Giac (NOT) Hospitalized - Convalescing Update 2004

Subject: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 08:50 AM

Some of you are already aware of recent challenges Mudcatter Giac (Mary) has been facing. This morning I received the following PM:

==============================================================
Message:
from friends of Giac:

Mary has been hospitalized for tests; she was in tremendous pain on Saturday. The doctors are discussing chemotherapy and radiation because the tumor has recurred and is inoperable. She is in need of all the spiritual support we can offer. Thank you, thank you.

===============================================================

Giac (pronounced like "Jack") contributed a song to the Mudcat CD Sampler project; it's typical of her that on one of the worst days she'd had of late, she wrote me that she was going to sign off and go spend some time with her guitar, which always "makes things all right." She also said, recently, that despite the pain and fear, she was experiencing stretches of deep peace, knowing people were thinking of her and/or praying.

I am having terrible trouble with my computer, but if I can I'm going to send Pene a photo she sent me during the last year, of Giac with her beloved dog. Any help getting clickies inserted would be appreciated. What I can do with this damn puder at the moment is pretty limited.

I'll let Giac's friends know that this thread will be running, to print and take to her.

You are much loved, Mary.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Steve Parkes
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 10:08 AM

Please pass on my love and best wishes, Susan.

Steve

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 10:23 AM

Thank you, Susan, for letting us know.

Mary, please know, you have been, and will continue to be, in my thoughts and daily meditations/thanksgivings. I am sorry there has been pain and I trust there has been some ease from it in the past day or two.

In peace and healing,

luvyakat

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 10:30 AM

Wow, so sorry to hear about this. Heather and I will keep you in our thoughts.

Rick

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: gnu
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 10:40 AM

Thoughts and prayers

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 10:45 AM

Damn!
Thinking positive thoughts, hang in there.

RtS

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 10:51 AM

Love ya, Mary.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 11:06 AM

I have not been able to recover any of the wonderful pictures Mary sent me in the last year. Her dog has been her delight and constant companion, a faithful solace in pain and a devilish partner in play... does anyone have one of these pictures to send Pene, to add to the Giac-with-Guitar picture already in Member Info?

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 11:12 AM

Jokes, I have lots of jokes, hysterically funny jokes she's sent me, but no piccies. Sorry, Susan.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Micca
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 11:19 AM

She is in my thoughts too, I too have many jokes, from a real ray of sunshine, part of a correspondance started from stuff about Frank Crumit!! get well soon Mary!!

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: mg
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 12:07 PM

Best wishes from here at the ocean. mg

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Giac
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 12:09 PM

This is Giac's friend Callie. I read the messages to Mary on the phone, and she says thanks for all the good thoughts. She has decided to go ahead with the radiation; it begins in a few days. She said to tell you she loves you guys.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: GUEST
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 12:12 PM

Giac,
I too, am sending lots of thoughts and prayers out there for ya!! You'll have lots of love comin' atcha from all across the globe, very soon.   You can count on that! KT (temporarily cookieless)

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Ebbie
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 12:31 PM

My prayers and thoughts are with you; I hope our loving energies combine with the radiation to give you just exactly what you need.

As I said before, I love your Jesus in the Clouds and I've got it singing right now. Your insight and gentle humor are a treat.

Ebbie

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: catspaw49
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 12:38 PM

And my best thoughts as well.......Like kat, we have always looked forward to her hilarious e-mail jokes.

We have you in our thoughts Mary.

Pat and Karen

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Kim C
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 12:41 PM

Giac, goshdarnit, you quit that, you hear! Mister and I send our very best wishes. :-) Love, your Secret Santa.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Genie
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 01:04 PM

Mary, you've been in my thoughts for some time now, and I'm dismayed to hear things have taken this turn for you. I, too, love listening to "Jesus In The Clouds." My prayers and best wishes are with you.

Love,

Genie

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: CarolC
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 01:09 PM

Blessings to you Giac. Here's hoping for the best possible outcome for you in all of the challenges you are facing.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: open mike
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 01:25 PM

I am listening to Jesus in the clouds, and Elvis on the train,
the story of a true visionary! It is cut #17 0n the PLUM cd
in the Mudcat Blue Plate Special series.
I will walk the path of the labyrinth
concentrating on visions of healing for you, Mary.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: GUEST,Pete Peterson
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 01:31 PM

please send her our best too. . . NEVER give up! (said Winston Churchill)

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: p.j.
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 01:33 PM

Warm thoughts and lots of hugs from Dave & Pam.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Sorcha
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 01:36 PM

(((((((((((GIAC))))))))))Lotsa hugs from Wyoming!

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 02:08 PM

Ebbie, I've been learning Jesus in the Clouds, too and LOVE singing that song. Mary sent me an email explaining some of the stories behind that song. If she hasn't posted it to the liner notes, we'll have to ask her permission when she joins us again. What a beautiful song and lovely tune...very catching.

Callie, thanks so much for keeping us informed and for being there for Mary.

Love & Light,

kat

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Hollowfox
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 02:10 PM

Good thoughts now, a @#$%-reduction candle tonight after work. (I loved your song on the cd.) Take care, MomFox

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Tinker
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 02:30 PM

Boosting the Blessings and focusing the light your in my thoughts jusst keep singing...

Tinker

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Catherine Jayne
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 02:36 PM

Good thoughts from over here too.

Cat

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: smallpiper
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 02:40 PM

I don't know you Giac - but that dosn't matter a damm = I'll still be praying for you and think of you
John
x

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 03:35 PM

Oh, please, post the jokes she sent you if you saved them! Post them right here!

Callie PMed me she'd be sending Pene a picture to post....

~Susan

Subject: ADD: In Jesus' Lap
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 03:47 PM

Here's a piece I wrote awhile back; I'm going to think of it as Giac's song. Some people say the tune reminds them of "Sweet Hour of Prayer," although it's really 4/4.

