Barry Finn - THREE (April 2001)

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: GUEST,Barry's wife, Justine
Date: 15 Apr 01 - 10:41 AM

Good news all around! Barry's transplant surgery went exceptionally well and his recovery is under way. In true Finn form, Barry was off the vent in record time and out of bed within 24 hours. He's sore (you can't have any pain medication with a new liver) and tired, but feeling very lucky, relieved and grateful. Although we're not allowed to know much about the donor and his family, we know this must be a difficult time for them. Thank you for helping to sustain Barry's spirit during the wait. I won't steal Barry's thunder and tell all the gory details, as I'm sure he'll be posting within the week.

---

Justine's message copied to the latest thread:

Barry Finn - Four- Post Op

It's good to hear from you Justine - Great News!!!

---

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Jeri
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 09:20 AM

This thread was getting a bit difficult to load, so I started Barry Finn - Four: Post Op

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Joy Bennett
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 09:09 AM

Thanks Rita and Kat - having some idea of what to expect will help us all to give Barry some space when he needs it and lots of love -- We all tend to want our friends to get back into the swing of things quickly after an illness -- I think it make US feel better when they can. But we all must think of Barry and take it all one day at a time --

Barry - we're with you each step of the way -- let us know though - when to stay and when to go -- don't do the "stiff upper lip" stuff. Just say "Get out"

Bonnie and i were talking about singing London Julie this Tuesday night -- kind of sending it through space to you -- and perhaps making you smile in your sleep.

Lots of love and good wishes Joy

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: GUEST,Roll&Go-C
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 09:08 AM

Great news! To paraphrase an old song:

Now, my friends, the waitings over,
Brothers (sisters) we must part,
And if I never see you anymore,
I'll love you in my heart.

We'll land on shore,
We'll land on shore,
We'll land on shore,
And be safe forever more!

True, there will be a long recovery period but let's not hold back on singing.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Jeri
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 09:05 AM

Thanks to persistant Peg for giving us news. Dan, it was impossible to tell how poorly he was doing from his posts - it almost sounded like he could wait indefinitely for that liver. Glad that particular milestone has been passed.

Barry, whenever you can read this - my best wishes for your recovery. Consider yourself mentally hugged - no squishing, and no nasty germs that way!

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Liam's Brother
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 08:36 AM

Thanks Rita and kat for filling us in.

Barry did not look well when I saw him on Sunday... a little like the skin side of a smoked salmon. He acted fairly normally but his wife said he was having a good day. The operation came none too soon.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 05:39 AM

Thanks, Rita, I was going to ask you about that, but didn't want to put you on the spot. It is very helpful to hear from one whose been there and it is much appreciated.

When I think of just what it took for me to get back up to speed after a hysterectomy, I can just imagine the time and adjustment it takes to assimilate a whole new organ. I hope Barry will be really good at listening to his body, first, and go with what it needs and not feel pressured, by his own eagerness, or anyone else, to get going, again. Just as you point out it will take time and lots of nurturing.

kat

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Ferrara
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 01:50 AM

This is such good news, that the surgery went well and Barry is doing fine. Somehow I feel certain he will do extremely well.

A transplant is a bit different from other types of operations. It might make it a easier on Barry if I give people a few ideas of what to expect.

As you can tell from how long it took, Barry just had complex major surgery. Livers have an elaborate blood supply and all those blood vessels had to be connected to the new liver. A miracle indeed. But it leaves you pretty sore. He'll probably sleep through most of the next few days. It will probably be three or more days before he can talk to anyone, or even wants to! (Then, knowing Barry, he'll be taking calls the minute he gets to a room with a phone!) The four-week hospital stay is sort of an average, it could be longer or a bit shorter.

Susan, thanks for reminding us that Barry has to take care of himself first of all. He'll need to pace himself and there may be times when it's hard to understand that even if he looks fine, he needs to slow down.

The surgery is just the start of the "transplant experience." The whole first year is a challenge. One heart patient said, "It's like being tied to that hospital with an umbilical cord!" There are labs and check-ups and changes in the medication for quite some time -- actually, for the rest of your life, but the pace slows after the first year.

He'll be taking large doses of immune-suppressing medicine. PLEASE CHECK WITH HIM BEFORE YOU HUG HIM!!! -- at least, if you've been around anybody with a cold or flu recently.

And, those drugs can have all kinds of "interesting" side effects. Can't predict what they might be. But be sensitive to the fact that he's going to be going around loaded up with powerful drugs for about a year. (After that, they start tapering you off a bit.)

