Times Jumbo Cryptic 1657

[stevenj]

Hello, glad to be back after a difficult period 

steven

[bookbinder]

Have you got a question/clue that you would like us to answer? You have posted in Crosswords, after all.

[Tilly2]

Hi, Steven. Can we help?

[Neveracrossword]

Hi, Stevenj  - and v nice to see you. I used to enjoy your crossword chatter, queries etc. 

[stevenj]

I'm not sure if you can help. 
s

 

[Neveracrossword]

Stevenj, sorry to hear about the difficult period. Hope things turn around, turn a bit better, soon.

[stevenj]

Perhaps I should explain though it's nothing to do with crosswords really. 
I have never told you before but I have a significant hearing problem. I have had a couple of operations but they didn't help and the ENT specialist doesn't want to do any more. Twice a year I go for various tests and the one in the autumn showed a 2 percentage deterioration which took me into the "severe" area. That is what led to the beginning of the depression. Mummy had been magnificent in supporting me ( always has been really) . As she said, it's not led to me having greater problems. With my hearing aids I still get by ok. 
I still need support when I have to take out my aids. Hence the importance of bath time and why she has to be there. 
. i'm hoping that with improvement of AI some scientists are working on ways to help people like me( after all there are lots of us!)

Thanks for your comments NaC. I have always enjoyed your help! 
I hope that brief summary helps.

s

[Lie-in King]

Hi Steven - I'm sorry to read that you're having a rough time, for whatever reason.  I hope things pick up for you soon 🙂

[Canary42]

Is that the clue ?  If so, how many letters ?

If not, then I'm glad it's behind you, and welcome back.

[Canary42]

Crossed post, ignore.

 

[Lie-in King]

Crossed posts - I wish you well & hope to see you finishing the Jumbo again soon.

[Neveracrossword]

Thanks, Stevenj. I didn't ask any questions about the 'difficult period' as it could have been deeply personal! Thanks for the update. It sounds as if you - and your mum -really have had a trying time recently, but it also sounds as if you're coping well too. Who knows what the future may bring, with medicine, with AI, whatever. Until then, I'm sure you'll just... carry on carrying on!

[stevenj]

Sorry, it's not just NaC who's been great. So have many others, not least you, LiK

s

[stevenj]

Thank you for your patience last night . I'm fine psychologically now I'm pleased to say 

steven

[Neveracrossword]

Great to hear, stevenj . We all have blips, little wobblies at times - and usually bounce back.

PS Thanks for appreciating the AB help. I manage that only occasionally - there are speedier solvers around!