"What have YOU done today to make you feel proud?" Heather Small (2000)
"What have YOU done today to make you feel proud?" Heather Small (2000) |
|
If you enjoyed this site, please click on logo above to register vote.
4th March 2002 |
Because of the public nature of the accident, and the number of marshals from around the world that we know, an e-mail list got set up so that each Tuesday after visiting me in hospital (or more frequent as necessary) she could type up a message outlining changes in my condition. Forest Edge Kart Club and the Kyalami Marshal Association (South Africa) were both good enough to post these messages on their websites for all to see, and I've heard at their height, some 3000+ people per week were receiving and passing on these messages! ____________________________________________________________________ 27-06-2000: (Copied from the Kyalami Marshals
Association website) A horrific accident that took place at the Goodwood
Festival of Speed on Saturday, a Formula 1 car from yesteryear crashed into 2
marshals at the finishing line. Tragically Steve Tarrant was one of the marshals
BUT he is the only survivor and for that we are extremely grateful. The driver
died instantly and the other marshal died in hospital. Steve is in a very
serious but stable condition. He is currently in ICU and heavily sedated. He has
severe damage to his left leg but it is repairable. Regrettably though his lower
right leg was lost in the accident. He also has internal injuries which were
operated on but are not life threatening. A member of the marshaling club is
going to open a web page but at this time I have no further info on that. All
get-well messages will be gratefully received via E-mail and all will be passed
along to Steve. He and Jackie are going to need a lot of help and support to get
through this very difficult time and I know that the more messages etc that come
through will only help them. Ernie Penrose (Chairman, Kyalami Marshals Association) 30-06-2000: Sorry I have been a bit slow getting back to you with
news of Steve. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers. Steve is now conscious and aware of his surroundings.
We were having a talk yesterday morning for the first time since Saturday and he
was making sense (Funny, he never used to before!!!!!). The full extent of his injuries are that he had torn
part of his small bowel, and they had to open him up and remove a small section
of the bowel. However, the doctors are pleased with the way he and his body has
responded to the surgery. He now has a scar down the middle of him stomach, and
when he comes home we are going to compare scars! The lower left leg was badly
broken in the shin area, but they have inserted pins, etc into the bone to
support it and he can move his toes and can feel when they touch his foot. (The
only trouble is that he is very ticklish!) The sad news is that he has lost the
right leg from below the knee. This was taken off in the accident and was too
badly damaged to be saved. At the present he appears to have taken the news o.k.
and we have talked openly about the leg. I think he also realises that he is
lucky to be alive. He is due to be transferred to London any day now for plastic
surgery on his legs. The response from everybody has been overwhelming and
when telling Steve about it, he can't believe it. Anyone wanting to send Steve a
message can send it to the jayandess@msn.com address. There is also a website
for our local Kart circuit who has set up a web page for Steve. There is a
facility there for people to leave messages for him should they wish. The
address is http://www.fekc.co.uk. They have even got a picture of him! When we were taking about the accident, I said to him
that we knew the dangers when we became marshals and he nodded. You just hope it
never happens. When we were taking about marshalling in future, he turned to me
and said, "They haven't seen the last of me yet!” which I was pleased to
hear him say. Steve is a tough cookie and I sure will be over there to pester
you before you know it. Anyway, that is about it for now. – Jackie Tarrant 04-07-2000: Unfortunately I have to report that Steve has suffered
a set back and is very sick indeed and struggling to hold his own. Despite
earlier attempts to save his right knee, the surgeons had to remove it
yesterday, as there were signs of infection. At the same time they have removed
the long metal pin that had been inserted in his left shinbone and have used an
internal/external method of holding the leg together, to try and avoid further
infection, but this is a constant worry. It is by no means certain that the
doctors will be able to save the left leg. Steve has to have yet another
operation today to clear infection still present in the right leg despite the
operation on Saturday. A tracheotomy will also be performed to relieve pressure
and soreness in his throat, and aid the administration of sedatives. He is
currently breathing with the aid of a ventilator and is heavily sedated due to
the extreme pain he is experiencing. His internal injuries seem to be responding
to treatment. He is currently in the special intensive care unit at Hammersmith
hospital. Once again thanks to everyone for their good wishes
and messages. They are really helping us to get through this traumatic time.-
Jackie Tarrant 17-07-2000: Hi Everybody, Steve has now been transferred to
Charring Cross hospital in Hammersmith, and we think he will be staying there
for the duration of his rehabilitation. Although this is not guaranteed. The bug
he caught appears to have been eliminated, but he is still in isolation to
ensure that he doesn't catch anyone else's bugs. The last thing he needs right
now is a return of infection. We have only found out this week that when Steve
was so very ill the weekend after the accident, he had septicemia in his right
knee and gangrene in his left leg! No wonder he looked so yellow and ill. However, he has been responding to treatment. On
Tuesday he went into theatre for his dressings to be removed and to our delight
(and I think Steve's), the tracheotomy was also removed. At least Steve can talk
to us again. On Thursday he underwent a 10-hour operation in which
a muscle was removed from under his right arm, on the body side. This muscle was
then used to fill the large gash in his left calf after the severe break there.
The length of the operation was due to the delicate nature of the surgery. Three
layers of skin were also removed from his left thigh and used to cover the end
of his stump on his right leg. The transfer of muscle and skin seemed to be
settling down well when there was an upset on Sunday afternoon. A blood clot, we
think came from the area where the muscle was attached to, moved up into Steve's
lung. He was very ill for a few hours while this was passing through his body.
He has today undergone surgery which we believe was to sort out this problem. He
is back in intensive care, but this is more precaution than need. Steve is by no means out of the woods yet and we now
hope that this was the last major operation he will need. Hopefully the wounds
can now start healing and we can have Steve up and about. This may initially be
in a wheelchair until he can put weight on his left leg and use crutches. We are still receiving messages of good will for which
we both say a big Thank You to everybody for their constant support. Regards, -
Jackie Tarrant 24-07-2000: Hi Everybody, Steve was in intensive care until
Thursday as a result of his blood clot/foreign body that caused the upset last
Sunday. They 'plugged' him into various sensors to monitor his blood /
temperature to ensure that no more unexpected bits passed through. There was
some concern about the lack of inflation of the lungs, they were not been used
to full capacity. This is a little difficult when he is lying down all the time.