He hopes to be back at work pretty quickly. The thing is, it's not very predictable, you just have to wait and see how it all goes. I believe it's going to go very well indeed, but almost everyone has a few ups and downs at first.

We're all going to have to watch out not to "kill him with kindness." Barry's the best judge of how he feels, but we need to be sensitive and responsive if he doesn't feel he can get back fully into the swing of things at first. One of the hardest things for me was people who didn't understand why I couldn't participate fully and just pick up my old life right away.

If anyone can do that, it will be Barry! But it will sure help, I think, if his friends understand if there are times when it's not quite possible.

Thanks for listening. I with someone had explained these things to my friends after my transplant!

Rita Ferrara

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Art Thieme
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 12:32 AM

Good news Mr Finn. Be well as soon as possible. All of our best vibes and heartiest salutations are wending their way to you and all of yours.

Art Thieme

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Big Mick
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 12:26 AM

Well, I finally feel like I can breathe. I don't know why this one has affected me so. Probably because Barry is the one who latched on to me at my first FSGW weekend and made me feel at home. Probably because I have come to love his ornery little arse. Probably because I can't imagine what it would be like to not have that great voice in the mix every year. Probably because he had enough belief and trust in our friendship to come to my workshop and sing a song that he knew flew in the face of my deeply held beliefs and conviction. He was right to do so, and I respect him very much for it. Probably because he is a tough man with a gentle soul and a caring way. I have gone to the hill, gave the Low D her head, and praised The Greatest One for leaving him with us a while longer. The tune was one of joy and thanksgiving. Now I can breathe, and rest easy. So be it.

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 12:08 AM

In one report I scanned, today, it said the new liver can take up to six months to actually get the protein levels etc. up to par. Not sure what that means as to actually being up and about, though.

THIS SITE has a lot of FAQS about liver transplantation and says to expect about four weeks in hospital.

These next few days are crucial...all of the energy we can gather is of utmost importance for Barry. For those who use visualisation, I would suggest an aura of pink and healthy light emanating in his body and coursing through all of his veins, arteries, and most esp. his new liver.

I posted this once before, but it seems appropriate to do so, again:

The following prayer from Silent Unity was taken to the moon and back by one of the astronauts. I use it for myself and others, by replacing "me" with their name, and I usually use a different name for the higher power, such as "great spirit"; god of my heart; the cosmic:

Prayer of Protection

The Light of (God) surrounds (me);
The Love of (God) enfolds (me);
The power of (God) protects (me);
The presence of (God) watches over (me).
Wherever I am, God is!

I'd say, with the wonderful community we have here, we could also say the Light of Mudcat surrounds, etc.:-)

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Bert
Date: 13 Apr 01 - 12:01 AM

pheweeeeee!!!! What a relief. OK Barry, nah git off yer duff and write some nice long songs for us.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Dharmabum
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 11:58 PM

Great news, May you have a speedy recovery Barry.

DB.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Joy Bennett
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 11:57 PM

thanks Peg -- many of us here in NYC were praying and waiting -- glad to hear he's doing well.

Does anyone know how long the average hospital stay is for this?

Shall we all converge upon him during NEFFA? Perhaps a Barry workshop in his room?

Ok, so I'm a bit nuts! But we're up there anyway (up, down, whatever)

Chin up Barry --- and we'll be there for the long haul.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Alice
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 11:20 PM

This IS great news.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Bill D
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 11:20 PM

wonderful!....sigh of semi-relief here!.....(I know what waiting thru these next dew days are like...)

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 11:03 PM

Whew! Thanks very much, Peg. So very grateful to hear that.

Mark, I love the "Hepcat" it's purrfect!

Joy at the Mudcat!

kat

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From:
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 10:44 PM

Ah, that's good news. Thanks.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 10:43 PM

Good job Peg!!!

Justine: "Barry... Barry... BARRY... BARRY!!! WAKE UP!!! Barry... speak to me.... WHO IS THIS WOMAN PEG!?!?!?!"

Barry: "S'awright love, she's a Mudcat Deputy.... [snore... snore....]"

*G*

No, really, GOOD JOB PEG.

Whew. What a relief.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Peg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 10:39 PM

ni problem Spaw; the very least I can do.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: catspaw49
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 10:33 PM

Thanks Peg.....and a little extra for your persistence.

(:<))

Spaw

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Peg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 10:28 PM

I have spoken to the transplant unit. I have called them a number of times today but they were still kinda reluctant to tell me anything (understandable; I am not family and have only visited once). I think his wife (Justine) did not recognize my name when the nurses asked her about this person wanting information! But they finally told me:

Barry is out of surgery. It went well. He is fine.

