Blink Doctors

MUSIC: Hold Back The River by James Bay

# Tried to keep you close to me

# But life got in... #

I thought he took that pretty well.

-Never in doubt.

-Hm!

Fine. I was terrified.

He knew it was going to happen sometime.

Oh, it's going to cost him though, poor fella.

Oi! We'll keep it small.

Yeah, right!

There'll be more of your lot there than mine.

-Like who?

-Half the rugby team, for a start.

Yeah, well, it's like he said,

"Only the best for my daughter".

-SHE CHUCKLES

-Get off!

You know, I'm so proud of you.

Yeah, well that's my part over now.

-All I have to do is put a suit on and show up.

-You wish!

Here, have you seen this?

Right, then, we have a date...

-Oh! Nate took it, right?

-Yeah.

You tell him to go easy with that speech.

-If he ever makes it through the stag night.

-Hm!

Aw! Look at your mum!

Huh! Hm!

Ahem!

-HE COUGHS

-Sorry.

Stu?

It's just man flu!

Will you just get to the doctor?!

HE COUGHS

# Snow is falling all around us

# Children playing Having fun... #

You know...

# It's the season Love and understanding... #

-..there are still three weeks to go!

-I know. Isn't it exciting!

# Merry Christmas everyone. #

Isn't it a bit early for that?

I would have had them up weeks ago.

-No, I mean the singing.

-Mrs Tembe was very firm.

Something about health and safety.

In case they fall on someone or mysteriously explode?

I think it's more to do with the dust.

Well, she will insist on having a fake tree.

Oh! Hi. How can I help?

He's really, really sick!

-OK. Could I get a name?

-Yeah. Oh!

-Dr Carter?

OK. Right. Let me just grab you under the legs.

Just go through here, shall we? Nice and easy. That's it.

-Oh!

-OK.

-OK, there we go.

-He kept saying he was all right.

OK, Stuart, let's lie you down here, shall we?

There you go.

-Nice and easy.

-Careful.

How long has he been like this?

-Since he woke up, more or less.

-Mm-hm.

Said he had pain all over, but it was like he was drunk.

-Has he been drinking?

-No, not since Saturday.

Said he had man flu, but I knew it was worse than that

because he didn't play all weekend.

Has he injured himself recently playing rugby?

You know what he's like, he gets knocked about.

But nothing too serious?

He kept rubbing his side, down here.

Near his kidney?

But you do when you've got the flu, don't you?

Stuart? Come on, try and sit up.

Valerie, can you get me an ambulance as soon as possible, please?

-What's wrong with him?

-Thank you.

-Stuart?

-OK, if you just stand back a second?

-What's wrong with him?

-Let me have a look at this.

Right.

-Baby...

-GCS is nine...

Stuart? Can you hear me?!

SATS 87%.

-I want to go with him, please!

-I want to go with my son, please!

I'm sorry. You'll have to stay here.

-What's happened to him?!

-I don't know! They won't tell me!

Let's go and find someone to talk to.

I told him, Jackie! I told him a thousand times!

Hey, hey! What's going on? Where is he?

-Oh, Dad!

-Hey.

SHE SOBS

MACHINE BEEPS

-MUFFLED:

-Stuart, can you hear me?

GCS has dropped to seven.

Get ITU to assess him now.

BIRDSONG

I'll see you in a couple of weeks. Cheerio!

-It's always a bit sad, isn't it?

-What's that?

The party's over.

Another year gone.

End of an era.

Another page turned in the book of life.

I'm glad to see the back of it.

-Hi.

-Hi.

So, is he still in intensive care?

-He had septic shock.

-Yes, I heard.

It had gone to most of his organs

and it caused a blood clot on his brain.

Is he responding at all?

No, not much.

-Any movement?

-Just his eyes.

So he can blink, which means he can answer yes or no.

I should have taken him straight to hospital, shouldn't I?

-You weren't to know.