However, after some intense oxygen input, and large intakes and 'holds' of
breathe every hour this seems to have help resolve the problem. On Thursday he was lifted into an armchair and spent 2
hours sitting, rather than lying down. I think that was a very welcome change
for him. He was, however, totally exhausted after the 2 hours. They are hoping
to repeat the exercise this week and hopefully he will be able to sit for longer
each time. There is a slight concern about his left leg swelling, so he has to
keep it elevated above his hip height (lying down). The expression of 'block and
tackle' springs to mind with the framework round the bed to keep his leg up! I
am hoping to speak to the doctors on Wednesday to get the full story about his
left leg and the prognosis for the future. His right leg seems to be healing
well and the skin grafts are settling down nicely. To an untrained eye (mine) it
looks good and healthy. All we need is the doctors’ confirmation of this -
again hopefully I will get this information on Wednesday. Steve is now off the oxygen and breathing by himself.
His tracheotomy 'hole' is also healing well. He picked up a skin infection,
which with some care and attention and lashings of antiseptic cream has now been
kept under control and almost eliminated. Steve has now started receiving visitors other than
family members. We anticipate he will be in London for a while yet, so if anyone
else plans to visit - please don't all rush at once! For anyone wanting to visit
Steve, please can they email me, or leave a message on the FEKC web site and I
will contact you with the details of where he is. Again, our thanks for the
constant support from everyone. Regards, - Jackie Tarrant 31-07-2000: Hi Everyone, Steve has continued to improve - which
has delighted us all. The right leg seems to be healing well. We are not yet
sure of the time scale before he can be measured and have a prosthetic leg
fitted, but the doctors appear to be happy with the way it is healing. The open
wound on his left leg has started regenerating cells to replace the skin and
muscle lost. The plastic surgeon seems satisfied with the way it is healing.
Unfortunately the muscle that was transferred from under his right arm didn't
take very well and has been removed. However, it served a purpose in stimulating
the body to 'grow' muscle itself over the open wound. As yet I have not managed
to see the orthopedic doctor so am not sure how the bone is healing. However, no
concern has been voiced - so hopefully - no news is good news! On Friday Steve went back to the theatre for his 8th
operation. This time they removed the current 'scaffolding' that was supporting
his left shin and replaced it with a circular framework around his lower leg.
This way he will be able to walk on the leg without damaging the healing bone.
Today he has had his wheelchair delivered and he is definitely looking forward
to getting out of bed and using it. He sat on the edge of the bed today and
everything protested! After lying down for 5 weeks, things have got to readjust
and get used to a different position. Hopefully, this won't take too long to
settle down. He is looking forward to next week when he may be able to go into
the gym so that he can start to rebuild the strength in his upper body - getting
ready for forward motion! Steve has had a few visitors now and has been very
pleased to see them all, including Sir Stirling Moss. Our thanks again for the
continued support from everyone. Regards, - 08-08-2000: Hi Everyone, Not a great deal to report - apart from
that Steve is in good spirits and his recovery is going well. Last week was mainly a rest week after the surgery the
previous week to change the metal frame on his left leg. He did however, manage
to sit on the side of the bed and his foot touched the floor for the first time
since the accident! He also did very well with his resistance exercises
that he did - by pushing his heel onto the ground and holding it there for a few
minutes, and by pushing his knee up against the pressure of the
physiotherapist’s hand. The movement in his right side for his stump is also
very good. The scars for the abdominal, and under-arm, surgery
are healing well. It is amazing how much his arm movement has been effected by
the removal of the muscle. But, he can now hold a cup in his right hand without
it shaking. Rehabilitation is now the goal. Steve should sit in
his wheelchair for the first time tomorrow - and then there will be no stopping
him! He will go to the hospital gym to start rebuilding his muscles, which have
weakened since the accident. I think we are going to have to fit a tracking
device on his chair so that we will know where to find him!! Steve has got a phone in his room and would love to
hear from you. The best time to ring is after 5.30 p.m as he is almost sure to
be by the phone. The number is 0702 880 0063. Thanks again for everyone's support and good wishes.
Regards – Jackie Tarrant 15-08-2000: Hi Everyone Well, what can I say? My man is mobile!! Last week started slowly, but on Thursday Steve was
almost running over all the nurses toes in his wheelchair - and all this with a
huge big grin on his face. On Friday he then progressed down to the
physiotherapy gym, to start building up the muscles in his legs. Mind you, the
metal cage weighs rather a lot - rather like having a constant dumbbell
attached. On Saturday, for the first time in seven weeks - he went outside.
Fortunately it was a wonderful, sunny day so he could enjoy an hour in the
sunshine (and his first bottle of coke for seven weeks!) On Sunday he managed to surprise his Mum & Dad by
meeting them downstairs by the lifts. They were highly delighted to see him
there in his 'wheels'. All we need to do now is slap a number on each side and
some 'go faster' stripes!! On Monday I went to the gym with him and he is
progressing well with his exercises. May not be too long before he is standing,
and perhaps walking - with a little help. Steve is receiving quite a few visitors and is
delighted to see them. I think he has surprised a lot of people with his
cheerfulness and positive attitude. He really is doing well. There is some talk
of him being relocated to Poole - so watch this space for details!!!! In case you didn't catch the last message, Steve has a
phone in his room and would love to hear from you. The best time is after 5.30
p.m. and the number for UK callers is 0702 880 0063. For callers from South
Africa, I believe the number is 0944 207 880 0063. Our continued thanks for all
your messages. Regards, - Jackie Tarrant 22-08-2000: Hi Everyone, Steve is still doing very well. One
minute he is sitting - the next he is standing! Yes, with the help of a wooden
frame he has managed to stand! Well, you can't keep a good man down! He will not be able to have his 'peg leg' (as he calls
it) for a bit longer yet as the stump has to fully heal and all the swelling has
to go down, but it is progressing nicely. Steve is doing well with his exercises - so much so
that he is wearing the physiotherapists out! They end up sweating more than he
does after the 'resistance' exercises. For those unable to go and see Steve, he has come to
you.... a couple of photos. The one in the wheel chair was taken on Sunday, and
the one standing was on Monday. For those interested on the 'mechanical side'
this photo is of the metal frame support on Steve's left leg (don't worry, the
wound is covered up!) Still no definite news yet on his return to Poole, but
we think that it may not be too long before he makes his way in this direction.