Anyone else have a song to post for Giac?

~Susan

=====================================================

IN JESUS' LAP
by Susan Hinton

CHORUS:
In Jesus' lap I love to lie
And lie there when I can.
In Jesus' lap where I was born
When to His lap I ran.

1. In Jesus' lap is always Truth
And truth in love is told.
In Jesus' lap is peace and life,
No story is too old.

2. To Jesus' lap will I return
When buffeted by storm.
To Jesus' lap my soul does fly
When cold heart I would warm.

3. From Jesus' lap I'll pray for you,
And bless you in your way.
From Jesus' lap, love, I can see you
Clearer every day.

4. In Jesus' lap, His loving arms
Encircle what He's won.
In Jesus' lap, oh! lay me down
When I my race have run.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: GUEST,amergin
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 04:04 PM

Mary....I sincerley hope you get feel better soon...and I will be burning the candles for you....

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: InOBU
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 04:26 PM

Holding you in the light, Kiddo. Larry

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Morticia
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 04:42 PM

You know I am and have been thinking of you Mary, please know I'm sending all I can spare your way.Get well, hon.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: catspaw49
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 04:54 PM

Susan, a few of her jokes that she sent are probably a good idea!!! Here are a couple she got from somewhere that I like:

**********************************************************************

Miss Bea, the church organist, was in her eighties and had never been
married. She was much admired for her sweetness and kindness to all.
The pastor came to call on her one afternoon early in the spring, and she
welcomed him into her Victorian parlor.

She invited him to have a seat while she prepared a little tea. As he sat
facing her old pump organ, the young minister noticed a cut-glass bowl
sitting on top of it filled with water. In the water floated, of all things,
a condom. Imagine the shock and surprise. Imagine his curiosity!

Surely Miss Bea had flipped or something . . . !

When she returned with tea and cookies, they began to chat. The pastor tried
to stifle his curiosity about the bowl of water and its strange floater, but
soon it got the better of him, and he could resist no longer.

"Miss Bea," he said, "I wonder if you would tell me about this?"
(pointing to the bowl).

"Oh, yes," she replied, "isn't it wonderful? I was walking downtown last
fall, and I found this little package on the ground. The directions said to
put it on the organ, keep it wet, and it would prevent disease. And you
know. . . I haven't had a cold all winter."
**********************************************************************

A CNN reporter went to Israel to cover the fighting. She was looking for
something emotional and positive and of human interest. Something like
the man in Sarajevo who risked his life to play the cello everyday in the
town square.

In Jerusalem, she heard about an old Jew who's been going to the Wailing
Wall to pray, twice a day, everyday, for a long, long time. So she went to
check it out.

She went to the Wailing Wall and there he was! She watched him pray, and
after about 45 minutes, when he turned to leave, she approached him for an
interview.

"Rebecca Smith, CNN News. Sir, how long have you been coming to the
Wailing Wall and praying?"

"For about 50 years."

"What do you pray for?"

"For peace between the Jews and the Arabs. For all the hatred to stop.
For our children to grow up in safety and friendship."

"How do you feel after doing this for 50 years?"

"Like I'm talking to a f***ing wall."
**********************************************************************

Spaw

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 05:02 PM

Yeah! Just the ones I was thinking of!

Look at all the posts. Giac has loved, and been loved by, quite a diverse lot. The differences that might have been so visible once upon a time feel quite small and insignificant to me now as we each, from whatever view of her she's given us, see much the same thing. A kick-ass, brilliant, huge-spirited sweetie pie.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Tig
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 05:10 PM

{{{{{{{{Healing Hugs}}}}}}}}}

Thinking about you.

Love'n'hugs,
Tig

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: VoxFox
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 05:14 PM

Sending healing thoughts from New Brunswick, Canada and some big hugs too. :o) {{{{{{{{{{{{{GIAC}}}}}}}}}}}}}} VF

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Gareth
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 07:21 PM

Thinking of you.

Gareth

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Helen
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 09:38 PM

I've had Giac in my thoughts as I finished putting together the Mudcat Calendar this week. Here photos were the first that I put in place and I love looking at them.

Lots of light, love & hugs from Oz, dear Giac.

Helen

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 09:55 PM

I have been away for a few days and just found this. You are in my prayers Mary. Try to let go of the pain (if that makes any sense). Fighting it makes it worse. And draw strength from those who care about you.
M.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: GUEST,Jim Ford (Jeep Man0
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 10:51 PM

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Miken
Date: 03 Feb 03 - 11:27 PM

Thinking daily healing thoughts, too, Mary, along with the many others in the family of 'cat.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: GMT
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 06:07 AM

Giac, just finished listening to your contribution to the 'catters CD; pretty, very pretty.

Keep your spirits up, you'll be in my thoughts.

Gary

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: alanabit
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 06:41 AM

Mine too. Let's have you back here soon.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 07:04 AM

Today I finally received my Chrissy presents from my secret santa, Giac.

It was the most amazing box of goodies, BEARS!! including one she had been given years ago, one of the series "I (red heart)(place)" - in this case a bear from her home state, Arkansas as she wanted me to have something from there. The bears came with a wonderful letter & lots more pics of bears - some she had photographed, others she had found on the net, lots of her photographs of her surroundings - her favoutite fishing spot (surrounded by autumn trees- that's fall to some of you!!), scenery here & there, carved bears & a dime store Indian - too much to tell. And her dogs - one wearing a a coat with ears, it looked like a bear suit, the same dog standing in the snow (& not very happy). Its the best present I've ever had.

My colleagues admired everything couldn't believe that a stranger had gone to this trouble to collect everything for me.

