For My Marshall County Family: I, unfortunately, find myself back in the hoose-gal (hospital), and have been here a week today. I hope to be home by Monday or so of next week. It seems that I developed a severe abscess in one of the inside surgical stitches, requiring additional surgery last Tuesday, May 23. It was suspected that the infection was MRSA, a very resistant and nasty bug that takes many months to kill. The doctor was also afraid the titanium rod had been compromised as well as the knee screws. He scared me to death with the "amputation" word and I am not at liberty in polite company my response to the doctor. We chose the I and D route (Incision and Draining) first until we could positively identify the culprit "bug!" Finally on Saturday, they were able to tell me that it is NOT MRSA but is a regular nasty Staphacoccus aurorus (yes I know I can not spell) which will only take about six weeks to kill. I am on SERIOUS I V antibiotics (four different ones), and will go home when they have somewhat of a handle on the infection. Also while I am here I am being fitted with an electronic "Bone Stimulator" which I will wear and use for at least six months as it stimulates the bones to cure the fractures. The bottom fracture looks great but the top and diagonal fracture has a long way to go. My will and mood remain upbeat and very ambitious--I WILL WALK again! At this time I want to take this opportunity thank four of our members for their wonderful support, many cards, and care and concern--they are Hazel Spahr, Helen Shipe, and Myrtle Duke and of course my very BEST FRIEND (our leader who so willing gives of herself to not only me but all of the list members) Linda Fluharty. Thanks also to Blaine Standiford, Vernon Anderson, Joel Robinson and others I have forgotten for all of their e-mails and cards and support. With your help and prayers, I shall conquor this mess that I have gotten myself into. Yours in Genealogy and Friendship, Carlisle Bowling P. O. Box 1177 Flagler Beach, FL 32136-1177 Zarvon@aol.com