Normality has started to return..... For today at least

Well today has been a semi normal day for me, I have even made an appearance
in the office for a couple of hours. Which for me was nice as I have started
to claim back my normal life.

I didn't actually get much achieved in the office but I was there...

There has been no hospital today for me (Mark had to go though for me to
pick up my medication.

The medication, although only small, is probably the most important set of
tablets that I will ever take, as they are my Chemo tablets, I don't know
what I was expecting of the tablets but they look just like any other
tablet, I was expecting them to come in a special box or something, but they
don't. Picture is attached.

There is also a few other tablets that I have to take with the Chemo
tablets. First Is the anti sickness drug as Chemo can cause sickness. There
is also a antibiotic tablet as my immune system is compromised whilst on the
treatment, hence why the last few weeks I have been taking immune boosting
medication.

The rest of the day has been spent having lunch with a friend who came over
from Sheffield. It was nice to meet up with them as I don't see them often,
but was also nice to go out and do "Normal Things"

Other than that, it's been a normal day, and as the advert for Macmillan
says "Today hasn't been all about Cancer"

I'm still having the headaches though from the Steroid drug, this was
discussed with the doctors yesterday and they say this is a common side
effect for when you're coming off the drug,, I been off it a week now so
should be stopping pretty soon. Although they may put m back on them when
the Radiotherapy kicks in...

At least all these drugs are keeping me here, so it's a little price to pay
for extra time with the people I love. And as I keep telling Mark, I have no
plans to go anywhere yet as I have a list of things I still need to do.

Right bedtime for me as it's a full day tomorrow.

Steve x

Another Trip to Christies

Well hello my Blogettes (is that what you are if you read other peoples
blogs?

Today has actually been a good day, and relatively fun. Have spent the whole
day with Mark, and a large part of it was spent at Christies.

First was my wig appointment, which was really odd for me, as naturally she
assumed that being only 31 and male that I would have never worn a wig
properly before (oh how I laughed inside) and was trying to tell me how wigs
were made, how they were based and blah blah blah, I would have loved to
tell her that I have over 100 wigs in the dressing room of every conceivable
shape and colour, but I didn't and she promptly started putting these wigs
on my head.

I have chosen something that's close to my natural style and colour, and
need to go for another fitting in the next week or so, which is lucky as of
next week, I will be attending the hospital every day Monday to Friday for
my Radiotherapy treatment.

One thing I would like to say to you guys is thanks for all your positive
comments and messages, I have people who I don't even know now sending me
messages saying that the blog is an inspiration and it is giving them the
willpower to keep going. That means a lot, and sounds like I am blowing my
own trumpet, but if what I am doing with this blog is helping others then it
makes it even better.

The only downside of today is the headache I have had since Friday. The
downside of coming off the steroids that I have been on since I was admitted
to hospital, I am effectively having withdrawal symptoms and the headache is
part and parcel of this, luckily they are decreasing every day and I should
be free of them in the next few days, however the radiotherapy can cause
headaches so I may have to go back on them again....

Oh well never mind.

Tomorrow I have said I would like to go to the office and say hello to all
the guys, as two of them leave on Friday and I know I will be busy with my
treatment then so would like to wave them off as they have been a great
team. That and it gets me out of the house and back into a normal swing of
things.

Right am going to sign off and head off to bed with a DVD, I will probably
be asleep before the opening credits roll but I do that anyway so no change
there then.

TTFN

Steve x

Another day, another step closer

Well today has been a bit of a mixed bag of a day.

Mark has been in work all day so have been Home Alone.... which although I
have been occupied has lead me to thinking, not something I am good at, at
the best of times but with everything else going on I think about the wrong
things.

I sadly worked out that the 12-18 months prognosis I have given takes me to
March of 2012, that's one month before my 33rd Birthday which really got to
me. As I would like to get to a ripe old age. This on top of other things
has really got me down today, even though I have been putting on a brave
face and carrying on as normal.

By aim then is simple to celebrate my 33rd birthday. I might even throw
myself a party, your all invited.

I really dont want to write any more today as I feel so down, I even burst
into tears earlier with Mark, have now sold a few of my costumes through the
shop, and although I see it as a business transaction, its like selling off
the posetions of a dead relative or friend, something that is such a big
part of me is now nolonger. People have tried to keep me positive about this
but it still hurts to see them go.

Anyway am going to go and try and get some sleep, another day omorrow,
another day im going to sand up and fight.

Positivity

Steve x

Back to normality

Well it was back to normal late yesterday and so didn't have the time nor
the energy write a blog. It was just so nice to go away this weekend have no
mobile phone or internet (even though they were there if we needed them -
and I used it briefly on the Saturday) The rest of the time it was switched
off.

I have come back now and Mark has started decorating the small lounge which
to be fair is almost done all the painting and papering is now done, he's
worked bloody hard in there today whilst I have been entertaining guests.

A friend from Israel also came to see me (and other people as well) which
was nice as I haven't seen him in about 2 years.

One thing that struck me today was one of my friends asked me after a fly
comment I made as to how I can stay so positive and almost trivialise the
fact I gave a life limiting illness (I don't think of it as terminal, its
life limiting, it depends how you think about it, and like my Uncle says
Asthma is life limiting, so anything is possible)

My simple response was if I let this thing eat me up, and get to me then it
will make me ill (both physically and mentally) By keeping positive and in
some ways trivialising it then it doesn't get to me. It sounds wrong to say
that I trivialise my illness but to me it's a self defence mechanism. It
would be interesting to find out how other people handle things.

The rest of the week appears to be pretty straight forward with a final
fitting for my mask on Wednesday afternoon and a wig fitting. Then my
treatment starts hopefully on the Friday. The only thing I am not looking
forward to wit the treatment is the chemo sickness. This is something that
not everyone gets but is a common side effect, knowing my luck I will be
sick, so again that's another medication that I will have to take to
counteract the chemo.

All the other treatments have their issues but I know that I have to put up
with these, however sickness is not something I am good with, and I turn
into a right moaning ld goat...

The one issue I have got at the moment is my scar in my head, its itchy as,
people keep telling me this is a good sign of it healing well, I know this I
can feel this, but its driving me wild.

Oh well, must sign off I have eBay to check for random items, ever since I
have been at home I have been trawling eBay for the most random things, and
then watch them to see how much they go for, I have watched everything from
ice machines to CCTV system. I need more things to occupy my time I think.

Steve x

A little bit of france

Whilst out enjoying the fresh air in Darlington. We have been brought to the Bowes Museum a french style chateau that was built to house the Bowes collection of fine antiquities. Unfortunately it was never finished and is now only parr used as a museum the rest is used as office space. Unfinished and unseen. Such a shame. Picture is front entrance.

That's one hell of a front door.

Steve x
Sent via the Trouble BlackBerry®

Away

Well its official. Am sat in the car off up to Darlington for a getaway. A friend of ours lives up there and insisted that we spend the weekend with him. There has been lots of offers of visits and stays from people which is really touching.

The next few weeks are going to fly by with visitors. ,ext week we have friends from Norfolk and then the weekend after its the visit of my sister.

My treatment starts on the 22nd of this month. My final fitting and dry run for the Radiotherapy is on the 20thn so again another busy week at the Christies.

Also on the 20th I go for the first of my wig fittings. Now if you have seen any of my recent pictures you will know my hair is the longest its been in years. This will change when treatment starts though and I have said that I will cut my own hair off rather than see it fall out. It was a good friend of mine (and my drag sister) that said when someone he knew had cancer and was having Chemo they had to cut their own hair off as part of their own mindset. This made sense to me and will be following the same process.

Back to a shaved head for me then, just a little shorter....

The wig isn't for the hair issues! Its more to do with my scar which I can feel is still very prominent, and whilst being at the hospital have also seen a few other scars.