Actually coming come may take a while longer. He would love to hear from anyone
- just to have a chat, especially in the evenings. His number is 0702 880 0063.
Our thanks again for all your messages and support. Regards, - Jackie Tarrant 29-08-2000: Hi Everyone, What a busy week! First we have Steve
standing on 2 legs (yes he borrowed one!), then he ventures out for a pizza on
Saturday, and to Cafe Rouge for a cappuccino & chocolate gateau on Sunday! The week started slowly and a bit depressed. Steve
felt quite down on Tuesday. Considering he has only had about 2 'down times'
since the accident I think he has done tremendously well. I said it was alright
to feel down occasionally as it wasn't good to bottle it up as it is all part of
the healing process, and that we would all just help him through these down
times. Before long he was back to his cheery self again. The rest of the week
was definitely a good one. Before going into the gym on Wednesday, the physio
measured his right stump up and didn't say why to Steve. When he got down to the
gym there was a 'training leg' waiting for him. It is basically a metal pole
with a socket for his stump to fit into up to the hip, with a pivot joint for
the knee, and a foot to stand on (as this had a left foot on it, his claim to
fame for this week was that he had 2 left feet!!) He eagerly tried this on and
managed to stand up in the same frame as he did with just his own leg before (if
you have seen last weeks photo's you will know what I am talking about). While
he is standing there surrounded by my parents and Steve's uncle - with a mega
grin on his face - in walks Lord March (owner of Goodwood). He was delighted to
see Steve up and about and doing so well. Steve managed to stand up for 5
minutes - and would have done more if the physio's had let him! Anyway, he was
sensible and realised he needed to take it easy to start with. Then Wednesday night Steve noticed that his calf and
ankle had swollen up, but that this wasn't as a result of the day's activities
as with recollection Steve realised this had started earlier in the week.
Doctor's orders were to be bed bound, and to visit the Ultrasound clinic. There,
they traced his artery and vein from groin to ankle, so proving it wasn't a clot
obstructing again (phew!!!!!). Anyway, Friday morning, the doc's returned and
there was no difference, so he was told to get up and carry on exercising, etc. On Saturday - which was typically raining - I got
permission to take Steve out of the hospital grounds for the 1st time. We donned
raincoats and proceeded outside. Fortunately, not raining too hard. We trundled
along the pavement towards our goal - Pizza Hut! It is not until you have to
push a wheelchair, or ride in one that you find out how 'unfriendly' the
pavements, roads and shops are (oh yes, and nearly everyone else using them!).
The slightest bump, dip or kerb can cause problems. When pushing Steve through
the subway into the shopping mall at Hammersmith tube station, the flooring goes
from concrete to polished tiles - not very nice when having just walked in rain
and the soles of shoes are slippery...help... watch out for the wall! We managed
to reach our goal safely (well just about as I managed to bang his foot while
trying to hold open the door, and help push him inside up the slope!) We had a
good lunch then made our way back to the hospital via the local shopping mall.
We both definitely flaked out after that exercise - but I know that Steve
enjoyed it immensely - even being out in the rain! On Sunday we again had the pleasure of a visit from
Sir Stirling Moss, with his wife. We spent a very funny 1/2 hr, especially when
Steve told Stirling that last time he visited him, he was on the bedpan!!!!!
Sunday afternoon, after the Grand Prix (of course) we went to the cafe across
the road from the Hospital and had a smashing large cappuccino and choc gateau!
Very naughty but nice. Monday was a day of rest, as the gym was closed due to
the bank holiday. The only bit of excitement was that the chief consultant
looking after Steve decided that he was fit enough to be moved closer to home.
This may well be Bournemouth rather than Poole as this is where the new
prosthetic centre is. I will be happy with either one - as this brings him that
much closer to home. Watch this space as we anticipate the move to be very soon
- and I will post the details once he is established down here. Steve is now using a laptop, although he can't get
Internet connection, he is typing messages and loading them onto disk for me to
send. You never know, one of these days he may do his own progress report! Steve has just told me that the swelling in his calf
and ankle has gone down a bit - so that is good news. My continued thanks for all the offers of help and
support from everyone. Regards, - 06-09-2000: Hi Everyone, Bit of a mixed week. Started slowly
because of the bank holiday so no exercising in the gym for Steve - bit of a
cheek I think!!! Nothing much happened till Thursday. The ward Steve
was on got a phone call that a porter was coming to fetch Steve to take him to
the plaster room (no, not the PUB! - though I know Steve would have preferred
the Pub!)) Everyone was puzzled as to why - then they were told that they were
going to take the pin out of his foot (please don't ask which one!!). This will
enable him to flex his foot and get some movement back in the ankle. He can also
then put his foot flat on the floor as he was only putting the left side down
before. After having to wait about an hour in this room on his
own, a doctor finally arrived to remove the pin. They simply unscrewed it, said
that's it, and Steve could then return to his room!! They did manage to put his
foot in a sling (no, not from around his neck where slings usually hang from!!)
They hung this one from the top pin in his shin! Fortunately, Steve can't feel
it pulling so it sits there quite happily. The sling is to prevent his foot from
taking a sudden dive downwards - and for Steve to establish control over his
foot again after 9 weeks. He has said that it hurts quite a lot is he tries to
lift his foot upwards (me being ever helpful said 'don't lift it up then!!' I
got a very sideways look for that comment!) Seriously, the ankle has been
hurting quite a lot and there has been an increase in infection around the pin
sites in the leg. These are usually cleaned and treated once a day after his
shower. Friday was a depressing day for Steve, and I will let
him tell you in his own words: “I felt so bad after hearing that I would have to
wear the framework on my leg for up to the next 12 months. Although no one had
offered any opinion before, I had reasoned along the lines that a normal break
of a leg is a plaster cast for approx. 6 weeks and then it is mended. I know
mine is worse than that, but reasoned that it would be healed probably end
September / October time, and then I would be able to concentrate on walking,
etc. So you can imagine how I felt when all the plans I have put in my mind as
targets were totally shot down in flames with this news. Hence my believing I
had screwed up everyone's lives both this year and next.” We were very quick to assure Steve that we could
hardly blame him for what has happened. Our plans have perhaps been shot down in
flames, but we can adjust them and make the best of the time that we have
together - just very grateful and glad that we can spend time together. He has
been told that he can fly (not himself, in an airplane!) with the framework on -
so our planned holiday to South Africa has been delayed - not cancelled! Are you
ready for this Kyalami??? On Saturday we managed to terrorise Hammersmith again
with a visit and raided the shops. Then back to a cappuccino and gateau again -
Yum Yum! Then back in time to watch the BTCC! Sunday, after Superbikes and
cricket, was another cappuccino and cake (not chocolate this time). Well, the
dietician did say he needed feeding up so I am doing my best to make sure we
manage it!!! In the evening Steve managed to speak to our nephew, Mark, and
niece, Tammy, who were over here from South Africa when the accident happened.
