Thanks to all, John, Mick, Dan etc for keeping us informed about Barry. I met him at the last two FSGW Getaways and had lots of e-mail exchanges with him beforehand as we worked out the details of his workshops. I can't imagine anyone not being moved by knowing him. A treasure of a human being.

As to when he'll be up and about, transplants are pretty unpredictable, but let's hope it will be one of the smooth, nothing-to-it experiences.

Thanks, too, Alison, for informing people that donor cards aren't enough. In the U.S., at least, the family's wishes take precedence. The most important thing, is to make your family aware of your wishes -- and ask about theirs. Luckily, the choice never arises for most people. If it ever did, though, and you had to make the decision, it would help if you knew you were doing exactly what he or she would want, either way.

(Being on the recipient end, I've thought about this a lot.)

Rita Ferrara