Sheila D - status page (created 26/8/25)

What is this page for?

This is intended as a brief summary of the current status of Sheila following her recent fall at home w/c 18th Aug. 

I am avoiding including too many personal details on the, so apologies for keeping it slightly obscure - I'm sure you will understand! It is intended primarily to reduce the number of people that need to phone Roddy or one of the family simply to ask "how's Sheila", etc.

How is she?

She’s ok but a bit sore due to "Mild fractures of both pubic rami".  She's getting pretty good drugs, though :-)

We expect she'll be in a hospital for several weeks, and may also need further assistance after that.

Where is she?

She's currently in Ward 109 of the Royal Infirmary.  This is on he first floor near A&E

See attached maps here (official map) and here (close up on Ward 109).  Despite the proximity to A&E the current advice is to enter via the main (East) entrance (across from Car Park 2A).  It's a big building (and car park) so be prepared to walk and/or get lost, but there's usually staff/volunteers at the main entrance to guide you.

How do I contact the ward?

The direct number for the ward is 0131 242 1091 or perhaps 1092, but this may be frequently engaged, so you may be best to go via the NHS switchboard on 0131 536 1000.

How can I speak to her direct?

Mum has her mobile, and so may answer assuming a) she is awake b) she can reach it c) it is charged d) she can remember what to do!  Calling her may also just wake her up, so we'd suggest in the first instance to phone the ward.  They may be able to ask her to call you back, if you leave your name and number.

When can I visit?

As far as the ward is concerned they are happy to see visitors any time between 10.00 and 20.00, although best to avoid mealtimes.  However we as a family are trying to 'manage' visitors as best we can - not to restrict who can see her, but to avoid tiring her out too much.  eg if we can limit visits to one per day where possible, that increases the chances of her getting a visit every day.

For this reason we'd be grateful if (where possible) you could email us (see below) or mention to one of the family when you're planning to go.  That should not stop you being spontaneous - she'd always love a visitor!  It just helps us decrease the chances of having a pile of folk on one day

What about parking?

There are no parking charges, although you will be given a ticket at the barrier.

Simply retain this and 'return it' as you leave.  See here for more info on travel

How is Roddy doing?

He is coping OK, but we are (as with Sheila) trying to balance him having visitors with having peace and time to himself.  Feel free to phone the house (or his mobile!) and you stand as much chance as ever of getting an answer, or email us to say you're planning to pop in.  Obviously if you're planning on visiting the hospital, then you could offer him the option of a lift, but it's tiring for both of them, so he won't always want to go.

How can I contact the family?

We have set up an email address specifically for messages or questions, so that you don't need to ask a specific person.  It is sheila@wecandoit.scot.  However if you are already in touch with individuals, I'm sure we would all be happy to help.

I've got another question

We'll do our best to keep this up to date as best we can, but cannot claim it will always be be 100% accurate, particularly as we are at the whim of the NHS.  Feel free to email the family, and we'll do our best.