Hi everyone and a big thank you for all your kind comments.
The good news is that I am in Florida but unfortunately my parents won't be arriving today as planned. Until 8am yesterday they were still intending to travel as the hospital had said it was OK. Unfortunately just as I was about to check in I received a phone call saying that the hospital had rung to see how he was (how weird is that!) and asked him to go back and not travel.
Being a woman of a very sensitive nature it was obvious to check in staff there was a problem - how wonderful they were and even then telephoned up to the clubhouse to let staff know my situation and that I may need to be offloaded. They went beyond their duty and couldn't do enough for me - I only wish that I could remember any names to make sure they were thanked personally, both at check in and the clubhouse.
After many phone calls in the clubhouse I was re-assured by other family members that he would be OK and I was to travel. Still not sure I've made the right decision!
I won't both with a TR this time as after quite a few champagnes and a G & T after take off there's not much to report, cabin crew looked after me - even sitting with me for a chat for a while as the flight wasn't full. I watched no TV, ate nothing, but on the plus side must have slept for 6 hours or more.
Immigration was around a 20 minute wait but luggage was waiting and security was a breeze.
Still waiting to hear from home but made them promise to ring if I need to come home urgently and feel happy that at this time of year it wouldn't be a problem to get home quickly.
Thanks again for all your well wishes.
Jilly