140815 SELF EMPLOYMENT
I believe it was somewhere around the 14th August 2015; when I decided to try 'self-employment' selling stuff on eBay. -(Decided to apply for form Working Tax Credits; which still hasn't arrived, yet?!)- However, so far to date, I haven't even updated the site to advertise anything for sale. I just been far too busy doing many other things, instead; or, just worrying endlessly about how on earth am I going to cope with paying bills when I have no incoming money.
You see, the complication about selling stuff on eBay is...first, you need 'stock to sell'; but, how do you get 'stock to sell'? The answer, of course, is you have to 'buy stock'; only if you've got no money left...; then, how can you 'buy stock'...?!
So, I'm having a lot of trouble just getting to step 1: buying/selling...; nevermind, having reached step 2, yet: which is obtaining cash from customers.
The other thing that worries me about self-employment is...
1> Keeping constant paper records
2> Having to deal with Tax/National Insurance yourself
3> The unknown...???
4> -Etc.
150815/160815 TAI CHI WITH JAKE IN REGENT'S PARK, ALONG THE BROADWALK/LONDON ZOO END: WHITE WATER FOUNTAIN/OPPOSITE CAFE WITH SIGNS SAYING: 'SMOKEHOUSE'
I located a FREE Tai Chi event through the site
http://www.meetup.com
...which takes place inside of Regent's Park between 10AM-11PM on both Saturday/Sunday.
I attended going there on both days. As usual with me, sometimes, I got there early/other times late.
For the first 2 or 3 lessons; it was just me and teacher Jake. (A young 21 year old blue eyed American who says he's from New York.) He is a very good teacher in that he gives one extremely detailed and clear explanations; which a lot of Tai Chi teachers don't even bother doing; so that one often ends up feeling totally confused. However, with Jake you come away feeling you really know and understand the whole purpose of the lesson/movements, instead.
160815 THE WALLACE COLLECTION
Sometime, during last weekend, Sunday; I went to visit seeing The Wallace Collection; which is a small art gallery housing a private collector's artworks; which is open to the general public. This gallery is located in Manchester Square, just behind Baker Street. I was surprised to see that it contains many wonderful artworks -in fact, quite literally, 100's of them- by 'great' masters including: Rembrandt, Rubens, Titian, Boucher, Murillo, -etc. In all there are 2 entire floors to see; and, the variety of artworks is wide including sculpture/paintings/ceramics/pottery/furniture/tapestry/decorations/-etc.
190815 BIRTH CERTIFICATE ID
Recently, during this week I went to Brixton Town Hall to pick up a 'birth certificate' copy...which I'd already paid £10.00 for; and, ordered around 1/or, 2 weeks before; because I'd lost my 'original' birth certificate.
This was meant to be a pretty straight forwards process...; namely, you pay your money; you are given both a time/date to come and collect it; and, then, you're done. However, the process proved to be more more lengthy and difficult than that.
The first time I went to collect, they told me they had lost it...; therefore, they will phone me back; I received no phone call(possibly, my answer machine was too full; and, couldn't receive any further messages); so I had to return back there in order to query in person.
The second time they said, yes, they have it; however, it's been wrongly printed out onto a 'green' marriage certificate paper; therefore, will need to be corrected. Come back in an hour's time.
The third time, they seemed to have gotten it correct, printing on to 'light brown' paper(not the 'original' red as I'd been expecting). They also said that, now-a-days, these certificates are 'typed', which is much clearer to understand/read; and, then, officially signed.
Ironically, however, I wanted to use the Birth Certificate as proof of ID; but, when I read the notice which is written at the bottom it said:
"WARNING: A CERTIFICATE IS NOT EVIDENCE OF IDENTITY."
200815 OCS CLEANING AT OVAL CRICKET GROUND: 6:30 AM-1 PM
Yesterday, I went to work at OCS, again.
-(So far to date, I've worked there twice; each time on a Friday doing the 'late shift': 9PM upwards; the first night shift was from 9AM-2PM; the second night shift was short around 2 hours long...I got there late by around 1 hour, so...10AM-12 midnight.)
Recently, they offered me continuous 'late shift' work: 6:30AM upwards for 5 days: 20/21/22/23/24 August 2015.
I did my first 'night shift', yesterday, Friday. At first, everything went ok; because each time I go there I usually do just one same job which is 'emptying bins'. I emptied bins from around 7PM-1PM. Then, at around 2PM -(we had 1 hours break)- they decided to change my work to 'cleaning toilets', instead; that's when I decided to, immediately, 'sign out'...so that I don't have to clean toilets which is something I absolutely hate!
I'm really not too sure if I will be returning back there today during the evening; as I feel rather deeply ashamed and embarrassed that I might have gone and let the cleaning 'team' down; they probably view me as being a 'traitor', now.
However, I still have some serious bills to pay; and, no money to have to pay these with...my bank a/c. currently says a balance of only £0.76p. This is because my Benefit money has been sanctioned; meaning I did something wrong...signed on 'late'/or, didn't attend a job interview/-etc.; all the way until Oct 9th 2015. So, I really need money to pay all of the constantly incoming bills with really most desperately; otherwise, I would never even 'dream' of working for OCS.
Basically, Streatham Job Center insisted I do the Work Program at Ixion Business Center, Tooting, Bickersteath Road; and, the Work Program advisor, a young black guy called, Philip...who I told I will do any job; but, NOT cleaning...decided to give me the cleaning job, anyway!
210815 BARCLAYS BANK CASH CARD
Sometime, during this month August 2015 I opened a Barclays Cash Card a/c.; so that I can pay in my wages whenever I find suitable work.
The first Cash Card they sent me was plain/non-personalized; however, later on, I discovered that it's possible to personalize your Cash Card uploading a photo of yourself online; which will, then, get printed out onto the card. I received my personalized Cash Card today. Have to cut up the previous one; and, use the new, instead. The new one also has a slightly different number.
210815 BAKAVVOR FOOD COMPANY/DIDN'T GO FOR JOB INDUCTION AT 7AM TODAY
The Work Program told me to go for a 'paid' job induction today at Park Royal...which is near the end of the Central Line on the tube map...for BAKAVVOR Food company...who run 3 x large warehouses. In fact, I was meant to turn up there at 7AM.
However, I went to work for OCS Cleaning at night; and, came back home late; went to sleep around 4 AM; and, awoke around 10AM which is far too late to attend a 7AM appointment; which means I may have to re-apply, at the London Bridge branch of Ixion, for a BAKKAVOR interview all over, again; including Maths/English test/ID papers/-etc.
Friday, 21 August 2015
Thursday, 6 August 2015
060815 Latest news: CAP/Birth Cert.
THINKING OF SWITCHING DEBT HELP SERVICE
PERSONAL DEBT HELPLINE
My current debt help service is PDHL/Personal Debt Help Line.
What these debt help service people do is they arrange with your creditors affordable repayments; and, also, get the creditors to freeze piling on huge amounts of interest for each and every single month.
I currently owe around 8+ grand in debt to various credit card companies/bank loans/-etc.
You arrange a regular monthly payment to help cover both their own administration costs/as well as, to cover paying off the people who you owe. For example, when I pay PDHL £80.00 monthly; around half of that payment is taken as being their admin costs. This makes the debt really slow to pay off, indeed.
NOTE: Currently, PDHL has cut down the £80.00 I normally used to pay to become £20.00 monthly, instead; due to my JSA/Job Seekers Allowance money having been sanctioned. Meaning, I won't be able to get any more benefit money not until Oct 9th 2015. In the mean time, I have no other choice except to see work in order to pay the bills.
