Working on Happiness with hope in our hearts and a song in our stitching.

In 1953, while living in Germany, my mother began creating a remarkable book. She called it Happiness. It is a deeply personal, carefully assembled collection of poems, biblical passages, prayers, prose and pictures through which she explored love, faith, beauty, belonging and the life she hoped to lead. Now, as my mother enters her 91st year, we are transcribing and preparing it for publication.

We hope to preserve it not only for the generations of her family who will follow, but are mindful that the act of preservation opens up many dilemmas. Mindful of my recent journey through the NHS, I’ve been consulting with a consultant about what’s to be done. Previously he diagnosed the problem and suggested three solutions, discussed his preferred option and the possible outcomes and now looks to the future, with hope in his heart and a song in his stitching.

Postoperative care

Following surgery, Happiness should undergo a period of supported rehabilitation. The patient should:

• rest horizontally in a bespoke archival box;
• avoid heavy lifting and unsupported display;
• open only while supported by a conservation cradle;
• refrain from contact with liquids, food and direct sunlight;
• and attend periodic follow-up examinations.

Digital scanning may be undertaken once the surgical team considers the spine sufficiently stable.

Prognosis

The prognosis following skilled reconstructive treatment is good. Structural control should improve substantially, although the patient will remain vulnerable and require lifelong monitoring. There is every reason to expect many further years of quiet, meaningful activity.

Final assessment: The disease is advanced but treatable. The contents remain intact, there is no evidence of distant spread, and the patient is suitable for robotic-assisted radical rebinding with maximal preservation of original function.

Consultant’s concluding note:
The operation is not intended to remove what makes Happiness itself. Our task is to excise the failure, spare the character and restore the patient to a useful and dignified life.

We’ll keep you posted about what happens next; and you’ll be able to see for yourself on 26 August 2026!