I imagine it will be a few days before he can be in touch with us. I will call again in a day or two just to check in and see if they will give me an update. And to ask when visitors might be permitted again. I am sure Barry's family is thankful for everyone's kind wishes...

peg

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 09:20 PM

Mark, Rita, thank YOU, for guiding our thoughts with your inside view.

Peg, please, if you are the first to see Barry, remind him how hard his body will be working on healing and adjusting... tell him that on that silver platter Rita mentioned, there is a deep, plushy cushion of marshmallow hearts who want only his own rest. However hard he has ever worked to help someone else-- he's going to have to clear the decks to give himself the space for that effort on his own behalf. And as soon as he feels better, that will be even MORE important.

It's like I have told a good friend of mine who has chronic health problems-- don't use your crummy days for resting. Give your best days to rest so you can rest deeply and effectively. Give it attention, just like the attention we give hurting children.

I know-- let's tie him up! *G* Peg, take some silken cord with you... hmm, what color.... or something crocheted perhaps out of fluffy angora bunny wool....

~Susan

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Ferrara
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 08:48 PM

Barry, after my transplant, a woman who had had her new heart for five months visited me in the hospital. She asked me, "Do you feel as though you're being lifted up on a silver platform of other people's prayers?" I did indeed.

For all of us who feel the urge to pray or help in some such way, I hope we'll also send our prayers and healing light to the donor of Barry's liver and to his or her family who made this donation.

People talk to me about transplants being medical miracles and they are. But to me the deepest miracle has always been the families that give their loved ones' organs to save the lives of strangers.

On the practical side, the estimated time for a transplant is an average. Mine was done like a flash, (3 hours), it was a textbook physical match. They didn't even have a place ready in the recovery room! Average time for a heart is about 5 to 6 hours.

The actual surgery is much more intricate and complex for a liver, so I'm sure they take a long time. Then the person has to spend time in the recovery room, I don't know how many hours, it was all a blur.

Then, they go to Intensive Care unit (ICU). I think I was there for three days. That too is a bit of a blur though some memories stand out, like the wonderful nurse who stayed half an hour after her tour of duty was up, to order and apply some medicine for my skin under the bandages!

Then I went to Cardiac Intensive Care (CCU) for about 4 more days, and then I could be moved to the regular cardiac surgery floor.

I guess that's why Barry figured it would be about a week until he can talk to us himself. Thanks so much to Susan/WYSIWYG for spreading the word about the transplant, and to those who are keeping us up to date!

Rita Ferrara

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Mark Cohen
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 08:46 PM

Thanks for that story, kat. I have no doubt that something of the donor lives on in the recipient, more than just tissue. And thanks, Susan, for the email headsup, and also for your kind words about the medical team -- which, for an operation like this including its preparation and its aftermath, is probably more than a hundred people. Joining my prayers to all of yours, hoping all those little hepatocytes quickly figure out that they have a new boss and get down to work.

As for naming the new addition, since the Latin word for liver is "hepar" (as in "hepatitis"), and this is the Mudcat, I will respectfully offer to Barry the name, "Hepcat".

Aloha,
Mark

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Joy Bennett
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 08:04 PM

thanks Kat -- you can never know the long term effects of actions and how it's all linked together -- how one life touches another

thread creep and all --

prayers and hearts -- prayers and hearts --

Barry - we're all with you

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 07:56 PM

Good point, Joy. I just bawled my eyes out in reading a story in the latest Reader's Digest, today. A young man of 16 was shot by a gang of kids in a car while he was with friends in an empty lot across from his house. His mother, through all of her shock and grief, okayed the use of his organs.

Her life went on, but she was always sad and never understood why it had to happen. She always felt that his heart and soul were connected and comforted herself with the thought that his heart might go to save a young child's life.

Well, one day she received an anonymous card, forwarded through the transplant bank (the anonymity was required.) It was a thank you from a 60 year old man, for her son's heart. It made he very angry that someone whom she thought was not going to live very long had received her son's heart instead of a child.

Time went on and the 60 yr. old and his wife moved to a retirement community. One day as they were leaving the dining room, an angry man, about 300 lbs., who'd had runs in with some of the neighbours came in with guns and started shooting at everyone in sight. The 60 yr. watched in horror as the guy emptied one gun, then reached for another. At that moment, the 60 yr. old heard a voice tell him he could take the guy, could stop him before he shot anymore people. He found himself tackling the man to the ground and wrestling with him, until he could be tied up by other residents. When it was over 2 people were dead and several wounded.

