about CaringBridge  |  home page  |  view guestbook  |  view photos  |  read journal history  |  donate to CaringBridge

Thanks for visiting our guestbook!

If you do not see your entry after adding - please click on reload/refresh - your browser may not have loaded the new page.
AOL Users:  The AOL browser seems to have particular problems reloading after this page is updated.  Your Entry is probably already there - it is just not being displayedt.  Close your screen completely and re-enter it.

Click here to sign the guestbook.

Click here to go back to the main page.

Peace and healing,
Annie

Not long to go! Are you getting excited? We are!

Love Everyone at Post Pals

Hey Deirdre!
Its been a long time since I've signed in! hope you're doing ok!

With Love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams~
~Prayer Bears~
OWC, SOEW

I know this is a kids poem but I LOVE it!





A giraffe looks in my window
At the same time everyday,
He just appears with silly ears,
When I turn on the light to play.

I tell him the things I do at two
While he munches and crunches the leaves,
That are so very tasty too,
From the tippy tops of the trees.

One night he didn’t look so good,
His eyes were filled with pain.
I asked him, "What is the problem, the food?"
He said, "I must explain!"

"My knees are hurting pretty bad
And my long neck is so sore.
I really do like our talks,
But I can't take much more!
If you do a favor for me,
I know how my pain will be free.

CAN YOU MOVE UP TO THE SECOND FLOOR!!!







Love from Post Pals

Hi Deirdre!
I'm so glad to hear that you've found a job! Sorry to hear that its not where you would like it to be...

With Love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams~
~Prayer Bears~
OWC, SOEW

Hey Deirdre!
Hoping all is going well with yah in this new yr!!

With Love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams~
~Prayer Bears~
OWC, SOEW

Hi Deirdre!
I hope your thanksgiving went well gal!

With Love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams~
~Prayer Bears~
OWC, SOEW

Peace, healing, and love to you and your family.

YOUR ALWAYS ON MY MIND TAKE CARE .

Hi Deirdre!
Sounds like you're going through a rough patch emotionally gal. *hugz* I'm sorry to hear that the fingers are starting to act up again. Can't be easy. You take care and take it 1 day at a time yah?

With Love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams~
~Prayer Bears~
OWC, SOEW

Hey gal,
Just stopping in to check on yah, still loving the picture! You sound like you have so much going on.

With Love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams~
~Prayer Bears~
OWC, SOEW

Boo!

Just wanted to wish you a....



Love Viks

~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams~
~Prayer Bears~
OWC, SOEW

Hey Deirdre...
Wow... its been such an emotional time for you. Hang in there gal.


With Love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams~
~Prayer Bears~
OWC, SOEW

Hey Deirdre,
I don't come here in a while and so much happens! *hugz* Glad you're still coping despite it all. Hang in there girlie!

With Love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams~
~Prayer Bears~
OWC, SOEW

Hello, Just a short message to say



Love Viks

Hi Deirdre!
Oh no! I'm so sorry that you had to go to the ER! I hope th cough is much better now!!!!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care, SOEW

Hey Deirdre!
I'm sure that you'll make a difference in the world! Or at least in yours. I think its awesome what you're doing!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Simply Joanne~
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care, SOEW

Hi Deirdre!
Congrats on graduating! It'll be my turn soon! lol... Commencement is in July. We should both have a party huh?

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care, SOEW


~Simply Joanne~

Hi Deirdre!
I'm so glad that your headache finally broke! Man... I hate migraines. I'm not good with them!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care, SOEW


~Simply Joanne~

Hey Deirdre!
Praying for your friend! And hang in there gal! I just ended my exams! Thank God! So I TOTALLY understand the feeling!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care, SOEW


~Simply Joanne~

Keeping you in my thoughts and in my prayer's always.

Hip hop, hippety hop
My “Easter Bunny” went off to the shop,
He bought me an egg and lots of chocs
And packed them into a cardboard box.
Then he wrapped it with paper and shiny string
It really was such a pretty thing.
Disaster struck when I opened the door-
He slid across the parquet floor,
He went round the corner and past the stairs
And finished up in a pile of chairs.
Of the Easter goodies not a trace,
he’d thrown them into my fireplace!
So a warning before you go opening doors
Make sure your “Bunny” has non-slip paws!





Happy Easter

With lots of love,

Everyone at Post Pals

Keeping you in my thoughts and in my prayer's always.

God bless,love&hugs,Linn,Daniel & Ariel
The Marrero's <gillinn7@msn.com>
port orchard, wa. usa - Friday, March 17, 2006 2:23 AM CST

Hey Deirdre,
Just stopping in to check on yah!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care, SOEW


~Simply Joanne~

THE PRAYER BEARS

Hey Deirdre...
Yeah!!! You go gal! Esp with the "you don't look sick"! lol... Hang in there and I hope things get better for yah!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care, SOEW


~Simply Joanne~

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Hi Deirdre!
How are you doing?? I hope you're feeling better and that the weather is being nice and kind!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care


~Simply Joanne~

Hello, just thought i would pop by your page to have a nosey at how you are doing, i like the quote you used at the end




Love Viks from

HEy Deirdre!
Just checking in on you. Hope things are going better for you!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care


~Simply Joanne~

hope you feel better soon.

Hi Deirdre!
Sorry to hear that you weren't feeling good! Hope you're better now!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care


~Simply Joanne~

Love viks
www.postpals.co.uk

I'm sending lots of wonderful New Year's wishes your way and hoping that 2006 brings health, happiness, and more wonderful times than you'll be able to remember!

MY CHRISTMAS ANGEL

I know it's been like forever since I've visited you.
I have just been so busy.
But I think of you always.

Hi Deirdre!
I hope you are feeling better now. Thinking of yah!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care


~Simply Joanne~

Thinking of you today...

Hi Deirdre!
I'm so sorry to hear about what happened!!! HAng in there gal! And hey... email me if you ever need to talk or anything!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care


~Simply Joanne~

Hi Deirdre!
I'm sorry to hear that things have been so rough. *big hugz* But I kinda understand. Its always scary. The thought of things getting bad again just when everything was starting to look up. Just know that I'll always be praying hard for you ok? Hang in there!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears Website~
Ones Who Care


~Simply Joanne~

Hey gal!
How are you doing?? Thinking of you!!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears~
Ones Who Care


~Simply Joanne~

Hi Deirdre!
You're amazing! With all the you're going through, you still find the time to try and make a difference!

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~
~The Prayer Bears~
Ones Who Care


~Simply Joanne~

ALWAYS IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS

Hey Deirdre!!
I love your new photos! Now you just gave me a terrible craving to go on a holiday!!! lol...

With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~


~Simply Joanne~

Hey Deirdre!
How are you doing?? I sure hope all's going well and that you're feeling swell too!


~Simply Joanne~



With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

Hey Deirdre! I'm just stopping by to say hi and let you know that I'm thinking of you!! Hope all is well! God bless and *warm hugs* ><>†<><

Hi Deidre,
Just popped in to let you know you are being thought of today,

www.postpals.co.uk
Love

Hey Deirdre!
You won't believe how GOOD it is to hear that you're doing pretty good! Working and all. Thats totally awesome gal!!


~Simply Joanne~



With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

Love Viks

Love Viks

Hi Deirdre,

Just wanted to say hi! I hope you're having a great weekend!

Hi Deirdre! I'm just stopping by to say hi and let you know that I'm thinking of you!! I haven't signed in a long time! My bad! I hope you have a GREAT week! God bless and *warm hugs* ><>†<><

I thought I would stop by and say

Plus I had to let you know that I'm thinking of you always.

Hi Deirdre, just sending lots of love to you,

Viks

<vague_2000@hotmail.com>
Canada, Montreal - Wednesday, June 15, 2005 7:03 PM CDT

---

My thoughts and prayers are with you ALL
Darla, mom to Angel Matt (FA) 7-3-90-4-22-04, www.caringbridge.org/in/angelbarneyboo <DLinden73@aol.com>
IN - Tuesday, June 14, 2005 9:44 PM CDT

---

just wanted to stop by....

thinking of you....

sending you lots of love

Craig, Lauren, and Helen

Deirdre--
thanks for checking back in on me...i adore your hair--it is sooo cute..i love your new photos especially at the botanical gardens...and the pics from ground zero..everytime i look at the american flag i see 9/11 a day we will never forget..
sending love,
chris

Sorry it's been awhile just been so busy.
I haven't forgotten about you though.

I've been hearing that people can't get into my guestbook I think I fixed it now I hope.Thinking of you always.

Hi Deirdre,

I'm so sorry to hear about your cat. I'm pretty close to my pets as well and I know how hard it can be to lose one, especially one who has been there with you through everything.

I'm glad you've made the decision to transfer closer to home. It's a hard decision to make but in the long run it just makes sense. I've struggled with this decision many times, and now I know that living very far away from home just isn't possible when I'm really sick. I hope the transfer goes smoothly and you don't lose credits in the process!

Hi Deirdre!
Hey gal!! lol... How is the tummy doing? :) Just dropping by to check on you. I'll be in MA in like 11 days!!! How cool is that???


~Joanne’s Corner~



With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

Sending lots of "Mousey Love" to you today,



Love

Viks

God Made You For A Reason

When I look upon my screen
I find a happy reason
the joy that comes to me from you
is gratitude so very pleasing...

What a wonderful creator
that made a friend like you,
He placed a sweet kind person
and gave me lots of comfort too.

A world without your kindness
would be a sad sad world.

But I don't have to worry,
there's no need to be,
because of you I am very happy,
and that's good enough for me.

I've found great people everywhere,
they come into my life.
Just like you, all those others too,
have given me delight.

So I thank God I met you,
I thank him for all seasons.
Now I know for sure with all my heart,
GOD Created YOU for a reason.

Thinking and praying for you always.

Hey gal!
I hope you figure out which meds are the ones that will help good so you can get off the rest! lol... As for me... we still have no idea whats going on. lol... swelling joints, stiff, pain... all the yummy stuff huh?


~Joanne’s Corner~



With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

Hi Deirdre!
How are you doing?? Hope everything is going good!


~Joanne’s Corner~



With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

Hi Deirdre!
Guess what? I'll be in MA in a month! Yep... its for a holiday! Maybe we can rig something up. lol... if you're still there... sorry to hear that your meds have been giving you trouble. Hope it all gets sorted out soon!


~Joanne’s Corner~



With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

HAPPY EASTER LOVE WWW.POSTPALS.CO.UK

sorry finally i pop back at your site....i just neglected to sign your guestbook the other night...but i wanted to say hello--and what a small world it is that you found me and have family near me.....well i hope you are feeling a bit better--and i just wanted to say....


love chris

Just thought I would stop

in and say that I'm thinking of you always.

Hi Deirdre!
How are you doing? Thinking of yah!


~Joanne’s Corner~



With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

Hey gal!
Welcome back! lol... I need some of that cold weather! Was sitting in the doctor's office today and he was telling me that the blood tests came back with inflamation and everything and the word arthritis kept popping up and you kept popping into my mind everytime he said it! lol...


~Joanne’s Corner~



With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

Hiya, sending some hugs and love to a wonderful Princess



Lots of love

Post Pals

Hey gal!!
How's everything?? Hope you're doing good!


~Joanne’s Corner~



With love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

Hi Deirdre!
Haha! As an undergrad, I'd panic if my laptop died on me so I know the feeling! lol.. I always do major hurting in school cos I don't dare take my painkillers. I tried a couple of times and snoozed the class away! lol...


~Joanne’s Corner~



With Love,
Joanne and the Dream Team
~Bridge of Dreams ~

Hey girl!
How's everything?? I hope you're feeling better than when you last wrote... but if not... heres a big *hug* just in case. :)


~Joanne’s Corner~


~Bridge of Dreams ~

Hope despite everything your soon feeling



Love Viks

Hello!
Its me again!!! Are you doing any better?? :) Hope you have a great weekend!


~Joanne’s Corner~


~Bridge of Dreams ~

Hey Deirdre...
I hope you get that tummy sorted out really soon! But I'm glad your joints are doing better. :)


~Joanne’s Corner~

So sorry you have these new things to deal with. I'm thinking of you!



Hugs, Annie
Annie <penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 10:57 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre! I haven't forgotten about you, fellow grad student, and sometime when I get up to Boston to visit you'll definitely be on my list of people to see. I read your entry today and I'll be thinking of you and praying for you down here in DC... catch up with me on IM anytime you just need someone to talk to :).
Caitlin MacAlpine <cjm45@georgetown.edu>
Washington, DC USA - Sunday, February 13, 2005 8:16 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre,
How are you doing? Can you e-mail me sometime when you have a chance? I'd like to ask you a couple questions since you (unfortunately - hate RA :-P) have more experience with methotrexate than I do. I'm wondering what dosages you started at and where you are now, side effects over time, etc., My doctor has seemed to downplay some of the side effects...and I'm wondering whose nuts...him or me ;-)

sending you smiles & strength,
Adena
Adena <adenashoshan@msn.com>
Boulder, CO USA - Saturday, February 12, 2005 11:35 PM CST

---

Stopping by to let you know that we are thinking of you and sending lots of prayers your way.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Wishing you a very bless Valentine’s day!!!!!!!!!!
Love LaKota and her mom Debbie.
God be with you.

~*~LaKota~*~


http://www.caringbridge.org/mn/laplafcan <LaKotaDeb@Hotmail.com>
St.Cloud, MN - Friday, February 11, 2005 1:42 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre,
I'm FINALLY back to updating and visiting people again. I'm so sorry to hear about the latest diagnosis. Unfortunately, I can relate....and hope for both our sakes that additional diagnoses early in the year aren't a bad omen for the rest of the year!I wish this autoimmune stuff would just calm down, or go away or something! for the both of us. I can tell by your words and attitude that you are really a strong woman.....keep being strong...and allow yourself moments when you don't have to be quite so strong and you can just be, ok? I hope you get answers and help for the stuff that's going on in your body and that they can help you branch out from yogurt and crackers.
Come visit when you can.

Blessings and Shalom,
Adena
Adena <adenashoshan@msn.com>
Boulder, CO USA - Friday, February 11, 2005 8:42 AM CST

---

Hey, Deirdre --- I'm so sorry to hear about this latest complication (is it considered a complication?? New diagnosis?? Whatever it is -- IT STINKS!) and hope you are getting some answers. I will be checking back to see what your doctors are recommending, and will wish for you in the meantime some peace of mind, and some comfort, and the ability to eat something besides club crackers and yogurt -- yuck! :) Hope you are feeling better soon; know we are thinking of you,

Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Thursday, February 10, 2005 8:56 PM CST

---

Hey DEIrdre,

You know, I was stopping by here to tell you the "big" news that I finally got off my hump and fixed the links back to your page here off of Julianna's, but that seems pretty small now. I'm sure sorry that you have been having such a difficult time of it lately...ferChrissakes, can't life just take it easy once in awhile?! I hope that you get some concrete answers and that whatever it is for sure, that you're feeling up to meeting it all head-on, Deirdre. Please know that we're behind to just as you have behind us!

Take care and have a cracker for me,
Terry Josephson, Julianna Banana's dad <tjosephson@shaw.ca>
Winnipeg, Canada - Wednesday, February 9, 2005 11:57 PM CST

---

wow u have been umm having a lot of things going on in your life. i wish i could hold you hand and help you through it. if u ever need a friend email me. stay strong. i know u can

www.caringbridge.org/canada/89
nakita <sk8ting_for_life@hotmail.com>
victoria, bc canada - Wednesday, February 9, 2005 9:51 PM CST

---

Deirdre ~

Aw nuts. I'm so sorry to hear that you've been dealing with more pain, and that you've likely got one more condition to deal with. I'm not coming up with any good supportive words at the moment; just some choice 4-letter ones on your behalf. I'll work on it and come back with something inspirational and uplifting tomorrow. In the meantime, know I'm thinking about you and hoping that you're feeling better.

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Monday, February 7, 2005 10:27 PM CST

---

Bless your heart....I have been patiently waiting for an update and then read on Derek's site that you had been in the ER but had no idea the extent...and your Mom mentioned Crohn's so I knew it was not fun....you poor, sweet girl. You are in my thoughts and prayers every day, whether I sign in or not. Hang in there, Love
Lisa <lblume2@yahoo.com>
Marietta, GA USA - Monday, February 7, 2005 8:17 PM CST

---

Wow, you are an amazing person Deirdre. So strong whether you want to believe it or not. Though it is hard to hear, God never gives us more than we can't handle and it is evident that God has all the confidence in the world in you. Though I don't sign in often, I am one of the reasons the meter on your page goes up daily. I will continue to keep you in my prayers especially now when you are trying to make sense of things. Hang in there, we are all behind you!
Kelly <Kandrade75@yahoo.com>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Monday, February 7, 2005 8:05 AM CST

---

Hi Deirdre!
My goodness... you're always on the go go go! lol... Well, thats GOOD! :) Sure looks cold where you are... its so hot here I'm about to become roast chicken! lol


~Joanne’s Corner~

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, February 6, 2005 8:58 AM CST

---

I got a good laugh out of the snow boot story... :) Wish Hayley and Hunter would appreciate it... Mommies *DO* know best, LOL!!

Hope this nice weather today has melted some of your snow... we were at the Jimmy Fund the Monday after the storm and it was RIDICULOUS... I don't think they even plowed the Longwood area! Nothing like trying to bulldoze through three feet of snow in a Honda Odyssey with three screaming kids in the back... :)

Pretty cool that you got to go to an inaugural ball - I can't wait to see some pictures!!
Katie, Hayley, Hunter and Taylor <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Saturday, February 5, 2005 4:16 PM CST

---

Sammy Nichols & Family <rickysammyhannah@aol.com>
Gordonsville, VA USA - Saturday, February 5, 2005 8:43 AM CST

---

Hello kettle,

My name is the pot & I am calling you black. This is a demand for news & updates!!! (unless the snow has you buried) And yes, I realize this is coming from the girl who left her page alone for almost two months. Hence, I am the pot.

DEMAND FOR NEWS!!!