So hurry up & get back on line, Mary, so far you have one short message waiting & I certainly do want to have lots more contact.

big hugs

sandra

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: harpgirl
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 09:25 AM

Mary, I am so sorry to hear this news. I will pray for you. Imagine us floating the Buffalo River playing music together,or under the waterfall at Pettijean Park. Hang in there, sweety. You have lots of friends here pulling for you. harpgirl

Subject: Lyr Add: BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER (Paul Simon)
From: Rustic Rebel
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 03:41 PM

Healing thoughts coming your way Mary. Don't forget your own healing powers inside of you.


BRIDGE OVER TROUBLED WATER (Paul Simon)
As recorded by Simon and Garfunkel on "Bridge over Troubled Water" (1970)

When you're weary, feelin' small,
When tears are in your eyes, I will dry them all.
I'm on your side, oh, when times get rough,
And friends just can't be found.
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down.

When you're down and out, when you're on the street,
When evening falls so hard, I will comfort you.
I'll take your part,
Oh, when darkness comes, and pain is all around.
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down.
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will lay me down.

Sail on, silver girl; sail on by.
Your time has come to shine; all your dreams are on their way.
See how they shine!
Oh, if you need a friend, I'm sailing right behind.
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will ease your mind.
Like a bridge over troubled water, I will ease your mind.

-----
The bravest people are those who don't feel brave but do what they need to anyway.

Love, Rustic

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Firecat
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 03:52 PM

Get well soon!

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: jimlad
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 04:00 PM

Mary,

I don't know you personally,but from all the great things I read about you here at Mudcat,you must be one hell of a girl.I am sure that with so many,many people rootin' for you,you can beat this horrible thing.So go to it lady.

With every good wish.

Jim

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 04:48 PM

Blessings, light, and healing prayers coming your way, Giac!

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: RolyH
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 05:41 PM

Get better soon.

Roly

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: CapriUni
Date: 04 Feb 03 - 06:12 PM

{{{{{{Giac}}}}}}}

I've only "met" you briefly, a few times, in mudchat. But whenever I see your name in the list, I can be fairly sure it will be a lively session...

I expect to have many more sessions with you in there -- you hear?!

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: fat B****rd
Date: 05 Feb 03 - 03:10 AM

KInd thoughts and best regards from the fB.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: SINSULL
Date: 05 Feb 03 - 05:43 PM

Any news?

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 05 Feb 03 - 09:42 PM

I have not heard any...

Callie, is there an address for cards?

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Giac
Date: 05 Feb 03 - 11:21 PM

Mary had her first radiation treatment today (Wed) and is due to be released from the hospital tomorrow, with the treatments continuing for 4 weeks. I read the posts to Mary on the phone, and I think it was very uplifting. She said she was very fortunate to have so many good friends. You guys mean so much to her.

Her address is:

Callie

---

Mailing address deleted for safety's sake. Please send a personal message to katlaughing (click) to get a mailing address for Mary/Giac.
Thanks. All the best to you, Mary.
-Joe Offer-

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 06 Feb 03 - 08:47 AM

I had a brief message from her at home & she sounded chirpy

sandra

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 09 Feb 03 - 07:23 AM

I have no other information at the moment, but I believe Giac had emergency surgery last night. Does anyone have any news?

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Escamillo
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 12:42 AM

I am holding you in my heart, Mary. My best wishes for a succesful treatment and prompt recovery. You do have hundreds of friends who will be with you through this.

Un abrazo,
Andrés

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Giac
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 02:29 AM

Humpf!!!!

I've made it back home again.

Friday, I started experiencing heavy bleeding and surgery was necessary to cauterize an area inside the bladder. Eeeyewww.

Such a nasty word -- cauterize. Conjures up images applying a hot branding iron to a wound. At least they could have let me bite on a bullet.

I was knocked out for that part of it, at least.

Required two units of blood to replace what had leaked out. It was from different donors, so now two wonderful folks who took time to donate are part of me, too.

You guys are the greatest! Thanks more than I can say for all your prayers and support ... and the Mudcat Love (as opposed to Muskrat Love) that knows no bounds.

Radiation resumes this morning (Monday), leaving 16 to go. Then we'll discuss chemo and/or other options.

To keep this musical, an aside about the CDs:

My radiation therapist plays guitar and was intrigued to hear about the Mudcat CDs. As he was leaving my hospital room during my previous visit, I asked if he would like to borrow Plum, as I had brought all five with me. (Not to be soppy, but it was a great comfort to have Mudcat there, thought I couldn't be here.) At any rate, he whirled about, plucked up the CD and put it in his pocket. At one of the radiation sessions, he went on and on about how much he likes the music. He hasn't returned the CD and, when asked, said he'd like to keep it just a little longer.

I pointed out the address for CAMSCO, and noted that he could have his very own set, for the low, low price of ...

One more note. I was in a surgical holding area for a bit, in a stupor, of course. After the surgery, one of the attending nurses sought me out to ask the title of a song she said I kept singing before they finally knocked me out. It seems it was "Rolling Down To Old Maui" (Celtic Soul?) I assume I was not trying to put in their wonderful harmonies. I had been listening to "Strawberry" just prior to going in. During previous surgeries, I have regaled O.R. personnel with Bob Dylan or John Prine selections.

Love you all so much. I'll check in again with updates, but may be spending some days abed.

Mary (Giac)

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: fat B****rd
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 03:16 AM

Welcome home, Mary. Good luck and long days from the fB XX

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: GMT
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 04:27 AM

Giac, still spreading the word eh.

You've got the right spirit. Plus look at all the good vibes heading your way.

Gary

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 05:51 AM

Mary, wouldn't it be wonderful if you had all those Mudcat performers actually in the room with you - (you do, ya know - a little crowded with all those guitars and such).