CHRISTIANS AGAINST POVERTY
The debt help service who I've been in contact with, right now, is called: CAP/Christians Against Poverty. The main advantage of their service is they don't take any charges at all for themselves; instead, their admin is done totally for free; and, so, all the rest of your money can go towards meeting the debts you owe.
The only problem is, they want me to close down my current bank a/c.; as I owe them for an overdraft loan; and, go open a different bank current a/c. instead with another bank. So, in this way, CAP can deal with paying off the debt; without me running up any further charges. Today, I made an appointment with Barclays bank to see if they would let me open a current a/c. They told me to come back there on Aug 13 10:00 AM.
My CAP support worker is called: Vanessa Reuters. I had a talk with her today at the church in Tulse Hill, Trinity Rise. She mentioned...
-I should contact my GP to get a referral to Brixton Mosaic -(mental health)- services for Aspergers Syndrome; and, then, maybe, they could help me to find a job; also, offer other support services, possibly; such as a support worker.
-I should contact my local Center 70/or, CAB/Citizen's Advice Beaureau in regards to which benefit would be most suitable to apply for if you have Aspergers Syndrome.
-I should make sure to apply for Council Tax help as soon as possible.
In addition to which she gave me some forms to go and fill in/prepaid postal envelopes to send...if I wished to apply to CAP on my own.
BIRTH CERTIFICATE APPLICATION
Unfortunately, I went and lost my 'original' birth certificate. Therefore, I had to get in contact with Brixton Town Hall Births & Deaths Registry office to apply for another one. The young lady who works there said I should fill in a form; and, also, pay £10.00. Then, she gave me a ticket...to come back and collect the certificate at anytime between: 12:00 to 4PM on Aug 12 2015.
Personally, I was really surprised that this task was so easy to do. Because last time I tried doing it online; I found I could not; as the form was asking me for all sorts of details that I don't have such as fathers name/-etc.
Anyway, I still haven't gone and picked up the Birth Certificate, yet; so, I really don't know exactly how much help it will be to me, in future. Will I be able to use it to apply for a passport/or, driving licence/-etc.; I will just have to wait and see...?
PERSONAL DEBT HELPLINE
My current debt help service is PDHL/Personal Debt Help Line.
What these debt help service people do is they arrange with your creditors affordable repayments; and, also, get the creditors to freeze piling on huge amounts of interest for each and every single month.
I currently owe around 8+ grand in debt to various credit card companies/bank loans/-etc.
You arrange a regular monthly payment to help cover both their own administration costs/as well as, to cover paying off the people who you owe. For example, when I pay PDHL £80.00 monthly; around half of that payment is taken as being their admin costs. This makes the debt really slow to pay off, indeed.
NOTE: Currently, PDHL has cut down the £80.00 I normally used to pay to become £20.00 monthly, instead; due to my JSA/Job Seekers Allowance money having been sanctioned. Meaning, I won't be able to get any more benefit money not until Oct 9th 2015. In the mean time, I have no other choice except to see work in order to pay the bills.
CHRISTIANS AGAINST POVERTY
The debt help service who I've been in contact with, right now, is called: CAP/Christians Against Poverty. The main advantage of their service is they don't take any charges at all for themselves; instead, their admin is done totally for free; and, so, all the rest of your money can go towards meeting the debts you owe.
The only problem is, they want me to close down my current bank a/c.; as I owe them for an overdraft loan; and, go open a different bank current a/c. instead with another bank. So, in this way, CAP can deal with paying off the debt; without me running up any further charges. Today, I made an appointment with Barclays bank to see if they would let me open a current a/c. They told me to come back there on Aug 13 10:00 AM.
My CAP support worker is called: Vanessa Reuters. I had a talk with her today at the church in Tulse Hill, Trinity Rise. She mentioned...
-I should contact my GP to get a referral to Brixton Mosaic -(mental health)- services for Aspergers Syndrome; and, then, maybe, they could help me to find a job; also, offer other support services, possibly; such as a support worker.
-I should contact my local Center 70/or, CAB/Citizen's Advice Beaureau in regards to which benefit would be most suitable to apply for if you have Aspergers Syndrome.
-I should make sure to apply for Council Tax help as soon as possible.
In addition to which she gave me some forms to go and fill in/prepaid postal envelopes to send...if I wished to apply to CAP on my own.
BIRTH CERTIFICATE APPLICATION
Unfortunately, I went and lost my 'original' birth certificate. Therefore, I had to get in contact with Brixton Town Hall Births & Deaths Registry office to apply for another one. The young lady who works there said I should fill in a form; and, also, pay £10.00. Then, she gave me a ticket...to come back and collect the certificate at anytime between: 12:00 to 4PM on Aug 12 2015.
Personally, I was really surprised that this task was so easy to do. Because last time I tried doing it online; I found I could not; as the form was asking me for all sorts of details that I don't have such as fathers name/-etc.
Anyway, I still haven't gone and picked up the Birth Certificate, yet; so, I really don't know exactly how much help it will be to me, in future. Will I be able to use it to apply for a passport/or, driving licence/-etc.; I will just have to wait and see...?
Saturday, 25 July 2015
250715 Latest updates: IXION/JSA/WORK: OCS/ADMIN/NET DOWN
APPARENTLY, MY LAST BLOG POST WAS A WHOLE ENTIRE YEAR AGO
From looking at the list of my previous diary entries here...it would appear that the last diary entry I made was during July 2014; now, however, the date is July 2015...which is a whole entire year on! Time to add some of the latest updates...
FINANCES
First, I'm totally flat broke; with, basically, no money coming in...; just loads and loads of endlessly mounting bills to pay...?!
In particular, Streatham Job Center, where I'm meant to go and 'sign on', regularly; every single fortnight to receive JSA/Job Seekers Allowance of, approximately, £70.00 per week; has sent me to go on a Work Program training scheme at, Ixion Business Center, Tooting, Bickersteth Road.
Now, the problems I'm having are...if I 'sign on' at Streatham Job Center 'late'...then, they completely cut off my benefits for the next 3 months! Also, if I arrive at the Work Program 'late' they choose to cut my benefits off for a further 3 months! Too, if the Work Program people send you for a job interview; and, you either didn't go/or else, were 'late'; then, the penalty is they stop your benefit for a further 3 months long.
Only I'm in the habit of arriving at all of my appointments 'late'; as I suffer from 'lifelong' ADD/Attention Deficit Disorder; therefore, currently, I do have no benefit money coming in at all; as they've gone and cut it off for how long...I'm not even sure; as I've made far too many offences.
SEEKING WORK/TRYING TO BUILD A C.V WITH WORK REFERENCES
Since I have no benefit money to look forwards to receiving; therefore, I have had to go out and try to find 'paid' work, instead.
PAID WORK: CLEANING AT OVAL CRICKET GROUND
Currently, I'm doing one day per week; night shift on Fridays, 9PM- a cleaning job at Oval Cricket Grounds. The wage is the minimum pay: £6.50 per hour. To date, I've worked there for only 2 weeks/meaning 2 x Friday nights...my first night shift was for 5 hours long: 9PM-2:30AM/and, the next Friday which was just, yesterday...I got there late...was meant to be there at 9PM...but, left home at 9:11 PM...and, reached there around 10PM...worked until 12PM...and, then, came back home, again.