Love,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Saturday, February 5, 2005 1:11 AM CST

---

Hey deidre,
I have a funny story for ya. A good friend of mine that I went to school with K-12 is also name deidre. the Deidre I know got a scholarship to Boston College to play soccer and the stayed up there and is now a social worker. Deidre, Boston, social worker...strange....I think that is you too. Has your doctor had any concerns about celebrex. I take that and bextra and my doctor was looking into the pros and cons of them both. Tiger, Precious, Cali, Snowflake and Butter finger say,"MEOW!" Well actually butterfinger makes a twwet like meow sound. I think he thinks he is a bird sometimes.
Pam(www.caringbridge.org/nc/pamc) <sylteach@aol.com>
asheboro, nc - Thursday, February 3, 2005 11:55 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre, The picture of you and your cats is just great. Dexter reminds me of my old cat-friend Tu who lived to be 19 and Tiger could be a clone of my first cat Tigger who was sweet as could be. Hope it's being a decent week for you, in as many ways as possible. Smiles, Diana Fulner
Diana Fulner <dfulner@hotmail.com>
Louisville, KY USA - Thursday, February 3, 2005 3:43 PM CST

---

Click smiley for angel jen

Enjoy your Ray of Sunshine today!
God bless,
angel jen
Rays of sunshine on Wings of Eagles
Isaiah 40:31

FROG = Forever Rely on God!
angel jen <angel.jen@mymacs.org>
Burns, TN USA - Thursday, February 3, 2005 1:18 AM CST

---

Hey D,
okay, I'm done drooling over all the pictures of Washington and Boston....snow always seems so nice when you don't actually have to deal with it. :) I like the sound of the new rheumy - I think that the younger ones are more open to, I guess, patient involvement and contribution. He definitely sounds more promising than ones that want to get rid of pain meds - say it with me now, "Oh, hell, no!" (works best if said with a South Georgia accent: "Oh, hay-ell, no!") I don't have any trouble with headaches now with Vicodin & B vitamins, UNLESS I have caffeine. It just seems to be a huge trigger for me - even the smallest amount of chocolate can set it off (which is quite a crisis at the moment, I mean, woman cannot live without chocolate). I have found, though, that when I do get a headache, Advil Migraine works for me, usually taking 3 (which is not the dosing instructions but oh, sue me, you know?). I just don't believe that for people like us that are dealing with body & joint pain, I don't think that rebound headaches are as big an issue as controling the original source of pain. Dang, I sound smart. :) Anyway, hope the snow has let up some & that you're all cosified in your apartment, feeling GOOD!!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Wednesday, February 2, 2005 6:15 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre - Just popping in to say Hi.Sounds like you had a busy few days in DC. Sorry to hear about the stomach pains. I sure hope that they go away soon!
~Caroline~ <ajpranke@juno.com>
Eagan, MN USA - Wednesday, February 2, 2005 10:42 AM CST

---

Deirdre- Looking at the photo currently on your front page I immediately think of what our dear Lizzy would ask: "Is Tiger a bad kitty?" This is from the little girl who, when she was 2 and asked what sound cats make, said "Hsssssss" as learned from our cat Matilda.

Keep looking out for yourself.
Brian Schousek <schousek@yahoo.com>
Houlton, WI USA - Tuesday, February 1, 2005 0:22 AM CST

---

G'day Deidre
I found your page through Girlie leiw and thought i would drop by hope you dont mind.
loved the photo's of the war memorial it looks so cold there we are in the middle of our summer (very hot)
be good stay healthy
love jacob's mum Jake's page


Deanne McLeod steinmetz
brisbane, Queensland Australia - Monday, January 31, 2005 4:54 AM CST

---

hi Deirdere,

My name is Laura i found you sight though annie's. I was reading your story and was touched by you. My brother just got his MBA from Bu and my mother went to undergard there and lived on babcok street too. I was thinking of getting an MSW from BU but am going to go To bridgewater state for a diffent program. Any ways I just wanted to say hi and let you know i am thinking about you.

Laura
www.carbridge.org/ma/laura
laura <queenlillycat@aol.com >
Framingham, ma - Sunday, January 30, 2005 11:23 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre, Just checking in...I haven't been to your site in a while. I had forgotten about your college list of what you have learned...it hits home now as Ali will be going off to college in the fall. Your photos are wonderful!! And I will also visit your brother's site next.

Happy Belated Birthday- And we are rooting for you from California!!
XXOO, Marey and Cali Ali

Marey, Ali's mom <kteachermom@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, January 29, 2005 11:24 PM CST

---

It sounds like you had a really good time!!! I am so excitied for you!!!! We love DC too.... We went there for the childhood cancer tree lighting back in December!!! It was so beautiful!
Sammy Nichols & Family <rickysammyhannah@aol.com>
Gordonsville, VA USA - Saturday, January 29, 2005 8:55 PM CST

---

You sound like just the coolest person! I found your site through Kendrie's which I found through my cousin's and anyway I wanted to say hi and I'm glad I found you. I was born in St Louis and have a niece at American U in DC. GW has a great art therapy program and that's what I do, and my husband got an MSW. So it feels just a bit cosmic that I found your page. I'll keep you in my thoughts. Take good care of yourself! Diana Fulner
Diana Fulner <dfulner@hotmail.com>
Louisville, KY USA - Friday, January 28, 2005 11:45 PM CST

---

Hello deirdre
thanks for letting a note in my guestbook i really appreciate it. I love your new picture from DC it's look like a great city, you are really lucky to have study in both Boston and Washington. One day I really want to live in Boston, I've been there a couple of time and i fell in love with this city. I have a question for you because, shame on me I forgot to ask my rheumy about this one and i'm pretty sure you know about this. Is it possible that my hair start to fell again because of the methotrexate? because at first when I start it I lost a lot of hair but finally it stop, but since a couple of weeks my hair are falling again and it became really thick
hope you can answers me by mail or in my guestbook
take care
Jolyane <vague_2000@hotmail.com>
montreal, Canada - Friday, January 28, 2005 7:37 PM CST

---

Deirdre,

You are a beautiful & strong woman. I wish I could hug you! Thanks for stopping by Alex's JRA Page and signing his guestbook!
Alexander's Mom
Owatonna, MN USA - Thursday, January 27, 2005 3:10 PM CST

---

Hey,
Thanks for leaving me a note in my guestbook. We got hit really hard down here by Cape Cod, too. Even harder than Boston! And we got more today, too, so we probably have a good three feet by now. I haven't been out in it much at all but I did have to go out last night and it was kind of scary not being able to see around huge piles of snow at intersections. Thank goodness everyone is being extra careful driving.

Glad to hear you had a good trip to D.C. and had some good, quality time with your brother and old friends. It's always nice to catch up with people who've known you for a long time. And I know just what you mean about wishing people would be more interested in how you're doing. When people ask how I am, I never know if they really want the truth or if they're just being polite so most of the time I just say, "I'm okay." It is nice when people then say, "No, how are you really doing?" Nice to know they really want to know.

Hope you don't get buried too much deeper under the snow today!
<penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Wednesday, January 26, 2005 5:37 PM CST

---

hello deirdre
I guess you are currently lost in the blizzard, and I hope everything is fine with you.
take care

Jolyane <vague_2000@hotmail.com>
montreal, Canada - Sunday, January 23, 2005 11:36 AM CST

---

hi i just wanted to stop by and say hi iam thinking and praying for you
sending lots of love and hugs your way
connie
connie http://www2.caringbridge.org/ga/connie <cti25635@charter.net>
flowerybranch, ga usa - Friday, January 21, 2005 10:19 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre,
I saw the link to your page on the lovely Julianna Banana's wish bracelet page. Your story is so inspiring, that I just wanted to stop by and say hi. I'll be praying for you! Keep smiling!
God bless,
Caitlin www.caringbridge.org/ct/caity
caitlin
- Friday, January 21, 2005 6:06 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre,
Just checking in...have a good weekned!!!

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love always,
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Friday, January 21, 2005 6:00 AM CST

---

Just wanted to stop by and say hi!
<penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Thursday, January 20, 2005 2:52 PM CST

---

Deirdre - We are glad to hear you are hanging in there. Sounds like you have had a busy couple weeks. Keep strong!


You give us hope that Caroline will go on to do great things one day!
~Caroline~ <ajpranke@juno.com>
Eagan, MN 55122 - Monday, January 17, 2005 2:19 PM CST

---

Sammy Nichols & Family <rickysammyhannah@aol.com>
Gordonsville, VA USA - Monday, January 17, 2005 12:57 AM CST

---

Hey Deirdre!
Wow... you are 1 busy busy busy person! But I completely know how it is! Everything is flying all over my head now. lol... sch, readings, assignments, projects... ARGH! lol... Hey, at least your busy is the fun kind! *wink*


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Monday, January 17, 2005 9:34 AM CST

---

hey i have a form of JRA and i know how much it sucks mine is related to lupus ( SLE ) so i know what its like to be in pain. yet i do not know what its liket o be you so i will not lie. just hang in there. take care

www.caringbridge.org/canada/89
nakita <sk8ting_for_life@hotmail.com>
victoria, bc canada - Sunday, January 16, 2005 11:00 PM CST

---

hi deirdre
im sorry u been sick i hope you are doing better i hope you have a nice trip to dc i read what u posted today and i wish i could help these childern that is sick on here but all i can do is sign their guest book and let them know iam thinking and praying for them i came to your site thru joanne's site i just wanted to let you know iam praying and thinking about you i hope your trip to dc will be exciting for you take care and remember to pace your self i too sufer with fibro and arthirtis and alot of other health issues i have a site on here so drop by and sign my guest book
sending you gentle hugs and alots of love your way
connie
connie http://www2.caringbridge.org/ga/connie <cti25635@charter.net>
flowerybranch, ga usa - Sunday, January 16, 2005 10:34 PM CST

---

Hi Miss D.
So sorry we haven't signed in for awhile, between the holidays and general busy-ness, things have been crazy!
I am sorry to hear about the stomach flu ick. That is the worst. I hope it goes away quickly.
Haley sends hugs and kisses!!!!
Cheryl, and Haley <Bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Sunday, January 16, 2005 8:46 PM CST

---

Hello!
Sorry that I don't always sign in, but I do check your web page all the time, Just want to let you know that you are in our prayers and thoughts.
Sending lots of prayers your way.++++++++++++++++++++++
Love LaKota and her mom Debbie.
God be with you.
~*~LaKota~*~
http://www.caringbridge.org/mn/laplafcan <LaKotaDeb@hotmail.com>
St.Cloud, MN - Saturday, January 15, 2005 10:48 PM CST

---

Dierdre, what a great New Years Eve update --- I hope January is off to a wonderful start so far for you, and that 2005 brings you lots and lots of what you hope for. (I'd say, brings you *everything * that you hope for, but then, really, wouldn't every year after that be a little anticlimatic if you already had EVERYTHING?!?!??!) :)
Take care,

Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Friday, January 14, 2005 9:48 PM CST

---

Just came across your site and wanted to stop in to say hi.
Tina & ~Lance~ <lneonkia@comcast.net>
- Thursday, January 13, 2005 8:35 PM CST

---

Deirdre..
Thank you for visiting Ashleys site. I hope you find a year ahead of you that finds a way to make your life pain free. You have got to be one strong woman to deal with college, and graduate with honors while dealing with RA. I hope that if Ashley is still dealing with JRA when she gets older that she can be as strong as you seem to be. Best wishes,
Emilie Mom to Ashley 5 Polyarticular JRA
Emilie Skidmore <h.skidmore@worldnet.att.net>
Granville, NY USA - Thursday, January 13, 2005 8:01 PM CST

---

~ Happiness is something that is never far away
It's as close as the things we do and say.
So start out the day with a smile on your face,
And make this world a happier place.~
By...~Anonymous~
IF YOU'RE HAPPY, CLICK HERE

God bless you,
angel jen
Care Mail Group Website and KIDS and TEENS/TWEENS and Sites #1 and #2
Angel Jen's niece, Harley & friend, Barrett GIRLS and finally meet ANGEL JEN

angel jen < caremailnews@yahoo.com>
Burns, TN America - Thursday, January 13, 2005 11:43 AM CST

---

Hey - just stopping by to tell you that your guest book entries on Alyssa's page always make me smile. You keep up your faith. What a beautiful "talk" with God.

Erika (Alyssa's God Loving Mommy) Sweet~Sweet Alyssa
Gunter AFB, AL USA - Thursday, January 13, 2005 10:23 AM CST

---

Ooooo...
Hey!! No fair!!! Didn't tell us it was your birthday! *sulk* lol... well, happy belated birthday!


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Monday, January 10, 2005 3:12 AM CST

---

Hey Deirdre,
So I take it from Sara's entry below that it was your birthday last week???? Well...HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY!!!! I hope it was a good one :) Please update, we miss ya!!! Take care...

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love & prayers,
XOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Saturday, January 8, 2005 4:38 AM CST

---

Hi, Just wanted to wish you a Happy New year filled with love, laughter, and family... and hopefully medically uneventful!
Sammy Nichols & Family
www.caringbridge.com/va/princesssammy

Desiree Nichols <rickysammyhannah@aol.com>
Gordonsville, VA USA - Thursday, January 6, 2005 10:46 PM CST

---

Hey D!!
I have resurfaced from my hobbit hole (though it was very comfy and difficult to leave) & now have to catch up on all my holiday wishes. So, um, happy Thanksgiving, merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and happy birthday!!!! I didn't know your birthday was January 3, because awesomely enough mine is January 6! (though one year earlier) Awesomeness reigns!! (yes, I just had my pain meds a little bit ago, so I'm happy.) Anyway, I'm glad to be back & visiting my friends....so let's hear what you did for your big day!!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page

PS The blackish kitty in the picture? Our cat looks like him! Ours is KC or Casey, depending on who spells it, and he's curled up right now at the foot of my bed. He sends greetings to his sort-of twin and best wishes for a lazy 2005!
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Wednesday, January 5, 2005 3:36 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre!
I always wanted to ask you what Boston Uni is like cos when I graduate from college, I wanna go to law sch there! lol... But... sounds like a crazy crazy place to me! :) Anyway... that was an awfully nice thing to share! And its funny. When we all have a chronic illness, although we may not have the same thing or symptoms, we kinda understand and are able to see through the other person's life into the struggles and trials that we ourselves know so well and there's that special bond thats kinda hard to explain. lol...


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, January 5, 2005 9:24 AM CST

---

Hi Deirdre... just stopping by real quick (ack, I know, the grammar...) to say Happy New Year!!

You are always in our thoughts and prayers.
Katie, Hayley, Hunter and Taylor <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Tuesday, January 4, 2005 7:29 PM CST

---

I sent you an e-mail today with an attachment of a drawing my daughter Rachael did. She called it "Learning to Fly."
Kathie Mayo www.caringbridge.org/mn/rachaelmayo <winkatmayo@hotmail.com>
- Monday, January 3, 2005 10:20 PM CST

---

HAPPY NEW YEAR'S '05!
Rooting for you from California! (Where it is raining and a "cold 52degrees!)
GO DEIRDRE!!
XXOO, Marey and Cali Ali
Marey, Ali's mom <kteachermom@hotmail.com>
- Friday, December 31, 2004 9:00 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre!
I'm glad that you got some quality family time! lol... My family thinks mornings start at 8am too!!! I can never get up that early! lol


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!


Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, December 29, 2004 9:01 AM CST

---

Hey Deirdre,
Well done on surviving such a crazy semester. I know exactly what it feels like...and having graduated for just over a year now...I don't know whether I miss it or am just glad that I'm outta there- no more finals, no more studying, no more stress. Hehe. I do miss being at university though...definitely some of the best years of my life. Well, I hope things start to slow for you and that you take the time to relax...hope you and your family had a blessed and beautiful Christmas :)

MERRY CHRISTMAS & HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love & Prayers,
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Sunday, December 26, 2004 9:49 PM CST

---

Annie <penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Friday, December 24, 2004 11:21 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre! Miss Camryn and I wanted to pop in to wish you a VERY Merry Christmas!
Thank you so much for always checking in on us and for all of your thoughts and messages!
Gobs Of Hugs From...
Alicia and Cammie (www.caringbridge.org/in/cammiespage) <alicia41570@hotmail.com>
Kentland, IN - Friday, December 24, 2004 10:33 PM CST

---

Merry Chistmas and An happy New Year, I really hope 2005 will be a good year for you,
You are such a brave lady, You are an inspiration for me

Jolyane <vague_2000@hotmail.com>
Montreal, Canada - Wednesday, December 22, 2004 8:20 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre,

Congrats on surviving and thriving through your semester and finishing your papers. That always feels sooo good. I hope you have a fun and blessed holiday and pray that you and I both can get a vacation from our joints (even for a day!!!!!!) You ask Santa, and I'll ask Chanukah Harry, k? ;-) Maybe they'll collaborate and help us out???

Anyway, have a nice break, merry xmas and happy new year!

Shalom,
Adena
Adena Shoshan <adenashoshan@msn.com>
Boulder, CO USA - Wednesday, December 22, 2004 2:25 AM CST

---

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas... and a Happy New Year!!! You are in my thoughts and prayers!!! I hope this weekend is full of family, good food, lots of presents, and tons of love and laughter for you!!!
Sammy Nichols & Family
Desiree Nichols www.caringbridge.com/va/princesssammy <rickysammyhannah@aol.com>
Gordonsville , VA USA - Tuesday, December 21, 2004 1:59 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre!
Man... you gotta teach me how you do it! I hurt so bad all over that it drives me nuts!!! Impart some of your coping skills to me for Christmas ok? *grin* Anyway... glad that its finally holidays!!!


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, December 21, 2004 10:22 AM CST

---

Thinking of you, praying for and with you.
Brian Schousek <schousek@yahoo.com>
Houlton, WI USA - Saturday, December 18, 2004 2:37 AM CST

---

Congratulations, kiddo!!! You sounded soooo excited on the phone last night that all your coursework was turned in you were ready to crawl into your chair and chill...and then your St. Nick parcel arrived!!! Enjoy the flannel sheets and warm sweater with matching hat...it was too cute to pass up. Thanks for having all your CaringBridge buddies pray for me the past several weeks. We survived the past year...the anniversary of your grandmother's death...and, life goes on! I am so proud of what you have accomplished and even prouder still to call you 'my pretty precious sweetheart'. Ho! Ho! Ho! The holidays are coming and Deirdre's coming home!!!
Mom <Leanyjoan@goltzland.com>
Jersey City, NJ USA - Wednesday, December 15, 2004 11:24 AM CST

---

Congratulations on surviving your first semester in Boston! Seems not so long ago you were fretting over your decision to leave DC, and all things familiar. Amazing how easily you can adjust to new situations! Enjoy the winding down, cleaning up, and in case I'm not back before the holidays, a very Merry Christmas, and all the happiness the New Year can hold to you and your family.
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON canada - Tuesday, December 14, 2004 3:15 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre, I really like the music on your page! I've heard the "it's-in-your-head" thingy quite often from the docs. Actually, many of my friends with a chronic illness were told that too at some point. But who are they tell us that? They don't know perfectly how the immune system works, they should remember that :-P Anyway, hang in there girl! You are your mom are in my thoughts,

Renee
www.caringbridge.org/canada/renee <dr.renfb@animail.net>
Canada - Monday, December 13, 2004 2:27 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre!
Praying for your mum. Christmas is around the corner! Excited? lol... I know I am.


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Sunday, December 12, 2004 8:26 AM CST

---

Deirdre,

I'm not entirely sure how to start this as I haven't actually spoken to you in quite some time and you probably had no idea that I try to keep up on your life. Something in me feels inexplicably connected to you, and so at the risk of exposing myself as an internet stalker, I shall continue.

I find your passion and determination incredibly inspiring. Having grown up with a sick and depressed mother my entire life, I had never experienced any reaction to chronic illness other than "i'm sick, i'm never going get better, this gives me the right to be cranky all the time and expect other people to wait on me." I say this not as a judgement of my mother but simply a statement of what has been.

Living with you freshman year at GW gave me an entirely different perspective on both chronic illness and life in general. Though I'll admit I was completely afraid of you first semester, the thoughtfulness you showed in writing me a card when I was thinking of transferring back home to NJ, and the strength you exhibited when you got so sick from the moldy fridge and finally opened up to us about what was going on with you really impressed me. Simply seeing another way to react to sickness, realizing that complaining really isn't conducive to anything, was an entirely new life experience for me.

Why am I telling you all of this? I'm not sure.

Except to say that I want to thank you for living such an inspiring example. I want to thank you for putting up with all my freshman year craziness despite all you were going through personally. I want to tell you that I admire you more than most people I know, and have never really been able to express that to you.

So although we've never been friends more than perhaps a roommate relationship would entail, I kind of just wanted to let you know that you've been an important, if distant, part of my life and growth in the past few years, and that I sincerely care for your welfare and happiness.