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Tinker
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 07:19 AM

Welcome home ! Keeping the music close seems a wonderful way to keep your mind on healing and not process.... You're close in our thoughts and prayers...

Tinker

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 07:39 AM

Good to see you're still chirping! And entertaining folks. According to report some folks use rude words in pre-and-post-operative mode. Singing sounds much better.

love from sandra

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: jimlad
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 07:45 AM

You're a brave lass,Mary

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 10:35 AM

"Humpf" right back atcha, dear. :~) Yes, you're going to have to endure people being sweet to you. "Humpf" away, and bear up as best you can; I know it can be a strain. :~)

So.... tell us the latest dog story, huh?

Keep kicking ass... if you need any assistant ass-kickers, I think you can recruit a few right here.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Morticia
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 11:40 AM

I'm so glad you're home....hosptals are full of sick people, did you notice? Now if I send you some funnies, are any stitches going to go pop or something equally disgusting?

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Schantieman
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 11:53 AM

All the best, Giac!

Steve

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: CapriUni
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 01:24 PM

From Sandra in Sydney: According to report some folks use rude words in pre-and-post-operative mode. Singing sounds much better.

I think it's because, while under the influence of the anasthetic, the conscious mind stops putting effort into maintaining the mask of niceness we're expected to wear in public, and folks let loose with the anger and frustration they feel.

If Mary was singing, it means she's just as nice and kind and basically joyful behind the mask as in front of it...

This does not surprise me in the least. :-)

Welcome Home, rest well, wake better...

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Kim C
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 04:24 PM

Have you a nice cuppa tea. I know you have a great big mug. ;-)

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: michaelr
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 09:11 PM

I broke my leg in a motorcycle accident (double compound fracture). I came to as they wheeled me out of the OR, and my first sensation was one of intense heat (I guess they put on the cast bandages boiling hot). I inquired: "Why is it so f@#&ing hot??"

...and several nuns turned to me and said "Shh... we don't allow that sort of language here!"

That's when I figured out I'd been taken to a Catholic hospital.

Mary, hang tough. Good thoughts coming at ya from NorCal!

Cheers,
Michael

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Genie
Date: 10 Feb 03 - 09:56 PM

Ewwww. Mary! That cauterization story brings back dreadful memories from my early teens. (I wasn't knocked out.) Glad you survived that and have a good plan for treatment. So glad you had Mudcatters with you at least on CD. And what a musical spirit you have -- singin' thru it all!

Keep on getting better, now, y'hear?

Genie

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Escamillo
Date: 15 Feb 03 - 08:52 PM

Anyone knows how is Mary doing ? I hope she's better.

Un abrazo,
Andrés

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: bfolkemer
Date: 15 Feb 03 - 10:00 PM

Giac/Mary,

More prayers coming from Gburg. As others have said, I don't know you (at least not yet), but it doesn't matter.


Beth

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Giac
Date: 16 Feb 03 - 11:13 AM

Hi, Andres, and all --

Thanks so much for your continued love and good wishes! As of today, I feel better and my appetite has returned (which may, or may not be a good thing **LOL**).

I am continuing radiation treatments (have about 12 to go) and hope to drive myself tomorrow to give my long-suffering friend, Laura, a break from tending to me. I'm able to skitter the few yards into the facility, so I should make it okay.

Most of you cannot begin to imagine what a powerful effect your prayers, good wishes and support have had on my mental state, as well as my physical endurance! It is truly powerful and I could feel you with me during the really bleak times.

Of course, I DID have the Mudcat CDs to sustain me! Powerful medicine in themselves.

After the radiation, I'm to start a course of chemotherapy. I'll keep you posted. Once again, I can't begin to express how much I love you all and appreciate your support.

Thanks,
Mary

(And, thanks, Kim C for the beautiful card, and Tinker for the CDs.)

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: SINSULL
Date: 16 Feb 03 - 11:50 AM

You are the winner of the Jed Marum CD. It will be on it's way Monday if you PM me with an address.

Do not turn down a ride to your treatments. They wear you out and it is better not to drive. I admire your courage, GIAC. I would be sniveling about "unfair" etc. I will keep you close and have candles lit.

Mary

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 16 Feb 03 - 12:54 PM

Giac, I concur with Mary. Don't try to drive yourself. It's amazing how far from home you can feel when you suddenly run out of the energy to get back there.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Mudlark
Date: 16 Feb 03 - 08:50 PM

Hello Mary...I've not been on the computer much lately and have just now come upon this thread. Immediately went for a look at your picture so I could have you in my mind's eye. You are already well established in my ear, from lots of listening to Plum, and your wonderful contribution. I admire your courage and your spirit and your humor so much, and in reading thru these threads find out you love your dog and live in Arkansas (a place I lived in and loved for 13 years), which makes you feel like a kindred spirit (that and the way you are cradling your guitar lovingly!) I will keep you in my thoughts, surrounded by the good light and healing energy, and wish you a thorough and speedy recovery.

Having some health issues of my own I know how hard it is to take help sometimes...but you are in for the long haul, here, and need the loving help of those that want to care for you. Let them--it is a gift.

Nancy

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: katlaughing
Date: 16 Feb 03 - 10:40 PM

I agree with Sins and Mudlark, et al, Mary. It is not easy to receive sometimes but it can be a part of healing; and, remember, it is important that we allow others the opportunity to give, as it can be equally healing for them!

Make sure that critter of yours passes on the Mudcat snogs coming your way and let the Light we send shine all the way round and through you. Keeping you in our hearts and thoughts,

Kat & Rog

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 16 Feb 03 - 10:45 PM

Yeah, here's the trick-- let Laura take you to your treatment... save your energy for a pretty day to just go for a drive on your own! *G*

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 19 Feb 03 - 06:17 AM

I just got back online after 72 hours without Mudcat & found a message from Mary waiting for me. Great to hear that the treatment is helping, and I also send good wishes & hugs to Mary

sandra

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Art Thieme
Date: 21 Feb 03 - 10:41 PM

Mary, I do hope that things reverse and are better for you soon. And please know you raised my consciousness to the place where I now can see my humor at the expense of your territory was in bad taste and hurtful. I just thought I was being funny. Please--be well !!!!