The wig simply gives me the option to go out and be unnoticed . Unlike the day after I came out of hospital and someone noticed the staples in the back of my head and said to their partner that it was minging. I chose not to say anything because I didn't want the hassle but Mark said that if he had heard it he would have had something to say. I just don't need the stress and frankly I can't be bothered dealing with other peoples issues. The wig sorts that problem out.

Anyway I'm about to fall off the end of the earth (as far as mobiles and texting etc go) so better sign off and send this. Will have to see if I can fine a Ye Olde Internet Shop to update from over the weekend. Or I could just write them on my Blackberry and send them when am back in the wifi world....

Will see what happens. Stay positive guys and remember to spread a little infection. Smiling is infectious, and is one bug we could all do with having in our system.

Steve x
Sent via the Trouble BlackBerry®

Wedding Aniversary

<http://www.btbuddies.org.uk/blog-buddies.html>
http://www.btbuddies.org.uk/images/btb_badge.jpg

Hi Guys.

Today has been a good day, not just because I feel good but because its also
a milestone for me. It's my 4th wedding anniversary with Mark.

I have also been added as a BT Buddies Blogger, and had a couple of messages
from people that have said they are following my blog, its nice knowing that
my positivity is rubbing off on others.

Both me and Mark said yesterday that we hadn't got a card for each other as
it didn't matter. But today he came home from work and he's got me a card
and a present. I feel guilty that I haven't got him anything but he said
just being me and being here s good enough.

He also bought me the sign that we saw the other day in TK Maxx its now
going to be displayed proudly somewhere in the house. It's my official new
slogan, if anyone wants to share it with me then feel free, if you email me
I will even send you a copy of the picture (I could even be technical and
scan it...)

Today has also been a busy day on my shops on Facebook. Since my diagnosis,
I have decided with the support of Mark that I am going to retire from the
cabaret circuit. When I get the all clear and am in remission I will be back
though... so be warned)

As a way of clearing out we are selling all our costumes and accessories, we
will buy new at a later date.

Some people may think that I am being very optimistic with all this but it's
this optimism that keeps me going. There are people out there that have
beaten the GBM and the prognosis of 12-18 months. I intend to be one of
these people.

If anyone would like to become my friend on Facebook and keep updated with
what am doing please search for Enid Whiplash
http://www.facebook.com/enid.whiplash or look out for Mark (Bobbie Dazzler)
http://www.facebook.com/enid.whiplash#!/bobbiedazzler and let us know you're
from BT Buddies or from our blog, it's always nice to know the people out
there.

Tomorrow were off to a friends in Darlington for a quiet weekend away. It
will be nice to get out away from the house and just be normal, or as normal
as I will ever be lol. Our friend has planned a few things that are not too
strenuous as he is aware of the situation.

Well will update more over the weekend.

Steve x

Fitting and tests, and TK Maxx

Well, today was my fitting for my mask in readiness for my Radiotherapy.

The mask loos very odd

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http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs831.snc4/69115_441082577044_58
0802044_5718122_6902619_n.jpg

It lools rather odd, but is basically there to hold my head still during the
treatment. I have to just switch off and let them do what they want to do.

The three appoitnents I had today were to ensure that the mask was the
correct size, and also to mark where they are going to apply the
Radiotherapy beams, so now it has lots of crosses and measurments on it. The
doodles obviously mean something to someone..

I also mad an appoitment at the wig room for next Wednesday too.

I have been told I may end up going bald, I may only go bald on select
patches. So having a wig will give me the option of having a full head of
hair if I want to go out. - will be odd for me to wear a wig without the
whole getup of miss whiplash on as well.

I was also contacted today by someone on facebook who has a family member
who has just been told they have to go for tests for somethin gin their
head, like I did at the start of September.

This is a hard thing to discuss for anyone, and having been there and been
told the worst news I do feel for them, the waiting is awful.

The only advice I could give them was to be POSITIVE, there is noting else
you can do. Being positiveis to me is the most important thing I can do, and
those around me can do. If im positive in my mind, then im hoping that my
body will follow suit.

We found a poster in a shop and it sums up exactly how I feel

It's a comedy slogan, but it actually touched me and is basically how I
feel. Team Steve is standing up ready to fight this thing.

Anyway, today has been a good day and tomorrow is going to be better.

Anyone that wants to drop me a line please do so, all I can offer is a
positive comment and any adice that I have picked up along the way.

Steve

It gets better

Today got better.

After last nights little breakdown I managed to sleep, and wake this morning
with a few thoughts, but I have had things t do today and therefore I have
managed to have a positive day overall.

I have had a conversation with my mum and with mark about things that need
to be discussed, and even though we didn't discuss anything its proven
something to me that I am capable of having that conversation. So in the
next few weeks there will be conversations had that I wouldn't normally like
to have, if you get my drift.....

In other areas of my life, I managed to do a couple of hours work for my
office job, which left me positive. And have managed to do a little work on
the shop with mark, it's all on Facebook at the moment but will slowly go
onto the website too.

The shop is working really well and gives me something to focus on, which is
good as my attention span is shocking at the moment, for example I walked to
the post office, which is only at the end of my road, to post a letter and
have some passport photos done.

I posted the letter and was only when I returned home that I realised I
hadn't had my pictures done, so I had to walk back down again, which left me
tired. Never mind....

Notebooks and "To Do" lists are becoming an important part of my life I have
to write it down otherwise I forget about it immediately. So with a Job, a
shop, hospital visits and general day to day things to do, I write it down.
I just have to remember where I wrote stuff down as I have a few lists...

Anyway its late, and am tired so am off to bed.

Full afternoon in Hospital tomorrow for various appointments relating to my
mask etc.

Will update again tomorrow - its on my list of things to do...

Steve x

Today is just one of those days

Last night in bed I realised a few small things, and it was hard for me to
accept.

As much as I am prepared to stand up and fight this illness, it may get the
better of me. Obviously I am willing to try anything to give me the extra
time.

Last night though like I said was hard, the small things like I may not see
my 33rd birthday, I may not see next Christmas. There is lots I would like
to do, I have always wanted to go to Lapland for example, but these seem
trivial now, but I still want to do them to say that I have done them

I will admit it hurt deep inside, the fact that I may leave this earth and
all those that I love around me, Mark, My parents all four of them and my
brother. The hardest thing will be the goodbye, I wouldn't want them to see
me in pain or suffering.

I also have to go and tell another family member today that I am ill, but my
Gran is 86 and the whole thing would make her worry so much, it would make
her very ill, so for her sake and my sake too in a way I am only going to
give her a portion of the truth, which is harder than telling her everything
as it's like a lie.

Its days like today when I could easily just stay in bed and just ignore the
day, but that is admitting defeat, and am not prepared to do that.

The best way I can cope with this is to get on with the rest of my life no
matter how long I have got and just sort those things out that I need to do,
and unfortunately today and the mood I am in I have looked at funerals. Not
something I would like to ever plan for myself but I want it to be right,
and will sit down with Mark in a few weeks when I have looked at options as
untimely it will be him that has to carry out my last wishes, I just hope
that these wishes don't have to be executed for a long while but they still
need to be made.

Anyway, have things to do and sort, so will update again later on how my
mood is going. I'm keeping positive and need to go for my daily walk so that
should blow some cobwebs out my head.

Steve x

Another day

Well today has been yet another good day, things have gone well and we have
managed to get a lot done. We bought the paint for our lounge. We were going
to start decorating the lounge before I was taken into hospital but then for
obvious reason that was put on a back burner., however now that am feeling
relatively OK we have decided to decorate the lounge, as its somewhere I
will be spending a lot of time when my treatment kicks in.

It's nice to be able to go out and buy all the relevant bits and pieces
needed, although I am tired now as we have traipsed around a few different
shops.

Like I said yesterday, I'm not going to allow the issues of my illness to
get to me, there will be plenty of occasions over the forthcoming weeks
whilst I'm in the middle of treatment for me to feel down so whilst I am fit
and able am also going to be positive and upbeat.

