Another Update on Helen Perdicaris Eady in Her Husband's Own Words

Helen has now been in the hospital 25 days and has progressed wonderfully. She has received all the required shots to promote white cell growth. Her white blood cell count is good. She is still on an IV which is to help flush out the Chemo in her system. Her Kidney's were of concern, however her test has improved and they think it was due to all the medication she was on.Helen has now lost her hair and looks beautiful in head wear.

She is still on anti-biotics and is weak. Her appitite has improved and she looks better every day. She is scheduled for another Bone Marrow Byopsy tommorow {Monday) and if her test come back favorable she may be able to come home. What a blessing that would be!!! She is ready to see the outdoors and enjoy some sunshine and scenery other than the hospital room.  I hope my next update will include her being home and on her way to recovery.

We still need your prayers.

God bless you all.

John

Bob and Lucille Davidson Will Celebrate 50th

 

Bob and Lucille Davidson

In Bob's own words -

"Just a note to let you know that on July 5th Lucille and I will celebrate 50 years of marriage.

God Bless, Bob Davidson"

Beth McDonald Davis on Trip Out West

Beth McDonald Davis

Beth Davis sent a photo of herself on a horse in one of our National Parks in Arizona or Utah.  She highly recommends a trip out west.

James Ferrin Hicks Falls, Breaks Bones

James Ferrin Hicks called.  He wants everyone to know that he is in Lakeland Regional Medical Center again.  He fell in his bedroom.  The damage is all on the right side of his body.  His leg is broken below the knee, his hip is shattered, and his arm is broken near his shoulder.  The general phone number for LRMC is 863-687-1100.

Update on (Sara) Helen Perdicaris Eady

Helen is now 18 days in the Hospital. She had a bone marrow byopsy yesterday and we are awaiting the results to see if she requires more Chemo, hopefully not.  She continues to be in good spirits and fighting this dreadful disease.

 

She still is suffering from hemorrhoids, ulcers in her month brought on by the Chemo treatments and a bruised toe that she bumped on the IV machine going to the bathroom. All these things are slow to healing due to her lack of immune system.

 

Helen has received your cards and well wishes and is most grateful for your outpouring of love and concern.

 

If she does not require any more Chemo, they will build up her system with more blood transfusions, white blood cells, and other treatments to prepare her for a Bone Marrow transplant.

 

She can accept phone calls at 863-687-1200 ask for room B653 and remember ask for Sara Eady. She can also receive your e-mails and Facebook messages. She will be slow to respond because I usually read them to her. Your continued prayers are working, she feels the hand of God on her and in her heart.

 

God bless each of you.

 

John and Helen

Ruby Lewis Named to All County First Team in Girl's Track

Ruby Lewis is in the middle of the top row

Ruby Lewis, granddaughter of Ronnie and Carolyn Lewis, has been named to the all county first team in girl's track (Girl's All County Track Team).  Her specialty is the 3200 meter (about two miles) race.


Congratulations to Ruby!

Sonny McKinsey and Bonita Tayor McKinsey Celebrate 54 Years of Marriage

Bonita Taylor McKinsey

Bonita reports that she and Sonny are celebrating their 54th wedding anniversary today, June 18, 2013.

Congratulations to them.

Video Interview With Air Force Sgt Nick Gibson About Mt. Everest Climb

Nick Gibson, son of Jean Hodgson Gibson and Gordon Gibson, is one of six team members of USAF 7 Summits Challenge that participated in a recent climbing of Mount Everest.  Many of you may have used links on this blog to follow the progress of this team effort.  The following link is a 5 minute 20 second to a video interview with Sgt. Gibson telling about the adventure.  Fox News Interviews AF Sgt Nick Gibson

Helen Perdicaris Eady Hospitalized With Leukemia

Helen Perdicaris Eady

Helen Perdicaris Eady is in Lakeland Regional Medical Center, room B611, for treatment for an aggressive form of leukemia and will be there for 30 days.  Visits and phone calls are welcomed.  She cannot have fresh flowers, fruit or vegetables because the therapy weakens her immune system.  Helen's husband of more than 50 years, John Eady, can be reached at 863-937-4183.  I am certain all classmates offer prayers and best wishes to Helen and John.