Stay strong, and accept my love and positive thoughts heading your way across the northeast corridor.

Love,
Ali
Alison Trapp <alitrapp@gwu.edu>
Washington, DC United States - Sunday, December 12, 2004 1:14 AM CST

---

Hey Dierdre,

I hope that last Tuesday brought your family more smiles than tears thinking of your grandmother. I can appreciate what your mom has been going through, as our family is heading into our first Christmas without my mom. It just doesn't feel right.

I'm working on updating Julianna's Pink Wall of Fame, so get ready for it, Miss Inductee! Thank you for wearing her bracelet and continuing to keep Julianna in your thoughts, we sure do appreciate it.

Now get back to those papers!
Terry Josephson, Julianna Banana's dad <tjosephson@shaw.ca>
Winnipeg, Canada - Friday, December 10, 2004 11:49 PM CST

---

Deirdre~Thank you so much for keeping up with Miss Camryn and me...even when I go into hiding.
I am so sorry that you are having to put up with all of this mess from your doctor. I have faith that you will get things in order and you will find someone that you are comfortable with and someone that will help you.
I will keep you in my thoughts...and also your family during this rough time they are going through.

Many Hugs...
Alicia and Cammie (www.caringbridge.org/in/cammiespage) <alicia41570@hotmail.com>
Kentland, IN - Wednesday, December 8, 2004 1:37 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre--I haven't been out here in awhile and last night when I talked to your Mom I thought it was time. Doctors can be soooooo annoying. I truly believe you need a different doctor. Good luck with all of that. Stay strong and know that we are praying for you. I love you.
Janet
De Pere, WI - Tuesday, December 7, 2004 12:19 AM CST

---

You go girl! Never give up - and always trust yourself...keep the faith. Perseverance is not your enemy, and there are times that being headstrong and opinionated (who am I kidding - that's just another word for 'right') comes in handy. Hang in there - we love you.
Lisa <lblume2@yahoo.com>
Marietta, GA USA - Monday, December 6, 2004 10:51 PM CST

---

I'm so sorry you're having such a rough time. I know what it's like to not be believed, to have people tell you you look good so you should FEEL good, to have people not believe me, to be told that it's all in my head and I'm really fine. It's rough and it sucks and it would be so great to not have to deal with it anymore. Know that there ARE people who understand and who will believe you and who will be there to listen if you need to talk. I'm here if you need to vent or just talk.
<penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Sunday, December 5, 2004 6:21 PM CST

---

HI Deidre- I stumbled onto your site from a posting you had on Bailee Dunnigans. I actually write to you because I am a child life specialist for a childrens hospital in NYC. If you need any advice or guidance or anything at all please email me and hang in there. All my best
Alison Heffer <aheffer160@aol.com>
New York, NY USA - Sunday, December 5, 2004 6:16 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre, sorry you had such a rough day... of all the insensitive things people have said to us about Hunter's cancer, at least they've never suggested it's all in our heads!! What the heck.....??????!!!!! Hey maybe they think Methotrexate is a FUN DRUG to take?! (Let 'em try it!)

Big (((HUGS))) and I hope that today is better.
Katie, Hayley and Hunter <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Saturday, December 4, 2004 10:08 AM CST

---

Hey gal...
I'm sorry that you're feeling kinda lousy and down. I get that way too sometimes. Think I kinda understand what you're feeling cos I get that kinda crap from my doctors a lot. Anyway, who are they to say its in your head when they're not experiencing it themselves?? Just try to hang in there ok? And hey, if you need anything, I'm always here. :) Yahoo, msn, aim... got it all! *wink*


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Saturday, December 4, 2004 9:12 AM CST

---

Sweet Miss D,
I am so sorry you are having a bad day, a down day. They are inevitable though with the hard road you have to travel. I am even more sorry your doctor treated you with such insensitivity today. I hope this is the exception, rather than the rule, or it may be time for a new doctor.

This is NOT in your head, it is in your immune system, and specifically, your joints.
I wish you didn't have to go through this, but it has made you so much of WHO you are. And WHO you are, is someone pretty great. Someone who takes the time to care for lots of sick kids even when you are busy, and tired, and young yourself.
Keep your chin up sweetheart..you matter to us..we care about you :)
((((HUGS)))
Haley , Cheryl (mom) and family <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Friday, December 3, 2004 9:44 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre!
Wow... that was a long entry! lol... I don't think I could ever do one like that! Bet you can't wait till sch's out. Mine has ended already! I'm so so glad that the hols are here cos it means more time to rest! lol


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Friday, December 3, 2004 10:33 AM CST

---

Hi Deirdre ~

I read the entire journal entry and peeked at the new pics!

You're amazing.

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Thursday, December 2, 2004 9:15 PM CST

---

Hey Dierdre!!
Just checking in...hope you had a fab Thanksgiving and stuffed yourself silly. Thanks for always taking the time and dropping in to say hi :) Take care and I'll be back soon!

*~*~Girlie's Page*~*~

Love,
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Wednesday, December 1, 2004 2:11 PM CST

---

Happy Thanksgiving Miss D. (A few days late). I love the music you chose, maybe someday you can teach me how to do that to Haley' site...music and pictures, the two things I have soooo much trouble with.
Your cats look right at home :)
Cheryl and Haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Wednesday, December 1, 2004 8:47 AM CST

---

Thanks for posting pictures of your two cats...it encourages me to make public the photos of the 2 cats I've adopted since my Rachael's death...one of the cats is 14 year + Siamese, the other is a Persian, barely out of his terrible twos...what a housefull of attitude cats!

Rachael's cat is the 'queenly' Ragdoll, NEKO, mix with this bunch a 14 year old springer spaniel and a 4 year old Cokatiel 'Marcus', and you can imagine the animal dander that is raised daily...all their noise fill the void, so that is good...
Kathie Mayo www.caringbridge.org/mn/rachaelmayo <winkatmayo@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, November 30, 2004 9:33 PM CST

---

Thanks for signing Lance's guestbook!
Tina www.caringbridge.org/md/lance <lneonkia@comcast.net>
- Tuesday, November 30, 2004 4:45 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre. Thought I'd come say hello and introduce myself. I'm Adena from Colorado - I have RA too....and recently finished grad school in counseling pysch. Best wishes on your paper :-)...when all else fails...pray for the paper fairies to come finish it ;-) It works almost as well as denial!!! I hope you had a great Thanksgiving. Come visit my little corner of cyberspace if you have a chance.
Take Care,
Adena
www2.caringbridge.org/co/adena
Adena <adenashoshan@msn.com>
Boulder, CO USA - Thursday, November 25, 2004 10:57 PM CST

---

Hi: Just found your website through the caringbridge group. I have a 3 yr old daughter with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We wanted to introduce ourselves... and hope you had a great "Thanksgiving" filled with lots of love, family, and good food!
Sammy Nichols & Family
Desiree Nichols www.caringbridge.com/va/princesssammy <rickysammyhannah@aol.com>
Gordonsville, VA USA - Thursday, November 25, 2004 10:25 PM CST

---

Best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Wednesday, November 24, 2004 8:34 PM CST

---

Love

Viks
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Wednesday, November 24, 2004 10:54 AM CST

---

Hi Deirdre!
Glad that the paper got done! I have days like that too. I'm struggling to sit for my exams. lol... its so hard when you don't feel good. :( Anyway, hope you have a great thanksgiving!


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, November 23, 2004 4:43 AM CST

---

<penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Monday, November 22, 2004 3:50 PM CST

---

I know what you mean about the fear, although it is Haley that is so ill, it quite obviously impacts our family tremendously. I rarely let myself travel the "what if" road, I just can't.

I am glad you are getting some well deserved time off from paper writing :) I remember in college, I much preferred taking exams, than writing papers!!
Cheryl and <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Sunday, November 21, 2004 9:43 PM CST

---

Just wanted to let you know you will be in my prayers.
tina www.caringbridge.org/md/lance <lneonkia@comcast.net>
- Saturday, November 20, 2004 7:26 PM CST

---

Hi!
Thanks so much for signing my guestbook! :) I totally know what you mean about the scared bit. I'm a big fraidy cat. Scared of everything! Anyway, hope that you're doing good!


~Joanne’s Corner~

Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, November 17, 2004 9:39 AM CST

---

Hello, Miss D!

I realized that I haven't written you now in quite a while, and decided that I needed to drop you a note. Everything, yes, *everything* you wrote about fear is right on the money. And I say that from my perspective, not Sara's. I, too, have a muscle condition that still is undiagnosed, to this day, that has sent me to the ER periodically over the past 11 years, with severe chest pain only to be told that "it's *NOT* your heart." (Thank you, Lord!) But it doesn't lessen the pain any or make it go away. And I, too, have learned that if I give in to it (the fear and then the pain), it only makes it worse. Rather quickly, too, I might add. And, yes, there is still a "little girl" in this 50yo body that crouches in the corner somewhere, wanting more than anything for this monster to go away. Consider yourself "hugged" (carefully and gently) and may it help to know that I remember you in my prayers.

And, yes, I *was* the one who asked for your favorite color. I'm working on it! :-)

Hugs from down South where it's turned cold tonight,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@bellsouth.net>
Decatur, GA USA - Sunday, November 14, 2004 6:03 PM CST

---

Deirdre you entry was great, I just reconize myself in every word about being scare of the disease, being scare of the future, and also the part about staying strong, you just reflect a reality that it's sometimes hard to understand for people who don't live with the disease. I Think I'll tell my friends to come over your page just to read and understand why sometimes it just overwhelming. You are great,
Good luck with your chemo, i've been off treatment (ok only for a break) since to week and I just don't want to go in the chemo-train, but life is life and arthritis is arthritis, so no choice.
take care and enjoy your paper breake (mine is already over!!)

Jolyane <vague_2000@hotmail.com>
montreal, Canada - Saturday, November 13, 2004 4:10 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre and thanks for stopping by Hunter's site! :)

Your journaling on being scared reminded me of a quote:

Courage is doing what you're afraid to do. There can be no courage unless you're scared.
Edward Vernon Rickenbacker

I'm not sure how old the kids are that you teach, but we recently discovered that the bear-sized LiveStrong bracelets at Build-A-Bear are perfect for little kids!! Even Hayley and Hunter (who are 4 and 2 years old) can wear LiveStrong bands just like their mom and dad now. :)

Keep up the great work with the kids... we'll check back in very soon. Hope you enjoyed your fall in Boston... looks like it's O-V-E-R alreaday... ugh!! :P

P.S. I drink Diet Pepsi in the morning too... can't stand coffee!!
Katie, Hayley and Hunter <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Friday, November 12, 2004 9:29 PM CST

---

Hey D,
Okay, first of all, you are very cool. Second, have I been leaving the back door to my brain open again? Cos everything you wrote about fear has been hanging around in my head at some point. It's like deja vu...if only I could remember what that is...

I know I've said this before, but I think you should hear it often: I really admire you for the courage and, yeah, bullheadedness you show. I'm so proud of you for the way you're sticking to your goals and not letting anything, even a miserable vile villain like RA, get in your way. You really inspire me, and I mean that.

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Friday, November 12, 2004 8:09 PM CST

---

WE MISS YOU D!!!!! I miss you!!!!!!!!!! Ran into Prof Woodruff a few days ago, it was great to see her. I think we both really enjoyed her class and she was a very sincere person. We talked for a second about you too.

Hope school is going well. I am sorry I haven't kept in touch lately...
Peace In Him, Adam
Adam Drexler <adrexler@gwu.edu>
Washington , DC USA - Wednesday, November 10, 2004 9:57 PM CST

---

Hihi!
Oh wow... I'm so glad that you're getting a break! lol... thats so so good! But you sure sound like you've been busy! lol... Glad that your joints are acting ok. Take care!
~Joanne's Page~
Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Monday, November 8, 2004 11:56 PM CST

---

Glad to hear paper season has ended, and with any luck, your headaches with it! Sounds like you had a great weekend, and are feeling pretty darn good, so all in all, a very happy entry to find tonight!! Here's hoping for many more like it for a long time to come!!
P.S. - I don't lick the curtains (worrying about Jadine in Pflugerville), but I do have a cat that does lick the carpet from time to time. Go figure!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Monday, November 8, 2004 11:09 PM CST

---

I lick curtains.

(A more in-depth and appropriate guest book entry to follow)

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Monday, November 8, 2004 10:04 PM CST

---

So sorry for your yukky tummy troubles beautiful gal. I 'member these yukkies from my chemo days. It just is NOT fun, and one of my clearest words since surgery became BOWL.See I still did not walk and runnin' was out of the question, so the bowl I was talkin bout was not in a bathroom, it came from the kitchen. Mom and Dad sure moved swiftly those times when I said BOWL. I apologize for not visitin' more often these days, but the ole gal is feelin sorta poorly, havin the surgery Monday morning and says she will take some time to recover, cuz she isn't a youngster any more. I can't EVEN 'magine her ever being a youngster but she assures me she once was. So till she gets herself up and strong again I may sorta disapear, but I shall return often when she gets better. My prayers will continue to include you and I want ya to remember ta LAUGH!
Cam the Ham, The Boss and ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, w usa - Friday, November 5, 2004 11:54 PM CST

---

hello deirdre
i'm really sad to hear that you are not doing good, I do understand how arthritis can suck especially when at this time of the years with the bad weather (I think the weather is almost the same in Boston as in Montreal)
hope you'll soon find a treatment that will help you feel good for thanksgiving, christmas and the next year
take care
Jolyane <vague_2000@hotmail.com>
Montreal, Canada - Wednesday, November 3, 2004 7:04 PM CST

---

Deirdre~I am so sorry that you are not feeling well. I will keep hoping and wishing and saying an extra prayer that you have been having a better day today!!!
I'll be back to check on you soon. I'm not hiding out in my hole this week...well, not so far at least.
Many Hugs from...
Alicia and Cam-O-Rama (www.caringbridge.org/in/cammiespage) <alicia41570@hotmail.com>
Kentland, IN - Tuesday, November 2, 2004 9:57 AM CST

---

Man, I just want to read that you're feeling good. It's so hard to do school work with a headache, nevermind all the other stuff you're experiencing (dizziness, nausea, etc.) I'm trying to think up something uplifting or mildly humorous to say to make you smile, but I'm just feeling bad that you feel bad. I know! I'll send you some Halloween candy! It was really slow here last night, trick-or-treater-wise, so I have two gigantic bowls of treats left over. Sigh. You probably don't really want my left-over candy. I guess I'll just have to eat it myself. If you think I can't, you're wrong. Now I'm just babbling. I hope you make it through this next paper okay. I'll be sending you some feel-better vibes, 'kay?

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Monday, November 1, 2004 9:57 PM CST

---

Hey D,
So I guess I shouldn't mention green eggs and ham, then? I'm anti-pork anyway, regardless of "the other white meat" status. I hope the nausea & throwing up has gone away or at least decreased some...how are you going to enjoy all the clearance Halloween candy??? Serious stuff, man. Anyway, I just wanted to say hey and come out of my hobbit hole where I've been hiding, and definitely say thanks for the cheer-up messages you left for me - they really helped a lot, just to know somebody else understands what I'm talking about. :) Thanks, my friend!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, November 1, 2004 7:02 PM CST

---

Hmmm....
Dizziness, nauseous and headaches. Sounds like an inner ear problem my sister had last year, and one that often time bothered my mom. Docs said it was brought on by infections and was treated by antibiotics...took about 6 weeks to cure...not much to look forward to. Sorry. Hope your problems are easier solved. Take care. I check in every once in awhile, but seldom post.
I too love the decorations!
Kathie Mayo www.caringbridge.org/mn/rachaelmayo <winkatmayo@hotmail.com>
- Monday, November 1, 2004 4:34 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre!
I love your decorations! lol... cool! Haha... anyway... glad you got that paper done. I'm having trouble with my project work and my group mates aren't very forgiving. *gulp*
~Joanne's Page~
Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Monday, November 1, 2004 7:37 AM CST

---

Hi Deirdre!! I miss you! Congrats on BU!! Wonderful place to go to grad school! It's kind of ironic, but I am looking at the musicology program there for next year, so we might go to the same school! That hasn't happened since eighth grade! Good luck, and Happy Halloween or All Hallow's Eve, for us Catholics....
Elizabeth Yackley <sweetylizzy@aol.com>
Greensboro, NC - Saturday, October 30, 2004 5:00 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre! I'm just stopping by to say hi and let you know that I'm thinking of you! Have a Happy Halloween! God bless and *warm hugs* ><>†<><



Lighting Children’s Lives
Caged Kids

*Jennifer C* from Lighting Children’s Lives & Caged Kids <jenniferc@ilovetocolor.com>
Eugene, OR USA - Saturday, October 30, 2004 1:46 PM CDT

---

hello deirdre. I hope that your way on the chemo train will be ok (as ok it could be to have chemo) We talk via email a couple of weeks ago about remicade and now I have my own caringbridge page. So hope you'll come by when your headaches will go away. Maybe you could try B12 vitamins. Neurologist gave me this while I was having migraine and this help me a lot. It's just vitamins so no toxic drugs.
best wishes
Jolyane www2.caringbrige.org/canada/jo_crohnpage <vague_2000@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, October 27, 2004 11:57 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,
Sorry to hear about the chemo :( But I really hope that you'll start feeling all better really soon! Hang in there!
~Joanne's Page~
Care Mail!

Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Wednesday, October 27, 2004 10:24 AM CDT

---

Hey Dierdre.... Hang in there girl. Caroline and I are praying for you and hoping that you can feel great really soon!


Alia and Caroline (www.caringbridge.org/mn/caroline) <ajpranke@juno.com>
Eagan, MN 55122 - Monday, October 25, 2004 12:42 AM CDT

---

So sorry to hear about the headaches. They can be really horrible. Did you stop the Remicade? I may have missed something...but if so, what now?
I am praying hard your body stops attacking its sweet self soon!!
And rooting for the sox, just for you. :)
Haley , Cheryl (mom) and family <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Monday, October 25, 2004 11:43 AM CDT

---

Hello, Miss D!

I haven't signed in lately, but that doesn't mean I haven't been praying or checking on you. Sorry to hear about the headaches. Bummer big time. Sara knows very well whereof you speak. Be sure and try out her idea about the B12. It seems to have helped.

And can you tell me what your favorite color is? If you give me an idea, you just might find a surprise in your mailbox sometime soon, hmmmm? :-)

Hugs from down South,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@bellsouth.net>
Decatur, GA USA - Sunday, October 24, 2004 8:32 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,
Thanks for letting me know you've been stopping by my site. Sorry to hear you're having such a bad headache (or headaches). Over the years, headaches have been one of my most constant problems, sometimes making me spend a whole week or more in bed. I hope you find something to help it! Sometimes laying low for a while is necessary. At least we have those great SOX to root for this weekend.
<penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Saturday, October 23, 2004 3:50 PM CDT

---

Hey D,

Thanks for signing Mikey's guestbook and we are hoping the Sox take it to the end !!! Love reading your webpage and your sense of humor we all must have when dealing with Docs, nurses, hospitals and waiting for tests results. Hang in there :>)
Mel, Jackie, Rachel, and Michael Hardy <JMHardy@aol.com>
Ellington, CT - Saturday, October 23, 2004 9:56 AM CDT

---

With the good, you gotta take the bad I guess. Glad to read about a wonderful family weekend - sounds like just what the doctor ordered. And a great way to recharge a bit before "paper season". But now headaches??? Man oh man Deirdre, I just don't know how you do it. Lots of rest and TLC is ordered for the weekend. I wish I could offer some other words of advice, but sadly, I have none. Relax as much as you can, enjoy some baseball, and try not to worry about the paper you have to write. Take care!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Saturday, October 23, 2004 8:39 AM CDT

---

Hey D,
From my extensive headache knowledge database, I have a suggestion that might actually help: vitamin B12 complex. I have no idea how it works, other than a B12 deficiency can aggravate headaches, so I take 2 every day & my headaches have dropped off drastically. Compared to having 2 migraines a week, it's like...um, not having 2 migraines a week. (I don't feel especially bright at this hour.) I was thinking about you when the Sox won the AL, thinking how cool it must be right now in Boston, with everyone crazy over the pennant. Here's hoping they go all the way! It would just be karmic justice (not that I'm really sure what that IS, but anyway). I'm hoping you're having a better weekend w/ less pain and fluid (we can be the Pillsbury Dough Twins, cos I know where you're coming from), and that things are just SMACKELICIOUS!!!