I have also started on an regime of Immune system boosting vitamins etc
today, as the Chemo will lower my Immune System whilst I'm on them, this
along with my Swine Flu and my Flu jabs I'm preparing for everything, that
and I have had all the relevant Jabs for India, so i have a fighting chance
of not getting Yellow Fever.....

Friends came over today which was nice, they are a lively bunch and really
brought a smile to my face, it's in time like these that friends really do
become important, and if your reading this I would just like to say thanks
you all.

Anyway am re-watching Harry Potter, so am going to just relax this evening
and miss the end of the film.

Steve x

Sleeping In

Today has been a great day, what we have seen of it anyway as we didn't get
up till almost 12... It was actually nice to have a sleep in as the last fw
weeks its been very little sleep and up really early. So today was back to a
semi normal state for us too.

Haven't really done much this afternoon either as I did quite a bit of
walking yesterday so am pretty tired, so have had a lazy day.

This evening my parents came over and we had a nice dinner the 6 of us. We
had the great traditional meal Curry, Mark manages somehow just to throw
loads of things together and come up with a really nice meal. I suppose
that's another reason why I love him so much.

Other than I haven't actually done much today. Like the Macmillan advert
says, today wasn't all about cancer. In fact that hasn't even entered my
head today, other than talking to my parents about the mask prep I did the
other day.

Tomorrow is another day, let's see what that can throw at me. I'm ready.

Steve x

Today has been a good day

Today has been a good day, and I have actually been in a god mood.

I did some work this morning from home, I quite enjoy working from home and
was actually at my desk well before 9am, maybe I should have worked from
home years ago...

At lunch I had to set off to Christies for Day three of my treatment
preparations.

I wasn't in the hospital very long, just one simple scan and I was away. I
then travelled independently into town, this is something I don't tend to do
of late and have always been accompanied by somebody, normally Mark. From
the bus in town I strolled through the Arndale waiting to meet Mark who was
already in town. It was nice to just be able to go free, but also odd. My
whole perception about shopping has now changed and material things are no
longer important. I used to be able to look in shops for hours but I
couldn't be bothered today.

This evening we went to Ikea to look for a light for our lounge, we ended up
buying candles and a plant. The plant is an orchid and was a gift from a
friend.

Were back home now and I'm pushing out the boat and having a drink, Fresh
orange and Lemonade.... Never mind it's all good for me, this is the start
of a whole new Steve.

Will update tomorrow

Steve

Another day over

Well another day of sorting things out is over.

Day two at Christies is over too, and I will be back there again tomorrow.
Not that I knew about it, it wasn't until late this evening that I found out
when I got home I have another MRI scan tomorrow.

I have then got three appointments there on Tuesday of next week for the
various stages of my mask fitting.

I started the fitting today for my mask, which is a longer process than I
thought but was OK. I was very anxious about having the mould made of my
face, but It was actually a strangely relaxing process, kind of like having
a facial or a face mask. If I was left there any longer I would have gone to
sleep.

After this we went to make an appointment at the Wig fitting room, I know I
am going to be losing my hair so I thought I would make the arrangements
now, as although I do wear my hair short normally, I will be very conscious
that I will be losing it all and I will be left with my scar on the side of
my head from the surgery. At least if I have it here I have the option of
wearing it out or not.

That's the main problem with this whole illness, it takes away a lot of your
choices. By fighting it, and stepping up to the challenge I can achieve
things though and am able to regain these choices, as with the wig.

The picture enclosed is the final part of the mask application, this is the
full mould completed. This is then taken and made into the mask.

Will Update more on tomorrows scan, which as far as I can tell is pretty
much a routine thing,

Steve

Flu

Well today is my second visit to Christie's. However this morning I have been chasing a flu jab for both me and Mark. Were currently on our way to have our Swine Flu jabs. We have to have these first and then the normal flu jab 4 weeks later. All this because my immune system is compromised during my treatment.

Its all hectic but its keeping me occupied which is good.

I even did a couple of hours work this morning. The system is really slow but I just set the reports off and basically let it run, that isn't a problem as it can just do its own thing and Meesha collects the printouts in the office. Pure teamwork.

So far a good day.

Will update later.

Steve x
Sent via the Trouble BlackBerry®

1st Visit to Christies Hospital

Today was the first of many visits for me to the Christies Hospital in
Manchester.

Pretty much a routing visit, I had blood tests done, which have been told
will be a weekly occurrence, and also signed the paperwork to allow my
tumour to be sent to Belgium for testing. They have offered me the
possibility of being put onto a trial Drug, This will be alongside my other
treatment.

My Tumour has to be tested to see if I fit the profile of the trial, and
they have said that there is a 40% chance that I will fit it. To me this is
still 40% more of a chance than I had yesterday.

Have also started working from home today. There were a few IT issues but
these are now solved, so im back up and running, which is good for me as it
gives me something I can focus on and occupy my time. I will not become an
ill person and sit and watch daytime TV.

Back to the Hospital tomorrow for my first appoitment for my mask to be made
in readyness for my Radiotherapy. I'm not perticulaly looking forward to
this part of the treatment as I dont like my face being covered, but its
something I have to do so will have to put up with it, I will ask if I can
wear my ipod and just zone out - Mark will be with me though so I should be
OK. I have to wear this mask every time I have the Radiotherapy which will
be for 30 sessions (Monday to Friday for 6 weeks)

I Have also been told that I will lose my hair, hence all the hats im
buying. I'm being practical and fun at the same time. I will be losing my
hair in winter so its going to be cold, I dont know how I feel about losing
my hair becaise I wear it short anyway nirmally, but iut now hasnt been cut
for about 2 motnhs and its getting pretty long, and am slowly becoming
attached to it. Having the choice removed will be the hardest part, but in
saying this I have said as soon as it starts to fall out because of the
treatment, I will be shaving it off (or Mark will at least).

Well am going to sign off now and say a quick thanks to all the people that
have sent me positive messages both on Facebook and email etc. It really
does mean a lot to me and its these positive things that are keeping me
going.

Steve x

5th October 2010

Today has been a good day.

I haven't cried today. I used to have a poster on my wall that said "Laugh
and the whole world laughs with you, Cry and you get wet"

How true. I know some of you will be thinking that crying is all part of
healing process, and am sure your right it probably is, but I don't intend
to do any more, I'm just going to be positive.

Other good news is Mark has found stories of other GBM sufferers who were
also given the same prognosis as myself. There are a couple on there that
have so far lived for over 20, so there is hope for me.

Everyone around me is positive too, which is a real boost.

I also got a phone call from Christies today for the first of my
appointments for my Mask for my Radiotherapy. This is to ensure that when
they are administering the radio waves, it is directed to the exact place
every time. I'm not looking forward to this part of the treatment as I don't
like my face being covered, but sometimes you just have to live with it, and
this is one of those occasions.

So this week I'm at Christies Wednesday for my Oncology appointment and
Thursday for the first of the mask fittings, so a busy week for me.

The other good thing that's happened today is that my office has installed a
Pc in my house. I can actually return to some kind of normality, albeit
working from home. As my sleep patterns are slightly deranged at the moment
I will be able to do a few hours work throughout the day and still feel like
I am involved in the office. Some of you may think I am mad wanting to go
back to but it's the time off that's actually making me ill. That and I just
can't face watching endless chavs on Jeremy Kyle and whatever other
programs. I don't even switch the TV on in the morning.

Anyway am going to sign off as it's been a long day and am actually tired -
even though I did have an almost three hour nap this afternoon.

Till tomorrow

Steve

x

Sunshine

Somebody somewhere is smiling on me. I decided yesterday that today was
going to be the first day of the rest of my life. If I think I want to do
that I am going to do it, if I want to buy and wear a big floppy hat, then
that's what I am going to do.

Today I woke up to a nice frosty morning with clear blue skies. Something I
love.

