BEDRIDDEN BOY

Waikato Times, Volume 124, Issue 20821, 3 June 1939, Page 12

BEDRIDDEN BOY

“MUST BE SOMETHING I CAN DO” HOME FROM HOSPITAL Known in the King George Hospital, Ilford, where he spent 3A years lying on his back, as- “the boy who never groused,” 17-year-old Peter Aston is determined not to lose his reputation now that ho has returned to his parents’ home in Macintosh. Road, Romford. .Although he. knows he may still have to spend months, perhaps even years, lying in his bed before he is completely cured of the bone disease from which be suffers, he wants to do something to earn his keep. “I don’t mind lying here; I’m used to it bow,” he told a reporter, “but i cannot just be still and do nothing. “There must be something I can do.. I have thought of writing articles, or drawing for magazines, but though I can draw I need training, and that costs money.” During the long, weary years in hospital, Peter taught himself basketmaking, learned to play the ukulele, and had his o_wn cinema shows, the pictures for which he made himself by piecing together films given to him by friends. He also taught himself shorthand. Wants Real Work “All the things I have done have kept me occupied.” he declared, “but now I feel I want some real work to do, so that I shan’t be an absolute burden to others. It. must be something that I can do lying down, because I still cannot move.” When Peter left the hospital he had been there longer than any other patient, and all the staff, from the matron to porters and kitchen-maids, went to see him off. He had never seen the house in Macintosh Road, Romford. His parents had moved there since he went to- hospital. There are other changes. His two brothers are now married and have started homes of their own. When he was taken ill nearly four years ago. Peter had just commenced work. At school lie had won certificates for swimming and medals for gymnastics and was fond of all athletic sports. Then, one night he was suddenly taken ill. He has never left his bed since. One of his proudest memories is of a conversation with the Duchess of Kent when sh« visited the hospital. Afterwards Peter discovered that his birthday, November 30. was on the same date as that of the Duchess, so lie wrote sending good wishes for her birthday. Her letter in reply is one of his most cherished possessions. “I’ve only seen my legs once since 1 was taken ill.” he explained, with a brave smile. "They looked like rnatchsticks, I had to laugh. But J don't want to see them again; not until they are well and like they used to be. “When I went into hospital they said I should die, but 1 didn't. Some of the doctors are pessimistic about me now, but 1 know I’m going to get better, although it will take a long time. “The specialist has told me that he will operate when my legs are ready, and has asked me to write to him. “Until then I want something to do which will not only occupy my mind, but will be useful, and. perhaps, earn me a little money.”