The last time he saw them was the day the returned to S.A - and he had his
tracheotomy in so couldn't speak to them. They were delighted that 'Uncle Steve'
could talk to them and assure them that he was doing o.k, and looking forward to
visiting them next year. A comment Steve made to their brother Craig was "I
decided that you could either accept your loss and get on with rebuilding your
life, or remain bed bound and become a vegetable, and I have no intention of
getting myself into that state. EVER!" A statement I know he will stick to
very strongly. As a result of the pin being taken out, and therefore
more movement in his ankle, this seems to have started a fresh bought of
problems around the pin sites in his ankle and lower leg - so much so that one
of them actually bled on Sunday evening. The doctors came round on Monday
morning and have put him on a course of antibiotics to help resolve the problem.
The problem was bad last night - so much so that the sister had to come in
around midnight to clean the wounds. By this morning his knee and ankle had
locked up so that he couldn't bend them at all. Today he has been down to have
his leg scanned again to check for blood clots and the have taken swabs of the
infected areas to check what is going on. Hopefully the antibiotics will help
clear the problem. No more news at the moment of his move to Bournemouth - but
rest assured - I will let you know as soon as it happens. The only other bit of news is that Steve is going to
do his best to be at the Goodwood Revival Meeting on 17 September 2000! (Lord
March even offered to send a truck to collect Steve is he was still bed
bound!!). I am aiming to work the Revival meeting on Friday 15
September 2000, so if any of you come along, come and say Hello. Don't know
which post I am on yet so can't tell you where to find me! Our thanks for your
support, help and encouragement. Regards, - Jackie Tarrant 08-09-2000: Hi everyone, Just a quick message to say that Steve
has moved out of the room he was in to a different room and floor. He was on the
8th in South Wing room C, he is now on the 7th in South Wing room B. Therefore,
please don't ring the number 0702 880 0063 as he won't answer it! The phone in
his new room doesn't currently work! When he contactable I will let you all know
his new number. Thanks, - Jackie Tarrant Steve Tarrant Update - Hi Everyone, Steve is now a bit
more settled and the phone finally works!!!! The new number is 0702 880 0432.
However, if you try and ring this weekend during the day there is a good chance
he won't be there - we are off to terrorise Hammersmith again! Tell you all
about it in the next update. Cheers for now – Jackie Tarrant 13-09-2000: Hi Everyone, It's now just 11 weeks since the
accident, but I thought it time to set fingers to keyboard and say a few words
(!) about things. It sounds like I've been to hell and back, judging by
the medical details I've been informed about by my family. Therefore my love and
thanks must go to all of you for your messages and cards of support and best
wishes. I am amazed at my own popularity amongst the racing fraternity - I must
learn how to use this for my own means!!!! My philosophy throughout my time in hospital has been
that I can go along one of two routes. Either to lie in bed, give up and spend
the rest of my life as a vegetable, or to accept my loss, learn how to overcome
it and then get on with the next 40+ years of life. Put like this, it's pretty
easy to make my decision, and that is why I've enjoyed surprising people with my
spirit and determination to overcome things. Just because I've lost a leg
doesn't mean the mind has gone too (although some have always questioned that
fact!). At the moment, the concentration of work is centered
on getting the frame around my left leg working without being painful, as I may
have to wear this for up to a year. Efforts are being made to remove the poisons
beneath the skin at the pin sites, and then after this I can stand learning to
stand, then walk on it. Only then can they start the work of giving me my peg
leg and parrot. Again, to each and everyone one of you that has either
sent a card, an e-mail or just read the details on both the Forest Edge and
Kyalami marshals websites, a huge thank you. I am looking forward to being at Goodwood on Saturday
and Sunday this weekend, and hope to maybe see some of you there. Thanks again,
Steve News Just In >>>>>>> We have this
evening learnt that Steve may be moving to Poole within a few days!!!!! I think
he has done this deliberately to spoil my careful planning for the weekend!!!!!
But what brilliant news! The factors, which will determine the move, are an
available bed in Poole - and the petrol to get there!!! Whatever, he will not be
in London this weekend - so Hammersmith will have a chance to recover! As soon as he is settled in Poole, details will be
posted (I think I will be lynched if I don't). My thanks also to everyone.
Regards, Jackie Tarrant 19-09-2000: Hi again everyone, Most of last week was usual
routine, but with the infection in Steve's left leg getting better each day.
They were putting an alcohol dressing (he would have preferred to have drunk
some alcohol, rather than put it on his leg!!) and the 1st time they did it, he
nearly hit the ceiling, the 2nd time, he felt it a bit, and the 3rd
time he didn't feel any pain or reaction at all! The infection has gone down so
well that he has managed to stand up again with the use of a frame that he can
stand in. He was obviously very delighted with this progress. We have also had this 'Moving to Bournemouth' carrot
dangling in front of our noses for the past 3 weeks, and we almost expecting
them the move him any day. Needless to say it didn't happen. We then come to the weekend.... and what a weekend!!! I actually marshalled on post 12 (Woodcote) on the
Friday - and boy did I get wet!!! Did enjoy the day though. On Saturday morning I went with a driver from Goodwood
to London to collect Steve. We arrived at the circuit around 12 midday and spent
an enjoyable afternoon there. We had been supplied with VIP passes to the
various areas so we could go anywhere we wanted. The paddock was the first stop.
