‘Some clear direction. I’ve been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and, while I don’t like Dr Steadman, that side of it seems to be okay, but there’ve been other things. Let’s call them incidents. I don’t know whether they’re related to the Parkinson’s or if there’s something else going on, but he’s been as much use as a chocolate teapot. I’m hoping you can give me some clear answers so I can move forward and work out how to live my life, even if that means there’s something else going on that I need to face.’

Sam nodded. ‘Sounds reasonable and I’m sure I can help you there. What I need to do is explore your full medical history, including your diagnosis, and then we’ll talk about the “incidents” you refer to. It may take some time to make sure we cover everything so please do say if you want a break, some air, another drink and so on. I want you to be comfortable. We’ll also do something called the MMSE. That stands for Mini Mental State Examination.’ He smiled reassuringly at Mum. ‘Sounds scarier than it is. It’s basically a pen and paper exercise that will take about ten minutes or so. Nothing to worry about but I’ll explain more about it when we get to it. Are you ready to start?’

‘As ready as I’ll ever be.’

I squeezed Mum’s hand beneath the table. ‘Thanks for doing this, Sam,’ I said.

‘Any time. I’m only sorry that you both don’t feel that you’re getting the support you need at the hospital. Right, let’s make a start…’

Sam was amazing. Where Dr Steadman’s approach was cold and clinical, Sam’s was warm and informal, showing empathy where appropriate, and making Mum laugh at other times. He couldn’t have done more to put her at ease. Although he knew a lot of the information already from our discussions, he didn’t let on that he knew it, exploring each “incident” as though it was the first time he’d heard about it. I added in a few bits here and there but it was mostly Mum who did the talking. He insisted we take a break before moving onto the test.

‘Oh, Jemma, he’s wonderful,’ Mum said as we stretched our legs on the deck, thankful for the dry evening.

‘He is, isn’t he?’

‘It’s a shame you two are just friends. He’d make a fabulous boyfriend.’

I had to turn away so she couldn’t see the tears glistening in my eyes. ‘He probably would but neither of us are in the right place to consider a relationship right now. Who knows. Maybe the friendship will grow into something more.’