There is only one way from here and that's onwards and upwards.

Right Walking boots on, we got places to go, people to see, and mischief to
cause along the way, who's coming with me, the more the merrier.

Steve x

Today is better

Today has been a much nicer day than yesterday. Its been a much more normal
day. After Mark delivering the news to my parent yesterday of my prognosis I
felt like shit and just wanted to end the day as soon as I could.

Today though has been different. Nothing can ever change what has been said
and such but, but I can work towards a positive day.

Today was the first of those positive days, my mum came down to the house
and the three of us went shopping. Today has become my hat day. As I know I
am going to be losing my hair I have decided that I will wear a hat whenever
I need - going out and such so want a range of hats, Mark has even decided
that he is going to make me one, even my brother said he is going to get me
one from his Army camp, I have a funny feeling though that I am going to be
inundated with hats of all kinds.....

Who knows hats may even become my signature item, it works for Boy
George....

The other realisation I had today is that I need to be be positive and that
I need to start living, therefore 4th October 2010 is the first day of the
rest of my life, it sounds corny, but I dont give a shit. The doctors have
said on average I have 12-18 months, but I want to prove them wrong, as much
as I respect them I want to rubish these figures and fight this illness and
give them a whole new set of figures to play with.

Sorry Doc, but on this ocasion I think your wrong, and am going to prove it.

Other positive things today is I actually havent cried today. Its been the
smallest things that set me off but today, because of the good times we have
had I feel good.

I would like to just say a big thanks to the friends that have sent me
messages on Facebook and privately, they really have lifted me and Mark.

Will update on the first day of my life tomorrow. As our website says, hang
on in there its going to be a bumpy ride and lots of action along the way...

Steve

Results update

Well I said I would write more this weekend so here goes. This is probably
the most difficult post I have ever written, it seems to be usual for me of
late, there's been a lot of difficult things for me to do and times for me
to endure over the past month, I have got through each of them in no small
part due to the love and support of those around me which includes those
friends Mark, (Bobbie Dazzler) and I have online, some we have never met and
others we rarely see.

If you've been following you will know I was admitted to hospital 8th
September following the discovery of a growth behind my left eye. On 15th
Sept I was diagnosed with a brain tumor and on 22nd I underwent major brain
surgery to have it removed. Following removal the diseased tissue has been
analysed and I was invited to the hospital this week to learn the results on
Weds 29th Sept.

The anticipation of Wednesdays result has been very stressful for both Mark
and I, the uncertainty, the fear and the simple "what if" when your mind
thinks of what this could be.

On Wednesday my worst fears came true. I have been diagnosed with a fairly
rare form of Brain Tumor, a Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) or Grade 4 brain
Tumor. It's malignant and very aggressive, there is no cure and my
condition is terminal. The prognosis is not good. I can't begin to explain
how this has shattered our world and that of those around us.

Many of you will have seen facebook updates from Mark (Bobbie Dazzler)
advising we have now retired from stage, with just a few exceptions we have
been overwhelmed by messages of support and good wishes. This post will
probably explain those posts more clearly.

We have not posted this before as My parents have been abroad and were not
aware of my condition, I wanted to see them and tell them personally before
they found out from those around us and them.

I will receive treatment which will commence within 3 or 4 weeks, I will
receive radiotherapy and chemotherapy on a daily basis, this cannot cure me
but may help extend the time I have by fighting off the disease a little
longer.

I am sorry that this may make uncomfortable reading, it's not nice to write
either but, I don't want people to make their own assumptions or guesses and
don't need an outpouring of pity, I want to enjoy the time I have. In
saying that I am really encouraged and touched by the messages received for
both Me and Mark, they really mean a lot.

I will update more in the next few days, please keep reading, it's nice
knowing you're out there.

Xxx Steve - Enid Whiplash

Update

I haven't updated the blog for a few days as it's been a strange few days.
I'm writing it all down and will post it on line in the next few days.

The best thing is though that I have had my staples out though and I have
managed to wash my hair - bonus because I was starting to feel like a chip
pan.

Just A quickie

Just a quick update for today.

I'm off to the Hospital at 12pm for the results of my biopsy.

Obviously I'm hoping for a good result but know that there are other results
out there. Either way I'm gearing up for a fight.

Last night in bed was the first real time that I have broken down completely
and cried. Mark had fallen asleep and I was just allowed to think about
things on my own, and the whole thing just got to me and I ended up sobbing
uncontrollably with a whole host of feelings whizzing round my head. Mark
woke up though and managed to calm me down. He has been really nice and calm
through the whole situation. This is good, as most of it has just simply
passed me by in a whirlwind.

I will update later when I get my results.

And the results are.....

Well I have just had the phone call I have been both waiting for and not
wanting to receive.

It's the call from the hospital to tell me my appointment for the results of
the Biopsy.

I'm booked in at 12pm tomorrow with my Surgeon. After this meeting I will
know for definite what I am up against.

The call has really made it sink home now everything that is happening as
this is both the beginning of something and the end of all the waiting -
it's been the longest 3 weeks of my life. And I don't mind admitting here
that I am actually shit scared about tomorrow.

I didn't do a Blog yesterday as I had a relatively normal day and dint want
to do anything illness related like writing in here. I did some crafting in
the afternoon and then Mark took me for a walk in the park for fresh air.
Only half an hour though as I get tired very quickly. We were on the lookout
for Conkers but didn't see any at all - we were going to scatter them round
the dressing room to try and detract spiders, as apparently they don't like
them and avoid going near them, so though why not give it a natural go.

Today I have been attempting to put stock on Facebook, with very little
results, as I don't have the pictures so will have to get Mark doing some
photography. Will be done at the weekend now I presume.

I have been looking at other stock lines though so not a wasted day.

As for the rest of the day, I'm just going to try and not think about
tomorrow and take it easy.

Who knows I may even do another update.

Steve

Update 26/9/10

Well hello Guys, it's been a few days since I done this so I better be quick
and make sure I get it done within today's 24 hours.

The last few days have been a little whirlwind for me, with lots going in
both in and out of the hospital.

I was actually discharged from the Hospital at around 4pm on Friday
afternoon, as I was seen as fit and able to come home. This involved a
number of people doing various tests on me, one of which I had to make toast
and coffee for the Occupational Therapist, now I make poor coffee at the
best of times but when faced with a cheap powder coffee and only a large
table spoon to make it with, it was very poor, the toast was ok though so
that was that one passed.

There was also a number of vision and perception tests to complete, but
again I was seen as fit.

That all happened back on Friday and I was glad to be back home in my own
bed again that evening, although it was strange as our bedroom was so dark
and quiet, I couldn't sleep much as the surroundings were odd.

Saturday was an emotional day for me too. Both Mark and myself have made the
realisation that Trouble won't be making an appearances for the next couple
of months and so we have both made the decision to pack away the dressing
room to preserve the costumes that are in there, it was something we needed
to do anyway as it was getting very full, but we have done it now, and it
was like going through the belongings of an old friend - I knew the memories
attached to each item.

It's done now, and all there so that we can go back to it when I'm fighting
fit, which is sooner rather than later as a point of reference, a couple of
people have said it but you can't lee an old queen down, and this queen
doesn't intend to stay down for long.

That afternoon though I was tired and had to have a nap, this is one
unfortunate side effect of what I'm going through at the moment, I get tired
very quickly, and find that nod off easy.

Today has been a nice day as I have spent it all with Mark, both just been
doing our own thing, Mark is doing crafts again and I have been tapping away
on my Laptop, I find that my attention span wanes after a short time, so I
have a few things that I swap between to keep me engrossed.

Today I have also started to focus on Drag Queen Superstore, as that was
going really well before I took ill and has unfortunately suffered, It's
also something I can focus on to keep my mind occupied, and is something
Mark is happy to help me with so again we can do it together. I'm sure you
will see a few messages from me if you are on my Facebook group. If you are
not then look me up under Enid Whiplash.