Eventually the heart donor's mom heard about the story and found out is was her son's heart which gave that man the ability to be there and to save the lives of 41 people that day (the police said he'd had enough ammo to kill them all 3 times over)and she believes it was her son's voice the man heard encouraging him to take the chance. It was then she found peace and acceptance of her loss.

(sorry for the bit of thread drift)

kat

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Naemanson
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 07:46 PM

It's almost 8:00 as I write this. I have been actively aware of him lying on that table all day with the doctors and nurses working on him. By now they are either finished or finishing up their decorative stitching and preparing to wheel him into the recovery room.

Good luck!

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Joy Bennett
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 07:42 PM

As I read these last postings since mine early this morning, my eyes fill up -- my heart opens outward with prayers and good thoughts - to Barry and his family and to the other unknown donor and family. Triumph and tragedy often go hand in hand.

have you signed your donor card? I have.

Should tragedy befall me one day and in losing my own life I can help others keep theirs -- it is a miracle of sorts. The donor lives on in the lives he/she has helped. That would be my silent legacy. And it is enough.

Ok, so the soap-box has come out -- sorry -- I've really been touched at the outpouring of love and prayers for Barry - many friends, but often from strangers as well.

I have known Barry but a few short years (is it 10 already?) , and his wit and never-ending optimism always makes me smile.

You are a part of all of us Barry -- and we keep you in our prayers and in our hearts.-- Get well soon --

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 06:59 PM

Word is coming back via e-mail that some people have been reading the thread today and holding Barry in their thoughts in their own way, and this includes people not in the prayer chain. It is a compelling reminder to me that even extremely active members sometimes read without posting... that we share these events whether we post to say so or not... that the network of support is even stronger, broader, and deeper than the amazing extent of it that a thread like this reflects.

Some had been following events for some time, but not today's... and have joined the stream of caring and concern too.

Lucky us, to have this Mudcat.

I've spent so much time just sitting in hospitals at bedsides, lending an aware witness to the excellence and preciousness of each one involved-- patients, families, nurses, aides, doctors, chaplains, passersby... it is not so different to be doing the same from here. Sitting in that place, all I see is the fineness of people. I'll take my certainty about that (and my gratefulness for it) into my Easter prayers, when I look back on this very full year.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 04:04 PM

So many of you send me e-mail with other Catters' addresses showing that my address book has gotten pretty fat. Well, some of them are going to be wondering how I got their addresses now, cuz I just mailed every last one of them to check this thread for updates.

~S~

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 03:59 PM

It looks as though we are coming close to a time when one needn't depend on another's tragedy, acording to this very interesting article on Live Liver Transplants. This looks promising.

All good thoughts and wishes for Barry, his family and the "Other" family.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Naemanson
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 03:56 PM

We are on the other side of organ donation. There is a faceles family out there whose only comfort is that their loved one has given life to who knows how many including our Barry.

Thanks to you, whoever you are, for what you have given us and the other recipients.

Damn! There go the tears...

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Dani
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 03:47 PM

I guess we can keep on sending thoughts of love and courage as long as it takes. To ALL who are needing them today.

Hang in there, y'all. Our Barry, your waiting/wondering/worrying family, and the family in sorrow....

Dani

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 03:46 PM

Yes. Pat, isn't it strange to think of them having no idea what Barry is like? I only know him through this series of threads; but they don't even know that. I think of someone printing it out for them and then I remember all the comments about Hurry Up Liver... I'm not criticizing-- it's just SO WEIRD.

Peg, can you find out if the hospital can forward cards to the donor's family, and how they might be addressed?

To think of someone I love, and part of them going into someone who touches so many, so deeply... I'd want to know, wouldn't you?

~Susan

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: catspaw49
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 03:38 PM

Yeah........that's it too isn't it?

For that unknown family and their friends..........Thanks...for our friend and I hope you know, somehow, what your sorrow means.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: annamill
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 03:36 PM

We'll all keep vigil Peg. If it's true that thoughts and feelings can make a difference, Barry is very lucky today. I know my feelings are strong right now.

Love, annamill

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 03:30 PM

Thanks Peg.

My prayers are with the talented and dedicated people who spend that long working to save and change the life of someone they can hardly know very well. Long time for Barry... Long time to be on one's feet pouring out that much concentration.

May our thoughts and prayers also be with the person and family whose Easter will be so suddenly less celebratory. I will think of them having no Mudcat family as I keep Vigil tonight.

~Susan

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: dwditty
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 02:50 PM

God Bless you, Barry. Keeping you in thought and prayer.

dw

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: annamill
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 02:46 PM

That's an awfully long time...

