Long absent Jan...(the other one)

November 28, 2004

Hello all,

I was going to try to catch up from over a year ago but can't really

do that. I see there is another Jan so I guess I will be Calif Jan.

Maybe I should check to see where the other Jans are from.

After LaCrosse (any of those folks still around?) my hubby had some

heart problems and I found I couldn't keep up with the support group,

caregive my Dad, spend time with hubby and family, and contribute to

the LBD Association so the support group got left out.

I hope everything is okay with all the 'ol regulars and hello to

everyone who has joined in the 12 months. I would have never made it

through the beginning of my father's illness with this group.

UPDATE: My Dad 86 (LBD dx 11/02 lived w/us 8/02-12/03) is now in AL,

but is developing swallowing difficulties and more cognitive decline

but is still doing okay. My hubby Ron is doing great considering his

dx of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, then a pacemaker (heart block and

sick sinus syndrome) 9/01/03 then a stent in the widow-maker artery

7/3/04. All genetic causes and he has outlived most men (avg 59) in

his family so he's happy and doing well at 61.

THE FAVOR: I have a favor to ask of you all. I currently answer the

LBD Association web-site mail and we get questions that really need

an answer from a group perspective and I feel very out of touch that

way. If no one objects I would like to post a question from the site

every now and then and try to get instant input from you so I can

answer the letter right away. I usually try to answer the same day we

get the e-mails. I try to encourage caregivers to join one of the

groups but it's not for everyone. I let them know that you all can be

a lot more candid then the Association can be with answers to some

questions. I will put SITE MAIL RESPONSE NEEDED in the subject line.

Thanks.

I would really appreciate a little short update from everyone if you

feel like it. I know, that's the lazy way for me to catch up...well,

for those who know me...surprise surprise. :)

Big Big Hugs from sunny chilly Sacramento

Jan

November 28, 2004

Hi Hi Hi Hi Jan-

What a completely wonderful surprise!! Well, you want

an update. Um, is here, got here the day after

Thanksgiving. Well, he won't be leaving this time.

All is well here. I have quit one job, with Aramark, and

have been working with my sister-in-law at her floral

shop...gift shop...she has it all and is doing great with

her own business...shop.

I am still with UPS, have been there 8 years. My boys

are all fine, my youngest is 10 now.

This, of course is only a brief update to my life. More

importantly we are thrilled to see a post from you. We

are also so very happy that Ron is doing fine. You and

Ron left a very important positive impact on our hearts,

it was our honor to have met you both in La Crosse.

An etch in our hearts that will last us a lifetime...well,

unless we are able to see you again, that would be

absolutely wonderful!!

I still have my truck, still looking for a hood ornament -

here I come Canada...Nasty...beware!!

Anyhow, we are off to a mall, then wherever else

takes us.

Again Jan - it is such a joy seeing your name in here.

If we can be of any help with the questions you mentioned,

do post them and we will help out when we can.

Hugs, and more hugs to you and to Ron-

With love-

Sandie and

-- Long absent Jan...(the other one)