Well until tomorrow as I'm off to bed as I had a nap earlier...

Steve

Today's update

Well I'm going to do my first blog since I went under the knife.

Yesterday was all very speedy and I was in hospital for 7am all ready to be sent to surgery first off. I was sent down to the anaesthetic room just before 8.30. And I was on my merry way to sleep not much long after that.

I was next aware of time when it was about 1pm but I have been told that it was just a 11.30 when I wanted to get a message to mark that everything was ok.

I was linked to various tubes and monitors overnight which made sure I had as little sleep as possible. Every time I moved my alarms went off.. Thankfully they are gone now and the beeping has stopped...

I have been moved off the monitoring ward and onto a general ward, which again is another good sign for me. Just have the usual four hour checks of blood pressure and such.

At least they have now stopped asking me what day it is now though and who the king or queen is... Now I know who the queen is that's simple. But as for knowing the date! I haven't got a clue at the best of times never mind when am full of pain relief drugs. But I can gladly report that I managed to get it right so no problems there either. Who knows whilst they were in there they might have corrected my problems with dates as well and I will always know date it is...

Its lunch time now on the ward and am actually looking forward to lunch as all have had so far is tea and toast and a sandwich yesterday. (That and a load of miniature hero's)

At least the operation hasn't effected my appetite.

My head bandage will be coming off after lunch too which should again ease some of the pressure. So the picture of the Turbanator mark posted yesterday will be a thing of the past. The surgeon has said that the scar is going to be very minimal so shouldn't show under my hair.

Ok well I'm going to sign off now and update in a bit. Might have a nap after lunch as I do feel tired. That's one unfortunate side effect of head surgery...

Later guys

The Turbanator - Steve

Sent via the Trouble BlackBerry®

Well this is going to be my last blog post for a few days now, as I'm all
packed and ready for the hospital tomorrow morning.

I have to be in the surgical admittance lounge by 7am (sounds like a
departure lounge to me) but not such an easy flight going forward.

Basically check in, get prepped, and then it's a rollercoaster of
anaesthetic and operating theatres for me - not that I will know what's
going on as I will be fast asleep thinking of some strange exotic place - Do
you dream when they put you out?

I am actually quite nervous now of tomorrow and just want to get it all over
and done with, friends came over tonight and the enormous realisation
actually hit me of what is happening tomorrow. It's not just an operation,
this is possibly the biggest thing will happen to me, which now looking at
it scares me. I know I keep saying I have the easiest job going forward from
here, but I know that's not the truth.

No more food or drink for me from midnight, which isn't a problem because I
don't think I could face anything.

Off to bed now as need to be up early. Luckily Mark will drive me there in
the morning (its only round the corner though) just think it will be a
strange time.

Well guys wish me luck and I will update when I next can, Mark has said he
will update before then though.

Steve

Update

Well folks, just a quick update on little old me. Today hasn't been the best of days, I think the drugs and everything else are playing with my emotions and I keep having little tearful spots. I could just say its just me but I know its not. So until all is fine I'm just going to have to accept I may cry over apple juice in Asda.

I also found out today that I will be being admitted to hospital on Wednesday morning. I have to be in the surgical departure lounge at 7am sounds like a holiday plan to me, unfortunately not so simple.

From there I presume I will be prepped and sent down for the surgery, which I have classed as an eviction. For those that are reading this will know I have a Cystic Tumour at the back or my brain, the evil squatte has become known as Clive the clump.

Clive has now officially been served with his eviction for wednesday. If he wants a fight, then so be it that's what he's going to get.

I'm going to try and update0this blog every day when possible and Mark (Bobbie Dazzler) has said he will fill in my off days. I'm going to be honest and say if I feel shit then so be it. But I will also say when am feeling good too.

Just off to a meeting now with my employers to fill them in and then its home to see my mum.

Will update later

Steve aka Whiplash
Sent via the Trouble BlackBerry®

Hospital, Seven sleepless nights

After being admitted on Wednesday 8th September the monitoring and medication continued, there's a few funny stories from Steve's first nights in hospital but they are lengthy, maybe we'll tell you one day...

With no more information on what the growth could be the weekend came and went and Monday 13th September Steve was taken for an MRI scan because this, we were told, would provide more detail for the Doctors to look at.

We were told the Doctors would discuss the results scans at a meeting to be held on Tuesday 14th September and we would then be informed as to the next stage of diagnosis or treatment.

Tuesday came and went without significant progress, we were told the meeting had gone ahead but that the outcome of which would be discussed with us at a different hospital the following day.  the meeting was scheduled for 11.30am and we were to wait.

Another night of worry and anxiety, seven sleepless nights, Mark worrying at home and Steve dealing with the snoring of what sounded like a wart hog convention on the ward.  Meds continued to be administered every 4 hours through the night and the nurse took her observations.

Every phone call Mark received sent his stress levels through the roof, every minute which passed in hospital felt like a lifetime for Steve and, after attending the hospital the week before feeling relatively well, (apart from an annoying headache), Steve now felt weak, tense, exhausted and very depressed,

The following morning, Wednesday 15th September brought more tension and anxiety with the realisation that today we would finally find out what was growing within Steve's head.

A Brain Tumor, from Optician to Hospital....

Well it's been a while sine we wrote and unfortunately it's not really great news.  Steve, aka Enid Whiplash has been diagnosed this week with a brain tumor.  I'll start at the beginning...

For around 2 or 3 weeks he's been complaining of migraines, as you'd expect it was the usual two paracetamol and get on with it, as he was due for an eye test he assumed his prescription needed changing so on Sunday Sept 5th 2010 we both went for an eye test.  The optician noticed irregularities pointing at high blood pressure and referred him back to his GP, writing a letter which we duly delivered to the Dr.

Monday 6th Sept the Dr called to book an appointment so on Tuesday 7th Sept Steve visited the Dr who then referred him to the specialist eye hospital the same afternoon.  We were at the hospital until after 6pm where after many different tests they had decided a CT (CAT) Scan was necessary and that he should return at 10am the following morning (8th Sept).

Following a restless night Steve made his way to the hospital and underwent a CT Scan, the results were immediately sent to the clinic and he was sent there to get the verdict from the scan.  Without hesitation the clinic decided it was necessary to admit Steve to hospital and he was taken direct to the medical assessment unit and then on to the ward.

Medication began very soon after although at this time we were not told what was being treated other than to say there was a "growth" behind the left eye which was 5cm by 3cm and that it was hoped the medication would help shrink the growth whilst  a different pill was administered to combat the side effects of the first pill and a different drug was administered to help reduce the pain. over 20 pills a day has become part of Steve's daily diet....

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A Winter Wonderland, if your inside, not if you're trying to get into the
office.

Back on the road on the way to chester to the liverpool arms with our xmas show!
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Town hall extension.
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Our office sweet wrapper tree
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Merry Christmas

From Bobbie and myself I wish you all a sparkly christmas and spanking new year. Have a drink for me as I know I will have one for all of you.

Whiplash x
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The midland hotel manchester
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One more day to go

Well its xmas eve and its still snowy. Will it snow tomorrow? Only santa knows. Will keep an update of pictures coming today.
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Our street you can't see
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Miss whiplash's new wig wasn't such a success as she thought it would.....
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The new style manchester tram
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-----Original Message-----
From: "Steve Faccenda" <stevemobile@troubleonline.co.uk>
Date: Wed, 23 Dec 2009 12:41:08
To: Stephen Faccenda Work<StephenFaccenda@traveljigsaw.com>
Subject: IMG00028-20091223-1240.jpg


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From the desk of Ms Whiplash the media whore
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Bye bye xmas markets see you next year
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11am in manchester city centre
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Beofre the gossip starts...