Love and smacky kisses,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Saturday, October 23, 2004 0:23 AM CDT

---

Deirdre, I am so happy that you got the music to work! (It helps that I love that Enya song, too!) I don't know about you, but when I conquer something technical like that, I feel like I could run a marathon!!! Or, more realistically, I just feel really, really happy and accomplished while I sit on the sofa and eat a big bag of cookies. (who am I kidding, running a marathon? Ha!)

Hope you have a great weekend and you're able to kick that headache, take care,
Kristie

Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Friday, October 22, 2004 11:52 PM CDT

---

I am so pleased to have come across your site! Reading your entries envokes thoughts of my Rachael. She'd be 21 in just a couple of weeks. I know she'd have loved your outlook on life and your quest for knowledge. i will be back again...you're comments give me joy, and joy has been sorely lacking in my life since my Rachael died.
Kathie Mayo www.caringbridge.org/mn/rachaelmayo <winkatmayo@hotmail.com>
- Friday, October 22, 2004 6:33 PM CDT

---

I love you site!
Thanks so much for stopping by Will's site. We are very excited about LTN tonight. So far we are the number one team in donations!
Lots of Love,

Kayla - www.willpowerfund.org <willpowerfund@yahoo.com>
Charlotte, NC USA - Friday, October 22, 2004 3:48 PM CDT

---

HI!!!!

Just stopping by to check in with ya.. Hope all is well and school is going good for you!! Thanks so much for taking the time to sign Nicks page. He loves hearing that hes got messages!!! Have a great Halloween!!!
Helen and Nicholas. www.caringbridge.org/mn/nicholasb <hburger64@hotmail.com>
Ham Lake, MN USA - Friday, October 22, 2004 3:43 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre! :)

I just wanted to see how you were doing! I hope everything is well for you and that you are having good days! :) Take care!
Neil :)
Neil Marchand
Oxford, England - Friday, October 22, 2004 1:54 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre! I was amused by your observations of Boston. When I moved to Texas, it freaked me out how strangers made eye-contact and said 'hi' and 'how are you?' and meant it. I am originally from a city that is waaaay - - - let's say, 'reserved', and people there would never talk to a stranger; it would seem an invasion of their privacy or something. I'm getting used to it here now, though (after 14 years, I guess I should be), and the friendliness no longer freaks me out. I even say, "y'all." (Sigh). Not sure what this guestbook entry has to do with anything, but there it is.

I hope you have a great Friday and weekend!


Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Thursday, October 21, 2004 10:04 PM CDT

---

Re: the Red Sox

And let that be a lesson to us all.... miracles do happen.
Brian Schousek <schousek@yahoo.com>
Houlton, WI 54082 - Wednesday, October 20, 2004 11:01 PM CDT

---

I am trying hard not to be envious about all the cool sights you are living so near by! I love Boston. And I love the Boston Red Sox too! :) How about that game last night?!
Glad you are feeling better..praying it continues.
Cheryl (Haley's mom) <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Wednesday, October 20, 2004 8:45 AM CDT

---

Hey,
Glad you're doing a little better. Hey, how did you get the music with singing on your site? I only know how to get MIDI files up on mine. Just curious.
Annie <penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Friday, October 15, 2004 9:55 AM CDT

---

Glad to hear your body is treating the rest of you a little better these days!! Bout time, ain't it?
Sounds like you had a wonderful "mom" weekend. Bet that did you a lot of good too. Keep it up, but remember to get lots of rest, and be good to yourself.
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Thursday, October 14, 2004 11:28 AM CDT

---

Okay, I am SO jealous!! I heart IKEA and there's not one here (even though they're supposed to be building one but apparently all construction has been halted in order to cut down trees and build large sound barriers on OVERCROWDED ROADS, but I'm not bitter! No, not me!). Put up pictures of the chair!!! Man. I just can't get over it. Oh, yeah, the Paul Revere stuff - um, that's cool too. But IKEA!!!!!!!

Okay, I'll stop being silly now. ;) For a minute anyway. KEEP THE ROCK ALIVE!!!!

Love and smoochy kisses,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, October 11, 2004 8:47 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre!

Just getting to know you. I'm Nessa from Richmond, VA. I guess I am a "cousin" of yours because I also see a rheumatologist for an auto immune disorder called fibromyalgia, or as he put it, arthritis of the muscles. Most of the time I feel like it's an effort to breathe because I am so tired and I hurt. I am an old lady of 50 with 3 kids (27, 19 and almost 18) with a wonderful hubby who has RA and is on Methotrexate which has done wonderfully for him.

Your site today made me smile and I even read your brother's site. Your parents are fortunate to have such wonderful kids. Thanks for taking the time to maintain a site with all you have going on.
Nessa <dachsielvr@aol.com>
Richmond, VA - Monday, October 11, 2004 2:54 PM CDT

---

Just a short hello from me,



Viks
viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Monday, October 11, 2004 6:01 AM CDT

---

LOVE the picture of the Old North Church!!! I'm soooo glad we were able to spend time checking out the sights along with getting that dresser assembled...that was feat in itself. And we didn't get too lost traveling around Boston!!! Love ya bunches...
Mom <Leanyjoan@goltzland.com>
Jersey City, NJ USA - Sunday, October 10, 2004 10:05 PM CDT

---

Oh my pretty Deidre! I am so impressed with your journal entries. I feel like I almost visited Paul Revere too. I am prayin' ya start feelin' really great soon. And if I was a bit older I could be the prince charmin' for ya. Stay away from germies, the ole gal says it will be hard ta do when ya work at Headstart. She did that for seven years, afore she had ta retire cuz of heart trouble. Those little kids leave germie hand prints everwhere. Carry lots of germie wipes. Winkin' atcha! ;)
Cam the Ham, The Boss and ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnnwood, w usa - Sunday, October 10, 2004 0:12 AM CDT

---

Just surfing, thought I'd check up on you. Hope things are much much better!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Friday, October 8, 2004 9:54 PM CDT

---

You dear sweet girl--what I wouldn't do to take away the pain for you. You are right--IT IS NOT FAIR. I am sending lots of prayers and love your way. Hang in there.
Janet <mcalaway@new.rr.com>
- Friday, October 8, 2004 1:49 PM CDT

---

Dear dear squishable Deidre,
From my own sort of parallel reality, I know what you mean. I don't know what our magic cure is or will be, but I am confident that we will find it! (and if not, we'll always have Jack Daniels) As far as fairness goes...in the largest scheme of things, the sort of scheme that philosophers and obnoxious college kids talk about it, yeah, fairness doesn't exist. But we live on a slightly more pedestrian plane (DANG, I sound smart tonight) and NO IT'S NOT FAIR! And furthermore you've earned your right to say that through countless methotrexate doses and days forcing yourself to go to class and putting three times the effort into your life as anyone else. You've earned the right to snuggle up with a comfy blanket, a glossy cheese movie, and some mashed potatoes. You've earned the right to cut yourself some slack.

I hope and pray that you're feeling better this week, that things are going more smoothly and your body is being more cooperative. I'll be praying for you, D!!

Love and smoochy kisses,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Thursday, October 7, 2004 8:04 PM CDT

---

HUGS HUGS HUGS HUGS HUGS coming at you from Windsor! You're right - it isn't fair, and if anyone has a right to say it, it's you. The fact that you don't say it more often is the amazing part. Don't expect yourself to be bright and sunny all the time D, there's some song out there about the flowers needing a little rain, ya know? ( I've most likely butchered that quote into oblivion, but you get the point, I hope).
Glad you got to spend some family time. Sometimes that's the best medicine of all. Hope to read your feeling better soon. Until then, my thoughts and prayers and hopes and all the cyber hugs you need are going out to you!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Wednesday, October 6, 2004 0:02 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre -- I'm so sorry to hear that you've been feeling crummy (for lack of a more sophisticated word) both physically and mentally. Give yourself lots of slack -- think about all you are trying to accomplish now! You're doing great, and will be "swimming" again soon.

I know how to get music on the sites. I will e-mail you a tutorial right now. Let me know if you don't get it.
Take care!!!

Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Tuesday, October 5, 2004 10:30 AM CDT

---

Hey,
Sorry you're having such pain and trouble lately. Your entry sounds like it could be coming out of my head (well, except for the exact circumstances). Your feeling of treading water (I love that analogy) is exactly how I've felt for the past few weeks. And I just want it to stop, I just want to get through it, but I can't see the end in sight anywhere nearby. I'll be thinking of you and hoping things get better soon.

I do know how to get MIDI music (without words, not great quality but you can find good ones if you search around) up on a site. If you're interested in this, e-mail me.
Annie <penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Monday, October 4, 2004 11:42 AM CDT

---

Hi!
I'm sorry that you're feeling so down... and although I don't have the same problems as you, I guess I can understand what you mean. I have days when I just can't smile and pretend that everything is fine and great. And hey... its ok to feel that way sometimes. I hope you have people you can talk to when you feel that way. Or you can always drop me an email. :) Thinking of you!
~Joanne's Page~
Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Monday, October 4, 2004 10:30 AM CDT

---

How are you feeling, girlie? I'm worried about you! I'm hoping you're feeling all better, and that you haven't posted a journal entry recently because you're out doing fun stuff.

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Sunday, October 3, 2004 8:36 PM CDT

---

Coming by to check on you. I am hoping the last week or so has you feeling better. :)
Hugs!!
Haley , Cheryl (mom) and family <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Sunday, October 3, 2004 2:22 PM CDT

---

Hi! I'm Renee, and it's my first time on your page. I think it's a great one :) I just wanted to say hello!

Renee
www.caringbridge.org/canada/renee <dr.renfb@animail.net>
Canada - Saturday, October 2, 2004 9:38 PM CDT

---

Just popping in to see how things are going. Hope all is well!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Saturday, October 2, 2004 9:05 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre... just wanted to say WELCOME to Boston!! I hope you are feeling better tonight, you've had quite a rough introduction to our wonderful hospitals here.

I had to laugh at your top ten list and how everyone knows the Sox schedule... I used to live in the Fenway and had every one of their home games circled on my calendar so I could race home from work and get a parking spot on the street before all the Sox fans showed up and stole the Resident Parking spots! :)


Katie, Hayley and Hunter <dugan2b@yahoo.com>
Franklin, MA - Thursday, September 30, 2004 8:41 PM CDT

---

Hey there Deirdre ... I always wondered how you pronounce this name :-). In Russian it's impossible :-).
Thanks for signing our guestbook and I'm glad we have mutual friends :-).
Stay cool
Leo & Lenka <goomba4ever@km.ru>
Irkutsk, Russia - Wednesday, September 29, 2004 8:08 PM CDT

---

Hope today is a better day for you!
Haley loves the pics of your bedroom..it looks awesome!
Hugs!!
Cheryl and Haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Wednesday, September 29, 2004 10:20 AM CDT

---

Hey hon! It really stinks to hear you're feeling so awful :( I love your room, it's awsome :) Here's hoping to some relief for you soon! Heather and I will keep you in our prayers. Miss ya. Lots of love :)
Carly Beveridge
High Point, NC - Tuesday, September 28, 2004 9:14 PM CDT

---

Wow! Special mention in your journal!! Wasn't expecting that. (High five back at ya Jadine in Pflugerville *U*)!
I'm sorry to hear that this cyst is still hanging around and causing you so much trouble. On the plus side, sounds like you've got a pretty capable ER staff to help you out. But all those drugs girl??? Just reading about them made me woozy!! ( Mind you, one demorol knocks me into napland for 4 or 5 hours, so it's not really that big a stretch). Glad to know one of them finally gave you some relief, 'cause I think you were at the higher end of the pain management scale. Hope you're getting some rest and feeling better real soon!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Tuesday, September 28, 2004 3:27 PM CDT

---

Hi!
I'm sorry that you're in so much pain. :( It sucks so bad! I wish these doctors would understand the meaning of pain and give proper pain relief when people need it! Anyway, nice pictures! I love your room! :)
~Joanne's Page~
Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com>
- Tuesday, September 28, 2004 9:57 AM CDT

---

Oh, Miss D, how I wish I could just scoot up to Boston and hug your neck, or fix some "real" hot chocolate, or put some cushy pillows under and around that sore body of yours!

Ovarian cysts and Dilaudid! Omigosh, what an *AWFUL* combination! Thankfully, I've not had both at the same time. But I well remember an ER visit of my own due to an ovarian cyst that literally drove me to my knees, doubled over with pain. I don't think childbirth was *that* bad. At least, you had breaks between pains and a baby at the end. :-p

And Dilaudid? Oh, please! That's what the ER gave me last April for my costochondritis that was then diagnosed as Tietze's Syndrome. It was great for the pain, but, boy, did I *NOT* want it again. Made all the wall cabinets in the room spin like a rolodex file. YUCK!

Consider yourself hugged {{{{{{{{{{{Deirdre}}}}}}}}} and I hope it helps a little to know that this CB mom *is* checking on you and praying for you even when I don't have time to sign in the guestbook!

Much love and prayers from the *really* squishy South,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Tuesday, September 28, 2004 9:27 AM CDT

---

You poor girl. You are always in my prayers. The hospital is no fun, that's for sure. And you have seen more of it than you should have to. Hang in there. I loved your pictures. Your room looks great. Love,
Janet <mcalaway@new.rr.com>
- Monday, September 27, 2004 10:16 AM CDT

---

Oh Deirdre! I am so sorry that you are having to go through all of this and I just want to come and steal you and put you on the couch with Camryn and take care of both of you!!! Grab your fuzzy slippers, teddy bear and blanket and I'll have Cam make room!
I hope that you have your pain under control and that you are resting this weekend.
Sending you MANY MANY MANY hugs!!!
AND...I LOVE all of your new pictures!
Alicia and Cammie (www.caringbridge.org/in/cammiespage) <alicia41570@hotmail.com>
Kentland, IN - Sunday, September 26, 2004 6:07 AM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre!!! Great website, I was wondering how you were doing but didn't know how to call. I'm glad to see that you are surrounded by friends and that your family is so close.

Let's hear it for Marquetters turned East Coasters!!! My family just moved back to NJ! Plus Mike Dunsmoor is at Berkley! I will have to come up and see you guys on a break!

It's wonderful to hear that you are plugging through day by day and still have that crazy sense of humor I knew in high school...wow that was a long time ago...sometimes I think back and ask myself
"Did I really go to BAND CAMP?!"
...anyway, I just wanted to drop a note letting you know that my thoughts are with you and that I hope we can keep in touch.

Take care D!!!
Shelli Decker <deckerma@muohio.edu>
Middletown, NJ USA - Saturday, September 25, 2004 6:23 PM CDT

---

Wow! You have been having a rough road lately. Haley and I will be stepping up our prayers for you!!
I don't know how you do it! I am such a huge wimp, I would be hiding under my covers crying...or begging for surgery!
But you keep on going..you remind me of my daughter. :)
Major-ly tough!!!
Hang in there, I hope all goes well with the new doc, and you get some relief soon.
Love and Hugs,
Cheryl and Haley
http://www.caringbridge.org/ga/haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Saturday, September 25, 2004 8:21 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,
Whew!
I finally got caught up... I didn't realize I had been away so long. I am so sorry you are having to deal with the pain. (Not just the physical sensation pain, but the emotional annoyance--as in pain in the butt-pain of medical staff whose bedside manners are comparable to a brillo pad). You are in our prayers, and I know you are going to get through this!! I love the pictures and I love the quotations.
Lori Noah's Page <clowns@myhometown.net>
n st paul, mn - Friday, September 24, 2004 9:33 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,
Thanks for coming over to my site and signing my guestbook. I actually found your site a while ago (not sure whose site it was through, you probably know how easy it is to lose track of that) but hadn't written you a message yet. Yes, RA and Lyme have a lot in common. Many Lyme patients are misdiagnosed as having RA and the first cluster of cases in Lyme, CT that brought the attention to it were kids that were misdiagnosed as having Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Lyme can cause a lot of joint problems but it can also cause a lot of other symptoms, too, and basically affect every system of your body. If you want to learn more about it, Lymenet is a good place so get some basic info.

I used to live in Jamaica Plain and was going to school at Wheelock College in Boston but I'm on a medical leave of absence now so I'm living back at home in Rochester, MA, which is near Cape Cod. But, my Lyme doctor is in Newton, so it's cool that's where you live. Maybe the next time I'm up there for an appointment we could meet up or something. Hopefully I'll be eating better by then. I hope you get the cysts under control. And good luck on the laundry!
Annie <penguini1982@yahoo.com>
Rochester, MA - Friday, September 24, 2004 9:24 PM CDT

---

I love the pictures of your room...can't wait to actually see it! Wish our room looked that good...still too many moving boxes! Hang in there, baby girl...we're pulling for you. Tiger is manning your bed here to help with the healing process. I FINALLY found their nail clippers today...she was not a happy camper over that one! Here's praying to a good night's sleep...love you bunches...Mom ((( )))
Darlene Goltz <Leanyjoan@goltzland.com>
Jersey City, NJ USA - Thursday, September 23, 2004 7:30 PM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre,
It just completely sucks to hear you're still in so much pain. I'm seriously praying you get some peace away from pain..even for just a little while (forever would be great too!). Anyways, you're a champ...still manage to have fun while in pain. Glad to know the ER treated you well. Take care and keep that chin of yours up! Thinking of you :) And sending loads of love your way..

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love & prayers,
XOXOXOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Thursday, September 23, 2004 5:56 PM CDT

---

Funny how you reach a point where you can appreciate a good ER staff, isn't it? Wishing you all the best.
Brian Schousek <schousek@yahoo.com>
Houlton, WI 54082 - Wednesday, September 22, 2004 10:13 PM CDT

---

praying, praying, praying....thinking of you, sending warm thoughts, smiles and lots of hugs ((( ))) your way. WE LOVE YOU!! Kelsey loves your old desk....and she is taking good care of the big ball factory! :-) Rest and heal, sweet girl!
Lisa, Dave, Amanda, Kelsey and Morgan <lblume2@yahoo.com>
Marietta, GA USA - Wednesday, September 22, 2004 10:12 PM CDT

---

High-five to Tracy-in-Windsor from Jadine-in-Pflugerville!!!!

