Packie Manus Byrne - update

Subject: RE: Packie Manus Byrne - update
From: GUEST,John Foxen
Date: 01 Jun 13 - 10:51 AM

Many thanks, Fiona. I've not seen Packie for more than 30 years but your mention of him sitting there ready to pass on songs reminded me how kind and generous he was to younger and far less talented performers like myself.

Subject: RE: Packie Manus Byrne - update
From: Herga Kitty
Date: 28 May 13 - 02:00 PM

Thanks for the update Fiona - just picked this up after returning from Bude festival, and am glad to hear that Packie is in good spirits.

Kitty

Subject: RE: Packie Manus Byrne - update
From: GUEST,Wassail
Date: 24 May 13 - 01:42 PM

It's been many years since I saw Packie. We were discovered in the "Gents" of the Woodman, Kingswinford, when he was due to do his set. He was teaching me a new tune on the Whistle. A wonderful man !

Subject: Packie Manus Byrne - update
From: GUEST,Fiona H
Date: 24 May 13 - 12:42 PM

Was over visiting Packie Manus yesterday and thought some of you here might like a wee update on how he is doing.

He was in good spirits, all the usual stories etc. His house is now just about ready to move back into, so he plans so move back to Drumaghy Park sometime next week. He is mostly happy about going back, although he says he has grown to like where he is now and will be sorry to leave. For various reasons he feels the right thing is to go back home.

He has had problems of late with his legs, making it hard for him to walk around. He has been using sticks and a walking frame (which aren't ideal either cos he finds it hard to grip them with his hands). But yesterday his legs were a lot better and he was far more 'sprightly' on it, walking without any aids. He was looking really well.

He was expecting a visitor and had his book of songs out at the ready so he could pass some on - the same old Packie.

As always, there is never a straight answer from him. When I asked how he was feeling he said, "Well, you know what 'middlin' is - well, I think I am about half of that!" Coming from Packie, that is probably pretty good!