Well before the jungle drums start beating and people come up with all sorts of wild fantasies about the goings on at The Crown we’d like to confirm that yes, we have removed some items from The Crown today.  The items we removed represent just part of the money we put in to The Crown.  It is no secret we bought some of the kitchen equipment necessary to open the kitchen along with providing various decorative items for the bar area.   In addition to this we invested quite heavily in wet stock for the bar and food stock for the kitchen, which obviously, we have not removed.

 

The items we bought and we removed were supposed to be paid for from the profits of the bar, only a small token gesture has been made in this regard but despite numerous requests nothing has been forthcoming for over 12 weeks or so.  After a recent request for payment or even a payment proposal made to our ex business partners,  they have asked us to remove the items we paid for from the bar, which we have reluctantly agreed to.

 

We are sorry it has come to this, we wanted an amicable arrangement as we’d rather receive the money we are owed slowly but surely than some second hand bits of equipment which are now effectively worthless but, it seems this was not meant to be.  As for any other monies owed to us we will need to take advice on how to move forward from here.  We suspect though that any further communication will be ignored, the same as we have been since we left.  There will doubtless be a number of comments, opinions and grievances aired now about our recent activities all we will ask is that people consider how they may feel if they were in a similar situation.

 

It is not nice to be bitched about regardless of which side of the fence you are on, many people will have our ex business partners points of view as they have, no doubt been aired freely to the customers.  Our version of events though has not been aired at all, there is much guessing and supposition but very few people know the full details, the truth will out eventually though.

 

Pissed Off

We are well and truly fuming!  Found out about some gossip being spread about us, all untrue but what is unusual is that we know who the perpertrator is – not a credible source but still FUMING!!! If people want to know the TRUTH then ask us, we don’t have an issue telling all but we didn’t want to air our grievances in public!

Small Pleasures

Well it is true, life is full of small pleasures and, every cloud DOES have a silver lining.  We were both quite upset at the thought of not working this weekend and missing the company of our friends in Southport so, to commiserate we have decided to have a nice meal in tonight and then retire to the snug with a bottle (or three) of wine.  We’re both sat here now having finished the first bottle and getting stuck in to the second, very enjoyable.  We have scoffed some of the Bombay mix hand made by Meesha’s mum and are now tucking in to the box of chocs that Mike & Elaine got us, I’m snuggled in the deepest part of the corner suite with my feet up and just relaxing.

 

 

Usually about now we would be warming up for our night at the crown but seeing as we have left we are enjoying a night off – hence the small pleasure and the silver lining is that I don’t have to drive home at silly o’clock in the morning so I am able to have a drink.

 

 

Things have not been great this week, we have heard that our ex business partners are gossiping about us and generally being malicious, it’s disappointing more than anything as we had credited them with being more adult than that but hey ho.  We could retaliate with and be very difficult but then that’s not our style, we believe in karma, what goes around comes around and also I like to give people the benefit of the doubt, only when they take the piss out of us do we retaliate... it’s heading that way but we are trying to be patient.... in fact we are being more patient than we have ever been!

 

 

Either way nothing is gonna spoil our first Friday off work since April so “Bottom Up!”  Thanks for the suggestion Elaine xXx

Mini facelift

www.troubleonline.co.uk has just had a mini facelift. Loads planned for next couple of weeks... Go check it out.
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Gutted but we know we have done the right thing.

Well last Saturday, Halloween, saw us take to the stage at The crown for the very last time, if you missed the "announcement" then it is still live at http://www.gaycrown.com/ on the news link.

It was a decision we made after lots and lots of deliberation, we loved being at The Crown, the customers there felt more like family than friends or customers and the feeling seemed mutual, this was even more apparent after we announced our departure, so many messages asking us to stay or to re-consider but unfortunately we just couldn't go on any longer in the situation we were in, it was so tough to make the decision but when we had made it we knew it was the right thing to do.

Over our time at The Crown we have been working 7 days a week every week and have not had a night out ourselves since April when Whiplash celebrated a "special" birthday. This was something we had planned for and had accepted so make no complaints of it, our nights out were every weekend at The Crown, the best nights we have had because we didn't have hangovers the following day and got to see so many happy faces and form great relationships with our friends there. It was tiring but worth it however, not drawing a wage from the business and allowing our day work to subsidise our weekend work has taken it's toll.

Being a professional performer and entertainer we need to keep our act fresh and alive, this includes adding in new numbers and re-working older ones, this usually means more costumes, wigs and of course consumables such as make-up and tights, at £13 to £17 a pair you can imagine how annoying it is when you ladder a pair! For DJ'ing we also need to keep up with the latest music too so the cost of performing is constant even without incurring additional costs. We cant wear the same gown week on week and it's not cheap you know kitting out two hefty birds in glitz and glam, it's not a case of poppping to Primani for a £10 frock either, as Dolly Parton said, "It takes a lot of money to look this cheap!"

These are not all complaints, it's a job we love and a career we have chosen to pursue but they are considerations when you assess your future and even though your heart wants to do one thing it is still important to listen to your head which is telling you all the business reasons as to why you shouldn't, we tried listening to our hearts and ignoring the sensible head and managed to do that for a while but eventually the business head won through, and, even though we didn't really like the conclusion we came to we had to follow through.

As for the future then who knows what it holds for us. We have taken a few bookings between now and New Year but essentially we are stepping back and re-assessing what and where we want to do next. We would love to go back to working a residency as it is so nice making friendships and seeing your friends every week and performing for them every week too is what we love but, we are open minded and have planned to go back on the road with a fresh new show.

Hopefully we will see our friends in Southport again soon and maybe one day we will have the pleasure of entertaining them again but for now we're retreating to our Drag Queen Dressing Room and taking a well earned break!

Don't forget though keep checking http://www.troubleonline.co.uk/ we will be updating this soon.

Love to you all,

Bobbie D & Whiplash

It's a sign of the times

Well it's official Christmas isn’t very far away, but it's getting closer and closer, point proven today when I received my first Christmas card.

 

I'm only just getting over Halloween….

 

What next Easter cards in December?

Trouble Update

Well what a week it has been and it's only Tuesday!

 

After our decision was publicly Aired at The Crown, that we we're leaving, there has been a little media storm brewing (who would have thought that we could cause a media storm..)

 

The website (www.troubleonline.co.uk) went down temporarily due to the vast amount of hits that we we're receiving and the facebook pages we're the hot place to be with people leaving comments.

 

The reaction was taken with a little bit of shock and sadness, which for us as people and performers (yes I know performers are people too) it was rather touching, time will tell if I Blub my mascara off on Halloween at our last show in Southport…

 

Moving away from the Crown. Bookings are coming in thick and fast for various venues and functions around the country. And we have sorted out our New Years Eve party at a venue in Manchester City centre (details to follow) The guys at www.Aplusevents.co.uk are certainly keeping us busy.

 

Oh well, time waits for no man and I'm in a rush as usual with a mountain of things to do, so will sign off but will try and update again in the next few days.

 

Whiplash x x

Trouble Latest News

Following on from last night's announcement at The Crown and to avoid any malicious rumours or gossip Bobbie Dazzler and Miss whiplash (Mark & Steve), would like to confirm they will be leaving The Crown at the end of October.

The decision has not been made lightly, Bobbie & Whiplash had been debating the decision for some time and the decision was not made any easier by the fact that they love being at The Crown and have grown very fond of the many customers who have become more than friends, in fact more like family than friends.

Prior to joining Charlie & Lynne at The Crown Bobbie & Whiplash worked the cabaret circuit and were in discussions about a new TV project. They will now go back to touring and will also continue to work on their TV project with GTen Television, the first project will be "Trouble Cooking" which will see Bobbie & Whiplash teaching people to cook with their very own real naked chef, (who really will be naked)!

Charlie & Lynne will continue to provide the best entertainment, a great food offering and a fun, fab and gay night out in Southport. So, keep a look out over the next few weeks as further details are released! We are sure Bobbie & Whiplash will be back in the future to grace the stage of The Crown with their own style of cabaret, fun and frolics, keep checking Facebook for the latest updates from The Crown!