Love, annamill

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: catspaw49
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 02:38 PM

Thank you Peg. I am very grateful for anything you can find out as I'm sure we all are. You're kinda' the "'Catter on Point" here and we all appreciate your efforts.

As I go through the day, cleaning house and boiling eggs, my thoughts are with you Barry. I woke up this AM with my Weimaraner lapping away at my face and I thought how yours is probably missing you around the house. Get well and home soon.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 02:29 PM

Thanks, Peg!

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Peg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 02:27 PM

I called twice and eventually found out that Barry's surgery was slightly delayed this morning; he went in at 10:30 instead of 7 am...so I was told he woud probably be out or surgery by 7 or 8 pm tonight.

I will call again then and give an update if there is one. Everyone keep Barry in your prayers and thoughts as he undergoes this serious procedure. His attitude should help him out immensely however!

Peg

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Joy Bennett
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 02:07 PM

ditto!! hopefully from here on in it will be fair winds and calm seas.

Joy

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: GUEST,Roll&Go-C
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 01:17 PM

While we're waiting the verses of Lieut, Mowett come to mind:

Oh, were it mine with sacred Maro's art,
To wake to sympathy the feeling heart,
Then might I, with unrivalled strains, deplore,
Th' impervious horrors of a leeward shore.

Safe in the harbor, again, we all hope.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: jeffp
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 01:09 PM

Does anyone know how long a liver transplant takes? I've been surfing around trying to find out, and I've learned everything but the time required for the procedure.

jeffp

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 12:36 PM

Peg, I was counting on you for just that, or I would do it myself... please PM me if no one will talk to you-- "Father Hardiman" is a very, VERY good door opener in usually-closed places!

~S~

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 12:21 PM

Thanks, Peg. While Barry said it could be a week before he would have access to tell us how he is, it is difficult to not know. Really appreciate your offering to do that.

kat

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Peg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 12:14 PM

I still have the number for the transplant unit; I will try to call there later today and see if I can find out anything...

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Naemanson
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 12:10 PM

No post from him is a GOOD sign. That must mean they went ahead with the new liver. It cannot be a quick and easy operation so he may still be in there. Figure a day or two recovering and then we should get word on the success of the operation.

Cheering section is primed and ready!

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: annamill
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 12:05 PM

ooooooooooo...... how is he!! Is he OK??

Love, annamill

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Jacob B
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 11:35 AM

Amen to all the good wishes, and I add my own.

Jacob

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Jeri
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 10:59 AM

Barry, hope everything went well, and it doesn't hurt too much. Maybe we should refresh Catspaw's post about sneezing and the pillow. I'm glad to hear the liver finally arrived and you can start looking forward to going places and doing things. Like the bathroom, for starters. ;-)

Get better fast, friend.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: DebC
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 10:45 AM

Hooray, Barry!!!

Looking forward to seeing you soon, my friend. keep well and take care of the new liver.

What will you name it?

here's to a full and speedy recovery.

Deb Cowan

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Joy Bennett
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 10:26 AM

our prayers and good thoughts are with you Barry -- hopefully by now you are in recovery --

- and hope to see you sooner than later -- up and about and singing at the top of your lungs!!!

lots of love, Joy (and the rest of the Jgirls and Water Sign-- and all of the NYC contingency!!)

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: annamill
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 09:52 AM

Love, annamill

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: CamiSu
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 09:37 AM

We can watch many hours, and NOT fall asleep! Here's more prayers for you, Barry.

CamiSu

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Dharmabum
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 09:37 AM

Best of luck to you Barry.

DB.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 09:12 AM

Prayers from here and from the prayer chain too.

If no liver today, Barry, we will keep Maundy Thursday Vigil tonight with you in mind... "could you not watch with Me one hour?"

~S~

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Naemanson
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 08:27 AM

Great news! By now Barry is getting that liver installed and will be singing again before long! Looking forward to his first post with the new organ in place.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: jeffp
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 08:19 AM

With no word to the contrary, I'm assuming you're on the table, Barry. Good luck to you and I hope to meet and hear you sometime. Hang in there and get well.

jeffp

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Liam's Brother
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 07:56 AM

Well, Barry, if everything is going according to schedule, you should be having your new liver installed about now. Good luck and God bless you!

Enjoyed our time together on Sunday. It was a dreary day outside but you added a great deal of sparkle inside.

All the best,
Dan

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Giac
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 06:48 AM

Hope everything's still a go for 7 a.m.

