Meanwhile I've been moved to a lovely river view room, the same room I was in 2 weeks ago. That's nice, because Brian had defrosted the refrigerator back then! Today's views:
Brian has stepped into high gear on his advocacy work for leukemia patients to gain what's known as compassionate access (i.e. access to drugs that aren't fully approved) to some life-saving drugs. I am learning a lot from Brian. And I didn't realize he has talents as an investigative reporter! He recently uncovered an open letter from the FDA asking the same questions of the drug companies that we've been asking. More soon on this topic.
On Friday night I had a brief visit from Brian's second cousin once-removed ELISSA, whom I was happy to finally meet. I'm looking forward to some longer visits soon. They were on their way to Brian's sister's house for dinner in the Sukkah.
On Saturday I had a great visit from bird watcher, fellow piano student, and frequent hospital visitor JOHN, who as usual was nice enough to bring me an ice decaf from Starbucks. Ernie and Rhino were happy to see him too ...
Hey Gary,
ReplyDeleteGlad to see Ernie and Rhino are with you! It does not surprise me at all that Brian can double as investigative reporter. Seems like he is made for the job. Brian, I am good at digging for things too, so if you need to farm out any subtasks, let me know. Nice view(!) but I hope it changes to Brian's W. 99th arboretum soon.
-Shelly
Dear Gary and Brian,
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to know some other people who know what a second cousin once removed is! I've met people who insist, "We don't have that in my family." Ok..... Whatever. I was thinking of coming to NY last night, but that didn't happen -- hopefully a week from now I'll be seeing you. Enjoy those million(s) dollar views and think about those beautiful window boxes you'll get to see soon.
Love and hugs,
Joanie
Amen, Joanie, well said. Glad to know you too. Whatever, indeed!
DeleteGary, i've always admired how well you can figure out the first cousin/second cousin/1st cousin once removed, etc, etc. thing! Amazing! Keep your spirits up, and know that we are all thinking of you & Brian! xoxo By the way, your balcony flowers and tomatoes look beautiful -- good job :)
ReplyDeleteNice pics! Hope you are outta there and home looking at the flowers soon. Tonight we were out celebrating my mother-in-law's 84th bd. :)
ReplyDeleteBrian is pretty tenacious. I am sure he will soon bring those drug companies to heel!
Hi, Gary,
ReplyDeleteWow, those are views that people pay a ton for, but somehow I think you'd prefer your gorgeous windowboxes. Hope they are soon to be the "view of the day."
Bravo to Brian for the work he is doing on behalf of all the people who need "compassionate access." I hope he is as tenacious as he is bright and caring; he may end up being a miracle worker on behalf of patients in similar circumstances everywhere.
Loved your little Ernie and Rhino ~ very adorable, and a delightful way to help turn a hospital room into something more home-like. I'm all for stuffed animals, and I've several sitting on my own bed right now ~ a veritable menagerie: 2 bears, a bunny, 3 llamas from Peru, 2 silk donkeys from Cambodia, and a moose with a VT sweater from Vermont! Whimsy and color add joy and spice to life, don't you think?
Here's a toast to Brian's efforts, to your keeping up the good fight, to all those who love and care about you, and to life itself: L'chayim!
XOXO Andrea
Gary,
ReplyDeleteJust want you to know we think about you all of the time. We are sending you lots of love from here in California. You are so lucky to be surrounded by so many loving people.
Gary,
ReplyDeleteYour river view looks beautiful.
--Henry
Dear Gary and Brian,
ReplyDeleteGary, indeed Brian is a great investigative reporter --you are in good hands. Sending you strength to sort out the drug access and advocacy for it. Hugs.
Ella