Art Thieme

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Escamillo
Date: 20 Mar 03 - 02:03 AM

How is Mary doing now ? We all hope she's better

Un abrazo,
Andrés

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 20 Mar 03 - 07:09 AM

Andres - Mary has been posting a bit recently - click on her name in one of her posts on this thread to see her recent contributions - or maybe send her a pm (which I'm gunna do)

sandra

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Giac
Date: 20 Mar 03 - 07:30 AM

Andrés and Sandra --

Thanks for your recent inquiry. I'm feeling quite a bit better, that is, getting some strength back. The surgery and subsequent radiation worked wonders in relieving the pain. The worst consequence was dibilitating weakness, but it has been a couple of weeks since the last radiation treatment and I get stronger daily.

I'm more able to sit at my computer for longer periods now, so I'm getting back in touch with the world (at least the Mudcat part).

At the end of the month I have an appointment with the chemotherapy doctor, so we'll see from there.

Thanks to all of you for your continued support and healing thoughts. I'm certain I would not have made it to this point without you!

It's a beautiful Spring here, and I thank the powers that be, and all of you that I'm able to enjoy it.

Mary

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: gnu
Date: 20 Mar 03 - 08:17 AM

It's a joy to hear you are enjoying spring.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Kim C
Date: 20 Mar 03 - 09:41 AM

Go Mary! Go Mary! Go Mary! :-)

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Mudlark
Date: 20 Mar 03 - 02:11 PM

Hi Mary...Very good to hear from you and know that you are improving, and able to enjoy Spring. It is a time of rebirth and renewal and so it can be for you. Luckily, it doesn't take a lot of energy to enjoy the swelling birdsong, or see the new leaves beginning to turn the diciduous trees green again. Take care, you are in my thoughts... nancy

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: SINSULL
Date: 20 Mar 03 - 05:22 PM

One day at a time, Mary. One treatment at a time. Wishing you snowdrops and daffodils on the Equinox.
Mary, too

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Susanne (skw)
Date: 20 Mar 03 - 06:27 PM

Mary, I hope you'll continue to get better and rebuild your strength, if only (for a start) to play the guitar for longer, go for walks with the dog, and keep in touch with the Mudcat. All the best!

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Escamillo
Date: 21 Mar 03 - 12:57 AM

Excellent news, Mary. Your joy will be our joy.

Un abrazo,
Andrés

Subject: RE: Giac Updates
From: wysiwyg
Date: 26 Aug 03 - 11:56 AM

I have permission from Giac to share from some of the most recent updates. This time I'm giving them in her own words, minus the editing she often likes me to do to keep it less personal-- having just talked to her, I can say that Giac speaking for herself is about as clear as humans get, so I wanted you to hear her for yourselves.

Of course she continues to send out the funniest jokes I ever get in email. Here's a sample from June 18:
Martha and Edna, two widows, are talking. Martha says, "That nice George Johnson asked me out for a date. I know you went out with him last week, and I wanted to talk with you about him before I give him my answer."

Edna replied, "Well... I'll tell you. He shows up at my apartment punctually at 7 PM. And dressed like such a gentleman in a fine suit. And he brings me such beautiful flowers! Then he takes me downstairs, and what's there but a beautiful car... a limousine, uniformed chauffeur and all. Then he takes me out for dinner... marvelous dinner - lobster. Then we go see a show... let me tell you, Martha, I enjoyed it so much I could have just died from pleasure! So then we are coming back to my apartment and he turns into an ANIMAL. Completely crazy, he tears off my expensive new dress and has his way with me two times!"

Martha exclaimed, "Goodness gracious! ....so you are telling me I shouldn't go out with him?"

Edna answers "No... I'm just saying, wear an old dress."


Now, as to Giac herself-- well I won't share her encounter with the spider *G*G* at 2 AM in bed, but.....

June 22: A good friend of mine lost two dogs and two horses within the last year. They were all elderly and their demise was not unexpected, but quite traumatic in such a short time. Yesterday, she got a new horse, Scout, who is 3 1/2, half Morgan and half Mustang. He is wonderful! The woman from whom she got Scout, brought another horse along to keep him company for awhile, as he has never been alone. The companion, Trotter, is 18, a gorgeous sorrel and quite sedate. Hmmm, my friend thought. I'll bet Mary would want to ride him. (Gee, do ya think?) Some of you likely don't know that I spent most of my childhood and adolescence on horses. Sold my last one when I was around 33. I've ridden a few times in the interim, including on a couple of Brenda's horses, but the last time was around eight years ago just before her old mare went lame permanently (No, it wasn't my fault! Humpf!). When I was young I'd not have believed I'd could go that long without riding. We rode for about an hour and it was one of the best and happiest days I've had in maybe years!!! When I thanked her, my friend said the expression on my face and my four hours of constant chattering about it were worth it. She is a VERY GOOD friend.

July 12: Had [dog] Misty put to sleep this evening. She seemed to have had some sort of episode and began pacing the floor, then she was in obvious pain. She was 19, a Spitz, but most of all, a good friend. Emily [younger dog] and I will miss her. She is buried on a classic, steep, East Tennessee hillside, near a pond with lovely bog plants, and right by her friends Bear and Josie.