In the meantime Bobbie & Whiplash will be back next Saturday, 24th October with a new show, they will be giving you the chance to be the first to see part of their new show. Their final night, Halloween, 31st October will be a fab Witches and Ghoulies party with Trouble Cabaret including a mix of all your favourite routines and a few surprises too.

So, far from any rumours you may hear of a big bust up or Trouble absconding with a bottle of Vodka and the secret Steak & Ale recipe the plain, and disappointing truth is that Trouble have decided to go and work on other projects and Charlie and Lynne support this decision and will continue to keep up the good work at The Crown.

If you would like to stay in touch with Bobbie Dazzler or Enid Whiplash then be sure to add them as friends on facebook and keep checking out their website, www.TroubleOnline.co.uk

We look forward to seeing you all at The Crown on the 23rd of October for the new show premiere and on the 31st for their final blast leaving party and Halloween special!

Were in the Press again

http://www.southportvisiter.co.uk/southport-news/southport-southport-news/20
09/08/26/drag-duo-and-southport-pub-join-forces-to-develop-local-gay-scene-1
01022-24526859/

Weekly update

Well here it is, time for your weekly update. It's almost the weekend again, wooo hoo!

Tonight we have DJ CJ back with Deal or No Deal, your chance to win £250! Last weeks winner Dave P won £10, not bad but it means there's still £250 there to be won - in addition to that we have Karaoke too with thousands of tracks to choose from get yourself down to The Crown and get the weekend started!

On Friday Bobbie Dazzler will be flying solo, Miss Whiplash has some community service thing to do, maybe it's a community servicing thing, whatever it is she wont be there, she will probably whipping some sex slaves in a dungeon somewhere or scaring small children - who knows? Come and party with your favourite glamourpuss Aunty Bobbie, she's looking forward to it, she's preparing now with a bucket of malteasers and some M&M's, well she has to keep her strength up!

On Saturday we'll unleash the beast, yep, Ms whiplash will be back and making up for lost time with some fierce tunes and a belting night, Aunty Bobbie will be there too though to make sure the party has a touch of class!

Sunday is Sunday Service, your day your way, whatever music you want you've got it. Our naughty quiz at 8.30 plus a special treat..... but come in to see what it is!

Remember our food is served 12-7 daily, fresh home cooked food at prices you cant beat, meals for just a QUID!!! Not stingy skimpy portions either, decent meals at unbeatable prices... can you cook at home for a Quid? Come on down and give it a whirl, even if you've had lunch, come and try our desserts, yummy scrummy desserts with a nice cuppa or your favourite tipple - you decide!

Before I go though there is one thing I wanted to ask for.... Friday is my costume changeover day. I have a costume for this week (Whiplash wont be happy) but what to wear next week? Bring me in a costume on or before a Thursday and I'll wear it for a whole week, whatever it is - you decide, you can have it back after the week but at least then your costume has been worn by an (almost) celebrity!

So far only the gorgeous Matthew De Le Creme Egg has brought me a costume :( It was a lovely costume and everyone loved it but his knickers were a bit big for me! Come on, I could wear your sexy PVC nurse outfit or even your hunky rugby kit - you decide!

Well see you soon hunnies!

Bob xXx
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Another quick update...

Well good morning/afternoon/evening/middle of the night (Please delete as appropriate)

Things at Trouble Towers are going mad at the moment with lots of things going on but I have finally found a few quiet moments to update the Trouble Blog.

As usual we we're at The Crown (www.gaycrown.com) all weekend where we had a great party weekend as we usually do. Friday kicked the weekend off with the camp frivolities with me and Miss Dazzler.

Saturday saw our return to the Crown Stage and we we're joined by the great Madonna

Everyone at the Crown enjoyed her show and Stephen from behind the bar had a great time dancing with her on stage, although I don't think he enjoyed singing with her that much) after she had left the madness continued well into the small hours before we finally admitted defeat and kicked the last few die hard drinkers out, before we jumped back into the Tranny Wagon and headed back to Manchester.

We got into bed at some ungodly hour and then proceeded to get right back out again (or that’s what it felt like) and headed back to Southport for our Sunday shift. I like working on a Sunday as you get to see us both in disguise (we come dressed rather oddly as boys!!) so if your around on a Sunday come along and say hello.

Bobbie has almost finished decorating the gents toilets (now renamed the Boys Powder Room) and will be moving onto the Ladies next week. With a similar effect, it's all gone theatrical with music scores and pictures of Burlesque dancers, you will have to go and spend a penny to find out what’s been done. Other news is we have Betty Sparkle making not just one but two appearances at the Crown in the next few weeks.

Her first appearance will be on the 29^th August which is part of our WKD weekend she will be taking the controls of our Saturday night whilst we're away in Wales at another function. Then again on the 5^th September she’s heading back from Chester to entertain you all again with her unique style. I'm sure you will all make her very welcome.

On the 30^th August it's Bob’s Birthday so we're having a full weekend dedicated to the passing of his youth. For those that don't know who Bob Atthecrown is then you should look him up on facebook, as he’s turning into a celebrity in his own right, and has now got friends afar afield as the States and Australia, there is even a Lord in there too, so good enough excuse for you all to be friends….

Anyhow loads going on at The Crown over the next couple of month's so keep checking facebook and www.GayCrown.com out. We're currently just putting the finishing touches to our NYE so all will be announced soon. (tickets will be available for £2 soon behind the bar and includes a night of cabaret and champers at midnight)

Till Next Time

Whiplash x

Looking forward to another busy weekend in Sunny Southport

Looking forward to another busy weekend at The Crown in Southport with mayhem with Trouble tonight and then live PA by a madonna tribute on saturday www.gaycrown.com
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The crown is now doing food and has got a brilliant one pound credit crunch menu so good times all round. Check out www.gaycrown.com for further details or just pop in you will be surprised at what we have to offer!
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Time to catch up...

Well it seems like ages since I last wrote and it probably is.  A lot has happened since I wrote last but I think the biggest and most important thing (to us anyway) is that we are now part ownners in a bar.  The Crown, Southport is now a joint venture between Whiplash and I and the existing owners Charlie & Lynne.  You can find out more about it at www.gaycrown.com and hit the “news” button.  We’re really happy with how it’s worked out there, it’s Southport’s only real gay bar and we always have a nice crowd in, all up for a laugh and out to enjoy themselves so it really is a fun atmosphere.

 

Apart from that there isn’t a lot of other news, that has really consumed all our spare time over the past few weeks.  We’re performing there Fridays and Saturdays and are there on Sundays too, in fact we spend more time there than at home at the moment.

 

We’re still working on www.dragqueensuperstore.com and also on www.aplusevents.co.uk they both fit in nicely with The Crown and we will be looking to take all our ventures forward over the coming months.  At The Crown we’ve got a new kitchen being fitted so we can start offering food in a few weeks, our Menu is printed and there are some really fantastic offers on there, not fancy A La Carte food just good honest pub grub at unbeatable prices.  The kitchen will be open 12-5 daily  which will then give us time to clean down before the evening parties begin.

 

The lineup for the week includes Karaoke and Deal or No Deal on a Thursday with your chance to win £250!  It’s a great prize but 3 weeks in to it and nobody has won the big money yet…. Why not come down and try your luck, it could be you!

 

Next month (August) we have loads of new fun games and cabaret planned PLUS we have a WKD Weekend planned for August Bank Holiday, Sunday 30^th will be a fab day with 3 different drag shows throughout the day and plenty of fun and games plus give-aways including free shots!  It’s Bob’s 21^st Birthday too, if you’ve not met Bob then come on down and say hi, he doesn’t say much and is usually stood on the stage but he see’s everything and likes to join in the fun!

 

Well there’s not a lot of other news, need to go as I have costumes to plan for the weekend and routines to learn but we hope to see you there soon!

