The list of the nursing homes was long

and comprehensive.It covered the whole of London and the home counties.I wanted the best for my husband,but somewhere near where I could visit every day.The nursing home affiliated with the hospital was full and there was not a chance of a place for my husband for several months.I was told to look elsewhere.The pleasant home several minutes away did not accept any-one who needed 24 hour care.[I forgot this rule and about two years down the line when I so badly needed for someone to take care of my husband just for one week, they refused.They refused even when I offered to pay for the extra staff for the week].The second choice had similar conditions.[But became my refuge and my friend when I needed it most.But I am getting ahead of myself]. I made several appointments.Some nursing homes I didn't even go inside once I came to the front door.After one such appointment I kept yet didn't keep, I had a phone call and an irritated female voice asked me if I was coming.I was there earlier,I said.I opened the door and the stench of urine was overpowering.I left.The phone was slammed down. I begged the hospital to allow my husband to stay there until a room becomes available in the affiliated nursing home. The doctor could see that I visited my husband daily and understood my wish to have him where this would continue and so he was allowed to stay.