Ruby Lewis Competes in Class 3A, District 7 Track and Field Meet

Ruby Lewis, granddaughter of Ronnie and Carolyn Lewis, participated in the Class 3A, District 7 Track and Field meet on April 18, 2013.  Here are her results:

• 4 x 800 meter relay - The George Jenkins team finished in first place, with Ruby running the final leg.  This qualifies the team to participate in the upcoming regional meet.
• In the 1600 meter (.99 miles) race, Ruby placed fourth, which qualifies her to participate in the upcoming regional meet.
• In the 3200 meter (1.99 miles) race, Ruby placed second, which qualifies her to participate in the upcoming regional meet.

Congratulations to Ruby and to the George Jenkins Girl's Track and Field Team as they progress to the regional meet. 

The regional meet will take place at Tampa Leto on April 24, 2013. The top four places in the regional meet advance to state competition. 

Biographical Information on Jackson Weldon, Spouse of Ellen Mershon Weldon

Jackson Weldon

The link below contains a very interesting read on the life of Jackson Weldon, husband of Ellen Mershon Weldon.

Link to biographical information about Jackson Weldon

Motorcycle Racers From the Past

Barry Sears submitted this photo that was in the Lakeland Ledger many years past.  Yes it was the Lakeland Ledger back then, now known as The Ledger.  I  wonder who won.

David Alcorn Passes Away

David Alcorn

David and Judy Alcorn were living in Lilburn, Georgia, according to class records.  David's obituary confirms that Lilburn was his home.  He has been retired for a number of years.  His obituary yields very little information; however, here is the link to it - Link to Obituary.

Ellen Mershon Weldon's Husband Passes Away

Ellen Mershon Weldon

In Ellen's own words, "I have lost the love of my life...Jackson Weldon died Easter Sunday"....Ellen Mershon Weldon class of 59.

The obituary for Jackson P. Weldon can be found at the following link - Obituary.

The LHS Class of 1959 sends its condolences and offer their prayers and best wishes.

Roger Carlton Sherman Costars with William Shatner and Ruth Roman in the Movie - IMPULSE

Roger Carlton Sherman

In Roger's own words.

The 1974 Movie - IMPULSE

I found the first major film, Impulse (Link) , in which I costarred with William Shatner (Link) and Ruth_Roman (Link). Both Bill and Ruth visited in my home and I visited Bill in CA the next year. Here is the movie "Impulse" and if you want to see the 'walk-on' they gave me, it's at the dinner party about minute 27. Plus in the credits, there I am listed as the Art Director. You can see the portrait of the Duke of Wellington hanging over the mantle in Ruths 'home', the same one hanging here today!! I stayed with Jennifer Bishop when I visited Hollywood.

Those were the days.

USAF Staff Sgt. Nick Gibson Gives Pre-Mt. Everest CBS Interview

In this CBS interview, Staff Sgt Nick Gibson explains the USAF 7 Summits climb of Mt. Everest in Spring 2013.  You may navigate to this interview by using the link below.

Staff Sgt. Nick Gibson's CBS Pre-Mt. Everest Interview

USAF Staff Sgt. Nicholas Gibson, Son of Jean & Gordon Gibson

I just want to thank you for supporting Nick in his Everest expedition. He will be sending individual emails when he returns, but in the meantime, if you want to follow their progress, you can go to USAF 7 Summits and click on blogs and then click on voice updates. I'll see if I can attach a nice article that was in our newspaper last week (not sure I know how). They leave from Denver this Friday and start climbing right away. 

 You may refresh your memories and learn more about this endeavor at this link - Staff Sgt. Nicholas Gibson Headed to Top of the World.

Please pray.
 
