Way back in December Whale was worried about a possible bedsore and it continues to bug him - and me too.

The nurses, who do alternate weeks, still can't agree on the treatment and each Monday when the new one comes on duty we have lots of 'Ooh-la-la's as each decides that it is getting worse, then looks more closely and decides it's not that bad after all.

The problem is that it's impossible to see what's going on as half of Whale's behind is dyed bright pink from the French version of iodine. One of the nurses slaps it on like there's no tomorrow - resulting in pink stained sheets, pants, trousers and even the loo - while the other prefers to use a kind of 'sticky-all-over' plaster which you are supposed to leave on for at least 48 hours. Bearing in mind the position though, it usually comes off within a few hours.

According to the doctor, these plasters do more harm than good but it's more than Whale's life is worth to quote her opinion to the nurses.

Meanwhile, poor Whale is obsessed with the condition of his bum and is always asking me to check if the plaster has come off or the compress has slipped.

I have a feeling that if it were left well alone it would get better all by itself. In fact, under that rosy pink colouring it may be better already.