The cleaning work involves...checking if the bins are full; if full, then, tie up the full black liner and place it inside of a large metal dustcart with 4 wheels; next, replace the removed black liner with a fresh new empty black dustbin liner. Then, move on to checking if other bins are full...and, so on.
It's dirty/smell/disgusting work; and, frankly, I do absolutely 'hate' it! However, I need to do this work...in order to gain a cleaning reference to put on my C.V.; which would allow me to work as a cleaner anywhere I please. Though, honestly, I'm not in the least bit interested in working as a cleaner, regularly; instead, I just do such a 'detestable' job if I'm absolutely desperate to gain some money.
UNPAID WORK: ADMIN/WEST NORWOOD/FIRST STEP TRUST
The actual work I'd like to do is 'admin'; and, working inside of offices. For this purpose I recently went and attended an interview last week to do admin work in West Norwood...-the place is located near to West Norwood GPO Parcel depot/which is where I first saw the advert-; the interviewer, a black woman called: Gail Dawson, said I must come in to start work on Tuesday 9AM-5PM.
I look forwards to going there, and, gaining actual work experience in office based skills. However, this work, most unfortunately, is 'unpaid'; though they do give you £1.50 morning shift/£1.50 evening shift...for travel expenses; amounting to just £3.00 daily!
My intention in going there to work for them is not the money, of course; but, instead, just so that I can say I have had some 'recent' work experience in 'admin'; the which reference I can put down on my C.V.
MY CURRENT TIME TABLE IS FAIRLY BUSY 5 DAYS PER WEEK
Currently, I have to attend the job center directed Work Program in Tooting on three days: Mon/Wed/Fri: 10AM-1PM; also, on Thu evenings I'm meant to go to Ixion, London Bridge center to do Self-Employment training; and, on Tue I'm meant to go and do voluntary 'admin' work; which means I have a full week ahead of me; there is no more, constantly, 'staying in'.
Mon: Ixion, Tooting, 10AM-1PM
Tue: First Step Trust: 9AM-5PM
Wed: Ixion, Tooting, 10AM-1PM
Thu: Ixion, London Bridge, 2:30 PM-
Fri: Ixion, Tooting, 10AM-1PM
Fri: OCS Cleaning: Oval: 9PM-
PGTB/VOLUNTARY WORK
I've been a member of Paxton Green Time Bank for around 3 years, now. The Time Bank is a voluntary scheme where they exchange 'Time credits'. Basically, you give up 1 hour of your time to say teach somebody a skill you know; then, you are entitled to have somebody teach you a skill they know, in return. Sometimes, you don't even need to share skills; it might just be somebody needs to share some company; or, they need you to clean for them; or, play games such as Chess together; or, -etc. It all counts towards your amount of Time Credits.
All last week PGTB had an Arts Installation show; and, I was there for each and every single day; sometimes, I played with children; other times, I was doing art on my own; or else, taking part in FREE art classes being given by French teacher, Fabienne. I also helped them to clean up, after the Arts Installation was done.
MY INTERNET WENT DOWN FOR A WEEK AND A HALF; AND, JUST CAME BACK ON TODAY, SATURDAY
My current telephone/broadband(internet) provider is Talk Talk. Only, the internet went down for around 1 1/2 weeks long; and, has only just come back on again, today; because they sent me an engineer to come and fix it inside of the home. What was really weird, though, was it was very simple and easy to fix; as soon as he gave me a new 'gray' lead...-the old lead got broken; accidentally, I went and stepped on it!-.,..it just worked.
However, I had reported it as not working before the lead got broken; there were only 2 lights appearing on the Router...Power/WLAN...all of the other lights were off...including, Internet; so, it honestly surprises me that the engineer was able to fix the problem so very quickly and easily...when I myself had tried doing everything I could possibly think of before, and, it still wouldn't work?! Anyway, I'm just hoping that Talk Talk won't charge me for calling out their engineer quite unnecessarily.
From looking at the list of my previous diary entries here...it would appear that the last diary entry I made was during July 2014; now, however, the date is July 2015...which is a whole entire year on! Time to add some of the latest updates...
FINANCES
First, I'm totally flat broke; with, basically, no money coming in...; just loads and loads of endlessly mounting bills to pay...?!
In particular, Streatham Job Center, where I'm meant to go and 'sign on', regularly; every single fortnight to receive JSA/Job Seekers Allowance of, approximately, £70.00 per week; has sent me to go on a Work Program training scheme at, Ixion Business Center, Tooting, Bickersteth Road.
Now, the problems I'm having are...if I 'sign on' at Streatham Job Center 'late'...then, they completely cut off my benefits for the next 3 months! Also, if I arrive at the Work Program 'late' they choose to cut my benefits off for a further 3 months! Too, if the Work Program people send you for a job interview; and, you either didn't go/or else, were 'late'; then, the penalty is they stop your benefit for a further 3 months long.
Only I'm in the habit of arriving at all of my appointments 'late'; as I suffer from 'lifelong' ADD/Attention Deficit Disorder; therefore, currently, I do have no benefit money coming in at all; as they've gone and cut it off for how long...I'm not even sure; as I've made far too many offences.
SEEKING WORK/TRYING TO BUILD A C.V WITH WORK REFERENCES
Since I have no benefit money to look forwards to receiving; therefore, I have had to go out and try to find 'paid' work, instead.
PAID WORK: CLEANING AT OVAL CRICKET GROUND
Currently, I'm doing one day per week; night shift on Fridays, 9PM- a cleaning job at Oval Cricket Grounds. The wage is the minimum pay: £6.50 per hour. To date, I've worked there for only 2 weeks/meaning 2 x Friday nights...my first night shift was for 5 hours long: 9PM-2:30AM/and, the next Friday which was just, yesterday...I got there late...was meant to be there at 9PM...but, left home at 9:11 PM...and, reached there around 10PM...worked until 12PM...and, then, came back home, again.
The cleaning work involves...checking if the bins are full; if full, then, tie up the full black liner and place it inside of a large metal dustcart with 4 wheels; next, replace the removed black liner with a fresh new empty black dustbin liner. Then, move on to checking if other bins are full...and, so on.
It's dirty/smell/disgusting work; and, frankly, I do absolutely 'hate' it! However, I need to do this work...in order to gain a cleaning reference to put on my C.V.; which would allow me to work as a cleaner anywhere I please. Though, honestly, I'm not in the least bit interested in working as a cleaner, regularly; instead, I just do such a 'detestable' job if I'm absolutely desperate to gain some money.
UNPAID WORK: ADMIN/WEST NORWOOD/FIRST STEP TRUST
The actual work I'd like to do is 'admin'; and, working inside of offices. For this purpose I recently went and attended an interview last week to do admin work in West Norwood...-the place is located near to West Norwood GPO Parcel depot/which is where I first saw the advert-; the interviewer, a black woman called: Gail Dawson, said I must come in to start work on Tuesday 9AM-5PM.
I look forwards to going there, and, gaining actual work experience in office based skills. However, this work, most unfortunately, is 'unpaid'; though they do give you £1.50 morning shift/£1.50 evening shift...for travel expenses; amounting to just £3.00 daily!
My intention in going there to work for them is not the money, of course; but, instead, just so that I can say I have had some 'recent' work experience in 'admin'; the which reference I can put down on my C.V.
