FW: from Sally

[Paul Schreiber]

This is a thank you note from Sally Tilson, CharlieT's wife. As many of you know,
Charlie was an active AH/DIY'er for many years. Just after Christmas, he
contracted cancer in his optic nerve, and since has spread. He is at home with
Sally and his parents.

In May, the response to my "CharlieT" sale was wonderful: as you raised over $2800
towards his staggering medical bills.

Thanks again to everyone out there!

Paul Schreiber
Synthesis Technology


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From: 	Charlie T[SMTP:charliet at flash.net]
Sent: 	Saturday, August 08, 1998 5:20 AM
To: 	Paul Schreiber
Subject: 	from Sally


Dear Paul,

It's about ten 'til midnight, and I just listened to your message on the machine, and I am afraid to call so late...

Let this suffice as a  heartfelt thank you from both of us.  I know this may sound pretty strange, but in the face of all this suffering and tragedy, you have to try to find something to restore your faith or you crumble.... Something to give you serenity, hope, and acceptance.  

Cancer teaches you to enjoy each moment.  Sometimes it's a great day if we see a red cardinal in the birdfeeder, or a enjoy a beautiful stormy night, sometimes  it's a gesture from a friend  (pretty corny and Hallmark, huh? but true, nonetheless)...the "everyday" things we take for granted until they become the most important and meaningful. 

Finally we know what is important - the affirmation of the simple joys  - in recognizing goodness in the mist of the incomprehensible "badness".  The outreach of friends, and in particular you, Paul, and the way you rallied the Synth-DIY'ers -  our virtual friends who were caring enough to give us not only a very practical obvious financial assistance, but to make us aware that no matter what happens in this sometimes short life, there are those that reach  out in love, compassion and fellowship, making cancer or other hardships seem very small and powerless in comparison.

Please count on me to be part of the family that could in the future, offer support to someone else in the group that faces a similar challenge.

If this is not too "off topic", would you forward all or part of it to the group for me??

With much admiration , appreciation, and love to all,

Sally Tilson