Jean & Gordon Gibson

Ed Neel Has Setback With Knee Replacement

Jayne Neel reports that Ed has had to have another surgery due to an infection in his knee replacement.  He will be on an antibiotic for six weeks, during which period he cannot put weight on the leg.  Then, he will have another knee replacement surgery.

Ruby Lewis Has Two First Place Finishes

Ruby Lewis, granddaughter of Ronnie and Carolyn Lewis, achieved two first place finishes in the Polk County Track and Field Championships, and the George Jenkins Girls edged out Kathleen for a team first place.

Ruby ran a leg in the 4 x 800 meter relay, which George Jenkins won, and she finished first in the 3200 meter race, approximately two miles.

The Ledger Article on Polk County Track and Field Championships 

Congratulations to Ruby and her family. 

Melbourne HS Defeats George Jenkins HS for State Championship in Girl's Soccer

For the second year in a row, Melbourne High School has defeated George Jenkins High School for the state championship in Girl's soccer.  Ruby Lewis, granddaughter of Ronnie and Carolyn Lewis, played on the Jenkins team as a sophomore and had a great deal of playing time in the state championship game.  Ruby shows great promise for her junior and senior years.  Here is a link to an article about the game in The Ledger George Jenkins - Melbourne Girl's Soccer State Championship.

Tommy Kennington's Mother Passes Away

Mrs. Gladys Garrison

Gladys Flickinger, 94, our own Tommy Kennington's Mother, died of natural causes 1/02/13.  Many of you knew her as your high school typing teacher, office practice teacher or Opti-Misses advisor, and as Mrs. Garrison. Here is a link to her obituary - Mrs. Gladys Flickinger's Obituary.  We send our condolences to Tommy and his family.

Charlyne Shiver Steele's Mother Passes Away

Mrs. Eunice Shiver

Charlyne's Mother,Eunice Evelyn (Maiden Name: Touchton) Shiver, age 91, of Suwanee, GA, passed away on Monday, 12/31/12 in Cumming, GA, of natural causes.  She had, for the past few years, made her home near Jasper, Georgia, where Charlyne and Jerry Steele are living.  Here is a link to her obituary - Mrs. Shiver's Obituary .  Our prayers and condolences go out to Charlyne and her family.

Ruby Lewis Makes All County Cross Country First Team

Ruby Lewis has another feather in her running cap.  She had been named to the first team for Polk County's female cross country runners.
Ruby Lewis 1st Team 

David "Papa" Jones, Husband of Arlene Sheridan Jones - Video Tribute

The link below is to the video tribute to David.  It is very well done and is about 21 minutes in length.  As far as I can determine, this video will not play on an Apple iPad.

 Link to Video

David Jones, Husband of Arlene Sheridan Jone Passes Away

David Jones and Arlene Sheridan

Link to obituary - Obituary in The Ledger

In Arlene's own words:

Christmas Eve morning I found my precious hubby had gone on into eternity. Although he had SEVERE COPD and was on oxygen 24/7, had been in and out of the hospital with pneumonia and heart problems all of 2012, I still wasn't prepared to say goodbye to my companion of nearly 51 years. We met in 1961 after he got out of the Army. We were engaged in August and married in Jan. 1962. The rest is history including a son and a daughter and 7 grandchildren. (wife: Arlene Sheridan Jones).

David accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior the year we began dating. Although he knew about Jesus it was that year that he made it personal for him.  Throughout the years we both grew as Christians and I loved sharing my faith with my husband and then our 2 children and finally our grandchildren. Kevin Jones(Aimee) and Karen (Jones) Kochenburger are our children. Karen's two children are Michael Kochenburger (Hannah) and Kristin Kochenburger. Kevin's are Brooke Jones, David R. Jones, Stephanie Jones Whipple (Kris) and Hanna and David Larracus.  He is survived also by his younger sister, Sherri Jones Morgan of Bartow, FL. (My granddaughter Brooke is in charge of writing the official obituary for the Ledger but I have not yet read the final yet but wanted to write a brief note of information for my former classmates of the 1959 LHS Class.  David was in the Navy Reserves for a brief time while in high school at LHS but later joined the US Army and became a member of the 82nd Airborne Division stationed at Fort Bragg, NC. He was a communnication specialist as well while serving our country in peacetime.

