the inside. Mary's new job
1. A WORD BEGINNING WITH 'S' BY GINNY BAILY
1942
The chill of the lino beneath Helen's bare feet seeps up her legs and underneath her nightie. She knows it
is late from the feel of the air, still and silent as deep water.
Head thumping and in need of a drink, she has crept downstairs. She has felt her way through the
blackout darkness of the house, running her fingers along the panelling in the dining room, counting up to
twenty and then backwards down again, which not everyone can do.
She opens the kitchen door onto a room full of ghostly white light. The window is the only one in the house
without a blind. It is like an eye without an eyelid, strained but all-seeing. Outside, the moon hangs huge
and low casting gleams onto the sink and the draining board. She tries not to blink in case something
strange is hiding in the strange night kitchen, but her eyes ache. They are crooked with the headache.
Lines don't join in the middle and there are holes in her vision.
Helen twists the tap and cold water splashes into her cup. She drinks it straight down. It sluices through
her tubes and up in an icy cold wave against the backs of her eyeballs.
The line of yellow light still spilling out under the bathroom door onto the landing lights her way back
upstairs. She leans against the wall on the landing, pressing her fingers to her left eyelid. Climbing has
made her head bang worse as if a mallet is being struck rhythmically against the back of her left eye. She
pictures a wooden xylophone mallet. Whoever is in the bathroom, Aunty Bet, Mum or one of the uncles, is
taking a long time and now Helen needs to get in there because she is going to be sick.
Uncle Johnny might have left the bathroom light on because he's American. In America they have lights
outside at night even so the streets shine and the puddles are like rainbows. Uncle Johnny calls her a little
hell raiser. "You'd go down a storm over there you little hell raiser," he said when he sat her on his knee.
"I'll take you when all this is over." Mum had frowned at him. "She's too big for that Johnny," she'd said but
he wrinkled his nose at Helen and winked. His uniform is different from the real uncles' ones. It doesn't
smell like blankets.
The bathroom door swings open and there is Uncle Johnny, bleary and blinking in his pyjama bottoms. "All
yours," he says, waving Helen in. Then he sees that she is sick. He waits at the doorway for her, wipes her
face afterwards and carries her back to bed. Kneeling beside her in the dark, he tells a story about a land
where people don't grow up or get old. He strokes her hair back while he talks. His hand is gentle but
trembly.
She wakes up in darkness with a heavy weight pressing on her stomach. Her body stings as if she's been
scalded but her head is clear and empty, washed out from the inside and almost pain-free. Her fingers in
the dark find the stubble of Johnny's shaven head. His breaths come deep and slow. She feels the tips of
his ears and cups them in her hands.
It is morning when next she wakes and Johnny has gone. When she puts her sticky nightie under the
pillow she finds a Hershey bar. A whole secret bar of chocolate.
2. "Where's Uncle Johnny?" she asks when she's clearing the breakfast dishes. Her mum doesn't reply.
She's busy getting Aunt Meg ready. When she bends to tie Meg's laces, Helen sees she's wearing the
nylons that were a gift from Johnny.
Her mum straightens up, pats her hair in the mirror and applies lipstick, stretching her lips into a tight oval.
She catches Helen's eye and smacks her lips together. "What's the matter with you?" she says. "Gawping
like a goldfish."
Helen presses her lips closed and shakes her head so hard it seems to rattle. The leftover bits of
headache shoot sparks into the back of her eye.
Grandad comes back later on that day but not Johnny.
2011
Helen's first thought on waking is that she has been mugged. An intruder has come into her room and
dealt her such a blow as she lay sleeping that her brain fizzes. She goes to reach her left hand up to feel
for blood or a lump. She cannot even feel her hand.
She tries to shift her weight and after-shocks explode inside her skull, fusing little bits of her brain. She
feels them burning up like stars in distant galaxies.
A creeping nausea follows, a rising bile burning her gut and building up in her mouth. In the changed
landscape of her brain, a crevice has opened up between thought and action and the command for
swallowing is marooned atop some new-formed ridge.
She senses a vast emptiness. It is different from the everyday feeling of disuse issuing forth from the
corners of this house; the dust-collecting bedrooms, the old-fashioned upstairs bathroom which three
generations used to jostle to occupy, the box-filled attic where the relics of her childhood are stored. This
emptiness is something other. It is like one of those thoughts on the edge of consciousness that shimmy
away when you try to grasp them and take with them a key that might have opened a locked door. All her
life she has chased such shadows and from her rare captures have emerged her novels and poems.
She is lying on her back, propped up against the pillow. The evening carer arranges her thus before
leaving. The semi-supine position is supposed to help her breathing. She blinks to make sense of what
she sees. It seems the emptiness has become manifest and has swallowed up a whole section of the
room. The corner cupboard containing a collection of inherited china - the only extant testimony to the
room's original incarnation as a dining room - has disappeared into a fog. As has her desk, computer and
her black leather swivel chair.
