Sent: 11/6/08 @ 10:15 a.m.

Subject: howdy

Hi Girlfriends.

I’ll miss you all this week at bookclub (enjoying the book A., “What is the What”).

FYI, I just booked a flight to Tennessee and am leaving Sat. night.The docs now say that Dad has cancer in his pancreas (in addition to what they originally found in his spinal column . . . which was found because of the shingles).He’s been on radiation since the 1st, so it’s helping him be able to move from his bed to the wheelchair . . . and he even took a few spins around the nurses station in his chair (on his own).

His attitude is good, but I want to go back and help out (I was there 10/14-21 already).

So, I’m writing because I love knowing that my many wonderful girlfriends are holding my family in their hearts and prayers.Tony will be joining me in Tenn. on the 20th of November. Until then he has his hands full doing all our video da kine . . . . (we also have a few house guests who were momentarily homeless . . . they should be taking care of Rocket Girl until we return on the 11th of December).

aloha,

Susan

• • •

Also sent the following to my cousin in Brooklyn:

Right now he’s responding to the radiation. He’s got a good attitude. H.’s dealing with the hard red-tape of setting up another place for him after he leaves the hospital (probably on the 11th of Nov.).

WE’RE NOT LETTING DAD KNOW ABOUT THE RED TAPE. NO NEED TO STRESS HIM OUT AND CAUSE HIM TO FEEL GUILTY . . .

So, I’m writing to you just to keep you in the loop.Best to you and C.

P.S. Dad L O V E D his pet calf. Knoxville, Tennessee 1920s. The depression was ever present. Food was scarce. But for my Dad, this calf brought hope of milk . . . and love. ;-)