We will be thinking of you and sending mental and spiritual support. Expecting to hear soon that all is well.

Mary

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: catspaw49
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 06:35 AM

Maybe all it took was a good and loud session close by huh?..Damn but I knew we should have gone with the bodhran players in the room!!!

You know that the hearts, love, and best thoughts accompany you Barry and we'll be hearing about you soon and from you within a short while, freshly plumbed and ready to roar. See you soon.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Peg
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 02:00 AM

Yay, a liver for Barry, at last!

Barry, we talked of you at the sessiun tonight and told the Globe reporter of our lusty-voiced friend who could not be there and how much we are all rooting for him (that is, YOU).

I was going to stop by for a visit Friday but now it sounds like you will need your rest. I will check in at the desk before I try to stop in.

Godspeed and best of luck; we love you and miss you and are thinking of you!

Peg

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Night Owl
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 01:23 AM

Barry...you have the strength, love and support of Mudcatters in there with you.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 01:23 AM

Barry, that is wonderful news..after all this waiting. I will light my candle for you tonight and be working some magick as well, giving thanks for a complete and successful outcome.

I am sure between those who live there and know you and the rest of us, we'll know as soon as possible that you are right as rain and fit to fiddle, or at least sing.

May the god of your heart watch over you, enfold you in Peace and Love. Know that we all are offering up our own thoughts and prayers for you and they are powerful.

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: GUEST,Bedridden Barry on Sis's laptop
Date: 12 Apr 01 - 01:04 AM

It's just midnight here & I just got word that a good looking livers' turned up, they'll do some more testing but so far it ssems like a go (if it's not I'll post back later this morning) for 7:00 am for the transplant. I'd just like to say thanks again for all who've posted, sent in cards, dropped by, sent books & tapes & CDs, called & in general just offered & gave support & recently to Gina Dunlap (a lurker here, Hi Gina it's high time you jumped in here, you'd be most welcome) my friend from "Shipping News" who just sent along the book "The Captain of the Phantom" already having previously sent me a copy of their CD & to John Roberts for a copy of his CD "Across the Western Ocean" which for some reason has escaped me all these years, a crime of which I'm guilty of, you mentioned it wasn't much but you were happy to help, believe me John it was more than you realize, thanks. Hi Richard, I'll looking forward to hearing a tape with your voice on it when I get back here into the ICU. Judy, Peg & the rest of the session singers from Boston are all singing at the moment down the street from here, thank you for keeping me in mind & music. If all goes well I probably won't be able to post for, at the very least a week, so I don't know how I can get word back here as to my condition. If all doesn't go well, well that's a bit to gloomy to consider at the moment but I will say it was very much enriching being here on the Mudcat & mostly meeting & getting to sing with so many fine people. Hope to see & hear you all soon. Thanks again & with all my love. Barry

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: GUEST,Judy Predmore
Date: 11 Apr 01 - 09:50 AM

Barry, Scott Alarik is coming to Paddy Burke's tonight, so we're starting early for him, 8:30. I mentioned in a thread today that you're right down the street, so be prepared in case anyone stops by.

Sorry I haven't posted to you sooner. As in every thread, everyone has already said what I might have to say, which is why I don't post much. But that's no excuse... I assume you know all of us at Paddy Burke's are rooting for you. The PB's crowd asks about you every week, so I try to do a quick check of Mudcat before I leave for the pub... Glad to hear you're up & about a bit, but we're all impatient for you to be up, about, & out!

Judy, (who seems to have lost her cookie...)

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: radriano
Date: 10 Apr 01 - 04:56 PM

Hi Barry,

A copy of the 2nd "Out of the Rain" cassette, Song of the Wage Slave, is wending it's was over to you. I wanted to send you both cassettes but I'm out of stock of the first one. Hope you enjoy it, my friend.

Richard

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: GUEST,Martin Ryan
Date: 10 Apr 01 - 10:05 AM

barry

Glad you seem to have enjoyed the Barry Gleeson and Donal Maguire CD's Dan left you. I know Barry very well but only met Donal for the first time in Donegal recently - which is where Dan picked up the CD, methinks. Great voice - wonderful diction.

Hope all goes well for you.

Regards

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 10 Apr 01 - 10:03 AM

And the Gospel of John, King James version, which I think I will package up with Black Elk and a non-sectarian music tape done as a benefot for the planet and another about the planet.

~S~

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 10 Apr 01 - 09:47 AM

Hmm, maybe it would be good to list possible audio books here so Barry can choose and we can avoid duplicate efforts, too.

