[PRCo] Re: I've been away, d'you know

[Donald Galt]

Here's an attempt to reply to everybody.

I've been in the hospital in which I was born, after an absence of 71 years and 
2 months, dragged in kicking and screaming by a friend who wouldn't listen to 
"no" and overwhelmed by a strain of streptococcus. So, yes, it was serious and 
that's a major reason for the length of stay. But wait, there's more!

Working back trying to find the ultimate source of infection, they finally 
found and excised a well-developed cancer in the colon. Hence, surgery from 
which I am still recovering while also striving mightily to regain a lot of 
lost weight. That accomplished, I shall have to begin a course of chemo.

Nonetheless, for somebody with so much wrong with him, I've at most times been 
remarkably hearty and am now taking care of myself, with only minor difficulty 
and with the help of friends and neighbours checking in regularly. First day 
home (Wednesday) was more tiring than expected but doable, today (Thursday) was 
a lot better. My rebuilt digestive system is coming along nicely. The biggest 
problem is finding time for all the eating, resting and exercise required.

Check out Fred's message in this thread for the important things in life. The 
man knows whereof he writes. During this time I've thrived on friends old and 
new, as well as some remarkable care from doctors and the nursing staff. 
However others might describe "the grace of God", this is it for me.

Oh, and I'm now informed that my brother's oldest grandchild, aged not quite 
four years, is a train nut. Way, way beyond Thomas the Tank Engine. They just 
arrived today for a Christmas stay with Grandma and Grandpa in North San Diego 
County, and a highlight for Jack tomorrow is to be a visit to the RR museum in 
Balboa Park, followed by a trip home on the Coaster train.

Train nut doesn't necessarily mean tram nut, I realise, but it is of the same 
genus.

Cheers,

Don