Anna travelled across the world alone, Joseph having been unable to take leave at short notice. Concerned about her state of mind – constant mood swings despite improved sleep – he had no qualms about her leaving the family for a month. During the flight, she kept dark thoughts at bay by immersing herself in the movies shown on overhead screens. In between screenings and meals, she even managed a little sleep.
At Heathrow, parents, sisters and an assortment of nephews and nieces vied with one another for her attention, their delight in her presence bringing tears to the surface. The two-hour journey to her hometown – Anna in the rear of her youngest sister"s car, an excited six-year-old nephew beside her – passed in a blur, constant questioning providing little opportunity to observe once