Trouble was that when people saw Steve, especially people that we knew, they
stopped for a chat!! It took us ages to get anywhere - but Steve was delighted
to talk to them all. During the afternoon Steve needed to rest his leg so we
made our way to the Medical Centre. When the doctors learnt who he was we ended
up talking to some of the people who had dealt with on the day of the accident
(it gave Steve the chance to personally thank the medical staff for their part
in saving his life.) We spent a quiet night back at the hotel - well what
do you expect - our first night together for 12 weeks!!! On Sunday we were at the circuit by 7.00 a.m. to see
the marshals as they signed on. They were delighted to see Steve and were very
impressed at his progress. We then went into the Drivers Mess for breakfast and
while we were in there Stirling Moss came over and said "Good morning,
great to see you here - will chat to you later as I must dash - I am opening the
circuit!" We were then told that it had been arranged for us to have a
drive round the circuit at lunchtime! After watching races from the startline
area, we made our way to the paddock area for our ride. Steve managed to get
into our transport - a 1920 Vauxhall open top taxi! My parents were in the other
car. We then proceeded round the circuit with 2 motorcycle outriders in front,
and one bringing up the rear behind the other car my folks were in! You could
see lots of people looking in their programs to see what all the fuss was about.
Lots of people just waved to us so we waved back. What touched us both was that
the marshal's at the last post we passed, the chicane, came to the edge of the
circuit and applauded Steve. It was a lovely gesture. After the races we made our way into the enclosure for
the prize giving. Waiters were walking around with glasses of Champagne and
others were walking around with Bottles topping the empty glasses up. By this
time Steve was on his 4th topup and said to the waiter "Well, I can't
really get more legless" The waiter saw the funny side and nearly dropped
the bottle laughing so much!!! Steve returned to Charring Cross Hospital on Monday at
around 11.40 a.m. By 12.00 midday we were told that a bed was waiting for Steve
in Poole!!! Even better than Bournemouth! You couldn't wipe the smiles off our
faces! We rang our friends who promised to collect us and they did - at 4.30
p.m. - and we were in Poole for 7.30 p.m. Well, here is the information you have all been
waiting for... Steve is in: Ashley Ward, 3rd Floor, Room 22, Poole
Hospital, Longfleet Road, Poole, Dorset, BH15 2JB Telephone: 01202 781695 (for
S.A callers 0944 1202 781695 I believe) Visiting hours are 2.00 p.m. till 8.00 p.m. If anyone
can visit earlier in the afternoon, rather than the evening, then that would be
great. (For those visiting, when you get onto the Ashley Ward, head for the
Green Area) I feel that I must warn you - Steve has not lost his
sense of humour - if anything, I think it has got worse!!!! Don't be surprised
if he waves his stump at you!!!!!!! Look forward to seeing you. Jackie Tarrant 26-09-2000: Hi Everyone, Help.... I can't keep up with him..... Steve has finally returned to earth after the visit to
Goodwood. He is now comfortably settled in Poole Hospital, winding the nurses
up, and doing well. So much so that he doesn't need any further nursing - apart
from checking his dressing on a couple of water blisters on his stump and left
shin. Therefore - before too long - he should be home!!! The doctor checked his blisters and is happy with the
way they are settling down and has told Steve that he will now be referred to
the Limb Centre. Then watch out everyone.......... The wheels are in motion for the Occupational
Terrorists (sorry Therapists) to come and look at our house to see how
wheelchair friendly it is. Looking around - the access definitely isn't! So a
few alterations needed there. Once this has all been sorted - we can share the
same house again - WHOOOPPPEEEE! My next major task is to get a new vehicle so that we
can get Steve out and about. Sadly, the Frontera will have to go as it just
isn't suitable. MPV's have jumped into our attention as we had the use of a Ford
Galaxy while at Goodwood and found the style of vehicle very suited to Steve's
requirements. He sits in the back of the vehicle and we take the middle seats
out. He can then stretch his leg out well and rest it at the same time. We had
the use of a Chrysler Voyager over the weekend but this has proved to be a bit
difficult to get in the garage!! (Watch out! - mind the.... Oh dear too late...)
Any recommendations of vehicles anyone????? All he needs now is the peg leg (his words - not
mine!!). My apologies to friends who have sent emails but to
which I haven't responded. Life has got even busier now that Steve is in Poole
as I am with him till 8.00 p.m every evening. Where does all the time go????? Our thanks to the people who have visited Steve, he
enjoyed the visits. We look forward to seeing more of you all in future. (You
never know where he might show up!) Jackie Tarrant 02-10-2000: Hi Everyone, I still can't keep up with him... He is now using the gym at the hospital more often -
which is good for him (can't have him getting lazy - now can we...) Last week he made the big move - between the parallel
bars - 'walking' on his left leg for a distance of 10 meters!! He was highly
delighted, and even more, when this week he walked 20 meters!! (there and back
in the parallel bars). There is no stopping him - even the physiotherapists were
impressed with his grit and determination. On Saturday we test rode, and then signed for our new
vehicle. We will be taking delivery of a MPV this week so that it will be easier
to get Steve out and about in future. We did squeeze him and the wheelchair in
the back of the Frontera on Monday - not an exercise we will repeat!! For those who weren't there, on Sunday we went to our
local kart circuit, Forest Edge, for their monthly meeting. Everyone was amazed
and highly delighted to see Steve there, and as to how well he is doing. I don't
think they could keep up with his sense of humour either!! I took great delight
when people asked me how Steve was doing, to point in his direction and say,
"Why don't you ask him yourself!" They duly did!