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Wednesday, September 22, 2004 1:21 PM CDT

---

Take care of yourself, and for pete's sake (not sure who pete is, but anyway) listen to the ER and GO BACK if it gets any worse!! Those ovarian cyst thingys are NOT fun, and very painful, and girl, you've got enough on your plate for a while! Get some rest, and I hope the pain leaves you soon.
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Wednesday, September 22, 2004 11:48 AM CDT

---

Deirdre ~

Well, geez. (Jeez?) Listen here, Missy... a 'blood-filled ovarian cyst' is nothing to sneeze at (but why anyone would want to, I have no idea). Don't down-play it too much; these things hurt like the dickens and can get surprisingly problematic. I'm glad they're keeping their eye(s) on you, and command you (Ha! That does't work around here either) to go straight to the ER if things increase in badness, 'kay? 'Kay. I speaketh out of love, not bossiness (Well, with maybe just the *slightest hint* of bossiness). Send me your homework; I'll do it for you. But only until you feel better. So for both of our sakes, get better soon!


Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Tuesday, September 21, 2004 9:22 PM CDT

---

Hey! I was just in Boston! Well, I landed there. Went to visit my grandma who stays in west springfield. *grin* Guess what? I'm trying to go to grad sch in boston. I wanna take law. So I'm keeping my fingers crossed! lol...
Joanne <joanne_173@hotmail.com; www.caringbridge.org/asia/joanneho>
- Monday, September 20, 2004 10:35 PM CDT

---

I love Boston, I think the longer you are there the more you will love it too. Sounds like you need to find a regular doc though...one you can call on the phone and not have to go through walk ins or ER's. Some of them even have Sat. clinics.
I really hope and pray you feel better soon. I got the tiniest taste of what you guys live through, and you are TOUGH.
Hugs, and have a blast in DC.
Cheryl and Haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Friday, September 17, 2004 7:13 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,
Boston sounds amazing! I've heard that it's like the walkingest city in America, plus it's the home of dreamy Spenser (if you see him & Hawk, please catch them and lock them up for me, I'll be up in a jiff). Are you going to get A/C, though? Because that would drive me insane (or INSANER) not having it, though it does cool down sooner up there, doesn't it? So maybe in a few weeks you won't even miss it. I am looking forward to hearing more Boston updates (living vicariously through you) - maybe you could go boating & catch an adorable preppy to amuse yourself with for the semester!! I hear there's a lot of them up there (though they TALK FUNNY, hmm....) ;)

Love and smoochy kisses,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Thursday, September 16, 2004 7:56 PM CDT

---

Just calling in to say;




Love Viks

viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Thursday, September 16, 2004 11:18 AM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre,
Man I am sooo jealous that you get to live in Boston! I have always wished to live there. My whole family is from back east.. Millis Mass to be exact, I've been to Boston many times and totally fell in love with the city. Unfortunately its cheaper to go to school in california (cause I'm a resident) and with all that I pay in medical bills.. I'll be lucky if I even get to go to a university. So I am mighty mighty jealous.. I use to have a really cute Boston t-shirt that I wore all the time.. LoL yeah i wore it so much it basically fell apart. Anywho I am so proud that a fellow arthritis warrior is doing such amazing and wonderful things. I can totally understand what you mean about kids with hair looking weird.. After working with kids with cancer and growing up around kids who were sick healthy kids just take on a weird look.. LoL Anyway you are always in my prayers.. Just remember that!!

Lots of Love
~*~Lisa~*~
Belmont, CA USA - Monday, September 13, 2004 0:16 AM CDT

---

Hel-lo, Miss D!

Glad to hear that everything is settling down at BU now. And glad to hear your move went so well, considering climbing those stairs with all your *stuff*! :-)

Take care of yourself and remember three words working in a childcare center ---->Purell Hand Sanitizer.

Seriously, years ago, the first year I taught school on the elementary leve, I was out for a total of three (3) weeks due to strep throat ( a new experience for me at the time) and Swine Flu. I had never been that sick before or since. My doctor told me that he sees that all the time with first-time teachers. They're exposed to so many new viruses that they're just a sitting duck for illness. So, please, please, Miss D, take good care of yourself.

Prayers here from Georgia,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Sunday, September 12, 2004 10:57 PM CDT

---

Hi pretty gal! Please 'member ta smile, cuz when ya smile no one notices ya don't have any hair. It works for me! And with your beautiful face it will work for you too. Did I ever tell ya that you have a face for hats. Some people look so silly wearin' a hat but some others just are made ta wear them, and you my lovely lady become a *hottie* with the hat. Prayers for you as you embark on yet another phase of your life.
Cam the Ham, The Boss and ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwoodq, wa usa - Saturday, September 11, 2004 4:51 PM CDT

---

Just checking in to see how things are going in Boston. Hope you are doing great!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Thursday, September 9, 2004 11:20 AM CDT

---

Hair... What hair? I have been lacking hair for years. I've learned that if you get a huge belly, no one remembers that you lack hair. They just remember you for being "Large"! Sorry to hear about the road God has you traveling. I'm sure HE has a plan for you and those you touch along the way. Love and positive thoughts from Ballwin.
Kevin Coppin <kevin@composingroom.com>
Ballwin, MO USA - Thursday, September 9, 2004 9:46 AM CDT

---

Hey, what a great week it sounds like you had with your family! I have to admit, though, that I don't know what a floating fish candle-thingy is. Oh well, as long as you guys were having fun, that's all that matters!

Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Tuesday, September 7, 2004 9:56 PM CDT

---

You look beautiful. And as to new beginnings...I'll lift my glass to that.

Thinking of you as you begin this new chapter!
Cheryl and Haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Tuesday, September 7, 2004 8:35 PM CDT

---

Deirdre,
I had no idea about all that had been going on in your life. Beth sent me the link, and now I'm up to date. Keep smiling, and no one will notice the hair or lack thereof. Send some Hellos to your parents for me.

LET'S GO MARQUETTE!!!!!
Vicki Coppin <coppin@maryville.edu>
Ballwin, MO USA - Tuesday, September 7, 2004 8:16 AM CDT

---

Hi D!
Love the pictures! It looks like y'all had an awesome time, and the house looks like such a peaceful place, a very relaxing atmosphere. Well, except for the whole arson thing (which I thought was pretty funny, apart from getting arrested, etc.). Your new look is awesome - Bex and the Goober were both in definite awe of it. ;) Highly cool. Hope you're feeling good and that the preparations for Boston are going well - excitingness!!

Love and smoochy kisses,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page


Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Saturday, September 4, 2004 9:13 PM CDT

---

I love that "Baldie" quote!!! I'm definitely using it for an upcoming entry on the side effects of chemotherapy.

Sounds like a great holiday. Great pictures too!

Frances and Lucas <hammonds@wincom.net>
Amherstburg, - Saturday, September 4, 2004 2:34 PM CDT

---

Oh my gosh D, you look just as great with no hair as I do. I guess beauty comes from the basic structure not the adornments(hair, eyebrows, eyelashes,) The week retreat you had sounds like some goooooood medicine. I will be 'memberin you as ya settle in Bawston, and will come back ta hear all 'bout your experiences in this famous place. Prayers my beauty! ;)
Cam the Ham, The Boss and ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Friday, September 3, 2004 4:17 PM CDT

---

Yet another amazing adventure. It sounds like a wonderful vacation. You are so brave to publish pictures of your bald head and you look beautiful. Good luck in Boston. I'm praying for you. Love,
Aunt Janet <mcalaway@new.rr.com>
- Friday, September 3, 2004 9:39 AM CDT

---

Nice do!

Good luck on your adventures in Boston.
Brian Schousek <schousek@yahoo.com>
Houlton, WI USA - Monday, August 30, 2004 8:59 PM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre! Sounds like a wonderful week for all of you. BRAVO!! Good luck to you on your first days in Boston.
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Monday, August 30, 2004 11:42 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre - welcome back! I have been anxiously awaiting an update and it was WELL worth the wait!! What wonderful pictures, what wonderful memories, and what an eloquent description you give of it all. I am so proud to be related to you and so proud of YOU for your positive attitude in spite of all sorts of adversity. I'm so glad you and your family had so much fun this week. Heaven knows you needed it. I am looking forward to seeing your mom and dad this weekend....take care of yourself and know that you are always in my heart and in my prayers....Boston is one of the cities I love best so I can't wait to hear what you find in your exploration! And you DO have a great shaped head!!! Nice work - talk to you soon. Love,
Lisa <lblume2@yahoo.com>
Marietta, GA USA - Monday, August 30, 2004 9:28 AM CDT

---

So where ya from? Boston ya say? Well now I hear they had a grand ole party there one time, somethin' bout throwin tea in the sea. Well not exactly my idea of a party but what ever they were thinkin, I guess it was the thing ta do at the time. So rich in history that place seems. I just know you are gonna have a swell time makin it your home for as long as ya choose. Prayers for everything ta work out fine and for your health matters to all mesh together like peanut butter and jelly. Now that is a proven combination. Kid tested and Mom approved. Can't leave here without tellin ya how pretty ya are! ;)
Cam the Ham, The Boss and ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Monday, August 30, 2004 1:15 AM CDT

---

Wow!
I had to go back to bed after reading your schedule, it completely exhausted me!
You want to hear something funny? I have been having terrible joint pain lately in my small joints and I finally went to a doctor. He is highly suspicious for RA or SLE. I laughed so hard I about fell off the table.
Anyway, I left with lots of pain killers, and the promise to come back in a week for my lab results. Like I have time for this!!
The upside is, Haley is excited that she may have someone she can "relate" to right under her own roof.
Life is strange.
Cheryl and Haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Sunday, August 29, 2004 8:56 AM CDT

---

Hi D!
Guess you must still be lolling around the lake, basking the warm glow of nothing to do...ah, how I love it...hope you're enjoying your time off and watching tons of movies and sleeping late, etc. (because, you know, that's what I do pretty much, um, all the time, and I find it very rewarding, hee hee). I started back to class last Tuesday, so tonight I'm treating myself to visiting all the caringbridge crew while spending the night with my grandmother the Cuteness. It's very luxurious. ;) Tell the fam I said hey!! (and watch them scatter in fear of berserk Sara!!)

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Saturday, August 28, 2004 0:17 AM CDT

---

Hi girlie! I was going to come here to whine about wanting another update, but there already was one! I know, I know, it had only been 3 days in between updates, and blah, blah, blah, you're busy.

I hope you're having a great time, but I have to warn you (if it's not too late) about tubing/water skiing. One of my most embarrassing moments was losing my bathing suit bottoms during a spectacular (so I'm told) wipe-out during my first attempt at that. My friend's brothers (who I didn't even really know) were driving the boat (driving?), and they had to scoop up my bottoms and throw them to me. I hope you have better luck!

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Monday, August 23, 2004 10:20 PM CDT

---

Deirdre...I am SURE that you are going to be living it up and enjoying all of that play time!!! It sounds GREAT!!!!
I've read back and see that you have had so many decisions to make and that is a lot for someone to have to deal with...in addition to health concerns...I can only imagine. BUT...you seem so strong...even when there are times that you don't feel it...and, you have many people around you pulling for you! I know that I am adding my wishes for only the VERY best for you!!!!
I hope that you are feeling well and that this weekend has been WONDERFUL for you!!!
Many Hugs to you...
Alicia and Cammie (www.caringbridge.org/in/cammiespage) <alicia41570@hotmail.com>
Kentland, IN - Saturday, August 21, 2004 9:17 PM CDT

---

Hi D,
hope things are going swell and that you're having a SUPAH-fly weekend full of nice things like pizza and sleeping and droolworthy Olympic swimmers!!! (can you tell I've had pain meds, bwahahahaha!!!!)

Love and smoochy kisses,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Friday, August 20, 2004 7:36 PM CDT

---

Deirdre, you will do great! Whether you decide to stay in Boston, go to Columbia .... shoot, I'd say Timbuktu is fair game! You have a wonderful spirit and great attitude and I have no doubt Boston will be a sucess, no matter how long you stay, and everything after Boston will be a success as well. Or, to put it a little more bluntly: I admire your pluck, girl! Best of luck to you!

Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Wednesday, August 18, 2004 9:12 PM CDT

---

hey,hey sweet D, I'll be glad ta visit you even if ya move ta Boston. I will not forget ta stop in and learn all about it from you. You are so good at bringing things alive when ya write bout them, so I am anxious to explore Boston with ya. I will gladly learn of your new friends and the old ones too cuz you can't get away from them just by movin' ta Boston. Prayers for you my beauty, things will be super for you and you have all of us supportin' ya in your guestbook.

Cam the Ham, The Boss and ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnnwood, wa usa - Wednesday, August 18, 2004 1:17 AM CDT

---

Deirdre - I am with Sara 100%!!!!!! Maybe even 150%!!!! There is no harm in doing NOTHING for a while....give yourself a break. Just a thought, just a seed, planted by Sara, and I second it. Love,
Lisa <lblume2@yahoo.com>
Marietta, GA USA - Tuesday, August 17, 2004 8:36 PM CDT

---

Hey D,
The heaviness of it all. How do you think the thoughts that are in my head? Sometimes it seems so impossible to get from where I am now to where I want to be, and my own frailty too overwhelming. All this to say, I understand...

You know, you said you could do anything for 3.5 months. Could you do...NOTHING? Like, stay in Washington for another few months and do nothing but rest? I mean, I do nothing ALL THE TIME and I find it highly satisfying. Seriously. You could try it. ;)

Love and smoochy kisses,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, August 16, 2004 11:40 PM CDT

---

Miss D,
your mama and daddy must be *SO* proud of their girl. I sit here, smiling and weeping at the same time, reading your entry. I sensed there must have been some struggle going on, but had no idea of how bad it was.

Every parent reaches a time in their child's life that they must stand back and watch while that child struggles to establish him/herself as an adult in the real world. For a healthy relationship, as the parent, you must allow that child to work things out for himself. (Forget gender accuracy, please, to faciliate things along. Otherwise, I'll be here struggling with all this until who knows when.)

With a child who has chronic, possibly life-threatening, health issues, it becomes very difficult, if almost impossible, at times to relinquish this child to his own devices. You, Miss D, have done *magnificently* on your own. But (and I say that gently) never be afraid to ask for help or accept it if offered. Besides, it makes Mom and Dad feel good to be needed. :-) And there's always other folks here on Caring Bridge that will do anything they can to help you out, too! ('dcha get that hint?) ;-)

(No, I don't actually know somebody in Boston, but I'll *FIND* somebody! I just know that there are too many other CB people out there who will know somebody in Boston for you to hook up with.) (CB-ers, y'all speak up now!)

Know that we continue to lift you up in our prayers.

Hugs from down South,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, August 16, 2004 9:42 AM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre,
Thanks for your birthday wish :) 23 feels great! Anyway I just wanted to tell you that you have an incredibly way with words...you describe your emotions so precisely that I feel like I know for just one second what it's like to be in your shoes. Thanks for sharing so much with us.. as a fellow CB journal-er (if that's even a word!!), I know it can be hard to share parts of your life (the downs especially) with hundreds of people. You do a great job and know that we're all here for you... hope you have a great week and good luck with apartment hunting!

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love & prayers,
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Monday, August 16, 2004 3:36 AM CDT

---

Thanks for the encouragment that you wrote in Will's guestbook. You are an amazing young women! My thoughts and prayers are with you always.

Will Power,
Kayla - www.willpowerfund.org <willpowerfund@yahoo.com>
Charlotte, NC USA - Sunday, August 15, 2004 5:58 PM CDT

---

What an entry! You are the bravest, most determined girl I know! I can't imagine making the decisions you made as I sit here in good health, let alone making them while dealing with all the stuff you are. But, new beginnings are such a gift. And knowing that you have a Plan B if Plan A isn't so hot is such a bonus!
I know you must be heartbroken at leaving DC, but remember, there ARE some friends you get to take with you - the ones here on CB, who live in your computer. I'm out here pulling for you, and hoping Boston is a great place for you to be!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Sunday, August 15, 2004 9:20 AM CDT

---

Oh Deirdre....bless your sweet heart....so much pain (both physically and emotionally) for such a young woman. I am glad that through it all you found some peace and solace and the strength to move forward and make those hard decisions. My heart goes out to you - always. Hang in there!
Lisa <lblume2@yahoo.com>
Marietta, GA USA - Saturday, August 14, 2004 8:53 PM CDT

---

Hello, i was watching a couple of new records being set at the Olympics today, so thought i would look up some slightly stranger ones instead of some jokes.

Here's a couple;

Most spoons balanced on the face
Tim Johnston (USA) (b. 1 January 1992), was able to balance on his face (one on each ear, two on each cheek, three on his chin, two on his lips, one on his nose and three on his forehead) and balance them for 30 seconds at on May 28, 2004.


British pub landlord Garry Turner clipped 153 ordinary wooden clothes pegs on his face at the WH Smith bookshop in York, Yorkshire, UK, on September 28, 2002







Love Viks From Post Pals and Bears Who Care




viks <viks@postpals.co.uk>
- Saturday, August 14, 2004 7:48 PM CDT

---

Checking in, Miss D, and getting worried about not seeing any updates.

Hope to "see" you *REAL* soon on your webpage.

Hugs from down South,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Friday, August 13, 2004 11:32 PM CDT

---

Oh Deirdre--I am so sorry you are going through yet another rough time. You are always on my mind and unless I go to your website I am never aware of just how much you go through. You are truly amazing. Keep up the positive attitude. I love you.
Aunt Janet <mcalaway@new.rr.com>
- Friday, August 13, 2004 11:06 AM CDT

---

Oh Deirdre, I am so sorry that you were feeling so horribly. I do hope that today is a good day for you...that you are feeling well and that you are in no pain.

MANY MANY Hugs from...
Alicia and Miss Camryn (www.caringbridge.org/in/cammiespage) <alicia41570@hotmail.com>
Kentland, IN - Thursday, August 12, 2004 9:24 AM CDT

---

Just checking back again from the Banana's page. Sorry to hear you had such a lousy weekend! Sending my wishes for a much much better week!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Tuesday, August 10, 2004 11:34 AM CDT

---

Hi D,
oh, I wish I were there so I could do something for you. On the other hand sometimes it's easier to deal with this by yourself, because it's so much work just to make your body move. Human interaction can be out of the question. Well, I hope that you're feeling better by now, that all the nasty chemo has worked its way out of your system and recovery is happening. {{{{{{{{{Deirdre}}}}}}}}}

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA US - Monday, August 9, 2004 11:32 AM CDT

---

Hang in there neighbor! (Kansas/Missouri) I am sorry to hear that you're feeling not-so-well.....and I hope and pray that your pain ceases sooner rather than later. You just keep on moving forward....putting one foot in front of the other.....and know that this Kansas girl is thinking and praying of/for you.
Natalie & Joleigh <cayennevoncajun@hotmail.com>
Tonganoxie, KS USA - Monday, August 9, 2004 9:01 AM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre,
Sorry to hear you're feeling just plain awful. I hope everything picks up and you're back to your normal, 100 percent self. I'm keeping you in my prayers and sending lots of "feel good" vibes your way!!