Dave always was a staunch conservative in his political persuasion and supported our Constitutional rights. He enjoyed a bit of bantor back and forth on such topics as well as a love for history, especially military history.

Dave was became a member of Lakeland's First Baptist Church when he was saved and baptised, later he and his wife Arlene Sheridan Jones, became active at Carpenter's Home Church until they moved upon retirement, to upstate South Carolina mountains. At that time they joined Dacusville Church of God which was later known as LifeChurch of Dacusville, a suburb of Easley, SC.

Before his health took its toll on his active lifestyle, Dave as he preferred to be called, was well known as a supporter of the Florida GATORS with all kinds of Gator collectibles. You would not need to be around him long before you found that out. He had become an avid golfer, belonging to a golf group in Berea, SC, a suburb of Greenville. His younger years, he and Arlene along with the 2 children, loved fishing and using his golf boat to do just that on summer vacations and holidays. He loved being a native Floridian as his parents too were from Florida.

I have to stop writing when it gets to me too much. I would cherish any prayer for me to endure this part of life with strength from the joy of the Lord.

Arlene Sheridan Jones

LHS Class of 1959 Christmas Party

On December 15, 2012, the Lakeland High School Class of 1959 held its 2012 Christmas party at the beautiful lakeside home of Mary Futch.  Mary's home is on the private lake, Lake Lester.  We had a total of 67 attendees, with 11 from other classes participating.  Mary Futch's granddaughter recruited her boyfriend and another friend and acted as valets to organize the parking of approximately 40 vehicles.  It was first class.

The food was plentiful and delicious.

In lieu of still photographs, I set up a camcorder and made a 10 minute video.  Many attendees agreed to be video taped, while a few declined to go on camera.  That video is on YouTube, and here is the link - YouTube Video.  Enjoy the video.  Incidentally, that is Corky Dean entering the out house.

Gordon and Jean Gibson Wish to Tell You About Their Son

Jean Hodgson

Gordon and Jean (Hodgson) Gibson wish for you to know about their son, Nick, a very courageous and busy young man preparing for his future, serving his country, and honoring his fellow veterans.  This link - Read About Nick - tells the story far better than can I.

Quoting Jean - "I feel so grateful for and proud of Nick, but my fear is literally breathtaking at times. Please share if possible and ask our classmates for prayers for him and his fellow climbers."

By the way, a PJ is a USAF pararescue jumper. 

Ruby Lewis Takes 3rd in Class 3A, District 7 Cross Country Championships

Sophomore Ruby Lewis (George Jenkins), granddaughter of Ronnie and Carolyn Lewis, placed 3rd out of 61 contestants in the Class 3A, District 7 Cross Country Championships - Complete Meet Results.  Her time was 20 minutes, 39.77 seconds.  The distance is 5 kilometers or roughly 3.1 miles.  Ruby ran each of the 3.1 miles in 6 2/3 minutes.  Congratulations to Ruby and to the proud grandparents.

Ruby Lewis Upsets Favorite Mallory White to Win County Cross Country Championship

Sophomore Ruby Lewis (George Jenkins) won the girls individual county cross country championship.  Lewis posted a time of 20:24.79, edging out Lakeland Christian's Mallory White (20:29.84) - Link to The Ledger Article.  The time is actually 20 minutes, 24 seconds, and 79/100 of a second.  The race is approximately 3.1 miles or 5 kilometers.

Ruby is the granddaughter of Ronnie (Hotdog) and Carolyn Lewis.