The weather was kind to us until late afternoon - when the heavens
decided to open, but still a very enjoyable day. I did my 'paddock marshal' bit
and thoroughly enjoyed it - and despite my 'bossing' the drivers around I think
they were pleased to see me back as well. On Monday morning the Occupation 'Terrorists' came to
'vet' the house for Steve's accessibility. We now have a ramp for him to get in
the house and we are putting slabs in the back garden so that he can get in the
garden, and then into the house. In
the afternoon, Steve went into his work for the first time since the accident -
and there were again amazed and delighted faces to see him actually there. I
know Steve enjoyed the visit very much. Back in the gym today for Steve. They put a very basic
leg on him (he will tell me off for forgetting the name of it!) and he stood on
'2 pins' for around 1 1/2 minutes, using minimal support by his arms. The bid news of the week is..... subject to the
Therapists being happy with everything at home - Steve will be discharged from
hospital and be living back at home again as from Friday this week - 6 October
2000. 2 days before his 40th birthday. He will still be an outpatient and return to the
hospital for physiotherapy and rehabilitation - but to actually have him
home...Hip Hip Hooooooraaaaay!! Perhaps I can coax him to do the next update - it he
hasn't drunk all the champagne that is... – Jackie Tarrant 06-10-2000: Hi Everyone, It is with great delight that I can now
say.... Steve is HOME!!!!!! He is sitting in the lounge with TV remote and a
Castle beer! And a BIG smile on his face. Got to dash, sounds like I am
wanted!?!?!? Cheers for now – Jackie Tarrant 03-11-2000 - Hi Again, Well
this week I have amazed even myself with what I've managed to achieve! In
the physio area, Sarah (the
terrorist) was obviously getting bored with watching me walk up and down the
parallel bars, so she has created a circuit for me. This involves:- 10
metres walking forward, 10
step-ups onto a block, 10
metres walking backwards, Stand
still without holding the bars for 1 minute, Walk
10 metres sideways right leg leading, Catch
a football 10 times, Walk
10 metres sideways left leg leading And
then sit down again. Yesterday
during physio I was able to complete 4 circuits, and was feeling good but tired
afterwards!!!!! After
physio yesterday, I had x-rays taken of my left leg, and my consultant Mr Farrar
on seeing them said that the bones have fused well, and therefore we can start
dismantling the cage! There and then!!!!!! In total, there were 12 pins in the
cage (3 on each ring), and so he decided the 3 connected direct to the tibia
should be removed, plus 2 of the one that pass through the leg. The selected
ones were the one that passes through the calf muscle and one of the 3 through
the top of the ankle. Mr Farrar chose to do this all without anesthetic (!), and
I was okay with the first 4 pins (indeed I never felt the 4th one being removed
at all). However when the ankle pin was pulled through
.................................... suffice to say a broken leg is easier to
manage!!! However, I survived through it, and can feel the difference already
when I put weight through the leg and pivot between chairs, it is much easier
now. I
next see Mr Farrar in 4 weeks time, and it was suggested that if it all looks
okay on the next x-rays then the entire cage could be dismantled and
removed!!!!! Did
my wheelchair appointment as well on Tuesday, and was advised I need a chair the
next size up from the one I currently have, especially bearing in mind the
strapping I will have to wear when the prosthetic is fitted. However, the chair
is to be a lightweight one in comparison with the agricultural unit I currently
had. Afraid the NHS one just wouldn't do (not enough panels for all the
badges!!!!!), so Jackie and I will be out shopping for a chair at the mobility
unit at Ferndown this weekend. It's
no good, I feel just tired typing all this lot (and you are probably too from
reading it all!!!!!!), so I'll end this now. Until
next week, Steve 08-11-2000 Well,
the bubble of progress had to come to a halt eventually. After
having 5 of the 12 pins removed from the cage last Wednesday (1/11/2000),
especially the 3 screwed directed into the shinbone, the weight of the cage is
being borne on other parts of the leg. The consultant did say there would be
some pain where the bones have joined together, but not to overdo things to the
point of re-breaking them. This was still settling down on Friday, but it was
too painful to contemplate gym work, so together with the therapist it was
decided not to exercise then but to rest, and we could review the situation on
Monday of this week. On Monday I did go to the gym, and stood on my tibia for the first time since the accident. However after some 50 metres, the soreness and pain of the break on the bones had become too much, and so I was forced to stop walking at that point. Tuesday was very much a rest day, trying not to put any weight at all through the leg, and today, the leg felt reasonably comfortable prior to going to the gym. However, when I tried standing on the leg, it immediately felt far too painful, and so I wasn't able to put any distance in. It
is a disappointment, but equally the fact that I am able to consider putting
weight through my own leg just some 19 weeks after the accident is a major
accomplishment. What my therapist and my consultant are now discussing is the
type of painkiller I currently have, and whether I should be on something
stronger. I should get to hear the results of this discussion on Friday. Steve 19-11-2000 - Hi Everyone A
big week this week, so I've waited until the weekend to type this up. Firstly
the consultant was worried initially that too many pins had been removed from
the cage and had made it unstable, causing the pain I was suffering when walking
between the parallel bars. However, after discussing this with both myself and
the physiotherapists, it was decided that things are generally okay, and
therefore the physios and myself shouldn't try to do so much walking at this
time. The x-rays show both bones in my lower left leg have fused, and that they
need time to consolidate (harden). It's a question of time being the great
healer. The consultant has re-instated my next appointment for 29th November,
and will again review whether the cage can be dismantled. Next,
I had my first visit to the Dorset Prosthetic Unit at Bournemouth for my
preliminary examination. Measurements were taken at various points of my stump
leg, and from these a silicon cup will be made which fits over the stump and
then fits into the cup at the top of the leg. Unfortunately it seems the length
of time of manufacture here in Dorset is considerably longer than that in
London, so it will be another fortnight before I go back for a trial fitting and
adjustments, and then another fortnight before I can take delivery of the leg. Lastly, I have been able to order my own personalised wheelchair. The reason for waiting was because they needed to know what type of fixings or straps I would need to wear for my prosthetic leg. Knowing this, I was able to go to the wheelchair people and get exactly the chair to fit my requirements, both for my immediate time and in the future. Again, I will have to wait about 4-5 weeks for the order to be processed and constructed. And
for good measure I was able to go to the RMA 10 pin bowling presentation
function for the 1999-2000 season, and collect my league champions’ trophy for
winning the league last May for my company. Great to meet everyone, and they are
all very supportive of my endeavor to re-learn how to bowl come next summer, and
maybe participate again in the 2000-2001 season. Maybe the run-up will become a
walk-up, but so long as I can balance when I release the ball, then I can't see
any problems there. Cheers
for the various messages I've received. Your best wishes are very much
appreciated, and do act as a spur to keep on going. Thanks
again Steve 17-12-2000: Hi Everyone, This time I can say a major
step forward and a minor step backwards. The major step is I NOW HAVE A RIGHT
LEG AGAIN! When they fitted it on Thursday, and I turned around to look in the
mirror, you cannot start to imagine the excitement inside me at that moment. After 5 months of looking in a mirror and
seeing a disfigured body reflected back, to see me with two legs again felt
great. The minor setback is that I have an infection in the left leg which means
I cannot weight bear on it!!!!! Sod's law, it had to happen this week of all
weeks!!!!! Oh well, these things are meant to try us. I am currently consulting
with my GP regarding this and expect to go back on another course of anti-biotics.