Schindler's List

Black Elk Speaks

Radio Favorites-- a set of old radio detective and comedy shows, really a hoot!

~S~

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: CamiSu
Date: 10 Apr 01 - 09:18 AM

Barry, Glad you got the tape player, since I had not gotten my old one packed up. (HAdn't found the headphones)Cloudy up here, hope it's nicer down there. Wish I could send you a chunk of liver to grow.

Love you,

CamiSu

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Apr 01 - 06:45 PM

I'll bet those are great article, but it is a little confusing to be presented with a member name and password box before you even go there. If anyone else tries it, who isn't already a member, just click okay and it will take you to the registration page. I did not register as I don't like all of the personal info they ask for, esp. birthdate, so I've missed the articles.

Avid reader, perhaps you could paste them in here?

Thanks, Barry, for letting me know. It was in time. I will go through my tapes tomorrow and see what I've got. what else do you need or can you have? (No dancing girls, I s'pose?**BG**)

kat

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: GUEST,avid reader
Date: 09 Apr 01 - 04:44 PM

Liver cloning is on the way

ORGAN DONOR POOL -- 1ST ANNUAL WINTER SYMPOSIUM: LIVING DONOR ADULT-TO-ADULT TRANSPLANTATION OF THE KIDNEY AND LIVER
The shortage of organs is the major limiting factor in transplantation of adult patients with end-stage organ disease.
Medscape Transplantation. (C) 2001 Medscape, Inc. http://www.medscape.com/ASTS2001 Read it Here (you have to register, free. Cloning artivle, New Scientist doesn't require registration)

Plus...
Journal Scan - Transplantation 2(3)

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 09 Apr 01 - 04:41 PM

Well, technically it's a psaltery, but have fun with it!

Watch the tape instrux-- tricky at first.

~S~

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: GUEST,Bedridden Barry on Sis's laptop
Date: 09 Apr 01 - 04:15 PM

Hi & thanks everyone. Spirits are still up but none will give me a liver but the spirits did say that they'd part with their wings though. My kids are briging me a tape player tonight seeing as how Dan Milner dropped by with a tape he'd picked up recently in Ireland so I hope you see this in time Kat. Dan stopped in yesterday & we had a lovely visit together. As is Dan's telltale evidence of being somewhere, he left some droppings as a calling card but instead of it being in the ilk of "Killroy was here" it was a CD by Dublin singer Barry Gleeson & another CD by Donal Maguire. I haven't had a listen yet to the tape of Josie McDermott he left but I can well imagaine, the man's taste in Irish singers like Gleeson & Maguire are so finely tuned that the needle wouldn't lay in the haystack for longer than a moment. Thanks WYSIWYG, I just recieved your gracious care package, thanks. I've never had a talking book before, this should be very interesting. I was wishing that I had planned this extended stay a little better & had had the forthought of thinking to bring in an instrument to get to learn to play with, your loan of the lap dulcimore more than fits the bill. And who ever said "if wishes were fishes". Well, it was a great day here in Boston, highs almost hit 70 & sunny, spent some time outdoors in the courtyard, felt like a content little lizard with not a care in the world, then it started to cool off a bit, oh well. Thanks again for all the support, LOVE, Barry

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: SINSULL
Date: 09 Apr 01 - 03:16 PM

I can send him "Hannibal". Not great but distracting. I will mail it next Monday. I am out of town until Sunday. Barry would you like some fava beans to munch on while listening to the tape? No chianti. Sorry.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: MMario
Date: 09 Apr 01 - 11:38 AM

Hmmmm - audio tapes about a clan of people with no spoken language. interesting.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 09 Apr 01 - 11:25 AM

Goodonya, Kat. I already sent Clan of the Cave Bear on audio, figuring he'd have a tape player soon. If he likes it he'll get Valley of the Horses next.

Those oughtta eat up a couple of hours!

~S~

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Apr 01 - 11:02 AM

G'morning, Barry. It is a bright, sunshiney day in Wyoming, how about in Boston?

I found an extra walkman that plays cassettes, yesterday, so if I don't hear form you that you've already got one, by the end of today, I will send it out, with a few tapes, too.

HEAR THAT PHOAKS? I will be sending him a cassette player, so we can send him tapes, too.

Thinking of you always and wishing you a swift and healthfull return to your *normal* life.*BG*

kat

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 07 Apr 01 - 08:58 PM

HeyaBarry,

It has been wonderfully New Englandish wet springlike in Wyoming this past week...brought you to mind so many times. I really love the rain and the greening up of the grass and tiny buds coming out of the ground. Last weekend, after I heard my first meadowlark, I also hear my first robin of the year. They've been doing their rain song all week long.

