Il-2. Reaches the parts ice diving couldn't reach.

Quent has now had five doses (out of max 14) and we are settling into a very steady pattern. Exactly 2 hours and 10 mins after the IL2 goes in, the rigours start (that's the extreme shivering, shaking and teeth chattering). Pethadene helps calm them and then Quent sleeps for a couple of hours. Generally, he feels fine when he wakes.

This morning he decided to try to fight the shivers with blankets and cuddles rather than Pethadene. This has apparently been tried before, but doesn't work. It meant that his reaction was a bit more extreme than for the others doses, even once the Pethadene was administered. They were preparing oxygen, but he didn't need it. "This is what I thought ice diving would be like", he said.

He has also told me that he thinks the shaking is a sure sign of ebay withdrawal symptoms. There is no internet connection in the rooms. I know he would be straight onto his work emails, so I am in no rush to try to sort this out for him.

He is very popular with the nurses, who love his attitude. Prof Hawkins is also very pleased with his progress. I, however, am a little concerned. Being able to predict what Quent will do down to the minute is not something I am used to. IL-2 - the new punctuality drug.

Quent's take on it all? "It's fantastic, isn't it? Being locked in a bedroom with your wife for five days. I'm so happy."