John Goddard Shares a Video of His Model Trains

John Goddard has constructed a building on his property that looks like a locomotive caboose (see image above).  John and his wife, Kathy have done a professional job in assembling this project.  The detail is intricate and amazing.  John and I have put together a video that he wishes to share with his classmates and friends.  John has ordered two hot air balloons for the airport and a few other items, so an update may be coming soon.  Here is the link to the video - John Goddard's Trains.

Coral Clark, Wife of George Clark, Has Passed Away

George & Coral (Hutchens) Clark

Sadly, our classmate, George Clark, has lost his wife, Coral, to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.  Below is a link to her obituary - Obituary for Coral Clark.

Bobby Surgeon Passes Away

I have learned from Dave Bayhan that Bobby Surgeon died from a heart attack.  In addition he was suffering from metastatic squamous cell carcinoma, as was chronicled in our class blog in the year 2009 - Article in Class Blog, 2009

Bobby expressed a desire to be cremated and buried at sea.  Dave reports that Bobby’s wishes will be carried out, and he will be buried at sea off of Anna Maria Island.  No memorial service is planned, and to Dave’s knowledge, there will be no obituary in The Ledger.

Dave told me something that I had forgotten or never knew.  This is that Bobby had a career in professional water skiing.  I searched the Internet, and I found three links, all of which deal with the very early years.  I am including below three links, all of which navigate to very old newspaper articles.

1958 Atlantic City Water Shows

http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1346&dat=19580622&id=vINOAAAAIBAJ&sjid=JPoDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7549,5526026

1958 Barefoot Skiing

http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1346&dat=19580323&id=vLgSAAAAIBAJ&sjid=IPoDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6152,2402158

Bobby Surgeon jumps 100 feet in 1960

http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1346&dat=19600725&id=VKIkAAAAIBAJ&sjid=OvoDAAAAIBAJ&pg=4836,3389422 

Helicopter Spin

http://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1346&dat=19570210&id=5kNYAAAAIBAJ&sjid=H_oDAAAAIBAJ&pg=7311,3874423

Ruby Lewis Wins Lakeland 5 Kilometer City Race

Ruby Lewis, granddaughter of Ronnie and Carolyn Lewis, running for the George Jenkins Eagles, has won the Lakeland 5 Kilometer City Race (approximately 3.1 miles) in a time of 21 minutes and 51.45 seconds.  The cross country meet was held at Tenoroc High School.  She competed against All Saints' Academy, Foundation Christian Academy, George Jenkins, Kathleen, Lake Gibson, Lakeland, ­McKeel Academy, Oasis Christian Academy, Santa Fe Catholic, Tenoroc, Winter Haven and Victory Christian Academy.  Link to The Ledger article.

The George Jenkins Eagles have three other excellent runners on the girl's team.  They are Teresa Trantham, Casey Johnson and Heather Meskimen.  Teresa Tranthan was a slight favorite.

A quote from Ruby - "It feels so good, I don't think winning has ever felt this good."

Update From Jane Morris Bay

I'm retiring in four (4) week after 35 years working at Lucasfilm. Had a big party, lots of fun and am heading to Nepal for another conference with the International Council of Thirteen Indigenous Grandmothers -Link to Council of Thirteen Indigenous Grandmothers - in Kathmandu. Will be going from October 31 to November 17. Home (Villa Marin) for three weeks, then to Santa Fe for Christmas and New Years. So looking forward to my new life.

Howard Hart Shares Story of His Love Affair With Barbara Robbins

Howard Hart, who was married to our own Barbara Robbins, wishes to tell the class the love story between Barbara and him.  Please visit the link - Story From Howard Hart.

Ferrin Hicks Discharged From Hospital

A heart catheterization revealed that Ferrin has no heart blockage and the physicians found no evidence of heart attack.  So, Ferrin was discharged without knowing why he was having chest pains.

Ferrin Hicks Hospitalized Again

Ferrin Hicks reports that he has suffered another heart attack and disorientation.  EMS transported him to the LRMC emergency room a couple of days ago.  He is in bed 360A.  The telephone number for LRMC is 863-687-1100.