MY CURRENT TIME TABLE IS FAIRLY BUSY 5 DAYS PER WEEK
Mon: Ixion, Tooting, 10AM-1PM
Tue: First Step Trust: 9AM-5PM
Wed: Ixion, Tooting, 10AM-1PM
Thu: Ixion, London Bridge, 2:30 PM-
Fri: Ixion, Tooting, 10AM-1PM
Fri: OCS Cleaning: Oval: 9PM-
PGTB/VOLUNTARY WORK
I've been a member of Paxton Green Time Bank for around 3 years, now. The Time Bank is a voluntary scheme where they exchange 'Time credits'. Basically, you give up 1 hour of your time to say teach somebody a skill you know; then, you are entitled to have somebody teach you a skill they know, in return. Sometimes, you don't even need to share skills; it might just be somebody needs to share some company; or, they need you to clean for them; or, play games such as Chess together; or, -etc. It all counts towards your amount of Time Credits.
All last week PGTB had an Arts Installation show; and, I was there for each and every single day; sometimes, I played with children; other times, I was doing art on my own; or else, taking part in FREE art classes being given by French teacher, Fabienne. I also helped them to clean up, after the Arts Installation was done.
MY INTERNET WENT DOWN FOR A WEEK AND A HALF; AND, JUST CAME BACK ON TODAY, SATURDAY
My current telephone/broadband(internet) provider is Talk Talk. Only, the internet went down for around 1 1/2 weeks long; and, has only just come back on again, today; because they sent me an engineer to come and fix it inside of the home. What was really weird, though, was it was very simple and easy to fix; as soon as he gave me a new 'gray' lead...-the old lead got broken; accidentally, I went and stepped on it!-.,..it just worked.
However, I had reported it as not working before the lead got broken; there were only 2 lights appearing on the Router...Power/WLAN...all of the other lights were off...including, Internet; so, it honestly surprises me that the engineer was able to fix the problem so very quickly and easily...when I myself had tried doing everything I could possibly think of before, and, it still wouldn't work?! Anyway, I'm just hoping that Talk Talk won't charge me for calling out their engineer quite unnecessarily.
Friday, 25 July 2014
Tue 22nd July 2014/Went 3 x different MA classes
Mon 21st July 2014/Went Krav Maga, Brixton, St Matthew's church
The teachers said the venue will be changing to Crystal Palace, instead; until 1st September when classes at St Matthew's church will resume, again.
(Fri 25th July 2014/I went to Crystal Palace to discover where the new Krav training place is. It was easy to find. Only I aready missed the 'beginners' class, yesterday: 6:45PM-8:45PM.)
-----
Tue 22nd July 2014/Went 3 x different MA classes
10AM-12:00 Camberwell Green kick boxing at Ferndale Leisure Center/(£7.00 class fee + £3.00 to get in. £20 for monthly membership; then, getting in is FREE; but, the class will still have to be paid for. Teacher: Julian.)
6:30PM-8:30PM Chinese Community Center, Leicester Square, TKD (2 FREE classes/this is class no 1/a black guy is the teacher; forgot his name?)
9PM-11PM Chinese Community Center, Leicester Square, Bai Ji Quan (Teacher Xin, Chinese guy)
SUMMARY OF EACH CLASS
Frankly, after the kick boxing in the morning; my legs were feeling pretty sore; after taking kicks against the pad on my thigh; my thigh ended up being pretty deeply bruised.
The TKD I wanted to check out; because I thought it looked pretty. I still do think that. Plus, it's good for teaching one how to kick.
The Bai Ji Quan, is a hard Shaolin form of style; but, extremely effective especially up close.
CONCLUSION
I really don't know how long I will continue with doing these lessons; far more likely than not something will have to stop; as I'm totally flat broke. So, I might end up chosing to go only to one class, alone; as opposed to all.
The teachers said the venue will be changing to Crystal Palace, instead; until 1st September when classes at St Matthew's church will resume, again.
(Fri 25th July 2014/I went to Crystal Palace to discover where the new Krav training place is. It was easy to find. Only I aready missed the 'beginners' class, yesterday: 6:45PM-8:45PM.)
-----
Tue 22nd July 2014/Went 3 x different MA classes
10AM-12:00 Camberwell Green kick boxing at Ferndale Leisure Center/(£7.00 class fee + £3.00 to get in. £20 for monthly membership; then, getting in is FREE; but, the class will still have to be paid for. Teacher: Julian.)
6:30PM-8:30PM Chinese Community Center, Leicester Square, TKD (2 FREE classes/this is class no 1/a black guy is the teacher; forgot his name?)
9PM-11PM Chinese Community Center, Leicester Square, Bai Ji Quan (Teacher Xin, Chinese guy)
SUMMARY OF EACH CLASS
Frankly, after the kick boxing in the morning; my legs were feeling pretty sore; after taking kicks against the pad on my thigh; my thigh ended up being pretty deeply bruised.
The TKD I wanted to check out; because I thought it looked pretty. I still do think that. Plus, it's good for teaching one how to kick.
The Bai Ji Quan, is a hard Shaolin form of style; but, extremely effective especially up close.
CONCLUSION
After already taking 2 classes, today; I wasn't sure I'd still have enough energy left to go take the 3rd; but, somehow, I seem to have managed it. I think, the real reason why though is because the TKD teacher went real easy on me; not making the lesson too difficult; thus, I still had strength available to do BJQ.
Tuesday, 8 July 2014
Tue 8th July 2014 KM/DWP/MA
Tue 8th July 2014
KRAV MAGA SPARRING SESSION IN SUNHIL'S PRIVATE HOME
9AM I had an appointment with Sunhil(29 Apache[?] Road, Brixton), a Nepalese guy, who I met in Krag Maga class at St Matthew's church in Brixton, to go and do some sparring. I was meant to arrive at 9AM; but, I was late by 1 hour; so, eventually, I arrived at 9:30AM instead; he did not complain. We both went into the garden, and, did some boxing; followed by some Krav Maga self-defence; and, also, some knive disarm work. We both wore shin guards/groin guards; and, the hitting was light as opposed to hard. It was interesting sparring with him; as although he is shorter than me; he is also quicker; and, really quite strong. I'm not exactly sure; but, he is at least my equal as a boxer; and, is a far better kicker. Being we are both beginners; therefore, I can't honestly say I learned an awful lot from him...though he did show me a few of his own techniques; but, out main aim is to practice stuff so that we don't forget; and, also, to sharpen our awareness/reflexes/timing/conditioning/-etc.
He said he had to meet up with a friend who came calling at the door, Michael; with whom he goes to Brockwell park to play tennis. So, when Michael came; he wasn't too interested in learning or studying martial arts; so, we both stopped; and, I left for home; leaving both of them to go and play tennis together.
Sunhil said he would call me again, next week. I left him a business card with my name/address/phone number(home/mobile).
PRINT MAKING AT DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY
2PM-4PM Curtesy of Paxton Green Time Bank, I went to Dulwich Picture Gallery to do some 'print making' practice. We drew flowers, first, by using a pencil; then, after we drew over the pencil marks onto a paint slab; which thus produced a coloured in print on the other side of the paper we were drawing on. Finally, we were given frames to store our drawing in. Personally speaking, I was happy with the result.
4PM-5PM Afterwards, we were given a FREE gallery pass to go and see 'prints' made by Ben Nicholson, and, his wife; as well as, others in his group. The prints were interesting; but, honestly, most were not that great; with the exception of a few. Anyway, I enjoyed looking the exhibition; which otherwise I would have missed completely.