-He wouldn't let me.

He just wanted to see you.

Well, he has come to me over the years for various injuries.

I wish....I wish he hadn't now.

I wish he'd never played that stupid game again.

Yes, me too.

No, it's my fault.

I knew that he wasn't well.

He could've had kidney damage for weeks.

I should've known!

It's what they do. They play through the pain

so they don't lose their place in the team.

Well, he has now, hasn't he?

Big time!

So, did you know, about the big day?

Sorry, that's...?

16th. The middle of March.

Which is...?

When we were supposed to be getting married.

MACHINE BEEPS

MUFFLED VOICES

Stuart? Stuart, love?

What's wrong? Can you breathe OK?

Are you in pain?

You're in pain. I'll get the nurse.

Excuse me? Can I have some help, please?

Headaches, mainly, and I just feel so weak.

How much time have you been spending in the hospital?

24/7 really.

They've got a guest room, so I'm spending most nights there.

-That is too much.

-That's what Jackie says, Stuart's Mum.

She pretty much threw me out earlier.

Said I look terrible and did

I really want Stuart to see me like that?

I'm sure she means well.

-She's there most days herself

-Well, you should do shifts.

I'm supposed to start work tomorrow.

Well, that's not a good idea.

Try telling that to my boss.

Well, I can sign you off for a few weeks,

but you do have to take some time for yourself.

And just leave him there, lying there?

He's in very capable hands.

And what if something happens and I'm not there?

They will contact you.

I'm sorry. He needs me there.

No, you need to do what's best for both of you.

Both of you.

One minute we're having this big party, everyone's happy,

making all these plans,

and then we're in this nightmare.

Look, it's a long, hard road ahead

and you need to prepare yourself for that, but...

But he's never going to get better, though, is he?

He's a fit, strong man.

And there's always hope.

You need that, for yourself

and for Stuart.

MACHINE BEEPS

Thank you.

Is that better now?

Oh, there you go. There's my boy.

Try and get some sleep now, OK?

Have a nice rest, hm?

SHE SIGHS

Oh, sh-sh-sh-sh. It's OK, Mum's here.

Get some sleep.

SHE SIGHS

FOOTSTEPS

SOMBRE PIANO RECITAL

MUSIC: You Give Me Something by James Morrison

# You only stay with me in the morning

# You only hold me when I sleep

# I was meant to tread the water

# But now I've gotten in too deep

# For every piece of me that wants you

# Another piece backs away

# You give me something... #

SHE SOBS

MACHINE BEEPS

-Hiya.

-Oh.

Evening, Robert.

Where's Ellie?

She's worn out, poor little thing.

-Is she asleep?

-At home.

I told her at this rate she'd end up in here as well,

and that's no good to anyone.

Has there been any improvement?

Oh, they're pleased with him.

-They think he's over the worst.

-Oh, that's good.

And I'm sure I saw him move before, his finger.

-Right.

-This little finger on this hand here.

It started, then it stopped, then it started again, just for a minute,

but by the time you find one of these nurses...

Jackie?

Is there ever going to be any change?

Of course there is.

You'll be back on your feet soon, won't you, love?

That's what the doctors say, is it?

You haven't even opened your Christmas presents yet.

And you've got a wedding to get ready for.

That's great.

OK. I'll see you in a couple of weeks.

Thank you. Bye-bye.

Well, that's the room booked for Easter.

A long weekend. I can't wait.

That's it! The last time!

-Mrs Burridge?

-When I got there, she was spring cleaning on a ladder.

Oh! Her back's better, then.

Actually, there's someone here to see you, Dr Carter.

-Who's that?

-Morning.

He's doing better. He's stable now.

Good.

-And I hear he's out of ICU.

-For about a month now.

He's got his own room. They've been fantastic, really.

-Very pleased to hear that, Ellie.

-Yeah.

So he's making real progress?

Yeah. He's in a chair

and they've just given him this screen so he can spell things out.