I hope this finds you in good spirits. Please let us know if there are any books on tape or just plain books that you are esp interested in, as well as if you have a tape player, now, too.

Take care,

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Nancy King
Date: 07 Apr 01 - 07:01 PM

Barry, you must be going totally stir-crazy in addition to whatever physical discomforts and indignities you have to endure. Just know that a lot of folks are still thinking about you, wishing you the best, and hoping to see you soon!

Cheers, Nancy

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: SINSULL
Date: 06 Apr 01 - 12:32 PM

Well?


Did the bohdrans work? Refresh.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Mark Cohen
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 05:23 PM

Barry, after your new addition is tucked in and purring away, and your transaminases are once again back in double digits or less, you have an open invitation to hang out on your choice of black or white sand beaches (or even green sand, if you like) and you won't even have to sing John Kanaka. Unless you want to. Meanwhile I'll be scouring the islands for shanty singers. Lots of good wishes from this neck of the ocean.

Aloha,
Mark

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 03:27 PM

radriano, last we heard it was just CDs, but maybe someone has (or will) send him a Walkman.

~S~

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 03:26 PM

So far only CD's, Richard.

Barry, if you get a tape player, too, are there any books on CD/tape that you'd be interested in?

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: radriano
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 03:22 PM

Barry, can you only play CDs or cassettes too?

Richard

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Liam's Brother
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 01:14 PM

First, gentrified and, second, extinct.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: GUEST,Roll&Go-C
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 01:05 PM

What ever happened to Sloppy Louie's at South Street? Did it become gentrified or extinct?

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: SINSULL
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 11:09 AM

South Street Seaport Schedule:

January 20 2001, February 17, March 24, April 28, May 19, June 23, July 21st (outdoor potluck barbecue) (Dates are less firm as they go farther out. Check back here before traveling!)

The event occurs at the Seaman's Church Institute, 241 Water Street, from 8PM until 11PM. There's a decent (pay) parking lot directly across the street from the venue, inside a chain-link fence.

Afterwards, many of us repair to a 'session' at Radio Mexico (a local Cantina) who have also been very gracious to us, when we 'invade' their environs every month. They're at 259 Front Street, and if you're coming to the chantey sing, you would do well to grab dinner there. They have Mexican specialties from mild to spicy, and they are that rare commodity in New York... ...a reasonably-priced good place to eat! Watch out for those Margaritas, now!
This info came from Greg Bullough. Is he a Mudcat member? If not, I invited him in for a visit.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: wysiwyg
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 10:33 AM

And here is the address for sending cards and CDs.

Barry Finn
Mass General Hospital
55 Fruit St.
Blake Bldg, 6th floor
Boston, MA 02114

~S~

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: SINSULL
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 10:25 AM

A rendezvous at the South Street Seaport???? You really do have to get out more Brett. Nothing more romantic than a dock full of dying fish! Now the little Mexican place after the chanty sing has real possibilities.

Subject: RE: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: Naemanson
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 10:14 AM

SINSULL! That trip to the seaport is our little secret! Just you and me sneaking off to a rendezvous in the...

Uh-Oh! This is a thread not a PM! OOooooohhhhh Nooooooo!

Yeah, me and Sins and a buncha chantey singers havin' fun together. Barry, I'll pick you up on my way through.

Subject: BARRY FINN - THREE
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Apr 01 - 10:00 AM

The other one was up to 106, so I decided it was time for the next one. You can find the previous one by CLICKING HERE. Here is Barry's last post from it:

Subject: RE: Barry Finn - TWO
From: GUEST,Bedridden Barry from Sis's laptop
Date: 03-Apr-01 - 05:14 PM

Still no little lively livers poking their peppered onion eyes over the horizon. At this point I'll even pass on mushrooms & butter. Talk about stir crazy. I do have a CD player & a fair collection of CD's on top of those that sent me some, to them, Dan Milner, RiGGY (just before I got here), Deb Cowan & to Shipping News & to Sinsull's Sea Ballads by Mansfield, thanks is not near enough. Hi spaw, I've got more ways now to cut an apple, peel an orange, floss my teeth while on all fours & how to swim the backstroke go into the sidestroke & finish off with the American crawl with out once falling off the nurses' station. Hi Meg & thanks, please send along to the Mystic crowd my apprecation for their care & concern & that I'll see you all in June come hell or high water. I'll be off now, supper just came in so like a well behaved pup I've got to play with it for a few hours. Thanks to all of you & with Lots Of Love. Barry