(Jack is my husband, Joe, my oldest son, and Sue, his wife. Mary Ellen is my oldest daughter and Michael is her husband. Leah is one of our two cats.)

Jack came home from hospital yesterday. Went in Monday to have defibrillator/pacemaker implanted. Somehow one lead came out and he had to go back to surgery Tuesday. He has not had the best year so far. Had chronic cough starting in January and two bouts of bronchitis. Has been going to new specialists; for many blood draws and tests. Recent diagnosis of emphysema and COPD. We are hoping implant will help his very weak heart. Has only been able to walk a few feet before having to sit down.

Joe went in hospital (in different city) Tuesday. Had surgery for severely deviated nasal septum. Has suffered from severe earaches for almost eight years. Went to two primary physicians and three ENT's. No diagnosis was ever made and only temporary relief received. Recently he was sent a magnet in the mail from an insurance company with a number to call if you wished to talk with a "Health Coach." One morning he woke with a "killer" earache and remembered magnet and called. A woman answered and asked him if any of the doctors had ordered a facial cat scan. He said "No."

She said that was what he needed. He went to his primary and demanded a cat scan ASAP which showed the problem. The surgeon warned him that there was a danger of blindness as he had to work so close to the eyes. This was a particular concern for all of us as Joe only has one eye. Everything went well and he is home recovering! His wife, Sue, also had surgery since I last wrote for a hole in her eardrum. She kept hearing her heart beat in her ear and saw her doctor and he discovered the problem. She is fine now.

Lastly our cat, Leah, had respiratory infection. Spent three and a half days on antibiotics in vet clinic. Came out thinner and us $250 poorer.

Had roof repaired in two places when water came through after Ophelia. Also, had five screens replaced in glass block basement windows after Leah or some other little critters punched through, and had house foundation pointed.

Michael, Mary Ellen and children visited twice. Michael is still looking for work and search is now between Denver and Burlington, Vermont.

Screen is showing I am getting close to end of page. At least this gives you idea of what has been going on.

~Cherish the Family~

Blessings,

Dolores