Will my nan ever be the same? (From Warrington Guardian)

Will my nan ever be the same?

Hi, my nan had a heart bypass a few months ago, and even though she is well after the op in fitness, her mental health is not too good.

She is terrified of being on her own and is very depressed. Is there anything that can make her feel better and will she get better? The fear all started when she was in intensive care and she said she could see my uncle - my nan's son - swinging above her and she was telling him to be careful. He didn't fall on her.

She's also claustrophobic. I feel so sorry for her. She's not the same person but there's not much I can really do for her.

Karen, St Helens

Dear Karen,

She's still there because she's still fighting on. I know it's sad to see your nan the way she is but things will level out and she will get to a even keel but she will never be the same. Just be there for her when you can. Guilt is built in our own heads. It's seen differently by others, when we don't feel we have given enough, we have.