CHINESE MARTIAL ARTS COMMUNITY CENTRE, LEICESTER SQUARE: BAJIQUAN
8PM-11:30 PM Two weeks ago I went to look at the martial arts they practice in Leicester Square, Chinese Community Centre. They have 2 there: TKD(6:30PM-8PM/£???)/and, BAJIQUAN(9PM-11PM/£5.00).
Then, last week I actually took a Bajiquan lesson.
This week I decided to go back to learn some more; and, especially, to refresh my memory so that I don't forget?!
I like the lesson; but, I can't honestly say that I understand it...being just a total complete beginner; I know that my moves are all wrong...! However, I figure that with sufficient practice I might be able to get it in the end...?
TKD: FREE CLASS NEXT WEEK: JUST REMEMBER TO TURN UP 6:30PM
I also inquired about TKD; and, was told I would need a uniform to practice; but, the chinese lady said she wasn't too sure about the price; I must go and consult their web site, instead. TKD: 0751 7437 300.
RODE MY BIKE THE LONG WAY AROUND THEN HOME
12:00 Midnight-2AM. I rode home the long way around: Leicester Square, Picadilly, Waterloo, Westminister, Lambeth Bridge, Vauxhall, Stockwell, Clapham Common, Clapham South, Balham, Tooting, Tooting Bec, Tooting Broadway, Streatham, Streatham Common, Crown Point, Norwood Park, Earnest Ave, -etc. Eventually, I arrived home somewhere around 2AM.
In fact, I still feel rather energetic, and, want to go back outside, again; but, then, I think, it might well be far better if I were to let myself get some sleep.
I need to do some running around the park; which I haven't been practicing for a few days now; due to Achilles Tendonitis injury playing up.
KRAV MAGA SPARRING SESSION IN SUNHIL'S PRIVATE HOME
9AM I had an appointment with Sunhil(29 Apache[?] Road, Brixton), a Nepalese guy, who I met in Krag Maga class at St Matthew's church in Brixton, to go and do some sparring. I was meant to arrive at 9AM; but, I was late by 1 hour; so, eventually, I arrived at 9:30AM instead; he did not complain. We both went into the garden, and, did some boxing; followed by some Krav Maga self-defence; and, also, some knive disarm work. We both wore shin guards/groin guards; and, the hitting was light as opposed to hard. It was interesting sparring with him; as although he is shorter than me; he is also quicker; and, really quite strong. I'm not exactly sure; but, he is at least my equal as a boxer; and, is a far better kicker. Being we are both beginners; therefore, I can't honestly say I learned an awful lot from him...though he did show me a few of his own techniques; but, out main aim is to practice stuff so that we don't forget; and, also, to sharpen our awareness/reflexes/timing/conditioning/-etc.
He said he had to meet up with a friend who came calling at the door, Michael; with whom he goes to Brockwell park to play tennis. So, when Michael came; he wasn't too interested in learning or studying martial arts; so, we both stopped; and, I left for home; leaving both of them to go and play tennis together.
Sunhil said he would call me again, next week. I left him a business card with my name/address/phone number(home/mobile).
PRINT MAKING AT DULWICH PICTURE GALLERY
2PM-4PM Curtesy of Paxton Green Time Bank, I went to Dulwich Picture Gallery to do some 'print making' practice. We drew flowers, first, by using a pencil; then, after we drew over the pencil marks onto a paint slab; which thus produced a coloured in print on the other side of the paper we were drawing on. Finally, we were given frames to store our drawing in. Personally speaking, I was happy with the result.
4PM-5PM Afterwards, we were given a FREE gallery pass to go and see 'prints' made by Ben Nicholson, and, his wife; as well as, others in his group. The prints were interesting; but, honestly, most were not that great; with the exception of a few. Anyway, I enjoyed looking the exhibition; which otherwise I would have missed completely.
CHINESE MARTIAL ARTS COMMUNITY CENTRE, LEICESTER SQUARE: BAJIQUAN
8PM-11:30 PM Two weeks ago I went to look at the martial arts they practice in Leicester Square, Chinese Community Centre. They have 2 there: TKD(6:30PM-8PM/£???)/and, BAJIQUAN(9PM-11PM/£5.00).
Then, last week I actually took a Bajiquan lesson.
This week I decided to go back to learn some more; and, especially, to refresh my memory so that I don't forget?!
I like the lesson; but, I can't honestly say that I understand it...being just a total complete beginner; I know that my moves are all wrong...! However, I figure that with sufficient practice I might be able to get it in the end...?
TKD: FREE CLASS NEXT WEEK: JUST REMEMBER TO TURN UP 6:30PM
I also inquired about TKD; and, was told I would need a uniform to practice; but, the chinese lady said she wasn't too sure about the price; I must go and consult their web site, instead. TKD: 0751 7437 300.
RODE MY BIKE THE LONG WAY AROUND THEN HOME
12:00 Midnight-2AM. I rode home the long way around: Leicester Square, Picadilly, Waterloo, Westminister, Lambeth Bridge, Vauxhall, Stockwell, Clapham Common, Clapham South, Balham, Tooting, Tooting Bec, Tooting Broadway, Streatham, Streatham Common, Crown Point, Norwood Park, Earnest Ave, -etc. Eventually, I arrived home somewhere around 2AM.
In fact, I still feel rather energetic, and, want to go back outside, again; but, then, I think, it might well be far better if I were to let myself get some sleep.
I need to do some running around the park; which I haven't been practicing for a few days now; due to Achilles Tendonitis injury playing up.
Tuesday, 1 July 2014
010714 Went Kung Fu in Leicester Square
9PM-11PM Tuesday July 2014 I went to the Chinese Community Center in Leicester Square to go and practice doing some Kung Fu.
Last Tuesday I went there to watch. This Tuesday I actually went there to participate in taking an actual lesson for £5.00.
I was told to come along on Saturday at 2PM to do a FREE session if I wish; and, also, to check them out during the weekend.
When I first went in, they were still practicing Taekwon Do. I saw 2 oriental girls practicing together; with the same Kung Fu teacher conducting the lesson.
Then, after TKD had finished; it was my turn to go and learn.
I have to admit that learning anything 'new' can be pretty damn difficult; and, so, I find myself making mistakes all over the place!
1, The first difficulty is trying to remember all of the moves?
2. The second difficulty is trying to get those moves to work correctly.
3. The third difficulty is it's one thing to practice moves alone, and, in air; but, not so easy to do it in real life against a willing, and, highly cooperative partner.
4> The last difficulty is to get the moves working against a partner who is totally uncooperative, instead.
Right now, I'm still going through the remembering stage, quite frankly.
Anyway, I hope to take many more of these Kung Fu classes, in future. The atmosphere was one I liked; where the focus is intense; and, of course, they do strike you; but, not with dead serious intent; so you still come out of the lesson feeling perfectly ok. I thought I would get hurt; but, no, not at all. Far from it, I actually enjoyed the rough and tumble. I also very deeply appreciated being allowed to practice doing breakfalls with any mats.
Last Tuesday I went there to watch. This Tuesday I actually went there to participate in taking an actual lesson for £5.00.
I was told to come along on Saturday at 2PM to do a FREE session if I wish; and, also, to check them out during the weekend.
When I first went in, they were still practicing Taekwon Do. I saw 2 oriental girls practicing together; with the same Kung Fu teacher conducting the lesson.
Then, after TKD had finished; it was my turn to go and learn.
I have to admit that learning anything 'new' can be pretty damn difficult; and, so, I find myself making mistakes all over the place!