Once this has cleared up, I can then go through the process of walking again,
initially with crutches. The only thing is that with Christmas coming up in a
week's time, will the infection be clear enough to allow me to walk within the 3
physio sessions I have scheduled for this week. The other significant event for me was
being invited to Goodwood House by Lord March, in order to attend the Goodwood
Road Racing Company's Christmas get together. We were able to stay overnight in
a local hotel, but it was something Jackie and I did on the following morning
that is most important to me. We were able to drive up the course of the hill
climb used, to the spot where the finish line was, and see the location of my
accident for the first time. Whilst I'm not a church going Christian, I did drop
my head and whilst giving thanks for my own survival, paid my respects to the
driver and marshal who are no longer with us. Andy, rest in peace, mate. As I
know a lot of you will be going on leave soon, I'll make this my last update for
this year. I'd have to say the year 2000 has been a horrendous one for Jackie
and I. But equally I can say that this year has also been character building,
and also many new friendships have been made as a result of events. I thank each
and every one of you who has taken the time to write, e-mail, call or just say
well done when I have seen you in person. Merry Christmas and a prosperous New
Year - Steve 22-12-2000: Steve Tarrant Update - Hi Guys, It may be
that some of you are already on leave, so won't see this until the New Year.
Either way, as the attached picture shows (see Gallery), Christmas came one week
early for me, as last night I was able to walk from our car into a local pub for
the very first time!!!!! The look on my face says everything. Here's wishing you and your families all
the very best in the Festive Season, and may 2001 be a safe but good year for
all of us. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Steve and Jackie 18-01-2001:
Hi
Everyone, As almost everyone knows, I was on a euphoric high after walking 4
times in the first week after receiving my new prosthetic leg. But unfortunately
in doing so I managed to chafe away a lot of the new skin grafted onto the end
of my stump leg. The district nurse and prosthetician advised me not to walk
until further notice to allow the skin to grow back again, and 3 weeks later I'm
still waiting. The nurse has been coming in every 2 days to remove the old
dressings, clean the affected area and treat it with iodine before re-dressing
the leg. The signs are that I may well be able to re-start walking practice
again next week, and to aid the skin, I've been given a silicon disc that goes
between the stump and the stump sock I have to wear beneath the cup in the leg.
The idea of the disc is that it will give if anything is moving, rather than my
skin. Additionally the inside of the cup has been re-sculptured to relieve
pressure at certain points. I also saw the consultant on the 11th, regarding the
frame on the left leg. He advised me that if I hadn't lost the right leg, the
frame would have come off this time because the join of the tibia and fibula is
very good. However, as it is the left leg that will be taking the strain most of
the time, they wanted to make extra sure that the mend is strong, and therefore
I have to wear the cage for a further 4 weeks. In the meantime, to encourage
even more bone solidity, the consultant has loosened some of the bolts in the
frame so that the bones are taking more of the strain when standing, and the
frame is now flexing around my leg. Very disconcerting when you first hear it
move, but I am becoming more accustomed to it now. I am still attending physio 3 times a week
to get and keep myself as fit as possible for when I can start walking. The only
"problem" is that the day after each session I am well and truly
shattered, and need additional sleep and rest. Sleeping is still a problem
anyway, some nights I only manage 2-3 hours one day and then I'll sleep up to 15
hours in another day. But I'm told this will rectify itself once I get back to a
more routine way of life again. Cheers, Steve 07-02-2001: Hi Everyone, It's been 3 weeks since the last update,
as there wasn't much to say about the first two of them, as I couldn't walk
while I was waiting for the skin on the stump to re-grow after being chafed off.
But finally the District Nurse and my physios' gave me the go-ahead to restart
walking practice last week. And it was a blessed relief to find not only had I
not forgotten the technique I have to use, but also the month off had not been
wasted as I had also been doing my physical exercises and getting stronger.
However, I am limited to being able to walk only 40 metres in one go before
needing a rest, and have only managed a maximum total of 100 metres in a
session. One of the reasons for this is the cage, as once I start walking, the
weight of the metalwork bears down on my anklebones, and very quickly there is a
compression of the bones. Additionally, after not walking daily for some 7
months, the muscles in my ankle have become weak, and it will take time and
effort to build them up. Today, I have again met with my consultant, and the
good news is the extra 4 weeks of wearing the cage has meant that additional
calcification has taken place, which will stand the leg in good stead. He is
happy that the framework has done the job required of it, and is now putting me
on the operating list for next week, to have the metalwork removed in a one-day
operation. To know I'm that close to have it removed is absolutely wonderful. I
have been warned that following the removal I may have to take things very
steady in the following weeks whilst the leg gets used to doing 100% of the work
again, and it is possible I might have to take a step back before coming forward
again. So slow progress, but progress all the same. Cheers Steve 21-02-2001:
Hi Again Everyone, after the consultancy visit of 7th
February when I was told the metalwork could now come off, I got the appointment
for the op to take place in Poole Hospital on 14th February. Fine in itself, but
here's where the doubts started. All along my leg has had the support of
initially something else to do the work, and then the metalwork was acting as
secondary support. But following its removal I would then be faced with the leg
as it will be in future, without any support or assistance at all. Would the
join be strong enough? What would happen the first time I tripped or stumbled,
or turned an ankle? Would it then survive these types of knocks? Additionally,
this time I was nervous about going into hospital for the operation itself. To
date, I had been either sedated or under the influence of drugs prior to all the
other operations, so didn't know or worry too much. But this time I was going in
"cold". Anyway, had the operation on 14th February, left
hospital that night, and then had 2 further days of rest and worry. But on
Friday 16th I went to the physio gym, did 15 minutes of sit to standing
exercises (okay so far), then balanced on both legs for 5 minutes (started to
feel better now), then walked 2 circuits of 40 metres using crutches around the
gym floor. Phew, passed that test. Two worries still persisted. First that so far
everything had been on a totally flat, hard floor, and what would happen when I
had to cross loose, uneven ground? The second is what happens if the foot is not
planted flat and squarely on the floor and the ankle twists or turns over?