Roger Sherman Shares a Video From Ireland Trip

Allan, if you can, share the attached YouTube video - Te Deum - Bridgetown Priory, Blackwater Valley, Ireland - with the class. It was one of the highlights of my Ireland trip and was just a mile away from the Castle in which I stayed.

Jane Morris Bay Reveals Retirement Plans

Enjoy the slideshow showing Jane's new retirement home, a luxurious condominium named Villa Marin in San Rafael and read her retirement email in the link below the slideshow.
Read Jane's retirement email.

Paul Schiff Shares Photos of the Schiff and Raymond Families

Paul Schiff offers these photos and narrative.  Beatty is nearest the forefront in the first photo; Irene is in back of her.  Beatty and Paul pose for the second photo.  In the third photo, Maurice is driving the boat.  Below, I quote Paul:

"Last Monday (8/6), my wife, Irene, and I spent the afternoon with Beatty and Maurice Raymond. We see them when they come up to their summer home in Old Saybrook, Connecticut, which is only about a half hour or so from our house. This year we went for a leisurely cruise a little way up the Connecticut River, moored the boat in a cove, swam and had good conversation. I thought that I would share a few photos with you... perhaps to be posted on the LHS blog."

Watch Ruby Lewis Win a 1600 Meter Race

Follow this link to see Ruby Lewis win a 1600 meter race http://youtu.be/iSSKjBZ4Be8.  1600 meters is just a smidgen short of one mile.  Read the blog article below for more information on Ruby.

Photos of Ruby Lewis Running Track

Ruby Lewis is the daughter of Brian and Jannet Lewis, and she is the granddaughter of Ronnie (Hot Dog) and Carolyn Lewis.  Ruby is a freshman and a track star at George Jenkins High School.  She was named to the all county girl's track team.  Ruby won this honor for the 800 meter, 1,600 meter, and 3,200 meter races.  Ruby is 59 seconds off of the state record in the 1,600 meter race and about two minutes off of the state record in the 3,200 meter race.  Remember, she is only a freshman.

The Lewis and Carter Families Go Fishing

Kneeling is Jason Lewis.  The little one is Kaitland Lewis, daughter of Jason and Lisa Lewis.  From left to right in the last row are Carolyn Lewis, Jackie Finley, Don Carter, Ronnie (Hot Dog) Lewis, and Lisa Lewis.  Don and Jackie are planning to marry, probably in December.  Also of interest, Jackie and Lisa are mother and daughter, respectively.  The group did not bother to name the huge Red Snappers, as they are going to eat them.

 

 

 Ruby Lewis, the granddaughter of Ronnie (Hot Dog) and Carolyn Lewis, was named to the all county girl's track team as a freshman at George Jenkins High School. Ruby won this honor for the 800 meter, 1,600 meter, and 3,200 meter races. Remember, she is only a freshman. She is going to be a track superstar.

53 Years of Marriage for Sonny and Bonita McKinsey

Bonita Taylor McKinsey and her husband, Sonny McKinsey are celebrating 53 years of marriage today, June 18, 2012.  Congratulations to them.

Toni Wimmer Schwarz's Husband Passes Away

Frank H. Schwarz, Jr. passed Monday night June 11, 2012 from a long battle with lung cancer.  Please follow this link to Frank Schwarz's Obituary.

Toni's contact information is:

10010 Lake Lowery Road

Haines City, FL 33844

(863) 956-4313

Sondra Sisk Zinn has Passed Away

Sondra Sisk Zinn of Dunnellon, Florida, formerly of Lakeland, Florida, died Wednesday, June 6, 2012 at the West Marion Community Hospital, Ocala, Florida (Obituary).

Sondra was a talented artist who was educated at the University of the Americas in Puebla, Mexico. She was very passionate about animals, the environment and nature. She enjoyed reading, playing her piano and intellectual conversation.