1, The first difficulty is trying to remember all of the moves?
2. The second difficulty is trying to get those moves to work correctly.
3. The third difficulty is it's one thing to practice moves alone, and, in air; but, not so easy to do it in real life against a willing, and, highly cooperative partner.
4> The last difficulty is to get the moves working against a partner who is totally uncooperative, instead.
Right now, I'm still going through the remembering stage, quite frankly.
Anyway, I hope to take many more of these Kung Fu classes, in future. The atmosphere was one I liked; where the focus is intense; and, of course, they do strike you; but, not with dead serious intent; so you still come out of the lesson feeling perfectly ok. I thought I would get hurt; but, no, not at all. Far from it, I actually enjoyed the rough and tumble. I also very deeply appreciated being allowed to practice doing breakfalls with any mats.
Sunday, 25 May 2014
Cat suffered broken leg/other internal injuries. Taken to vet...awaiting updates
Friday 23rd May 2014 12:00 midnight
At the approach of the weekend. I let the cat out through the front door at around midnight before going off to sleep.
In the daytime I only ever let my cat out into the back garden; as I feel there is far too much constant road traffic both coming and going along for it to be truly safe for the cat to go out and play in the front street. However, when it's late at night...close to midnight/or, just after midnight 1AM/2AM/3AM; I allow her out into the street as there are very few cars around, then; nearly everyone has gone to bed; therefore, I feel it's much less likely that she will get run over. Of course, there are many other cats out there in the front streets; that my cat likes to go and meet. After sleeping, as soon as I wake up, I go and open the door to collect her back in again sometime around very early morning; usually before 6AM; when people wake up to take their cars to go off to work.
At around 5 AM in the morning, I went and opened up the front door, as usual; clapping together both my hands very loudly -which is my usual sign for calling the cat to come back in-, only the cat didn't come...? I then went around to the back door, and, once more, tried clapping both my hands; again, there was no response...?
Next, I thought to myself she might be inside of the home somewhere, instead. Possibly, crept in without my even noticing it/or else, my mum, who usually wakes up before me, might have let here in. So, I tried opening up all doors inside of the house, and, at the same time clapped my hands together loudly; again, no response. My cat wears a collar with a phone number, and, bell around her neck; so, whenever she moves I can hear the bell. I heard nothing.
I started thinking to myself, what on earth could have happened? Of course, when one lets ones imagination run...it can come up with absolutely no end of 'negative' scenarios. I thought, somebody could have stolen it; some spiteful kids could have stoned it to death for fun; it could have fallen from a great height such as out of a tree when attempting to chase after birds/-etc.
Sat 24th May 2014 11:30 AM
Still thinking about the cat, constantly; where on earth could she be...??? I searched the back garden; looked over garden hedges. I tried going down the alleyway to see if she could be there; the results of which were still no cat.
I decided to go off to a martial arts lesson in Brixton at St Matthew's church. I arrived late; I should have gotten there at 11AM; instead, I left home at 11:30AM. So, the lesson was short; and, pretty soon I returned back home on my bike.
When I came back home; I saw my mum was going around knocking on nextdoor neighbour doors to ask if anyone had seen the cat; she also put up a number of written messages, 3, stating that the cat had gone missing; sticking these messages onto lamp posts using sticky tape.
All the way from Friday up to Saturday late evening, I'd gone and left the back garden door open; in the hope that possibly the cat will come back, and, so be able to let herself in. But, very late Saturday evening, I went and closed the garden gate; as I felt it was far too much of a security threat; or, possible enticement to burglars.
Sunday 25th May 2014 Very early morning 1PM
By early Sunday morning, I'd already decided deep inside of my mind; we would, most likely, never get to see the cat ever again. Whoever had stolen her would be long gone by now; especially so if they'd stolen her in their car. Outside of our house there is a nearby alleyway; and, another next door neighbor cat had gone missing; to be never ever seen again.
At the same time, I kept on hearing a faint 'bell noise'...not constant...but, only just occasional. Naturally, I would 'rejoice'; go running off straight downstairs to open up both the front door/back garden door...only to find still no cat?! Thus, I thought to myself the faint 'jingle bell noise' I keep hearing every now and then...must be due purely to my own imagination, and, is merely the result of wishful thinking.
Finally, I decided why not have a go at looking underneath the bed to see if I could find the cat there; and, sure enough, that's exactly where I found the cat; lying all curled up on the floor underneath the left side of the bed; but, then, I noticed she would not come out from under the bed. But, I wasn't exactly sure what was wrong there...as to why not? Possibly, she was playing games...; as there was no moaning or groaning.
I then went downstairs, and, got a double tray...filling one side with water; and, then, left the tray beside her so that she could, at least, drink.
Sunday 25th May 2014...later on, during the same morning...8AM
-(A large part of me feels guilt/shame that I didn't detect the cats injuries far sooner; immediately, when I went and discovered her underneath the bed far earlier in the morning; I should have said to myself why isn't she coming out? Exactly, what's wrong? Then, I would have taken her off to see the vet far sooner. However, I just thought to myself she must be having a stomach upset; so that's why she isn't eating/drinking. Thus, I went straight back to sleep, again. After all, the cat wasn't making any noise; she wasn't moaning or groaning. She was moving her neck/head -but, not body- and, seemed to be looking at me, quite calmly, straight in the face with both eyes.)-
When I awoke at 8AM; I looked at the water inside of the tray; and, realized the cat doesn't seem to have drunk absolutely anything...!
Next, I decided to move the bed, in order to discover seeing exactly what's wrong? That was when I discovered that the cat seems to have suffered a badly broken hind leg. As, normally, she would stand/walk/run/jump; but, now, she was just simply dragging that back leg along...whilst the other 3 legs seemed to be working fine; too, she was keeping all of her movements absolutely 'minimal'; mostly, lying down flat 'still' whilst being on her side.
That's when I decided it's time to call the vet/pet rescue people. First, I phoned directory enquiries on: 118 118. After I'd gone and explained the situation to them; they gave me the number of a 24 hours vet. When I spoke with them...they said it would cost £140.00 just to see the cat; and, any surgery/-etc. would be really expensive. When I stated that I was 'unemployed'; they suggested I call the FREE animal charity, RSPCA-Royal Society for the Protection and Care of Animals control centre. I then re-explained both my cat's situation; and, the fact that I'm 'unemployed'; the RSPCA suggested that I call a 24 hours per day animal charity called: Blue Cross located at: 1-5 Hugh Street, Victoria, London. An appointment was made to bring my cat in as soon as possible.
I had to call a taxi to take me there; I was very highly surprised when the taxi firm said the fee would be £20.00(because all the money I had a available was just 1 x £20.00 note). But, then, when I called another taxi firm...they said the fee would be £25! I then quickly rode my bike down the street to see my local cab firm; they told me the charge would be £22. I rode back home, and, decided to call back the first taxi firm; and, just accept the £20 charge, instead.
-(I had a few other travel choices...carrying her on my bike was out of the question; as the ride would be far too bumpy. I could also have chosen to take her on the bus; but, then, as I didn't know exactly where it was I was going to...then, that would have involved walking when I got off the bus...until I had gone and found the place. In the end, I thought it quickest and simplest to just take a taxi; even though their costs are exorbitantly over-expensive...especially, when compared to bus; the bus journey would have cost me nothing as I already had a bus pass.)-
I put my cat into a cat carrier with blanket sheets; and, then, placed the cat inside of the taxi. The driver was an African guy from Ghana; we chatted about many things including the cat/unemployment/-etc. Eventually, we arrived at the place; and, I rang the Blue Cross door bell; but, there was no reply. After repeatedly ringing the same bell, again and again; a lady did answer me by opening the door; explaining she was on a phone call...and, thus, wasn't able to come to the door right away.