August 24: I just finished two weeks of oral chemo. My first blood work was good. They have delayed starting the infusions for a bit, hoping my back will get some better. The MRI revealed an excessive amount of de[ge]nerating bone stuff in my spine. It is greatly inflamed. I am, frankly, miserable. Can't sit for more than 20-30 minutes, can't stand that long. Spend most of my time on my back. Can't lie on either side (and certainly not on my stomach) due to previous surgeries. Good friends are helping me, and I get weekday Meals on Wheels now, too. That is a great thing because I can't stand long enough to do more than scramble eggs. I LIKE eggs, but after awhile, one does like a variety. This, being the South, means the meals are good home-cooked food; there's usually enough to have some left for supper, too.

Do not be alarmed if I don't answer [or post] promptly. I can't stand to sit at the computer very long and don't check email some days. As I needled the doctor: I'd be all right if I didn't have a broken back! She did not see the humor in it. Damn! Doctors take themselves so seriously. *Snerk, snerk*

A great by-product of this whole thing is that I have lost a lot(!) of weight. The medicos are concerned by such things, but I keep telling them to not dampen my extreme delight. Celebrate the little happinesses as they come, I say!

Keep chugging along, my friends.

-------------------------------------------------------------------


Giac is having some computer trouble now too, and will not be using her puder for a bit. I know of at least one email she sent that never arrived, so it's not the best way to message her for now. PMs are more reliable, but again, she's not booting up for now and when she resumes pudering, it will be brief stints and not too often. I have her phone number if anyone would like to pass some time with her (PM me and tell me how well you know her), and we're sending her some audio books and old radio shows. She deeply appreciates all your prayers, good thoughts, candles, etc.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: GUEST,Art Thieme
Date: 26 Aug 03 - 12:12 PM

I just saw this thread. Mary. Be well. Confound the damn doctors all you want, and keep 'em laughing. Remember the one about the urologist who sings the blues. Urethra Franklin. And then, one day, mention that those supositories are o.k. but they really taste terrible.

Art Thieme

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 27 Aug 03 - 09:03 AM

Susan, please pass on a hug from me

sandra

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 27 Aug 03 - 09:55 AM

I will, and I have gotten a number of PMs to share with her as well.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: GUEST,Kim C no cookie
Date: 27 Aug 03 - 05:01 PM

Susan, please give her a hug and a kiss on the cheek from me and Mister and our dogs. :-)

Subject: Jokes
From: wysiwyg
Date: 22 Sep 03 - 11:51 PM

I'm hoping to phone Giac tomorrow morning. Had a PM today indicating she's still not getting great 'pudering. I want to know what she knows about spiders-- she's been sending me the most beautiful closeup photos of spiders... and shared this in a recent message:

I leave the porch light on all night to draw prey for my spider friends. Besides these two [referring to photos sent], there are six other writing spiders on nearby shrubs. The one on the orange background has quite a temper. She violently bounces her web up and down when she sees the camera. They have company from a fat, red spider, but only at night. She builds her web around 10 p.m. and reclaims the silk around 3 a.m.

I'll check here for any additional thoughts to pass on to her before I call her.

Oh, and she's still joking-- here are a few of the latest.

~S~

=================================================================

WOMAN'S PERFECT BREAKFAST

She's sitting at the table with her gourmet coffee.
Her son is on the cover of the Wheaties box.
Her daughter is on the cover of Business Week.
Her boyfriend is on the cover of Playgirl.
And her husband is on the back of the milk carton.

=================================================================

WOMEN'S REVENGE

"Cash, check, or charge?" I asked, after folding items the woman wished to purchase. As she fumbled for her wallet I noticed a remote control for a television set in her purse.

"So, do you always carry your TV remote?" I asked.

"No," she replied, "but my husband refused to come shopping with me, so I figured this was the most legal evil thing I could do to him."

=================================================================

UNDERSTANDING WOMEN

I know I'm not going to understand women. I'll never understand how you can take boiling hot wax, pour it onto your upper thigh, rip the hair out by the root, and still be afraid of a spider.

=================================================================

And finally, this is too cute not to pass on...


A man walks into a pharmacy and wanders up and down the aisles. The sales girl notices him and asks him if she can help him. He answers that he is looking for a box of tampons for his wife.

She directs him down the correct aisle.

A few minutes later, he deposits a huge bag of cotton balls and ball of string on the counter. She says, confused, "Sir, I thought you were looking for some tampons for your wife?"

He answers, "You see, it's like this. Yesterday, I sent my wife to the store to get me a carton of cigarettes, and she came back with a tin of tobacco and some rolling papers; cause it's sooooooooooo much cheaper. So..... I figure if I have to roll my own ............ so does she."

=============================================================
=============================================================

###

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 22 Sep 03 - 11:58 PM

Should also have mentioned, her back pain has been some better.

~S~

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: katlaughing
Date: 23 Sep 03 - 05:16 AM

I had a nice visit with her, yesterday. She sounded really good, though her back was still bothering her. (She's like the rest of us...it gets to feeling better, she gets all active, doing stuff, it lets her know it's not happy!) She and Emily were having a fun time by the sounds of it. She's got the most beautiful, soothing, kindly voice; I could listen to her talk all day...:-)

luvyaMary...

kat

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 23 Sep 03 - 10:21 AM

rest, & exercise in moderation, Mary - backs are very important! Don't overdo it

Have you been reading about our spiders in "Oz foray from Gaum & Maine?" (or is that Maine & Gaum?? - whichever, there are some great spider stories there & lots of other entertaining stuff, too

sandra

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: kendall
Date: 23 Sep 03 - 10:30 AM

A sense of humor is a great healer.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: kendall
Date: 23 Sep 03 - 10:34 AM

Just to balance the books,

A woman got out of bed, looked into the mirror, and said "I'm wrinkled, my arms are flabby, my boobs hang to my navel, and my ass is too big." She turned to her husband and said, "Quick, tell me something positive about me." he replied,
"Well, there's nothing wrong with your eyes."