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love always,
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Monday, August 9, 2004 6:30 AM CDT

---

Oh, Miss D, I *WISH* I could come up there and at least give you a hug, ever so gently. What you described sounds exactly what Sara went through every time she had Cytoxan. Finally, the next to last time, they gave her some Zofran. Get that dingbat doctor to prescribe some. It was amazing the difference it made. And if you need someone to go on the warpath, remember, I'm a mom on the edge (kinda like Donkey in Shrek). Ready and willing to kick some .......! Well, you know what I mean! :-p

Hugs from down South,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Sunday, August 8, 2004 9:42 PM CDT

---

What a way to spend a Friday night. Do you have the Zofran prescribed? Sounds like you need it. I think sometimes you young adults fall through the medical cracks.
Between you and Sara, my maternal urges have me wanting to scream at some doctor for you!!
I wish I was closer, I would bring you chicken soup or something. :)
Hugs!!!
Cheryl, Haley's mom <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Sunday, August 8, 2004 6:54 PM CDT

---

Bless your heart! I have had you on my mind and in my prayers and now even more so......Zofran became Kelsey's newest "friend" this week......hope you feel better soon! CALL if you need anything or if you just want to talk. We love you!
Lisa, Dave, Amanda, Kelsey and Morgan
Marietta, GA USA - Sunday, August 8, 2004 1:13 AM CDT

---

OMG, girl, what a horrible night!!!! I sure hope you get warmed up and feeling better. I'll web-surf tonight and see if I can find a remedial-shot-administering class for you to take in your area :( Lots of positive vibes coming your way!


Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Saturday, August 7, 2004 9:13 PM CDT

---

Hey Deidre, thanks
for checking on Craig.

Hope your feeling good.
have a super good weekend

thanks for all the prayers
for Craig.

sending you lots of love

craig, lauren, and helen

CRAIGGY
helen <trula1@comcast.net>
- Saturday, August 7, 2004 1:45 PM CDT

---

Oh Lord,
Hear me
Help me
Hold me
Heal me
Pamela Woodruff <woodruff@gwu.edu>
Takoma Park, MD USA - Friday, August 6, 2004 7:50 PM CDT

---

Hey Deidre.
ANTI NAUSIA PILLS ARE YOUR FRIENDS?! YOU GOT IT!!! My best friend just spent the night, so we danced and bugged the my brother and his friends all night! Well, at least till 11.
Well, I've gotta go take some pills!
Peace
www.caringbridge.org/ga/haley
Haley <lilheyangeltn@aol.com>
Kingsport, TN USA - Thursday, August 5, 2004 9:26 PM CDT

---

So D did I tell ya how good ya look in that pic on the front page. The hat is great. Glad ya got to spend some time with family, that is so very important. Wish I could help ya find the right apt to make a new home but I am really sorta committed ta some radiation therapy at the time and 'asides Boston is so far away from Washington. But I can say I hope ya find the perfect one and settle in soon so ya can take care of yourself.
Cam the Ham and ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Thursday, August 5, 2004 3:29 PM CDT

---

Hey, Deirdre, sounds like your trip to Indiana was a great one! I *would* love to see the photos, but won't hold my breath, ha! Sorry to hear you are feeling punky lately. Your updates are always so positive and upbeat and BUSY that sometimes it's good for you to remind the rest of us that you need our prayers and positive thoughts as well! Take care!

Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Wednesday, August 4, 2004 8:16 PM CDT

---

Thanks for stopping by Bailee's page, this caringbridge family is one big family, we all learn so much from each other, it is a wonderful tool. Take Care.
Robin and Bailee <www.caringingbridge.org/fl/bailee michaelbailee@aol.com>
Tarpon Srpings, FL - Wednesday, August 4, 2004 5:25 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre - I found your link through Julianna Banana's Monster Link Page. I LOVE the list of things you have learned. Lists like yours make all us "healthy" people stop and remember how lucky we are and how quickly it can all change. You have a great outlook Deirdre - never lose sight of that!
Tracy M BWC <tmangin@sympatico.ca>
Windsor, ON Canada - Tuesday, August 3, 2004 11:36 AM CDT

---

Deirdre

Hi there!

It's wonderful to meet you. Thank you for taking the time to sign Samantha's guestbook. We always love meeting new friends through CaringBridge.

So you'll be moving to Mass soon, huh? Cool! Just so you know, we're only 45 minutes from Boston so don't be afraid to call on us should you need anything at all. We're more than happy to help when/if we can.

I will definitely be back to check-up on you again soon. Please feel free to stop by Samantha's site again whenever you get the chance.

Sending lots and lots of BIG hugs and MUCH love your way!!!




Mrs. Shannon & Miss Samantha Therese <humphity@gmail.com>
#24 - Tuesday, August 3, 2004 9:15 AM CDT

---

Hey D,
Ha ha!! Black trash bags...that sounds so familiar. Stuff seems to have the reproduction rate of rabbits. You leave a notebook and two magazines together and the next day, it's a pile with socks, CD cases and walmart bags. What's up with that??

Awww, thanks for the props on your page. It really helps for me to know someone (YOU!) who understands how frustrating it is to be in this body that doesn't work the way I want it to, and how it's possible for me to stay in bed for 12 hours and get up feeling exhausted. Plus, you like Shrek. How awesome is that?!?

Love and smoochy kisses,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page

PS Are you gonna eat that roasted swamp rat?
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, August 2, 2004 9:21 PM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre,
Thought I'd come by with some hot pink to brighten up your guestbook! I've been meaning to come by and drop you a line for ages now but somehow I just keep getting distracted! Sorry!! Wow, I read the first couple of paragraphs of your journal and thought I was reading about myself... you know, the whole watching chick flicks (I am sooo hanging out for The Notebook to finally premiere in Australia!), can't wait for Princess Diaries 2...KNITTING!! I also just learnt how to knit! It is seriously the coolest skill to pick up right now... it's the new black and I'm not kidding. I actually finished my very first scarf about a month ago...I'm so proud of it :) A little wonky on the sides but it resembles a scarf and that's all that matters!! Anyways, I hope you're feeling good and you have more of your good days... I'll be saying some extra prayers for you... take care!

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love,
XOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Monday, August 2, 2004 8:26 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,
Thank you so much for your supportive messages on our site! :o)
We'll keep you in our prayers that your medicine starts producing some noticeable results.
Hey, between my penchant for hitting things and your sense of direction, we should go on a nice long road trip together!
:o)
Lori Noah's Page <clowns@myhometown.net>
n st paul, mn - Sunday, August 1, 2004 11:12 PM CDT

---

Just checking in on you. Sorry about the achiness, you are right about you all being too young for all this stuff! Sometimes I feel like Haley's whole childhood has been stolen. But we just try to love her more. I wish I was closer, I would drown you in hugs. :)
Stay strong.
Cheryl and Haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Sunday, August 1, 2004 2:15 PM CDT

---

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
IMA
- Saturday, July 31, 2004 9:20 PM CDT

---

Hey, Miss D!

I know I haven't written in a while, but I *have* been checking on you regularly!

I love your tale of adventure coming home. Reminds me of our adventure in your special city, D.C., in the summer of '88. We had driven up to Long Island, NY in our full-size van to see a doctor for Sara's brother, Tim, only to immediately head back south and away from those crazy people who drive in the NYC area. (apologies to you folks!) (Yes, we *did* drive into New York City in the days before Mapquest and lived to tell about it and, of course, now Atlanta drivers are *much* worse than those we encountered 16 years ago!)

We had spent a few days in Washington enjoying the sights and had planned our last day to start back home and just stop somewhere along the interstate to spend the night, wherever our fancy struck. *ONLY* to get stuck in a *MAMMOTH* rush-hour traffic ham on the beltway D.C. in 98+ heat. In a van with no air and a rapidly overheating engine. And three kids aged 10, 8, and 6 who were also rapidly overheating and complaining and, well, you get the picture. We managed to get off the next exit, don't ask me where it was, I don't remember, and sat in a nearby motel parking lot for an hour to let the car cool and use their facilities. <;-0 When we started back up, just down the block we spotted a US HWY 29 sign. HWY 29??!! Hey, we knew that at home, 800 miles away, that turned into Lawrenceville Highway, only 9 miles from home. So, off we went, with no idea where the road went, only that eventually it came within 9 miles of home. And we *did* make it home, although it wasn't until the next day! so, Miss D, believe it or not, you will probably remember this adventure with some fondness in years to come. :-)

And I'm praying that those nasty, nasty mouth sores will go away ASAP and you'll be feeling fine and dandy *real* soon!

Hugs from down south,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Thursday, July 29, 2004 0:13 AM CDT

---

Hey there kiddo...life is certainly an adventure, isn't it??? We WILL make it to Indianapolis this weekend to see Derek perform...remember, I will be driving...and I do know my rights from my lefts!!! :) Keep up the spirit...love you bunches...even in the middle of the night when you don't have a clue where you are!!! Love, Mom
Mom <Leanyjoan@sbcglobal.net>
Chesterfield, MO USA - Wednesday, July 28, 2004 10:57 PM CDT

---

Hi there,
Sounds like you have had a rough July! I hope things start getting better soon.
Sounds like at least the school stuff is working itself out. Boston is such a cool city....I am really excited for you.
We are in Atlanta this week finishing up the "listing" process for Haley's transplant. She is a bundle of nerves, but I suppose that is normal.
Hugs to you!!
Cheryl and Haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Tuesday, July 27, 2004 9:08 PM CDT

---

Hi Deidre,

I scrolled down my Guestbook and I saw your link, and I realized, I haven't visited in a while. So here I am, sounds like your having a nice summer. I am too, So many things to do, so little time. Alrighty, well, thought I'd just come by and say "hey". See ya!
Adam Hays http://www.caringbridge.org/md/adam <SportsSO456@aol.com>
Frederick, MD - Tuesday, July 27, 2004 2:09 PM CDT

---

Hi D!!
Okay, ma'am, first of all it's just wrong to tell stories about mistaken passes when people are insomniac and on the edge (I'M A DONKEY ON THE EDGE, I TELL YOU!!!). However I enjoyed the story of you licking your lips & tongue very much...so much that I think the neighbors may have phoned the police about the maniac next door. Again. Hmm. It sounds like your BU plans are coming together pretty well! I'm glad it's going well and not causing you great harassment like Columbia..grrrr...Anyway, I hope you start to feel better soon and that your bod adjusts to the med changes. Sometimes I get so frustrated with my body because it just doesn't WORK right, you know? But I guess we have to forgive ourselves and realize that the physical part of us is just as bewildered as the mental & emotional parts. :)

Love and smoochy kisses,
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Tuesday, July 27, 2004 2:51 AM CDT

---

Hi D! Just stopping in to say thanks. Alyssa (even though she's only 16mos old) really appreciates all the support you are giving!! Thanks again and we'll stop by later!

Erika - Alyssa's Mama
www.caringbridge.org/al/sweetalyssa <tonysfreaka@hotmail.com>
Prattville, Al USA - Monday, July 26, 2004 11:09 AM CDT

---

Hey Deidre, found your
link from Julianna.

have a good upcoming week.

sending you lots of love

craig, lauren, and helen

CRAIGGY
helen <trula1@comcast.net>
- Sunday, July 25, 2004 2:10 PM CDT

---

My dear-
Count your blessings. Then count them again.
best of luck in graduate school
IMA
San Antonio, TX - Saturday, July 24, 2004 1:10 PM CDT

---

Deirdre,
What a sunny disposition you have!! In spite of all the pain and crappiness that you feel, you have such a positive attitude. It's nice to read.
Frances and Lucas <hammonds@wincom.net>
Amherstburg, - Friday, July 23, 2004 9:24 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre - I happened to run across your website (through someone elses) and decided to peek in.....wow, you are one amazing person! The outlook you have on life and your "never give up" attitude is a true inspiration. Your family and friends must be so proud of you and your accomplishments. I wish you a great weekend!
Julie Kjorsvik <kjorsvik@elltel.net>
Ellensburg, WA - Friday, July 23, 2004 3:08 PM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre,

I think you spelled it wrong, it isn't "medical science", it's "medival science" (did I spell that wrong?)...they could put a man on the moon waaay back when I was a baby, but they can't find ways to give us escape and comfort from the pains of our ailments?? Something is very wrong with that.

I don't think your wings don't need the workout, there are precious few people with your strength.

Take care,
Terry Josephson, Julianna Banana's dad <tjosephson@shaw.ca>
Winnipeg, Canada - Friday, July 23, 2004 0:40 AM CDT

---

Hello Deirdre!!
My name is Dillion and my mom and I found your website through link clicking in other Friends guestbooks.. I wanted to come by and say hello, and let you know that we will keep you in our prayers.. Here's hoping that you have a great day, an wonderful tomorrow, and an awesome weekend.. Sending lots of love and hugs your way.. All the way from the SUNNY and WAY TOO HOT state of Oklahoma..
Kimbra and Dillion BOOGIE Craig <okbabygirl20@yahoo.com>
Muskogee, OK - Thursday, July 22, 2004 2:27 PM CDT

---

Hey D, that is really a great picture on the front page now. I like you in that hat, but then I think you are a hottie any way. Sendin' ya a wink ;) and a big cyber hug((((D))))) and wishin you a good week end. Prayin for you ta get feelin better.

Cam the Ham, The Boss
cameron and ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Thursday, July 22, 2004 1:11 PM CDT

---

HI Deirdre,

Just stopping by to check up on ya.. sorry to hear you are still feeling crummy. I'm sure its all the med changes. Hopefully you will bounce back and be feeling GREAT the next time I get to catch up. Gentle hugs coming your way
Helen and Nicholas. www.caringbridge.org/mn/nicholasb <hburger64@hotmail.com>
Ham Lake, MN USA - Thursday, July 22, 2004 11:42 AM CDT

---

Just wanted to bring you some sweet wishes,

and Happy thoughts for your weekend,



and let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers!!!!

sending you lots of love, and BIG ((( HUGS )))



~ Boogie's Website ~
Boogie's Caring Bridge Page



Kimbra and Dillion (Boogie) Craig <okbabygirl20@yahoo.com>
- Thursday, July 22, 2004 10:50 AM CDT

---

Thanks so much for checking in on my son Will. We are very excited about LTN - it's our first year!
Your site is awesome! I will certainly be checking in on you!

WILL POWER
Kayla - willpowerfund.org <willpowerfund@yahoo.com>
Charlotte, NC USA - Wednesday, July 21, 2004 10:12 PM CDT

---

Hi There!!!

I'm Sean, Patrick's Uncle and just read your email to him. It never ceases to amaze me how the news media would have you believe that the world is made up of all these bad people only to find out that actually it is made up of wonderful people such as yourself. Thank you for your wonderful letter to Patrick and please know that you are now on my prayer list.

We come from South Louisiana where the food is good, the weather is hot, and people are very spiritual.

Thank you from our family to yours and please know that your illness is now being prayed for by hundreds of people on our end.

Peace be with you and your family,

and I am sure that DC rocks, I hope I can visit there one day soon and who knows maybe my wife and I can look you up when we visit.

God Bless You and your Family and Friends,

Sean
Sean <smolony@esgbr.com>
Baton Rouge, - Wednesday, July 21, 2004 6:50 PM CDT

---

Hi D,
I understand about trying to talk to doctors - sometimes it feels like it's just a waste of breath because they've already made up their minds about what's best. And the ER? Ugh, I just think about sitting there for hours on cracked vinyl seats while waiting for the ER staff to pronounce me perfectly fine & give me some Obecalp (placebo backwards...that's what I learned from watching E.R.). It seems like it would save so much trouble to just deal with the pain or nausea or whatever. I know. There should be like a patient service that offers advocates for patients who would call up the doctor on the patient's behalf & just bawl 'em out until the doc did something useful. Hmm. I may have my next Big Idea right there. ;) Heh. Hope you're feeling better!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Tuesday, July 20, 2004 4:33 PM CDT

---

Brian was here
Brian Schousek <schousek@yahoo.com>
Houlton, WI USA - Tuesday, July 20, 2004 0:06 AM CDT

---

Found your page through another friends page.
Hang in there! Keep the faith!
Good luck in the future!
Regina Bell <ou1247@cox.net>
Norman, OK - Sunday, July 18, 2004 9:20 PM CDT

---

Hi Deidre.
I took Remicade once. (didn't work so well for me.) I like your new pic.
Visit my special friends website! www.caringbridge.org/fl/aiden
Peace.
www.caringbridge.org/ga/haley
Haley <lilheyangeltn@aol.com>
Kingsport, TN USA - Sunday, July 18, 2004 5:41 PM CDT

---

Deirdre: I would never have guessed you had been through so much after finally meeting you last weekend. You seem so upbeat the entire weekend. Your are going to make a great therapist/psychologist. I will check-in on you from time to time.
Jeff Jewell <vetrepjeff@sbcglobal.net>
Vacaville , CA USA - Sunday, July 18, 2004 2:56 PM CDT

---

Dear Deirdre,
I'm sorry I have this entry 3 times. I didn't think it was being transferred to your page, so I kept on trying.
Sorry for the false expectations about lots of entries. If I knew how to erase the other two copies , I would.
Grandpa Banana
bdn, mb ca - Sunday, July 18, 2004 2:13 AM CDT

---

Dear Deirdre,
You don't know me,but I've noticed your name a number of times on Julianna Banana's website. I'm her Grandpa.I would like to say how impressed I am with your willingness to try to make someone brighter and happier with no other motive than just your good character. Thanks for being so thoughtful ! A chinese proverb says you can't get something for nothing. You can't give something for nothing either. People who find good things to say about others will find others saying good things about them. Since you are a college student, perhaps you would like a few other quotations too.
How about these:

Everybody wants to right the world; nobody wants to help his neighbor....Henry Miller

Challenges make you discover things about yourself that you never really knew. They're what makes the instrument stretch - what makes you go beyond the norm...Cicely Tyson

A good way to judge people is by observing how they treat
those who can do them absolutely no good. Does this apply to your doctors or nurses ?

People's minds are changed through observation, not argument.

The secret of good communication is positive affirmation. It's not what you can't or won't do that interests people, but what you CAN or WILL do.

Discussion is an exchange of knowledge; argument an exchange of ignorance.

We are not primarily put on this earth to see through one another, but to see one another through. ...Peter De Vries

Change is inevitable, except from a vending machine.

Yes, I quoted all of these from a book called More of the Best of Bits and Pieces and did it for your thinking pleasure, not because you need any advice from me, except for the one about niceness clinging to you. Thanks for being so supportive of Julianna, Nicholas, Terry and Mary.
I like the stuff you are made of.

Grandpa Banana <brianjosephson@westman.wave.ca>
Brandon, Manitoba Canada - Sunday, July 18, 2004 2:06 AM CDT

---

Hey, Deirdre -- so sorry to hear you are feeling crummy! Your comment about the plastic v. porcelin gods made me laugh! I hope you start to feel a little better and can enjoy some of your weekend. I'll be thinking of you in the meantime,


Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Saturday, July 17, 2004 10:48 PM CDT

---

You are an amazing person! Thanks for signing Alyssa's web page - we will keep you in our prayers! Remember to keep God in your heart and you will get all that you ask for! We should pray, believing God will answer. Mark 11:24

In God's eternal love-
Tony, Erika and Alyssa

www.caringbridge.org/al/sweetalyssa <tonysfreaka@hotmail.com>
Prattville, Al USA - Saturday, July 17, 2004 8:33 PM CDT

---

Hey!
Hope the Remicade went smoothly. When Haley had those treatments, the worst of it was the boredom. I hope you have lots of company to cheer you up. Wish we were closer..but we are not, so I am sending you a cyber ((((HUG))).
Cheryl and Haley <Bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Saturday, July 17, 2004 8:43 AM CDT

---

The party sounds WONDERFUL! I can only imagine how much fun it was for you all.
I hope that you are able to have a nice weekend and that you are feeling well.