The Blue Cross receptionist asked me to show id in the form of unemployment letter stating which particular benefits I was on; as well as, a photo ID...for which I used my bus travel pass. She explained that each time I come along to the center; I must bring in recently dated proof of my remaining being on unemployment benefit.
Next, I was taken to see a lady vet, who went and checked out the cat; this lady stated that there were problems with the cats insides(in particular, she could feel no bladder there...?); as well as, a broken back leg. Furthermore, I must sign a form consenting that she can do whatever surgery that is deemed necessary; to which I agreed. She stated that she would need to take some exploratory X-Rays in order to see/discover exactly what's wrong; then, she would phone me back at around 2PM. I thanked her and left.
I used my bus pass to take a no 2 bus from Victoria bus/train/tube station...all the way back home.
At around 12:30 PM the lady vet called to explain that surgery needed to be done on both the cat's insides; and, also, on her broken leg; to which I agreed. She, then, stated that she would call me back, again, once surgery had been finished.
-(I phoned my cousin -who lives in the country- to explain what had happened to the cat; because the previous day I already told her the cat had gone missing. I updated her with the news that eventually we went and found it under the bed; it's leg appeared to be broken as she was dragging it along; finally, we found an animal charity who was willing to treat her for FREE; and, I would keep her updated with any further news.)-
Right now, I'm still at home waiting to see what the 'after surgery' news will be...???
Sunday 25th May 4PM LATEST UPDATE
I got a further phone call from the vetinary surgeon listing the cats injuries...
-crushed by some really heavy weight; quite possibly, a car
-internal body wall cavity having completely come away; which holds in all of the internal organs
-removed spleen (too badly damaged to remain)
-lacerated liver
-broken pelvis
-etc.
...the surgeon said the cost of the operation was extremely expensive; because it was one of the worst set of injuries that she had ever yet seen. I asked her if the cat would need to be put down? She said that animals tend to recover a lot more quickly than do human beings. Next, I asked her just how soon would it be that the cat would be returned home to me? She said, she really isn't sure...as they need to keep it with them for further careful observation. She also mentioned that it would be possible to make a donation to the Blue Cross animal charity: 0300 777 1890.
Finally, she said I should call back tomorrow at 11 AM in order to be further updated. After which, I thanked her; and, left it at that.
Tue 4th June 2014
I took my cat back to the Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria for a check up. The nurse there said she found a large lump underneath the cat. So it was decided to keep her in for further x-rays, and, observation.
She also asked me if the cat was both emptying her bowels; as well as, urinating. My answer was I saw her droppings; but, I didn't actually see her urinate.
Wed 5th June 2014
I went to collect my cat from the hospital. I was informed that the cat's underneath lumps have been drained; and, that if she gets sufficient cage rest, then, hopefully, the swellings will go down more.
So my cat was once again released back to me; on the condition that she stays inside of her cage; no running/jumping/climbing.
She is meant to stay inside of the cage for 1 whole month. But, I must confess that it's extremely hard to keep her confined to a 5 foot wide/4 foot high wire cage; as she just wants to move around. Sometimes, out of pity, I let her walk around; or else, take her out into the backgarden to get some fresh air. Only taking her outside does worry me...as, sometimes, she just vanishes...?! Which then causes me to 'panic' that she's run off. However, sooner or later, I find her, again. Thus, whenever I let her out into the garden; I have to make sure that she is constantly being supervised; I can't just leave her out there alone; not even if it appears that she is asleep.
Tue 1st Jul 2014 LATEST UPDATE
I'm very happy to report that my cat has been officially declared as being fully fit, again.
I went back to the Animal hospital charity today; and, the vet assured me that everything is fine.
They also advised me to continue with giving the cat flea treatment every month. The cost of which is £5.00 per month. All one has to do is pour some liquid on the cat's neck/back...making sure to part the hair, first; and, basically, that's it.
Oh they also told me to book another check up appointment in 6 months time.
I also have to return back to them their wire mesh cage.
At the approach of the weekend. I let the cat out through the front door at around midnight before going off to sleep.
In the daytime I only ever let my cat out into the back garden; as I feel there is far too much constant road traffic both coming and going along for it to be truly safe for the cat to go out and play in the front street. However, when it's late at night...close to midnight/or, just after midnight 1AM/2AM/3AM; I allow her out into the street as there are very few cars around, then; nearly everyone has gone to bed; therefore, I feel it's much less likely that she will get run over. Of course, there are many other cats out there in the front streets; that my cat likes to go and meet. After sleeping, as soon as I wake up, I go and open the door to collect her back in again sometime around very early morning; usually before 6AM; when people wake up to take their cars to go off to work.
At around 5 AM in the morning, I went and opened up the front door, as usual; clapping together both my hands very loudly -which is my usual sign for calling the cat to come back in-, only the cat didn't come...? I then went around to the back door, and, once more, tried clapping both my hands; again, there was no response...?
Next, I thought to myself she might be inside of the home somewhere, instead. Possibly, crept in without my even noticing it/or else, my mum, who usually wakes up before me, might have let here in. So, I tried opening up all doors inside of the house, and, at the same time clapped my hands together loudly; again, no response. My cat wears a collar with a phone number, and, bell around her neck; so, whenever she moves I can hear the bell. I heard nothing.
I started thinking to myself, what on earth could have happened? Of course, when one lets ones imagination run...it can come up with absolutely no end of 'negative' scenarios. I thought, somebody could have stolen it; some spiteful kids could have stoned it to death for fun; it could have fallen from a great height such as out of a tree when attempting to chase after birds/-etc.
Sat 24th May 2014 11:30 AM
Still thinking about the cat, constantly; where on earth could she be...??? I searched the back garden; looked over garden hedges. I tried going down the alleyway to see if she could be there; the results of which were still no cat.
I decided to go off to a martial arts lesson in Brixton at St Matthew's church. I arrived late; I should have gotten there at 11AM; instead, I left home at 11:30AM. So, the lesson was short; and, pretty soon I returned back home on my bike.
When I came back home; I saw my mum was going around knocking on nextdoor neighbour doors to ask if anyone had seen the cat; she also put up a number of written messages, 3, stating that the cat had gone missing; sticking these messages onto lamp posts using sticky tape.
All the way from Friday up to Saturday late evening, I'd gone and left the back garden door open; in the hope that possibly the cat will come back, and, so be able to let herself in. But, very late Saturday evening, I went and closed the garden gate; as I felt it was far too much of a security threat; or, possible enticement to burglars.
Sunday 25th May 2014 Very early morning 1PM
By early Sunday morning, I'd already decided deep inside of my mind; we would, most likely, never get to see the cat ever again. Whoever had stolen her would be long gone by now; especially so if they'd stolen her in their car. Outside of our house there is a nearby alleyway; and, another next door neighbor cat had gone missing; to be never ever seen again.
At the same time, I kept on hearing a faint 'bell noise'...not constant...but, only just occasional. Naturally, I would 'rejoice'; go running off straight downstairs to open up both the front door/back garden door...only to find still no cat?! Thus, I thought to myself the faint 'jingle bell noise' I keep hearing every now and then...must be due purely to my own imagination, and, is merely the result of wishful thinking.