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Stephen L. Rich
Date: 23 Sep 03 - 10:40 AM

Tell Giac that she will be in my thoughts and my prayers.

Stephen Lee

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Sep 03 - 10:49 AM

I love the spider stories. We've had a season of activity in my backyard; one that spun her web nightly, in the morning leaving just one long guy from the garage to the porch roof for the next night's work. She has disappeared--the first day it really felt like fall around here she was gone from her little corner where she looked tucked in like a gob of chewing gum during the day. Last week there were two nights when another smaller spider, no doubt the male, hung around, then vanished. A few weeks ago I accidentally knocked her down one night and she found her way back home by morning.

We lost a tarantula--accidentally killed when attempting to move her from the street in front of the house after she hiked across the house and the front yard. No good deed goes unpunished, they say. That's the case here--she might have made it out of the street by herself, even with her meandering path, but didn't survive the gentle toss from the end of a stick trying to get her onto the neighbor's grass. :(

Get better soon, Giac!

SRS

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Mary in Kentucky
Date: 23 Sep 03 - 11:58 AM

Hi Mary!

********************************************************Subject: Remember...men are from Mars

A man left work one Friday afternoon. But instead of going home, he
stayed out the entire weekend, hunting with the boys & spending his entire paycheck.

When he finally appeared at home Sunday night, he was confronted by his very angry wife and was barraged for nearly 2 hours with a tirade about his actions.

Finally his wife stopped the nagging and simply said to him, "How would you like it if you didn't see me for 2 or 3 days?"

To which he replied, "That would be fine with me."

Monday went by & he didn't see his wife.

Tuesday & Wednesday came & went and he didn't see her.

On Thursday, the swelling went down just enough where he could see her a little out of the corner of his left eye.

*********************************************************

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Sep 03 - 01:01 PM

I am reading all of this to Mary and as I type she is laughing her ass off at that joke! She's asked me to share how much the thoughts and prayers and PMs have meant to her, mentioning many of you by name as she recalled each of your kindnesses.

There a couple of threads she had been following, but now her computer problems prevent her from keeping up. And my printer is FUBAR. Anyone who can print and snail mail some threads, please PM me.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 23 Sep 03 - 04:24 PM

WYSIWIG don't know where you guys are, but I suspect wrong side of the pond for me to print stuff off, I'm in Scotland. Anyway Mary, this one's for you, hope it cheers you up.
Much love
Giok


This is a poem for women, but men need to memorize it.




A poem for us....

I shave my legs,
I sit down to pee.
And I can justify
any shopping spree.



Don't go to a barber,
but a beauty salon.
I can get a massage
without a hard-on.

I can balance the checkbook,
I can pump my own gas.
Can talk to my friends,
about the size of my ass.

My beauty's a masterpiece,
and yes, it takes long.
At least I can admit,
to others when I'm wrong.

I don't drive in circles,
at any cost.
And I don't have a problem,
admitting I'm lost.

I never forget,
an important date.
You just gotta deal with it,
I'm usually late.

I don't watch movies,
with lots of gore.
Don't need instant replay,
to remember the score.

I won't lose my hair,
I don't get jock itch.
And just cause I'm assertive,
Don't call me a bitch.

Don't say to your friends,
Oh yeah, I can get her.
In your dreams, my dear,
I can do better!

Flowers are ok! ay,
But jewelry's best.
Look at me you idiot...
Not at my chest????

I don't have a problem,
With Expressing my feelings.
I know when you're lying,
You look at the ceiling.

DON'T call me a GIRL ,
a BABE or a CHICK .

I am a WOMAN.

Get it?, you DICK!?!

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 21 Oct 03 - 06:39 PM

Got a GREAT photo of Dog Emily today from Giac. I've asked her if I can start posting her photo's.

~S~

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 29 Oct 03 - 01:49 PM

Now you can see SOME OF GIAC'S PHOTOGRAPHY, with Giac's permission. Please contact me if you have some of her other photo's... I think her computer is still wonky, and I had a complete wipe/reinstall over the last summer, losing lots of stuff.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: GUEST,Kim C no cookie
Date: 29 Oct 03 - 04:45 PM

Wow! Those flower photos are MARVELOUS! Once in awhile I get one that good, if I'm really lucky. ;-)

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 30 Oct 03 - 08:07 AM

WYSIWYG - I have 18 pictures & it appears you don't have 5 of them. Unless they are on page 2 which was blank for me.

Mary & Emmy]
Iris
Jellybean
Pansy Faces (love 'em - the square at work is covered with pansies at the moment & they are beautiful)
Start of something big

If you want any of them, please PM your address

sandra

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Rapparee
Date: 30 Oct 03 - 11:40 AM

Everything of the best from Idaho!

Can she use potatoes? I can send potatoes as well as hopes and wishes.

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: Cruiser
Date: 30 Oct 03 - 12:04 PM

Ah, those 'Bluebells Of Scotland'.

Good Fortunes to you Lass!

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: wysiwyg
Date: 03 Nov 03 - 10:11 PM

Several new autumn pictures up.

What an eye!

~S~

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized
From: katlaughing
Date: 23 Apr 04 - 09:27 PM

Hadn't heard from Mary in a couple of weeks, so I gave her a call, tonight. She is limited in how much time she can spend on the computer for awhile due a sore back with more treatments. I asked her permission to update you all. I am sure she would appreciate cards, etc. I'll be talking to her more, tomorrow, and will relay anything you care to post here.