Robert (Bob) Wagner Has Passed Away

We have learned that Robert Wagner passed away on Saturday, June 2, 2012.  Robert was in the LHS Class of 1959, but joined the military before graduation.  Robert was living in Atlanta with his wife, Lisa.

Jerry Steele is out of Hospital

Hi Everyone,

After ten days in the hospital, WE ARE HOME!!!!!!!!! Both of us are EXHAUSTED but so happy to be here. Now, we just need to get some much needed rest (you never rest in a hospital!) Jerry is feeling pretty well -- just very, very tired; and, coughing and sneezing are quite painful. For the first time ever, he is on several meds but those will be removed, as he heals.

We want to, again, thank you for your hospital visits, phone calls, cards, emails, texts and, most certainly, your prayers!!!!

With love,

Charlyne

Charlyne Steele Reports Jerry is Out of ICU

It is with great pleasure, I can, finally, announce: JERRY IS OUT OF THE INTENSIVE CARE UNIT!!!!!!! YAY!!!!!!! We are a couple of days behind schedule but, now, he is in a cardiac room and doing really well!!!!!! Don't have a clue, as to when he'll be released to go home, but we are so happy that he has progressed enough to be out of ICU!!!!!

Your calls, e-mails, text messages and, most especially, prayers, have sustained us through this long ordeal and we are so very greatful to each of you. I will, of course, keep you updated, when we return home.....home.....I've almost forgotten where that is located!

Much love,

Charlyne

Jerry Steele's Heart Surgery is Complete Success

Charlyne reported by phone that the 5-hour-long surgery is a complete success.  The valve was replaced, the aneurysm was repaired, and the aortic root was repaired.  Jerry will be hospitalized for 5 to 7 days.  Complete recovery is projected to be 6 months.  Jerry keeps himself in excellent physical condition, and the doctors say that has helped him greatly in this surgery.

Charlyne Steele Again Updates Us on Jerry's Heart Condition

Dear Ones,

On Tuesday, Jerry's symptoms returned (plus a couple more!), so we rushed to our local hospital's ER. Our cardiologist determined it was best for Jerry to come by ambulance, right then, to Emory Midtown Atlanta. We've been here, since. Tomorrow morning, Jerry's surgery will be performed about 8:00 AM. The surgeon will remove the aneurysm, replace the aortic valve and repair the aorta root. If all goes well, he is expected to be in Emory for 5-7 days, before being released. Jerry has continued to have no pain (thank you, Lord!) and is very optimistic about his surgery and recovery.

We greatly appreciate all the many phone calls, emails. texts, cards and offers of assistance. You are the BEST!!!!! I will keep you updated.

Our love,

Charlyne (and Jerry!)

Royce Stephens Update by Mary Lou Deeds Helm

Mary Lou Deeds Helm reports that she spoke with Royce’s wife, Linda again yesterday.  His surgery went well; his right leg was amputated above the knee.  He was in the hospital until this weekend when he went to Palm Terrace for Rehab.  She said that he is upbeat and looking for good results.  Continued prayer would be appreciated.  I’m sure he would also appreciate cards.  The address is 1919 Lakeland Hills Boulevard, Lakeland, FL 33805

Charlyne Steele Updates Jerry's Condition

Dear Friends,

Yesterday, we spent the day at Emory Hospital, Midtown Atlanta, with surgeons, doctors, nurses, techs, etc. We are to "report" to the hospital on Friday, May 18th, at 5:30 AM for surgery, as the surgeon is not available until that date. Surgery will consist of removing the aneurysm and replacing the aortic valve. Jerry did his pre-op, except for one blood test (which must be done nearer the date of surgery), while we were there. Should he have any of the symptoms, which he experienced previously, he is to, immediately, get to our local E.R. and they would air-lift him down to Emory and one of our surgeon's partners would do an emergency surgery. Jerry is to do NOTHING until this is repaired on the 18th. His spirits are positive but he is not one to do nothing and that is a big problem for him!