Retina recognition.

It's amazing, really.

Or at least it will be, when he gets used to it.

So, what can I do for you?

You've forgotten, haven't you? The date today - 16th?

Your wedding.

At 4:00.

And, look, I know what you're going to say - it's stress.

Probably, yeah.

I just thought you could give me a cream for it.

It's all here, as well, look.

I just hope it's not something I've caught at the hospital.

-You're still going every day?

-Yeah, most days,

but I'm spending some nights at home when Jackie's not there.

Mm-hm. And what about work?

They've been great, to be fair,

but with all the time off and the money I'm spending on travel,

it's a good job we're keeping it small.

Of course, Jackie wants the Royal Wedding.

But there's only so many people you can fit into that room.

And we don't need a big reception. It's just about us.

You're absolutely right.

But, no, I've got Jackie in one ear and Dad in the other.

It's no wonder I'm breaking out in spots.

How is Robert?

Don't ask.

And Stuart must really be looking forward to it.

Why wouldn't he be? So, what do you reckon?

It's not some horrible lurgy I'm going to pass onto everybody?

Oh, I doubt that.

-All the best, then.

-Thank you.

I hope it goes well.

-She's told you, then?

-Yes.

-And did you have any thoughts?

-Dad, don't start.

I'm sure the doctor doesn't think it's a very good idea, sweetheart.

Come on.

When you're obviously not well already.

-I don't think it's my...

-Why not? You were involved.

-Yes, he saved Stuart's life!

-Yes, that's what I'm saying.

-This is not really...

-Then when is?

-When she's thrown her whole life away?

-Come on.

Come on, let's go! Dad!

Thanks for that.

Are you all right?

Yeah.

How could you talk like that?!

Ellie, this makes no sense!

Maybe not to you, Dad.

Then why do you think your sister isn't coming?

Because she can't take Hayden out of school.

No, because she can't stand to watch you. It's a farce!

Stuart is still the same man that I agreed to marry.

How can you say that?

Inside! And I'm not going to walk away now,

not when he's fighting for his life!

So, that's all it is, then - pity?

If that's what you really think, Dad, then maybe you should just go.

I know you love him.

But you're just not thinking of this right.

By law, you'll be his primary carer.

In sickness and in health.

Yes, just like me and your mother.

Three years, she suffered.

I know that.

So the last thing I want is for you to go through that kind of hell

for the rest of his life, however long that might be.

Look, Ellie, I've not wanted to say this up to now...

Oh, no, go ahead!

What about children?

You have thought about that, I take it?

SHE SIGHS

HE SIGHS

So, what was all that was about earlier?

Oh, she's getting married later today.

And...?

Her partner is in a locked-in state.

Right.

And I assume that was the father of the bride?

Mm-hm. If it was my daughter, I know how I would feel.

Well, it's her choice.

Yeah. I'm not sure it's Stuart's.

Well, can he communicate at all?

Well, he can answer questions,

but I don't know if he's ever been asked.

SHE SIGHS

It's time I went and got changed, put my posh frock on.

And my hat.

Is everything all right love, hm?

D-R. Doctor.

Do you need a doctor?

Can we have some help, please?

I need a doctor!

He's been fine all morning. Something must be wrong.

Oh, hold on.

Dr Carter.

Dr Carter?

SHE SIGHS

Ah! You look lovely!

Here.

-What?

-Just watch it, for me.

HE SIGHS

Nate, here, come and make yourself useful.

CHUCKLING

Right, then, we have a date at last.

CHEERING

And on Ellie's mum's birthday, which means a lot.

And it's a Friday, so we don't miss the Six Nations.

LAUGHTER

And that was very thoughtful, too.

It's England-Ireland!

-Don't listen to them, sweetheart.

-Thank you, Jackie!

Now, you know I've never been one

to interfere when it comes to boyfriends...

ELLIE LAUGHS Hey!