Thank you so much for stopping to check on little Miss Cammie!!
Alicia and Cammie (www.caringbridge.org/in/cammiespage) <alicia41570@hotmail.com>
Kentland, IN - Thursday, July 15, 2004 3:45 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre--those pictures are great. I have been thinking about you. It was great to spend time with you and your family. Sorry to hear you are not feeling well again. I love you.
Janet
- Thursday, July 15, 2004 12:23 AM CDT

---

Hi D,
Sounds like you had a great time in MO! Tee hee about your dad's party! When my aunt turned 50, SOMEONE in our family paid to have plastic gravestones put all over her front yard. Funny part is that it's in a sort of uptight neighborhood, so I can only imagine what all the neighbors were thinking. Hee.

Hope you feel better!!

Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Wednesday, July 14, 2004 4:40 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre, Your dad's party sounded fun...and I like your list on your home page. My daughter is 17 w/ALL and takes some of the same meds you do- and we spend a lot of time waiting in ER and clinic, etc. She has also had her share of teachers who care and then those who don't so it was interesting reading your posts. Take care and I will check back often to see how you are doing. Until then I will be rooting for you from California- go Dierdre!
XXOO, Marey
http://caringbridge.org/ca/ali
Marey, Ali's mom <kteachermom@hotmail.com>
San Carlos, CA - Tuesday, July 13, 2004 10:54 PM CDT

---

Stopping by to let you know that your in our thoughts and prayers.
Sending lots of prayers your way. +++++++++++++++++++++++++
Love LaKota and her mom,Debbie
God be with you!!!!!!!!!!
~*~ LaKota~*~



http://www.caringbridge.org/mn/laplafcan <LaKotaDeb@hotmail.com>
St.Cloud, MN - Tuesday, July 13, 2004 10:18 PM CDT

---

Thinking of you and all of our caringbridge friends on a late Saturday night. It still boggles my mind the nastiness that RA can put forth. I caught an ad for a drug for RA on TV the other day that listed as a possible *side effect* the disease that my wife is afflicted with. I still haven't done the research I should on what you are going through and hope... for selfish reasons... that I never have to learn about it firsthand.

Take care of youself and grow.
Brian Schousek <schousek@yahoo.com>
Houlton, WI USA - Saturday, July 10, 2004 11:48 PM CDT

---

Holy brown cows!!! Boston! That is awesomeness!! (though I hear they have something called Snow in the winter, not quite sure what that is) I think you are truly amazing with your perseverance & dedication to education (woohoo, I can rhyme!). It gives me hope that I can stick this out too...school isn't forever, right? Right?? Uh, D?!?!? AAAAAAGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Saturday, July 10, 2004 8:50 PM CDT

---

Just checking on you. I hope today is a good day!
Hugs!!
Cheryl and Haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Friday, July 9, 2004 11:35 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,
Thank you so much for your visits to our site. I'm afraid I am terribly behind.
Once again you had me nodding with empathy with your post. You are brave and courageous beyond words, and I hope you write a book about your experience some day!!
I also love the quote at the bottom of your page. I may have to borrow it also for my page. You always manage to speak what I'm thinking!!
I hope you have more energy, especially as you prepare to see your family!!
lori Noah's Page <clowns@myhometown.net>
n st paul, mn - Wednesday, July 7, 2004 6:29 PM CDT

---

Hey D!!
I'm digging my way out of my hole in the earth (guess I missed the memo about my turning into a hobbit for the past two weeks)...I so understand what you're saying. Everytime I make a long to-do list, the next day is always crappy beyond belief. I try to make plans, only to get up with a brain-maiming earache or stiff knees, etc. (but then sometimes even if I don't make a to-do list, I feel bad anyway, will we ever win?). So, my dear friend, just wanted to let you know I understand, and will be praying for you. :)

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Wednesday, July 7, 2004 3:14 PM CDT

---

Hi Deidre! Thanks for signing my guestbook. I'm so glad to hear you've had energy! I think anti nasea meds are DEFFINATLY your friends!
Peace Out
Haley <lilheyangeltn@aol.com>
Kingsport, TN USA - Tuesday, July 6, 2004 8:03 PM CDT

---

Stopping by to let you know that your in our thoughts and prayers.
Sending lots of prayers your way. +++++++++++++++++++++++++
Love LaKota and her mom,Debbie
God be with you!!!!!!!!!!
~*~ LaKota~*~
DOG (DEPEND ON GOD)




http://www.caringbridge.org/mn/laplafcan <LaKotaDeb@hotmail.com>
St.Cloud, MN - Monday, July 5, 2004 6:30 PM CDT

---

Oppss... It's Deirdre!!!


Margaret www.caringbridge.com/canada/margaret <mltse@shaw.ca>
Vancouver, BC Canada - Sunday, July 4, 2004 0:03 AM CDT

---

Hello Dendra,

I understand about the rollercoaster we fall in. Some days I feel incredibly well and most days I look it too. Then there are those days that I just can't help, but think something might be wrong or just might be feeling ill.

It helps me just to take little steps in life. Enjoy everyday as they are. Doing the things that I want to today rather then wiating for the tomororw. School and work can wait for me.

And keep smiling, it is contageous:)
Margaret www.caringbridge.com/canada/margaret <mltse@shaw.ca>
Vancouver, BC Canada - Sunday, July 4, 2004 0:01 AM CDT

---

Now I know these are not the same as actual bangin' up fireworks but I just bet you get ta see some of those too if you are feelin up to it and my pretty Ms D I am a hopin' you are still having some good days. Did I mention you are a really pretty gal? Yep! Winkin atcha ;) with a big grin on my face
Cam the Ham, THE BOSS
cameron <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Saturday, July 3, 2004 5:25 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre!
So glad you are feeling great...good days are GREAT and we'll take it anytime!! I SO know what you mean about good days and bad days and everything...I think I go through a similar thing as you...I mean, obviously we have different circumstances, like you have this ugly monster to fight, whereas I'm grieving the loss of my mother...so we both do get good and bad days...and you're right, we just have to let the good days be here and make the most of it!!! It is possibly one of the only ways to survive the bad..which is to know that we will have good days and on those good days, we'll just LIVE and make the most of the good... I hope you have more good days than bad in the future.. and to me, I don't know you all that well yet, but I know that even when you have a bad day... you'll be OKAY. You just have that strength in you and you have the right attitude.. so that definitely helps. Happy 4th of July!!!

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love,
XOXOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Friday, July 2, 2004 7:21 PM CDT

---

My favorite picture of my wife that I have ever seen (bar none: I just looked again at the previous winner, our wedding portrait on the wall) is of her without any hair a few months back. The smile in adversity shown in that picture is exactly why I love her so much.

Think of it this way: There are wonderful wigs out there and you can blend in when you want to. Or you could rob a bank and nobody would recognize you. Or, if you feel so inclined on a random day, you can just go out bald and either explain yourself or enjoy the questioning looks from those watching.

I draw courage from your entries.

Have a good holiday weekend.
Brian Schousek <schousek@yahoo.com>
Houlton, WI USA - Friday, July 2, 2004 6:58 PM CDT

---

Deidrie,

I was so happy to check in today and see that you had a good day and were able to ENJOY it!!!!... Sometimes a little bit of "normalcy" is the best medicine. Good for you!!!
Helen and Nicholas. www.caringbridge.org/mn/nicholasb <hburger64@hotmail.com>
Ham Lake, MN USA - Friday, July 2, 2004 3:07 PM CDT

---

Deirdre, hi! I'm so glad to read of your good day today! I don't understand all the Catholic stuff (hey, when you're raised a Protestant, Catholocism is too complicated to understand, ha!) but am so happy to hear your friend's sermon was refreshing to you. I hope the annointing of the sick works wonders!

Thanks for all the encouraging notes in Kendrie's CB guestbook. I hope you have a wonderful 4th of July holiday and a great trip home!

Take care,

Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 5:01 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre...Thank you so much for stopping by and signing Cammie's book!!!

I am so sorry that you were having such pain, AND all of the nasty effects of the chemo. We know those days all too well. I hope that you've continued to feel MUCH better and that you were able to have a nice weekend.
Alicia and Cammie (www.caringbridge.org/in/cammiespage) <alicia41570@hotmail.com>
Kentland, IN - Wednesday, June 30, 2004 7:50 AM CDT

---

Deirdre- I've only had the time to scan your entries since you left an entry on my wife's site but it is obvious you have great strength and great support as well. Best wishes to you and thanks for visiting us.
Brian Schousek <schousek@yahoo.com>
Houlton, WI USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 10:09 PM CDT

---

Hey wat's up!! I finally decided to sign the gbook!! I'm not the typical/average person as you should know from Thurston...so I don't really want to tell you what everyone else will..u kno the typical stuff..get well..I know how it feels (even though I don't)...you will survive..and asking you millions of questions or feeling sorry for you bc you should know that I wish the best for you neways..so we are going to act like u are gettin the full 8 hours of sleep..U R WALKING w/o crutches..your HIPS feel GREAT!! enough for u to take a jog to the monument..(J/k u kno i have to have some humor lol)...so what I will tell you is if you are ever in NY ( I should be a spokesperson for this dam state lol) come thru so we can chill...so I won't be in this horrible district much longer bc summer school is almost over thank goodness...orgo is the worse class and that's all ima say about that...neways...hope u survive the rest of the CI's and the wack CD (no one compares to Sara)..good luck with grad school..keep in touch...1 of BK's Fynest....
Klarisse <klarisse@gwu.edu>
Brooklyn, NY U.S. - Monday, June 28, 2004 9:49 PM CDT

---

HI Deirdre,

This is Nicholas' mom, Helen. I just wanted to stop by and thank you for signing Nicks guestbook. He does enjoy seeing that poeple are thinking of him.I really need to update his site more often :O)) Im a bit lacking in that dept. I also wanted to let you know how couragous you are. I have sat and read though every entry in your journal and cannot believe everything that you have/are enduring. You are a VERY strong young woman, who I know will beat this. We both wish you all the best and will continue reading along, looking forward to the day that the medications finally control your JRA and you are pain and symptom free~
Helen and Nicholas. www.caringbridge.org/mn/nicholasb <hburger64@hotmail.com>
Ham Lake,, mn USA - Monday, June 28, 2004 8:52 PM CDT

---

Oh, Deirdre, how DID I miss TWO entries!!! What a busy weekend I have had - and you as well! I have been praying hard for Becky's dad and am so happy to hear their good news. Not so happy to hear you are still feeling so crummy....but I hope you do go out and celebrate Julie's birthday. HEAVEN KNOWS you BOTH deserve a good celebration!!!! I will keep checking in on you and thinking of you and I am so looking forward to seeing you in two weeks!! HANG in there, sweetie. We love you!
Lisa, Dave, Amanda, Kelsey and Morgan
Marietta, GA USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 9:05 PM CDT

---

In the 1960s when I was your age there were many undergroung comic books. A character in one of them was Mr. Natural. He was an elderly man with long white hair, beard and nightshirt. He always was always walking with a firm stride and his one phrase was, "keep on truckin' "
Pamela Woodruff <woodruff@gwu.edu>
Washington, DC USA - Sunday, June 27, 2004 5:52 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,
Thank you so much for coming to our site!
I love your page, espcecially the list! I also love the quote about faith and will use it on my next entry, if you don't mind. I am sorry you're in pain, and I hope you find a way to lessen it. My family will be rooting for you!!!
Noah's Mom Noah's Page <clowns@myhometown.net>
n st paul, mn - Saturday, June 26, 2004 10:21 PM CDT

---

Deirdre,
I got here through Julianna's site, and I must say, I'm glad that I found you. Where do you find all the suitable quotes? I'm trying to compile some for my son's site. In case you want to check him out, I'll leave a link.
Frances and Lucas <hammonds@wincom.net>
Amherstburg, near Windsor, near Detroit, Ontario Canada - Saturday, June 26, 2004 4:00 PM CDT

---

Hey D, I just do not like checkin in with one of my hotties and readin they are hurtin a lot. I know you have been here 'afore and it will happen again but go easy on yourself my pretty gal and use those meds when ya really need'em. I am finally all done with my pain meds, and it took some very slow weening to where my nerves would not make me shake and shuddar with out'em, but I made it. Pain is the same for everyone, and it does not matter what causes it and so when ya are hurtin take it! This four year ole BOSS says "just take it". An listen to Sara's Mom the zofran is great. Stops my gaggin like right now! Sendin a cyber hug(((((D)))))) and winkin atcha ;)
Cam the Ham, THE BOSS
Cameron and ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Friday, June 25, 2004 11:01 PM CDT

---

{{{{{{{{{Deirdre}}}}}}}}}

That's a *BIG* hug from me to you, hoping to make you feel a "little" less nauseous. I have one word for the nausea: Zofran. Call that stinky doctor and tell him/her that you want some. That was the one med that helped Sara with her chemo. We found out about it on her fifth dose. I won't tell you how many times she could have used it and didn't have it, or had to try something else the drs thought would help. *NOT*!!

One other thought..... Darvocet makes Sara and I both puke our guts up. Could that possibly also contribute to the chemo this time? Just a thought. Anyway, this mom of Sara is praying that the nausea/vomiting/yucky feelings will soon subside and the wonderful/bouncy/feel-good days will return.

Love and hugs from down South,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, June 21, 2004 9:10 PM CDT

---

To all the Dad's in your life
Cam the Ham and family
ivy <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Sunday, June 20, 2004 3:04 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre--it's me the 'infrequent' visitor. I thought you would have seen some of the Reagan stuff. You are right it was history. Kim & Scott even watched it on TV. I am glad you are having some better luck dealing with your pain. I love the pictures. Take care. I love you.
Janet
- Friday, June 18, 2004 11:14 AM CDT

---

I was #5003! Is that close enough?? Do I win the prize?? (a red salmon!!!)

Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 9:07 PM CDT

---

I THOUGHT that was you in the crowd on CNN!

Deidre I'm very happy to read that you seem to be winning the pain game, that is wonderful news. You don't deserve to have to live through pain, so I hope this leads to living pain free.

Luv,
Julianna banana <tjosephson@shaw.ca>
Winnipeg, Canada - Wednesday, June 16, 2004 1:59 PM CDT

---

Hey D!
I was thinking about you last Wednesday when NBC was broadcasting from Washington, & I actually did think at some point, 'hmm, I wonder if Deirdre is on the streets watching this in person?' It was an amazing event, & I bet it was probably even more impressive in person.

Oh, the ups & downs, why are there so many more downs than ups? I completely understand - I remember a Sheryl Crow song that goes "I've been living off of coffee & nicotine," only for me it's "I've been living off of granola bars & Vicodeeeeeeeen" (if you say it that way it still sort of rhymes). I keep waiting, waiting for a magic pill. Oh, sigh. Anyway, hope you're having MASSIVE FUN at your Grown-Up Person's job!!!!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, June 14, 2004 9:07 PM CDT

---

Yep, gal you are a super person. I visited your brothers page and I am glad he started his own. I had ta stop by and tell you how nice you are and pretty too. Sendin you a big cyber hug(((((D))))) and prayin the meds work miracles for you to take away the owies. ;)

Cam the Ham,THE BOSS <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Monday, June 14, 2004 0:32 AM CDT

---

Wanted to say hi and I'm glad that you are having a pretty good week. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.

Trista Long <Chris-Trista@att.net>
Fairmont, wv usa - Saturday, June 12, 2004 1:14 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,

I'm really glad to hear you are having a good week. It's amazing what you have had to adapt to [no, not your parents :)] and how you have learned to appreciate life's little pleasures as you constantly battle your health issues. I hope the new meds continue to help. Glad to hear everyone will be back on the east coast and closer to you. Take care, Don
Don Murphy <dmurphy@scientech.com>
Frederick, MD - Friday, June 11, 2004 12:21 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre,

I check your site daily and enjoy your updates. I'm glad to hear you are feeling better. You deserve it! You have accomplished so much with so many road blocks along the way. I don't even know you but can't help but feel so proud (can just imagine your family!!!). As a fellow catholic, I am inspired by your strong faith as it only seems to get stronger inspite of all of your hardship. I will continue to check on you and pray for you daily!!!
Kelly <kandrade75@yahoo.com>
St. Petersburg, FL USA - Friday, June 11, 2004 8:35 AM CDT

---

YAY for good days, less pain and here's hoping and praying for stomach miracles!!!! I've had some anti-inflammatory drug fun myself these days - so taking zantac like crazy. Your mom says I need the "little purple pill" - ha!! I like to say "I feel your pain" in sympathy, not reality!!! Truly, I'm so glad to hear that things are going well for you and that the meds are working. I thought about you during Reagan's procession and wondered if you were out there....glad to see the pics. Thanks for updating us and I'm still out here checking on you regularly. I have aspirations of being 5k!!! Take care of yourself - I love you!
Lisa
Marietta, GA USA - Thursday, June 10, 2004 10:33 PM CDT

---

Hey D,
okay okay, you win, I read up a bit on cicadas & you're right, they are nasty treacherous little buggers. But I hear they make a nice CRUNCHY noise when you mash them! Hooray!! :) Heh.

Hope the quietness on the update front means you're having a GREAT week & waltzing about Washington squashing cicadas!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, June 7, 2004 3:11 PM CDT

---

What a great picture of you and Derek. Yes, I am just looking now. Work has been crazy. I hope you are feeling better. Love, Janet
Janet <mcalaway@new.rr.com>
- Thursday, June 3, 2004 10:54 AM CDT

---

I meant to add that I LOVE cicadas! We call 'em June bug down here (and then July flies later on), they're my favorite sound of summer. Of course I read that they can be incredibly deafening in large numbers...hope you've got some earplugs so you can enjoy the sound when you want to. :) Heh.

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Wednesday, June 2, 2004 4:15 PM CDT

---

I will forever be known on the World Wide Web as the Mom who makes war on fannies................ My moment of greatness............... (okay, okay, I *know* I'm weird!) :-p

Hope your cocktails *all* kick in soon and you're feeling super-dee-dooper soon! (Can you tell that I saw something today that reminded me of Barney the Dinosaur?!) (Actually it was the most absolute purpley purple car I've *EVER* seen and *I* was *not* on any cocktails, medical or alcoholic, whatsoever!

Hugs from down South,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Wednesday, June 2, 2004 0:48 AM CDT

---

Hi there D. I can call ya that can't I? I really like ta flirt ya know, and I have some really cute gals on my friends list that are about my age and size, but have ta tell ya between Oscar aka Sara and you I am likin' the older set too. Just wonderin' if ya want ta wait a few years for this guy to grow up, nah I guess that would be askin' a lot, sides I'd have ta ask Sara ta wait too and then if ya did I'd have ta pick and I no like ta have ta pick, I like all the gals. The ole gal wants me ta say somethin' for her. You live in a great place. You are so lucky, even if it is overrun by locust and quackin' ducks. So far I have not been outside to see if the ducks or the locusts were here. I think I can wait! Keep lookin for the humor in life, it is the best way to get through the rubbish! The ole gal found this in another web page and gets a kick outta it, cuz it is somethin' a kid would do, yep it is. Hope it makes a grin come on your face too.

Why Parent's Go Gray

The boss of a big company needed to call one of his employees about an urgent problem with one of the main computers. He dialed the employee's home phone number and was greeted with a child's whispered, "Hello?"

Feeling put out at the inconvenience of having to talk to a youngster the boss asked, "Is your Daddy home?"

"Yes", whispered the small voice.

"May I talk with him?" the man asked.

