You can reach Sue at (314) 452-3685 or (314) 726-2032. You can write to her c/o Rose Holt, 905 Barnard College Lane, St. Louis, MO 63130

Sue believes that something good is beginning to happen today. It had been kind of a rough weekend emotionally and a rough week physically. She fell twice, though gently, just after she got out of the hospital last Tuesday. She hasn't fallen since. After the two falls, she was extremely careful for several days but has now regained confidence and steps out without hesitating although slowly and with her cane. For the past week, Denny, Shirley, or I have provided support for her when she walks. Today she is much more able to walk unassisted. Also, today she discovered she can once again sign her name, which she could not do last Monday. And today she drove me out to the dealer to pick up my car.

Insomnia has been a problem for some time now, especially since she has been on the steroids. Her daughter-in-law Shelly, who takes steroids when she has severe asthma, assured Sue that sleeplessness is one of the side effects. Brother Joe (who says he is practicing medicine without a license) prescribes rest, eating well, relying on others, and lots of 'smart pills.'

Anyone who has ever slept in the same house with Denny would know there are other causes for insomnia, such as loud snoring. Denny and Sue said they were both 'sleepless in St. Louis' on Friday night but had each other for support and company. Sue says he went to the store numerous times Friday, Saturday, and Sunday to have any little thing her heart desires. With Denny's, Shirley's, and my making sure she eats right and well and often, Sue has gained two pounds in a week.

Our main task today was to complete all the forms and gather the information for Sue's application for Social Security Disability. Jack, one of her special best friends, was very helpful with dates and figures from her job. Marvin told us when we called the office that everyone there is caring and concerned and keeping updated through this weblog.

Yesterday afternoon, Sue, Shirley, and I went over to the chapel at the Carmelite Monstery on Clayton Road where we spent an hour in prayer and meditation. It is a beautiful and peaceful place. We've been there before and plan on going back. Mark and Karen stopped in yesterday and again today, two cheering and lovely visits from two wonderful young people. Kim and her children, Alyssia, Sydney, and Alex, are coming by tomorrow evening. All this loving attention helps Sue focus on something other than worry. She is astonished at the goodness and caring of people. [of course, I am not astonished, having witnessed all the good and caring things she has done for so many folk over the six decades of her life.]

Tomorrow son Chris takes Sue to physical therapy in the afternoon then to the acupuncturist after that.