But when I first met Stuart, I knew he'd do.

I knew he'd look after her and keep

her in the manner she's accustomed to.

-I'll do my best, mate.

-You better, you better.

I can only see a happy future together for you,

and I can only see good things.

And little things.

Them as well, we hope.

So here's to you both, to Stuart and Ellie!

Stuart and Ellie!

STUART COUGHS

She knows she means the world to me,

and I'm going to be lost without her.

Robert, we're only away for two weeks!

You know what I mean.

Anyway, from now on, you have got to start calling me Dad.

Come here, mate!

-Good lad. Welcome to the family.

-Cheers!

Good lad.

STUART COUGHS

Come on. We can't leave him waiting.

Oh, Dr Carter!

Dr Carter, thank goodness I've caught you.

I'm Stuart's mum.

Stuart Leavis?

Yes, I remember.

He's asking for you.

Sorry?

He needs to see you.

-Why?

-I don't know.

Could you do that for him, please?

Well, I was just on my way to the...

Please, we've only got an hour.

Dad! You didn't have to.

Only the best for my daughter.

Thank you.

Here he is, Stuart, Dr Carter.

He'll blink for "yes."

It takes a bit longer with the screen.

I'll go and get ready, then.

Thank you.

Hello, Stuart.

Are you OK? Good.

"What should I do?"

About the wedding?

I don't think I'm in a position to, um...

-DR CARTER SIGHS

-OK. Um...

Do you still love Ellie?

Right. I think she feels the same way.

-KNOCK AT DOOR

-Sorry to interrupt.

Hello, Stuart.

I'm so proud of you, Ellie.

Thanks, Dad.

-I've not done half of what I wanted...

-For understanding.

I'm still not sure I do.

I love you, Ellie.

I love you, too!

OK.

Thank you.

Sorry, Stuart, I can't make up your mind for you.

Do you understand?

This isn't something that's happening TO you.

It's your choice

just as much as it is Ellie's.

So you have to do what you think is right. OK?

FOOTSTEPS

Oh! They're ready.

Best of luck.

Actually, Dr Carter, I think you should stay.

-Well, I'm not sure...

-I think it's what Stuart wants.

Isn't it, love?

MUSIC: Swing Low, Sweet Chariot by Ella Eyre

We are gathered here today

to witness the marriage of Stuart and Ellie.

And to celebrate the love they have for each other.

May they be an inspiration to us all

to reach for the goodness within us,

as they make this solemn vow

to love, cherish, and care for each other

for as long as they both shall live.

First, I am required to ask anyone here present

who knows of a reason why these persons

may not lawfully marry.

Do we have the rings?

-WHISPERS:

-Thank you.

Do you, Eleanor Rose Hutton,

take this man to be your lawful husband?

I do.

And do you, Stuart Charles Leavis,

take this woman to be your lawful wife?

Do you, Stuart Charles Leavis,

take this woman to be your lawful wife?

Love, just blink.

Sweetheart?

Stuart?

Do you, Stuart Charles...

Just don't! Don't!

No, Ellie, wait!

No! Let her go.

Excuse me.

Ellie?

-SHE SOBS

-Ellie?

Why would he do that, after all this?

Why would he suddenly change his mind now?!

What did you say to him?

What did you say?! Did you tell him not to marry me?!

Not at all.

You must have done.

I didn't.

Then tell me why.

What, does he not even love me any more?

Ellie, it's because he loves you.

# Sweet chariot

# Coming for to carry me home

# Swing low sweet chariot

# Coming for to carry me home. #

I hope you're going to be just as mean to everybody else.

No!

You are.

-Don't forget, Daniel, clean your bits.

-Yeah.

-What now?

-You definitely do not make

a note of your password on a Post-it Note.

I mean, I can see it. It's right there.

-You seem very healthy, well-rounded.

-Oh, well...

I thought it was high time I got to know the man in your life.