Oxygen and paperwork

In spite of all the cuts and hassles surrounding his care package, our son carries on regardless. He's actually quite well in himself despite the cold weather - it usually precipitates his asthma and develops into a chest infection. He has been on antibiotics until yesterday, so we'll need to keep a close eye on his chest over the next few days to make sure it doesn't deteriorate. My gut feeling is that the PEP mask (Positive End Pressure) used x3 times a day, coupled with a low level of oxygen most nights has helped immensely. Last winter was a nightmare - continuous chest infections, one side consolidation, hospital admission at 5 a.m. Christmas Day, etc. etc..

The difference his chest makes is enormous for his quality of life. He's more alert, has fewer fits and generally seems more comfortable. I know this could all change very quickly, but having him sitting on the sofa with us and looking round listening to his sister on the phone is great.

Meanwhile, social services are 'observing' his day service over the next few days - as this review is purely prompted by the cost of his service, I think I can be forgiven for not quite believing the lady when she says she isn't trying to cut his service service, just 'assess his needs'. She probably means it, but I don't have the same assurance from the people she reports to. At least she will have seen him, her superiors, who will actually make the decisions, will only see the paperwork.