Finally, I decided why not have a go at looking underneath the bed to see if I could find the cat there; and, sure enough, that's exactly where I found the cat; lying all curled up on the floor underneath the left side of the bed; but, then, I noticed she would not come out from under the bed. But, I wasn't exactly sure what was wrong there...as to why not? Possibly, she was playing games...; as there was no moaning or groaning.
I then went downstairs, and, got a double tray...filling one side with water; and, then, left the tray beside her so that she could, at least, drink.
Sunday 25th May 2014...later on, during the same morning...8AM
-(A large part of me feels guilt/shame that I didn't detect the cats injuries far sooner; immediately, when I went and discovered her underneath the bed far earlier in the morning; I should have said to myself why isn't she coming out? Exactly, what's wrong? Then, I would have taken her off to see the vet far sooner. However, I just thought to myself she must be having a stomach upset; so that's why she isn't eating/drinking. Thus, I went straight back to sleep, again. After all, the cat wasn't making any noise; she wasn't moaning or groaning. She was moving her neck/head -but, not body- and, seemed to be looking at me, quite calmly, straight in the face with both eyes.)-
Next, I decided to move the bed, in order to discover seeing exactly what's wrong? That was when I discovered that the cat seems to have suffered a badly broken hind leg. As, normally, she would stand/walk/run/jump; but, now, she was just simply dragging that back leg along...whilst the other 3 legs seemed to be working fine; too, she was keeping all of her movements absolutely 'minimal'; mostly, lying down flat 'still' whilst being on her side.
That's when I decided it's time to call the vet/pet rescue people. First, I phoned directory enquiries on: 118 118. After I'd gone and explained the situation to them; they gave me the number of a 24 hours vet. When I spoke with them...they said it would cost £140.00 just to see the cat; and, any surgery/-etc. would be really expensive. When I stated that I was 'unemployed'; they suggested I call the FREE animal charity, RSPCA-Royal Society for the Protection and Care of Animals control centre. I then re-explained both my cat's situation; and, the fact that I'm 'unemployed'; the RSPCA suggested that I call a 24 hours per day animal charity called: Blue Cross located at: 1-5 Hugh Street, Victoria, London. An appointment was made to bring my cat in as soon as possible.
I had to call a taxi to take me there; I was very highly surprised when the taxi firm said the fee would be £20.00(because all the money I had a available was just 1 x £20.00 note). But, then, when I called another taxi firm...they said the fee would be £25! I then quickly rode my bike down the street to see my local cab firm; they told me the charge would be £22. I rode back home, and, decided to call back the first taxi firm; and, just accept the £20 charge, instead.
-(I had a few other travel choices...carrying her on my bike was out of the question; as the ride would be far too bumpy. I could also have chosen to take her on the bus; but, then, as I didn't know exactly where it was I was going to...then, that would have involved walking when I got off the bus...until I had gone and found the place. In the end, I thought it quickest and simplest to just take a taxi; even though their costs are exorbitantly over-expensive...especially, when compared to bus; the bus journey would have cost me nothing as I already had a bus pass.)-
I put my cat into a cat carrier with blanket sheets; and, then, placed the cat inside of the taxi. The driver was an African guy from Ghana; we chatted about many things including the cat/unemployment/-etc. Eventually, we arrived at the place; and, I rang the Blue Cross door bell; but, there was no reply. After repeatedly ringing the same bell, again and again; a lady did answer me by opening the door; explaining she was on a phone call...and, thus, wasn't able to come to the door right away.
The Blue Cross receptionist asked me to show id in the form of unemployment letter stating which particular benefits I was on; as well as, a photo ID...for which I used my bus travel pass. She explained that each time I come along to the center; I must bring in recently dated proof of my remaining being on unemployment benefit.
Next, I was taken to see a lady vet, who went and checked out the cat; this lady stated that there were problems with the cats insides(in particular, she could feel no bladder there...?); as well as, a broken back leg. Furthermore, I must sign a form consenting that she can do whatever surgery that is deemed necessary; to which I agreed. She stated that she would need to take some exploratory X-Rays in order to see/discover exactly what's wrong; then, she would phone me back at around 2PM. I thanked her and left.
I used my bus pass to take a no 2 bus from Victoria bus/train/tube station...all the way back home.
At around 12:30 PM the lady vet called to explain that surgery needed to be done on both the cat's insides; and, also, on her broken leg; to which I agreed. She, then, stated that she would call me back, again, once surgery had been finished.
-(I phoned my cousin -who lives in the country- to explain what had happened to the cat; because the previous day I already told her the cat had gone missing. I updated her with the news that eventually we went and found it under the bed; it's leg appeared to be broken as she was dragging it along; finally, we found an animal charity who was willing to treat her for FREE; and, I would keep her updated with any further news.)-
Right now, I'm still at home waiting to see what the 'after surgery' news will be...???
Sunday 25th May 4PM LATEST UPDATE
I got a further phone call from the vetinary surgeon listing the cats injuries...
-crushed by some really heavy weight; quite possibly, a car
-internal body wall cavity having completely come away; which holds in all of the internal organs
-removed spleen (too badly damaged to remain)
-lacerated liver
-broken pelvis
-etc.
...the surgeon said the cost of the operation was extremely expensive; because it was one of the worst set of injuries that she had ever yet seen. I asked her if the cat would need to be put down? She said that animals tend to recover a lot more quickly than do human beings. Next, I asked her just how soon would it be that the cat would be returned home to me? She said, she really isn't sure...as they need to keep it with them for further careful observation. She also mentioned that it would be possible to make a donation to the Blue Cross animal charity: 0300 777 1890.
Finally, she said I should call back tomorrow at 11 AM in order to be further updated. After which, I thanked her; and, left it at that.
Tue 4th June 2014
I took my cat back to the Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria for a check up. The nurse there said she found a large lump underneath the cat. So it was decided to keep her in for further x-rays, and, observation.
She also asked me if the cat was both emptying her bowels; as well as, urinating. My answer was I saw her droppings; but, I didn't actually see her urinate.
Wed 5th June 2014
I went to collect my cat from the hospital. I was informed that the cat's underneath lumps have been drained; and, that if she gets sufficient cage rest, then, hopefully, the swellings will go down more.
So my cat was once again released back to me; on the condition that she stays inside of her cage; no running/jumping/climbing.
She is meant to stay inside of the cage for 1 whole month. But, I must confess that it's extremely hard to keep her confined to a 5 foot wide/4 foot high wire cage; as she just wants to move around. Sometimes, out of pity, I let her walk around; or else, take her out into the backgarden to get some fresh air. Only taking her outside does worry me...as, sometimes, she just vanishes...?! Which then causes me to 'panic' that she's run off. However, sooner or later, I find her, again. Thus, whenever I let her out into the garden; I have to make sure that she is constantly being supervised; I can't just leave her out there alone; not even if it appears that she is asleep.
Tue 1st Jul 2014 LATEST UPDATE
I'm very happy to report that my cat has been officially declared as being fully fit, again.
I went back to the Animal hospital charity today; and, the vet assured me that everything is fine.
They also advised me to continue with giving the cat flea treatment every month. The cost of which is £5.00 per month. All one has to do is pour some liquid on the cat's neck/back...making sure to part the hair, first; and, basically, that's it.
Oh they also told me to book another check up appointment in 6 months time.
I also have to return back to them their wire mesh cage.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)