This room and the adjoining kitchen are the epicentre of Helen's domain. For nearly four decades it has
been her office, the place where she has written her books. She has paced its length chain-smoking,
tracking down elusive ideas. From here she directed the work to transform the antiquated kitchen with its
musty smelling larder into a bright and airy space where French windows opened onto the courtyard and
noisy convivial dinners were consumed around the bespoke white oak table. And wine was drunk.
Unquantifiable gallons of wine. And even now, when the frailty caused by her lung condition has so shrunk
3. her physical world that the office serves also as her bedroom-cum-living room and cups of tea with the
hired help have replaced the wine-drenched evenings with friends and erstwhile lovers, it is still an
emanation of her own self. It is the base from which her imagination sets off on its travels, crosses the
seas and peers through distant windows into might-have-been lives.
All that happens within this room is at her bidding, sanctioned and chosen by her and she has not
requested that part of it be sliced away. She looks harder at where the door should be and is able to make
out a pink blurry shape which she recognises, finally, as the side of her own nose.
Although her head is thundering, she makes another tentative move. Her right hand is still under her
control. She reaches for her left hand with her right. It is the hand of a stranger and with that touch a long
buried memory unfurls. She recalls the feel of a different hand, another unsanctioned intrusion and with
that, she knows the name of what has been done to her while she slept.
She lies unmoving, facing the place where the door used to be, her eyes wide open but only one of them
still seeing. She is waiting for the morning carer, Jill, to arrive so that she can finally tell.
She tries to recall the poem she's been working on but the key word, the one that would set memory in
motion, eludes her. Tears trickle down her cheeks and she catches them in the sheet, folds them in and
tugs a fresh edge to her face. Shock. She is in shock. Yes, something beginning with an s. Struck or
stricken, is it? The stone that struck the something. The emptiness within her head is spreading. It climbs
the hillocks of her brain like a rampant weed, strangling syntax, obliterating joined-up thought.
Three more minuscule earthquakes take place in Helen's head while she waits.
Jill always puts the kettle on and makes a pot of tea before she comes into the bedroom. Then she carries
the tray in and pours Helen the first cup, the weak one, as her 'wake up call' and Helen sips it while Jill
bustles. Once Helen is up and installed in her bedside chair, they have a second cup together while Jill
does Helen's hair. She talks nineteen to the dozen all the while, mostly tales of doom and gloom, of death
and disability amongst her clientele but her unfaltering loquaciousness has always been a relief, a
distraction from the indignity of being wiped and handled.
"Been an accident on the corner down by the lights. That's why I'm late," Jill says. Helen hears the words
as if from a great distance and thinks the radio has switched itself on. Jill looms up beside her, appearing
from one of the absent parts of the room, and places the tea tray on the bedside table. "I saw that chap
there, you might know him, Bernard, the one who used to come round with the mobile library sometimes.
He seemed upset." Jill turns away and flicks the curtains open. "Don't know if he was related in some way
to the old lady that'd been hit. Police there, ambulance and everything." She clips the curtains neatly to the
sides with the tie-backs. 'Now, do you want a nice cup of tea straightaway or shall we get you up and
washed first?' She turns back into the room.
Helen has been clinging to her piece of news as ivy clings to a wall even after its roots are severed. She
has it ready and now she casts it out into the blur. Perhaps it is the sticky sheet she is clutching to her that
muffles her voice and makes the noise indecipherable. The woman stands wide-eyed and as if transfixed
for a second and then she is suddenly moving at high speed. "Oh my God!" she keeps saying. "Why didn't
she ring her bleeper? What's it there for if not for this? How long's she been lying there like that?"
4. In the ambulance the man in uniform asks Helen how many fingers he's holding up. Helen ignores him.
She has more important things to think about. There had been a word beginning with something and she
needs it.
"Was it a stone?" she asks.
"Pardon? I didn't quite catch that," he says.
Helen raises her voice. She is practically shouting, but the man is either deaf or daft.
"Can you count backwards from 20" he says. So he must know her. He must be that man although he
doesn't look like him but people don't always.
"What's your name, dearie?"he asks her.
"Little hell-raiser," she bellows. She would like to wink, to show him she knows that he knows, but her
eyelid is too heavy. He shakes his head and adjusts something on a machine. She used to know what that
was called. There were words for everything.
"Do you know what's happened?" he asks.
"Is that a xylophone?" she says. She meant to say wireless.
The man peers at her and then puts his fingers around her eye and holds it open while he shines a little
light in there. He speaks in a low voice into the wireless. He doesn't seem to hear Helen when she speaks.
She says, "I've been stroked."