Saturday I was able to test my ability on loose chippings, and found so long as
I go slowly and carefully, I can manage to cross surfaces like that. But the
second question remains unanswered, this being something you want to try, but
afraid that by trying it, you'll redamage the leg in some way. Saturday night I attempted to walk upstairs at home
for the very first time. 13 steps, a mountain as far as I was concerned. BUT,
taking each step 2 feet on each step, I was able to conquer this, although it
did take some 10 minutes and I needed a rest when I got to the top! But got
there - Hooray! The downside came again on Sunday. After doing other
little walks, I suddenly hit the "wall", having absolutely no energy
left whatsoever. My whole left leg ached, a pressure point had formed on the end
of the stump (although it had not pierced the skin surface), and my shoulders
ached from holding the crutches too tight for balance. The outcome here was that
it took rest on Monday and Tuesday of this week to get over the exercise of
1day! But I am pleased with the way the bones have held up. I now need to temper
my enthusiasm to do too much too quickly, and to build myself up day by day. At
this rate, I sense it will be possible to return to work come the early summer,
and am certainly trying to beat June 24th, as this will be the 1st anniversary
of the accident. I know this time there have been a lot of concerns
expressed in this message, but I have been extremely fortunate in being able to
cope with them although it has been a hard process especially when you don't
have any answers to the "Why me?" question. But now that this
"major" hurdle has been passed successfully, I can again approach each
day with renewed optimism. Cheers – Steve 13-03-2001 Hi Everyone Well, since the last message, I have tested the
left leg against every type of surface and incline I have come up against, and
am very pleased to report that with the exception on one, it has passed the test
every time. Brilliant. The exception? Mossy covered paving slabs, when wet. When attempting to walk on these, I can do my own impression of All Wheel Steering (to use the Subaru phrase). Trouble is instead of everything working together in perfect harmony, what happens is I have two crutches and my two legs going in 4 different directions at the same time! NOT recommended, for body or mind!!!! With the increase in physical activity came an
increase - in fatigue. Basically after 100 metres I am absolutely no good to any
one. It's amazing that all the fitness I had before the accident has totally
good in the period since, and it's a vicious circle that has to be broken.
Trouble is the more you want to do, the more the body wants to rest and sleep
afterwards. This is the bit I will have my patience well and truly tested,
getting over the frustration of falling asleep at all times of the day and
night. But it was going okay until last week until
something else returned - infection. Seems something has got back inside me
again, so I've been put on a very strong course of anti-biotics and will be for
a few more days yet. And they have on the label "NO ALCOHOL". Damn,
can't even drink the blues away! Still, as many of you saw, I've been lucky enough
to work with the Evening Echo and Fire FM recently and have been featured in
both print and radio. Some wag has suggested that to complete the set, all I
need do is contact TV, and then you can have "Long John Tarrant and his
amazing performing Stump"! With suggestions like this, who needs
friends????? Cheers
for now Steve 24-03-2001: Hi All, Well, it's amazing to think this time next week Jackie and I will be with you all, after all we have been through. Today (24/3) is exactly 9 months to the day that the accident at Goodwood occurred, and yet I am able to contemplate a 13 hr flight, and 3 days of marshalling already. I know Ernie is suggesting I join him under a gazebo
at Post 9 (2 old codgers together!!!!), but the good news to you all is I'm
buying the beers on Saturday night. After all the messages Jackie and I received
it's the least I can do. Take care one and all, Steve Tarrant British Automobile Racing Club Kyalami Marshal Association member (and proud of it!). 02-04-2001: Steve And Jackie Tarrant: Hi Guys, welcome back! It
was really great seeing you under our sunny skies again. After all that you have
both been through in the last year, you are both looking wonderfully well. You
have both redefined the meaning of the words courage and tenacity - We Love you
both! – From all at KMA
21-06-2001
– Hi
Everyone This
weekend (23rd/24th) is one of very mixed
emotions, seeing that Sunday is the first anniversary of the accident. Obviously
I am pleased to get come back so far from where I was, but there are some things
I have got to deal with, in order to leave some of the pain behind. Therefore on
Sunday afternoon Jackie and I will be returning to Goodwood House, on our own,
driving to the spot where the finish line is, and laying our wreath of respect
to Andy and John. In this way, the grieving and mental torture that has been
going on inside me for the past 2 months can come to an end. Although
I can never lose the effect of the past, I can at least ease the burden and face
up to my future. For
me, that next stage is my getting back to work. I have now contacted my employer
and advised them that I now feel ready to return to work. Therefore subject to
gaining medical clearance, I am planning to go back on 16th July. Medically,
there are still things going on. Physio on muscles, tendons and ligaments in
various places, plus visits to the Limb Fitment Centre at Bournemouth Hospital.
But I have "test walked" my next leg and will be getting that on 11th
July, this one having a more advanced knee joint plus a moving ankle. So if I
look unsteady in July, it's NOT because I've had a sherbet or two already!!!!!! I
wish to finish this message by saying thank you, to everyone who's contacted me,
either by phone, mail or e-mail. At times it has been you, my friends, who have
kept me going. I now know there are even more people around the world who aren't
on the initial mailing list but have been receiving this and the other messages,
and following my case with interest. To
each and every one of you, a heart felt thank you, that will never be big
enough. You have all made the effort so much easier to bear. Cheers Steve
Tarrant 28-06-2001: Last Sunday was the 1st Anniversary of the accident
that robbed motorsport of the lives of two people, and has affected mine for the
rest of my time here Many have asked how it was returning to Goodwood one
year on. Well, I can tell you that it was emotional, but having returned and
laid a wreath in memory of Andy and John, I feel a burden in my life has also
now been laid to rest and can move forward again. Steve Tarrant 12-07-2001: The Final UpdateHi Everyone, Yes, the rumours are true – I’m going
back to work next week!!!! Initially I’ll be doing two mornings a week but
I’ll be assessing how I’m reacting to this and adjusting the hours to suit.
To start with I’ll be deskbound but I’m hoping in time to be able to get
around the building and doing on-site visits. And with my return to work, I feel it is time to stop
flooding the Internet with messages each week or fortnight!!! However the
opportunity to do these, initially by Jackie for 4 months and myself for the
past 9 months, has been a godsend, especially with all the messages of goodwill
that have come back from everyone. I have collected and printed these, and am
planning to store all the cards, letters, e-mails, drawings and other bits and
pieces relating to this period in a storage box which I can shut the lid on.
That way, if I ever feel lonely or feel that life has treated me badly, I have
only to lift the lid and see the goodwill that does exist. I know from talking with some of the names on the
initial list that these notes have then been forwarded to others, and I’d hate
to guess just how many people have been receiving them. But if you’d like to
make yourselves known, I’d love to hear from you (address at the foot of the
note). From both Jackie and I, we thank you all sincerely for all the old and
new friends that have come into our lives, and the support & kindness you
have shown us. Stay safe out there. Love to you all, Steve & Jackie
|