Thanks,

kat

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Apr 04 - 09:56 PM

And I will have some of her recent photography up in a few days.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 24 Apr 04 - 09:04 AM

Susan - send her my love. Most of my screen saver pics at work are from her garden & several are also on colleagues's screen savers. My dog loving colleague appreciates the pictures of Emmy. I'm looking forward to getting more emails (including pic) when she is back on line again. Sometime soon I'm replacing this laptop with a real computer!! & I'll get a scanner so I can send her pictures of the folk club.

sandra

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: Mudlark
Date: 24 Apr 04 - 01:46 PM

Kat, please send her my love, and tell her Tyler, Mike and my Emmy send woofs to her Emmy. I'll write in a few days.
And thanks for the update...Nancy

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: JenEllen
Date: 24 Apr 04 - 02:16 PM

Oh! My love too! Along with Angus and "FEZ the Duck" as well. He's not as well traveled as some ducks we know, but oh, the places he's been....*g*
(woof woof oreo to emmy)

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: catspaw49
Date: 24 Apr 04 - 02:26 PM

Okay Mary.....I know you're feeling bad and all, but if you're at this computer, let me give you a dancing fool to make it all better..........hehehehehehe.........call it a partial repayment on all the great jokes you have sent me!!!!

The Dancing Fool

Spaw

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: Alba
Date: 24 Apr 04 - 07:05 PM

Your in my Thoughts Mary.
Heal well and a candle is burning for you.
Strength, Light, Love and Blessings
Jude

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: wysiwyg
Date: 29 Apr 04 - 12:05 AM

CLICK HERE for the new batch of Giac's photography and funnies. I'll share more from this evening's nice long chat, tomorrow.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: Morticia
Date: 29 Apr 04 - 05:58 AM

could we have a new thread or re-title this one? My heart stopped when I thought my friend was back in the hospital.And anyone who can ring her, send her my special love, won't you?

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: wysiwyg
Date: 29 Apr 04 - 07:07 AM

Since a number of Giac's friends have this thread traced, and since this one contains links to her photos, I'd be sorry to see a different thread start right now.

We had a nice long chat last night. Giac is now back out of hospital and resting up at home. Emmy is visiting friends because Giac thought she might not be able to care for her post-op-- meds make for a lot of sleeping. Emmy phones her every night and they share missing each other. She hopes to have Emmy back very soon. In the meantime Giac is keeping tabs on the very amusing spiders in the nearest window. She told me a very funny story about an attacking bee that had one spider totally buffaloed. "Just when you think it's safe to come back on your web....."

I wrote a LONG post last night incorporating some of her jokes, but it didn't "take." I'll get them posted later....

But one typically-Giac thing I can share briefly is that she says she has made a technological breakthrough. The TV is not in the bedroom. It's kind of around a corner. Giac figured out the other day that she could place a mirror to reflect the light-beam from the remote and run the TV sound from bed! She says she can see a good part of the picture, too, and has a regular little command center going for DVDs!

If you have her snail address I am sure cards would be appreciated. If not, PM me for my address and I will be happy to forward.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac Hospitalized - Update 2004
From: Kim C
Date: 29 Apr 04 - 10:09 AM

Sampson the Giant Puppy sends a Giant Puppy Kiss on the Cheek. :-)

Subject: RE: Giac (NOT) Hospitalized - Convalescing Update 2004
From: wysiwyg
Date: 29 Apr 04 - 10:56 AM

Oh, GOOD call on the thread title! FabuClone!

~S~

Subject: RE: Giac (NOT) Hospitalized - Convalescing Update 2004
From: wysiwyg
Date: 23 Aug 04 - 03:08 PM

Had a nice phone visit with Giac just now. So wonderful to hear her voice!

First, before I forget-- she asks me to let all of you know, that if you have sent her anything via email or snail, and have not gotten a reply or a thank-you, she DOES get these, she enjoys them very much, and she deeply appreciates them. It's just too painful for her to sit long enough to reply.

So if you have been sending things, keep it up! A gift she might appreciate would be funny cards she could send out to people, especially if you could include postage to cover mailing them. This is my suggestion, not hers-- she never asks for a thing except to convey her love and appreciation to her friends.

She mentioned that someone had given her an old laptop recently with Windows 3.1 on it. She's hoping a friend will be able to cable from her desktop computer and upgrade Windows and get her online on the laptop.

When we last spoke several months ago, Emmy was staying with a friend while Giac recovered from a procedure. Emmy did come back home and Giac enjoys having her with her and caring for her. She says she'll email me some new pictures of Emmy, too, and I'll upload them as soon as I get them. I have saved all the ones she has sent me, of course, and I have my screensaver set to pull from "My Pictures," so most days I get to see Giac and Emmy filling my big screen. That girl can snap a shot with the best of them-- I can't wait to see more.

I know many of you must have questions.... I am not sure what to say here in the thread. We didn't talk about the future-- she was very focused on hearing all my news, as usual, and giving me hers. Please continue to keep our Mary in your thoughts and prayers.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac (NOT) Hospitalized - Convalescing Update
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 24 Aug 04 - 09:43 AM

thanks for the update, Susan, please pass on my hugs to them both.

Subject: RE: Giac (NOT) Hospitalized - Convalescing Update
From: katlaughing
Date: 21 Sep 04 - 07:34 PM

Mary needs our candles, thoughts, good wishes, etc. Some things connected to the tumour are causing problems to the point she's sent her beloved little dog to visit friends because she just can't get up with her right now. She couldn't talk for long on the phone, but did say she really appreciates ALL of your help and prayers. I will be calling her in a few days or so to see how she is doing.

Thanks to all,

kat

Subject: RE: Giac (NOT) Hospitalized - Convalescing Update 2004
From: wysiwyg
Date: 21 Sep 04 - 07:39 PM

Please remind her Greg and I love her dearly and that the prayer chain is praying for her, still. Thanks for letting us know.

~Susan

Subject: RE: Giac (NOT) Hospitalized - Convalescing Update
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Sep 04 - 09:18 AM

lots of love & good wishes from me & a few postcards on their way, too.

sandra