 

TTFN, Bobbie D x

Latest Trouble news

Well we told you we’d let you know as and when there are developments or improvements at The Crown so, here we are!

 

Charlie & Lynne are now pleased to announce that as part of The Crown’s continued growth and development they have taken on some new (although not unfamiliar) business partners.  The new business partnership means that as Charlie & Lynne focus on growing the business they now have time to focus on specific areas, giving each the attention they deserve as the new partners will help share the workload of developing The Crown.

 

The new business partners are not exactly new to the business or indeed to The Crown but Mark and Steve will be better known to you all under their professional equity names of Bobbie Dazzler and Miss Whiplash.  “Trouble” will be making sure that, amongst other things, your weekend parties always go with a bang!  There are plans to tailor and improve what entertainment is offered at The Crown based on customer feedback and, the biggest indicator of all, the numbers of people attending.

 

Speaking of the new relationship Mark (Bobbie Dazzler) said, “It’s an exciting time for the Crown, the bar has had a sketchy past with many stories being told both good and bad but the good thing is we can learn from the mistakes of the past and make The Crown a great bar with a great atmosphere which is proud to call itself GAY!”  Steve, (Miss Whiplash) said, “I’m really looking forward to working as a team and really getting a Southport gay Scene, we may not be as big as the Manchester scene yet but the important word there is YET!  With customer support and great teamwork we can really put Southport gay scene on the map.”

 

When questioned on the reasoning behind taking on a new business partner at The Crown Charlie said, “Lynne and I have over 25 years combined experience at running pubs and clubs etc so  we know a good pub when we see one but we also know that to make a success of any business you need a strong team and we feel Mark and Steve will be a great asset and with all of our combined experience we can really make The Crown fantastic.  Lynne said, “We really love being at The Crown, we think of the customers here as part of our extended family so as Steve said, we want to offer the best and really put Southport gay scene on the map.  With our new business partners we will have time to focus on getting The Crown perfect, little tweaks here and there that all make the difference between a good venue and a great venue!”

 

So it looks set that the new team at The Crown will be a combo of the Gay Crusaders and the Fantastic Four and with Bobbie Dazzler and Miss Whiplash as the jewels in The Crown and their extended family, (you the customers) being the gems, it looks like far from there being “Trouble” at The Crown that the future is sparkly!

 

Remember our next big event is Saturday 25th July with our Kylie tribute and Christmas in July all on the same night!!!  Be sure to get there early to get a space as there has been a massive amount of interest shown in this event already.

 

See you soon,

xXx

Busy

Work work work

A mini makeover

A new member of the team

All at www.gaycrown.com
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Twittering

You can also now join us on twitter _TroubleOnline_

Can update most day from my phone.

Catch up...

Well it’s been a while since I’ve written an update but I’m trying to think what newsy stuff I have for you, and the truth is not a lot!

 

We’ve had a busy few weeks recently and there is no sign of it slowing up, we have so many projects on the go at present plus we’ve committed to doing a lot more work, not all of it related to www.troubleonline.co.uk but it will impact on that too both in terms of increased workload and exposure.

 

This weekend was particularly busy and after working until 4am on Sunday morning we didn’t get hopme until around 5.30 ish so decided not to go to bed and to make the most of the day.  We ended up catching 40 winks on the sofa before getting up and about off to the warehouse to buy some bits in preparation for our Christmas in July event at The Crown (www.gaycrown.com) the place will be having a full on Chrimbo theme but before that we have the Kings & Queens at The Crown event, basically is’t an excuse for everyone to come out as a Drag Queen or Drag King or for the less adventurous simply fancy dress, a proper party atmosphere where we’re encouraging people to “show us your bits”, not in a rude way though, we want people to come and book a slot to show us their party piece, from singing to dancing and everything in between, there has been quite a bit of interest so should be a fun night.

 

We’re trying to get involved with the TV/TS community too and arrange a regular night at the Crown for them, the plan is for plenty of fun and dancing, a light and cheesy atmosphere where people can come and let their hair down.

 

There are lots of other things planned too for The Crown including a mini re-vamp but our next big event is our School Disco on 27^th June with a special treat for all the girls and boys, a Freddy Mercury tribute, I’ve not seen him yet myself but have it on good authority he sounds identical to the man himself and that he looks the part too.  Sounds like it’s going to be a great night though so we’ll see.

 

Well gonna sign off for now, just taken an interesting phonecall.... I’ll let you know more about that as I get more info but watch this space!

 

Take care and be good,

xXx Bobbie D xXx

 

 

 

Updated

Well another weekend has flown by, and already we're planning next weekend – and beyond. There doesn't appear to be a free time when we're not planning another event or something for one of the websites.

This week is mainly centred around www.DragQueenSuperstore.com after a couple of weeks of not a lot of activity there will be a mountain of work completed on the site, you guys may not see 90% of what we actually do, but it's beginning to take up more and more time. Bobbie has also been updating the www.SewWow.co.uk website. This is the website of the lovely lady that does all our costumes – she's a dab hand with a sewing machine and can make anything out of a roll of fabric, the only limitation she has is your imagination.

We have already ordered our July Gowns and our August Gowns are well under construction. We also have a really exciting parcel being delivered in the next few weeks from the USA, the contents of this parcel will be unveiled very soon…

• Update, as I was writing this Blog I had an email to state that the parcel should be shipped tomorrow, so who know the unveiling might even be this weekend….
  

The crown is going from strength to strength, and Saturday nights the Crown is THE place to be, if you're up for a laugh and a good time.

Anyway, I just realised I left this blog unfinished overnight.

It's Tuesday morning now so I'm going to submit this one now and attempt to write another one today.

Until Later.

 

Whiplash

Trouble on the road

Once again were in the trusty (or should that be rusty) tranny wagon - I get in trouble from Bobbie for saying that! Its apparently the Glitter Bus. Anyway were off to the Crown in Southport for another fun evening!

Anyhow got to go and update Facebook so will see you all around

Whiplash xxx
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Trouble-Tastic!

Hiya,

Well it's that time again, an update on the weekend ahead! We're at The Crown again this Saturday (www.GayCrown.com) and we have another great night planned for you, get yourself down there on Saturday, we'll be there from 9pm making sure your weekend goes with a bang - a great big trouble sized bang!

We have lots going on at The Crown over the next few weeks. First of all we're having a re-vamp, yes, I know it's all new anyway as Charlie & Lynne re-vamped it before they opened the doors in March however we're injecting a bit more sparkle and glam to the place, it's gonna be fab, if you're lucky you may even see Miss Whiplash up a ladder with a paintbrush whilst Aunty Bobbie stands outside with a ciggie telling anyone who passes that she has the decorators in!

To go with the new look we have new entertainment planned too as on Saturday June 27th we have our School Disco, get your uniform on and get on down to The Crown, Head Mistress Whiplash will be spanking naughty boys n girls and Bobbie Dazzler will be the most glamorous P.E. Teacher you've ever seen! Charlie will be the grumpy caretaker and Lynne and Kirsty will fit in beautifully as your cheery dinner ladies, Ooooh just think Grange hill and add some glitter and fun - thats where we will be! Oh and we are working on a special appearance from the Nit Nurse so watch this space!

The following day on Sunday June 28th (Mummy Dazzlers Birthday) we'll be starting Sunday afternoon entertainment with Bobbie & Whiplash hosting the Sunday Service bringing a mix of all your favourite showtunes from the musicals and beyond, mixed in with some cheeky games including our naughty quiz and your chance to win the contents of the Trouble Drag Bag of Swag!

There are also lots of other ideas bubbling away in the Crown think tank so be sure to keep visiting us at The Crown and check out our facebook group - if you know anyone else who should join the group make sure you invite them to join - the more the merrier!

Well thats all for now, hopefully we will se you all over the weekend, and don't forget Karaoke this Sunday with DJ CJ!

Sending you lots of sparkly hugs n kisses,

Bobbie D x