We both appreciate all the phone calls, cards, emails and, most especially, prayers. I will keep you up-dated, as we progress through this process. Please, continue your prayers for Jerry and his medical team.

Fondly,

Charlyne

Charlyne Steele Updates Jerry's Condition

Hi our dear friends,

WE ARE HOME!!!!! Three days in the CDU was about three days too long for both of us! We will go back Monday for a CT of Jerry's heart. Then, Thursday, we have an appointment with the surgeon in Atlanta for a consultation and we'll schedule surgery, at that time. This surgeon did my brother's triple by-pass a couple years ago and is very good. Surgery will be performed at Emory-Crawford Long Hospital, downtown Atlanta.

The heart cath confirmed the findings of the echocardiogram; the aortic valve is not working and there is an aneurysm there. Our cardiologist said the surgery didn't have to be performed today or tomorrow but it must be done soon. Jerry is quite perturbed that he has been so cautious to exercise, eat properly and take good care of his body - and now this! The doctors keep reminding him, had he not done that, "things" could be much worse!

We appreciate all the calls, emails, texts and, most especially, prayers! We have always known we have wonderful friends and you are proving it, once again! Please, continue to keep Jerry in your prayers and I will update, when surgery is scheduled.

With love,

Charlyne

Mary Sargent's Surgery Successful

Dick Sargent reports that Mary's surgery was successful. Her thyroid did have to be completely removed due to a 6 millimeter cancerous spot. The surgeon feels that she is cured.

Finally, Some Good News From Judy Weeks Solger

In Judy's own words:

"I think our class blog is in need of some upbeat news and maybe I can start it off.

Judith Weeks Solger, married to the same wonderful man, David, for almost 52 years. No serious health problems. Small but wonderful family. Dave and I are retired, son Brian is a long time teacher at Marianna High School, daughter-in-law Sandy has her own interior scape business working in Holmes, Jackson and Washington counties and two very talented grand kids. Grandson Ethan will graduate from the U of F, College of Health and Human Performance, on May 5. He has accepted a two year graduate assistanship at the University of Nebraska and will work with the Nebraska football team as an Athletic Trainer. Granddaughter Erin is finishing her freshman year at Chipola College on a softball scholarship. Chipola is competing this weekend in Pensacola for state JUCO title. She plans on pursuing a career in prosthesis development.

I just want to wish everyone well and hope some of you have been as fortunate as I have." Judy

Dick Sargent Reports His Wife Having Surgery

Dick reports that Mary, as of today, April 26, 2012, is in surgery for removal of thyroid gland and a salivary gland.  Dick asks for your prayers and good thoughts.

Howard Hart, husband of Barbara Robbins Hart reports that Barbara is Florida Hospital at Connerton, 9441 Health Center Drive, Land O' Lakes, Florida 34647, which is a long term acute care (LTAC) hospital about 54 miles from the Hart's home in Lakeland.  She is suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease {COPD}, and the doctors are unable to get her off of the respirator.  Complicating the COPD is that fact that Barbara was diagnosed with esophagus cancer in September, her third bout with cancer.  She has had no solid food since October, 2011.  The doctors have informed Howard that he will have to make a hard decision in the next few days.

Howard's email is luckyexpressone@yahoo.com.

Jerry Steele Has Congenital Defect in Aortic Valve

Charlyne Steele reports that two very recent trips to the emergency room for dizziness and a heavy feeling in the chest have revealed that Jerry has a congenital defect in his aortic valve.  Rather than having a tricuspid, he has more on the order of a bicuspid.  The doctors in Jasper, Georgia are saying that he needs a valve replacement surgery.  The urgency of the situation is graded on a 1 to 4 scale, with 4 being the most urgent.  The doctors are currently rating Jerry's condition as a 3.5.  After a heart catheterization in Jasper on April 26, 2012, Jerry and Charlyne will travel to Atlanta for an expert second opinion.  Charlyne asks your prayers for Jerry.