I had five tubes of blood removed this morning. They were taken by my favourite phlebotomist who managed to find a vein, extract the blood and patch me up without causing any pain, without needing more than one attempt and without causing extensive bruising. It was a praiseworthy effort. If I could, I would have her cloned.

Then, having checked my notes, she gave me an RSV vaccination as I am 65-74 and have a compromised immune system. Ironically, I have a compromised immune system from some of the medication I take to control my arthritis. It’s a sort of ever-decreasing spiral. Take medication, then take something to diminish the side-effects.

According to the nurse, I can’t have a Covid vaccination as I don’t qualify. I think I do, so will have to look into it. This won’t be the first time the NHS has given me the wrong information about being eligible for vaccination.

Anyway, I am feeling well vaccinated after flu on Monday and RSV today. I only heard about RSV vaccine a couple of months ago and now I have it. Not only that, but I have it free of charge. I’m also feeling well monitored.

My right arm did seem a little empty after the tests were finished but it seems to have refilled during the day so all is well. I suppose with it pumping round all the time it soon spreads out again.

I had an acceptance today. Although I’ve complained over the last month about rejections and the way they were delivered I’ve actually had three acceptances. One from a magazine that has only accepted one other piece from me in the last eight years. One from a magazine that has been turning me down for the last eight years. The third was from a magazine I’d never tried before.