Success #1

Hello all,

Good news at the hospital today. There is every indication that the back operation is a complete success. My engineer's caution keeps me from being overwhelmingly exuberant but within such personal limits I am relieved and very happy with the results. The start of the procedure was delayed for about 90 minutes and did not begin until about 11:30 this morning. Last night the anesthesiologist came is to tell Bernice what she would be doing and to answer any questions. When this tall and unusually striking woman first appeared in the room, Bernice immediately exclaimed "What a vision of beauty!" My darling Bernice has never hesitated in letting people know, quite directly, what she sees and feels. The young doctor, blushing slightly, thanked her and continued with business but with an added smile. The procedure took less than an hour and the only external evidence was the bandage patch on Bernice's back. Bernice was in fine spirits, a little thirsty, but was feeling none of the back pain which had given her misery for weeks. We hope that this lasts. In recovery Bernice was being cared for by a dark-eyed Philippine woman and when I arrived at her bedside Bernice told this nurse that she has been lucky to be cared for by such beautiful women. "You have made my day!" the nurse replied with a beaming smile.

The surgeon and one of his residents stopped by and told us he was very pleased with how the procedure went. He put Bernice through some simple tests of raising arms and legs — checking everything out I suppose. He was not certain, but Bernice is now scheduled first for the more serious skull operation on Monday morning. She will be in ICU for one or two days during which time her movements will be limited and a drain will be in place. One reason for performing the back operation first is the hope that with back pain eliminated this will be less of an ordeal.

Harvey, Sandy, and Lincoln are coming to visit tomorrow. I plan to return to Glen Head on Saturday night and take care of many things there. I will return on Monday in time to again greet dear Bernice in the recovery room. I have made an effort to keep her lovely room but that may be unlikely. A number are coming to visit on Sunday including granddaughters Michelle and Rachael.

Those are the major elements of today's news from Mt Sinai folks. I do appreciate all your emails and regret not being able to answer everyone.

love to all,
Merwin