To the surprise of the boss, the small voice whispered, "No."

Wanting to talk with an adult, the boss asked, "Is your Mommy there?"

"Yes," came the answer.

"May I talk with her?"

Again the small voice whispered, "No."

Knowing that it was not likely that a young child would be left home alone, the boss decided he would just leave a message with the person who should be there watching over the child. "Is there any one there besides you?" the boss asked the child.

"Yes," whispered the child, "A policeman."

Wondering what a cop would be doing at his employee's home, the boss asked "May I speak with the policeman?"

"No, he's busy," whispered the child.

"Busy doing what?" asked the boss.

"Talking to Daddy and Mommy and the Fireman," came the whispered answer.

Growing concerned and even worried as he heard what sounded like a helicopter through the ear piece on the phone the boss asked, "What is that noise?"

"A hello-copper," answered the whispering voice.

"What is going on there?" asked the boss, now alarmed. In an awed whispering voice the child answered, "The searchy team just landed the hello-copper."

Alarmed, concerned, and more than just a little frustrated, the boss then had to ask, "Why are they there?"

Still whispering, the young voice replied along with a muffled giggle...

"They're looking for me!"

Sending hugs and smiles to you today
Cam the Ham, almost & the ole gal <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Tuesday, June 1, 2004 11:46 PM CDT

---

Hi D,
LOVE the new homepage pic! Awwww, so sweet! (and what an accomplishment, I think of you a lot when I'm trying to slog through another Boring Book for school) Bwaha to the "pain control cocktail" - I always think of my pills that way, there's my Morning Cocktail, Evening Cocktail, and Nice Little In-Betweens. Hee!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Tuesday, June 1, 2004 9:01 PM CDT

---

Hey D!!
No, I haven't dropped off the face of the earth (YET, anyway). Hooray for no mouth sores and real toothpaste! This is excitement!! One of the great joys of life is going to the drugstore and spending an hour deciding which toothpaste to buy (mint? cinnamon? herbal blast? whitening? cavity-prevention?)!! Hope your brief hospital stay went splendid and you managed to subvert the system and all that.

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Friday, May 28, 2004 9:16 PM CDT

---

Oh My a great big S'milestone in your life. You look so great in the graduation garb, and I am happy for you that you completed your goal. I want to follow your web site to see what antics you might be engaging in next and send you prayers and encouragement to be all that you can. I know you are a great source of pride and happiness for all of your family and friends.
Ivy and Cam the Ham, almost <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Friday, May 28, 2004 3:39 PM CDT

---

My dearest D,
I just finished a Remicade here at home and so I thought of you... It seems like things are smooth sailing, at least for the moment (you know, be thankful for the good days, they help you get through the bad). I also wanted to tell you how wonderful the graduation photos look. You better believe I will find your brother next year and torture him.. that is, if he is one of my residents :) Anyway, enjoy being an SA, don't hurt any CLLC staff members too badly, and I miss you. See you soon, Chrissy
Chrissy
Hazleton (temporarily), PA - Friday, May 28, 2004 1:42 PM CDT

---

That was the first I saw of you and your brother in your graduation gear...tears are streaming! How could I possibly have two such great kids? Congratulations...its been a rollar coaster of a month, hasn't it??? Hang on, it isn't over yet!!! See ya in DC in a few weeks. Love you bunches...Mom XXXOOOXXX
Darlene Goltz <Leanyjoan@sbcglobal.net>
St. Louis, MO USA - Thursday, May 27, 2004 10:30 PM CDT

---

Awwwww.......those are GREAT pics!!! Thanks for putting them on your site, Deirdre. I'm so glad you can find humor, beauty and peace even during some of your roughest times. Those are the qualities that keep me in awe of you and your strength and perseverance. Take care - we are thinking of you and we love you!
Lisa, Dave, Amanda, Kelsey and Morgan
Marietta, GA - Thursday, May 27, 2004 9:49 PM CDT

---

Hello Dierdre,
I am so glad your mother sent me the link to your site... I have spent the last hour browsing and catching up. The internet is a wonderful tool for helping people stay in touch...
First of all - congratulations! I am very impressed! Your committment and drive are an inspiration. Best of luck as you begin your post-graduate studies.
Second - God bless you. When you lived across the street I was able to keep abreast of your health issues through chatting with your folks - but I had no idea how difficult the battle had become for you. I will have to stop whining now when my joints bother me - living with Sjogren's is nothing compared to what you face each day.
Now that I know of this site, I will check back often to follow your adventures -
Take care of yourself - lots of love and best wishes,
Sue
Sue Murphy <murfamily@adelphia.net>
Frederick, MD USA - Monday, May 24, 2004 7:13 AM CDT

---

Sounds like you're having a "mahvelous" time! Enjoy it, Deirdre. You've *earned* it in more ways than one.

Smiles and hugs from down South,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, May 24, 2004 1:35 AM CDT

---

Congratulations on your Graduation! :) I LOVE graduating! Sounds like you've been having a great time :) It's very cool to have a pain mangagement doc for a neighbor! For some reason, my office at the hospital I work for (I'm a Speech Therapist) is in the Pain Management clinic. I get to see all sorts of funky stuff out of the corner of my eye as I walk through there to get to my office. I hope you get some relief!!!! I think there's a joke in here somewhere: you live in one of the most obese cities in the US and have a restaurant called the Elephant Bar, but I'm too tired to think up the joke. Laugh and pretend I said something witty :)

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Sunday, May 23, 2004 9:39 PM CDT

---

Congrats on graduating! Enjoy the summer! I just wanted to see if anybody knew the username/password to get into Sunny_Survivor's page?? I've been following her story for a while and the suspicious events of the last few days had me puzzled. And then they password it! So anyway...just wanted to know if anybody knew how to get in and read what is going on. Thanks!!
Sheryl
- Sunday, May 23, 2004 8:26 PM CDT

---

Congratulations on your graduation. i am praying that you can eat "real people" food very soon. I bet you are very sick of mashed potatoes!
caringbridge.org/ga/haley
Cheryl (Haley's mom) <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Saturday, May 22, 2004 2:16 PM CDT

---

Way to go Deirdre! Fantastic! Keep up the great work!

Love, Uncle Robert and Dawn
Robert Goltz <bicyclebob@sbcglobal.net>
Rockford, Il america - Wednesday, May 19, 2004 11:07 PM CDT

---

"Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, I'm free at last!"

(apologies to MLK!)

Congratulations on earning a well-deserved degree! Those pictures put a big smile on this face! And, no, when Sara has her hysterics upon falling from the stage, I will *not* make war on her fanny. (I'll probably be laughing, too!) (To other readers, please read Sara's note below to make any sense of this!)

(sigh...........to be known on the WWW for "making war on your fanny")

*BIG* hug from down south,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, May 17, 2004 10:41 AM CDT

---

Awesome picture! Congratulations graduate........you should be very proud.

Sending love, hugs and prayers from CT.
Mary Lou Harney <jamesharney@sbcglobal.net>
Ellington, CT - Monday, May 17, 2004 10:32 AM CDT

---

Congratulations Graduate!!! I am very proud of you. What a major accomplishment--college in three years along with not feeling so well so often. Good luck with everything. I love you.
Janet <mcalaway@new.rr.com>
- Monday, May 17, 2004 8:32 AM CDT

---

Congratulations on your graduation!!! Good for you! You look great in your cap and gown. Just wanted to say hi and hope you have a great week.
Sheri and Spencer http://www.caringbridge.org/wi/spencerupdates/ <jjss1@verizon.net>
Marshfield, WI USA - Monday, May 17, 2004 3:12 AM CDT

---

Aw, look at you in your cap & gown!! Too awesome! Hope you had a totally awesome weekend celebrating with the family!!!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Sunday, May 16, 2004 9:14 PM CDT

---

WOO HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!I have been thinking about you all day - those are awesome pics, thanks so much for posting them. I am SO proud of you......I have been telling everyone who will listen to me that my wonderful, beautiful, intelligent, talented niece is graduating today. (I don't think they are quite as impressed as I am but what do THEY know??). We are so happy for you - enjoy all the celebrations! We love you!
Lisa, Dave, Amanda, Kelsey and Morgan
Marietta, GA USA - Sunday, May 16, 2004 7:08 PM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre,

Congradulation on graduation. Seems like we were in High School just yesterday. I am so proud of you! Hopefully I wont be too far behind you. I hope things continue to get brighter, I can not think of someone who deserves it more than you! My parents send you a congradulations as well! Hope to see you soon, God Bless!
Matt Markillie <mwmav8r01@aol.com>
Manchester, NH USA - Sunday, May 16, 2004 11:54 AM CDT

---

Deirdre, This is my first time to your page and I loved reading your update,etc. You're a real cutie. Congratulations on graduation. That's a wonderful accomplishment. Best wishes to you and I'll be checking on you soon. Love and Angel Hugs, Louise


\




Louise <AngelHaps@aol.com>
Colo. Spgs., CO - Sunday, May 16, 2004 0:07 AM CDT

---

Hey D!
I'm glad that meth-day wasn't quite as bad as anticipated - hopefully the place has cooled off by now so you can get plenty of rest before the BIG WALK ACROSS THE STAGE tomorrow! (oohs and aahs here) Secretly I'm convinced that when I do THE WALK I'm going to fall off the stage and will then commence a fit of hysterics, at which point my mother will march up from the audience and - you guessed it - make war on my fanny. :) Hehehe!

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Friday, May 14, 2004 9:35 PM CDT

---

Why am I *not* surprised to find that you've been an RA? :-)

Sara's oldest brother was an RA as well and he, too, cared very much for his residents. Still does after graduating two years ago, and still stays in touch.

And, hey, Deirdre, one of our fondest, deepest desires has been to be in Boston over the Fourth of July to enjoy the concert by the Boston Pops in the shell by the river and watch the fireworks over the water in person and listen to the howitzers go off in the 1812 Overture. Maybe, if you're there, we could tag up,hmmm?

You go, girl, and enjoy every minute of graduation. Bear with your mom and dad through the tears. It's so *neat* to see your child achieve that milestone, yet bittersweet as well. I well understand your mom's note. Been there and hope to again sometime soon. {....big cheesy grin for Sara!....}

And I'll be praying about the methotrexate. (grrrrrrr for nasty, necessary stuff) And, no, Sara's pain meds haven't kicked in yet.

Have a *WONDERFUL* graduation, Deirdre!

Hugs from down south,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara Sara's CB page <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 10:20 PM CDT

---

Deirdre, this is the first time I have ever been to your website and I wanted to tell you how much I love the list at the top of the site --- especially numbers 11 and 16! The "not studying" and "binge drinking" comments made me laugh out loud!!

Best of luck to you during graduation and all the craziness it entails. What an exciting time! (can you tell I am a middle-aged, jealous old lady?? Ha!)
Best wishes,


Kristie (ALL List) Kendrie's Page <kristieokc@cox.net>
Byron (Robins AFB), GA - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 10:12 PM CDT

---

Hey there kiddo...one more day before we (Daddy and I) head to DC for your BIG graduation...so...how many tissue boxes should we bring? This is definitely going to be your big day and I am soooooo proud of you. As Mahfouz wrote..."In a blink of an eye, life passes you by"...and it seems that it has just been an instant since they placed my pretty precious sweetheart in my hands and now look...she is graduating from college. You go, girl. I love you bunches...Mom XXXOOOXXX
Darlene Goltz <Leanyjoan@sbcglobal.net>
Chesterfield, MO 63005 - Wednesday, May 12, 2004 7:54 PM CDT

---

Hey Darling!
I'm so proud of you for graduating!!! I still have one more year before my walk, but all the same, I'm excited for you. I'm glad that you are taking good care of yourself and that you are surrounded by so many loving people.
Christine Johnston
St. Mary's City, MD USA - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 4:01 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre - I just read your Mother's Day poem........it's beautiful. I bet your mom loved that! 7 days 'til graduation, that's awesome. You should be very proud.

As always, sending love, hugs and prayers from CT.
Mary Lou Harney <jamesharney@sbcglobal.net>
Ellington, CT - Tuesday, May 11, 2004 8:38 AM CDT

---

Deirdre~ Yippee! about being finished with the exams, and being on the way to graduation! That's the BEST! Enjoy every minute before starting grad. school (which was *much* easier than undergrad, I thought). Congratulations! :)
Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Monday, May 10, 2004 10:28 PM CDT

---

WooooOOOOooooOOOOoooo!!! I am doing the Dance of Graduation Joy, coupled with a slight limp thanks to the ol' stiff knee. (very amusing, apparently, according to the neighbors) I am so pleased for you - now you can relax. And maybe some of your joint pain will lessen, too, it works that way for me sometimes. I'll be really focused or stressed out, and once I get through the issue at hand, my body seems to heal and relax better. Anyway, may I suggest A PINA COLADA!!!! And a walk in the rain!!!

Love and hugs
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, May 10, 2004 10:20 PM CDT

---

I handed in my last final today so I can echo the cheer: YAY FOR BEING DONE WITH THE SCHOOL YEAR!!! And for you, with the "undergraduate experience"... I'm glad you're only going to NYC, let me know when you're going up there to visit this summer since I'll be in Manhattan workin' my tail off - and hopefully getting familiar enough with the city to show ya around.
Caitlin <cjm45@georgetown.edu>
Washington, DC USA - Monday, May 10, 2004 9:50 PM CDT

---

Hey D!!
Hopefully by now you're written your last final with blinding brilliance ("This is the best paper I've ever read!!! A++++++++++++++!!!") and can relax & PAINT THE TOWN RED!!!!!! Or spend a day in bed (which I always find wholly rewarding). Congratulations on all your hard work!!!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Monday, May 10, 2004 2:29 PM CDT

---

::::::sniff:::::: Keep up the poetry, Deirdre. It was beautiful and touched this mother's heart! Betcha made your mama cry last year, too. And I'm *so* excited to hear that tomorrow's the *final* final! ;-) I'll be praying that you'll be able to cruise right through and stay the course with as little physical discomfort as possible. (easier to concentrate that way!)

Hugs from down south,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara (www.caringbridge.org/ga/sarawilliams) <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Sunday, May 9, 2004 11:39 PM CDT

---

Deirdre:

Just stopped by from the Sunny Survivor's site and wanted to say what a blessing your poem was.

I am spending yet another Mother's Day from my mother (she went to live with Jesus in 1998) and it has felt rather odd that for the first time I was not overly melancholy. I read your poem and realized why. As I get older I see her reflection in my own eyes and realize she's still here with me.

How wonderful you are realizing that with your Mother still here on Earth. And how truly wonderful you found your voice to tell her.

Thank you you have made me smile today. God Bless,
Kim Eplett (via Sunny-Survivor) <knadn_eh@msn.com>
O'Fallon, MO USA - Sunday, May 9, 2004 6:38 PM CDT

---

hey Deirdre,
I'm just checking in to see how things are going. I hope all is well and that the graduation countdown marches on!


Grace-Elizabeth Lynn <grace_elizabeth_lynn@yahoo.com>
Washington, DC - Sunday, May 9, 2004 7:03 AM CDT

---

Deidre, I just finished reading your entired journal & after many tears & a few chuckles decided to say HI!
I often get on my pc at night & do the whole CB Link-a-thon
thing & that is how I ran across you this morning.
What a remarkable young woman you are! I am sorry to hear that you are not feeling well but will say some extra prayers that each day gets better & better for you!
I got started with CB via a personal friend who has a page! Her name is Michaela (aka Mikki to her b/f Chance who also has a page) & have been "hooked" ever since. I personally can't think of a better way to spend a Friday night than reading CB pages for 6-8 hours--LOL!
Anyway, I WILL be back to check on you.
Below are Mikki's & Chance's links. These 2 are sooo cute!
Have a GREAT weekend sweetie!

~!~HUGSSSSSSS from South Dakota~!~

Mikki: www.caringbridge.org/sd/michaela
Chance: www.caringbridge.org/ga/chance
Jodi Simerly <jlsimerly@yahoo.com>
Watertown, SD - Saturday, May 8, 2004 10:41 AM CDT

---

Funny how a person can feel deep and abiding love for another person who is two generations away age wise and miles away geography wise and even more peculiar, a person never met! But Deidre, as I sit here, the only word I can use is love, with a large dose of gratitude for your existence. Hang in girl! You'll give great things to this world -- we need spirits like yours.
Tamsen <aichinfo@cox.net>
NE - Friday, May 7, 2004 12:44 AM CDT

---

Hey Deidre,
I found your site on Kelly's site and had to come by and say hi...it must be so exciting to be graduating soon!! I graduated last August and I just could not wait!! (you can tell just how excited I was if you read my past journals). Anyway I just wanted to say congratulations!

~*~*Girlie's Page*~*~

Love always,
XOXOXOXOXO
Janice <janiceliew1981@yahoo.com>
Melbourne, Australia - Friday, May 7, 2004 7:54 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre.

I'm not exactly sure how I found your site, but I have been following a handful of CB kids, some now angels, for about 2 years. I just finished reading your entire story. You are one strong girl! My dad has RA, but his onset was much later than your's. So far he hasn't had any organ issues. He has had one knee replacement, is procrastinating knee #2, has very little use of his hands, and his elbows are bent at a 45 degree angle. (He still manages to give the best hugs!) So, in some small way, I can imagine what you are going through. Your courage and spirit are so evident. You are an inspiration.

Congratulations on your graduation and best of luck in NYC. If you like NY delis, let me know and I'll point ya in the right direction!
Christi <hamilton.fam@cox.net>
Dove Canyon, CA - Thursday, May 6, 2004 5:14 PM CDT

---

11 days 'til graduation, how cool is that??!! I have to tell you, you should be proud of yourself w/all that you accomplish and having to deal w/the pain you endure too. You're obviously one strong woman!!! You go girl!

As always, sending love, hugs and prayers from CT.
Mary Lou Harney <jamesharney@sbcglobal.net>
Ellington, CT - Thursday, May 6, 2004 9:22 AM CDT

---

DEIDRA, STUDY HARD AND GOOD LUCK ON YOUR FINALS, YOU ARE VERY BRAVE TO FEEL THE WAY YOU DO AND YET GO FOR YOUR EDUCATION. YOUR DOING GREAT!!!!!!! KEEP UP THE HARD WORK AND HOPE YOU FEEL BETTER VERY SOON.
LEXY'S NEUROBLASTOMA FIGHT


PAT NEWTON (LEXY'S NANA) <pnewt4@aol.com>
NEDERLAND, TX - Wednesday, May 5, 2004 7:47 PM CDT

---

Good luck with your genetics final!!! I'm thinking about you.
Love, Lisa
Marietta, GA 30062 - Wednesday, May 5, 2004 1:33 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre - wanted to see how you're doing. Hope you're feeling better!

As always, sending love, hugs and prayers from CT.
Mary Lou Harney <jamesharney@sbcglobal.net>
Ellington, CT - Wednesday, May 5, 2004 8:23 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre - stopped by to say hi and see how you're doing. I haven't checked your site in a couple of days but that doesn't mean you're not in my prayers all the time. It's funny because when I say my prayers for my caringbridge friends, I ask God to help you and my sister Deirdre!! It's like this, Dear Lord, please be w/Mikey, LaKota, Craig, Deirdre, Deirdre, Abbey, Savannah's family and unfortunately, the list goes on. I hope you can find some pain free days real soon. I'll pray for that for you.

Sending love, hugs and prayers from CT. Hang in there!
Mary Lou Harney <jamesharney@sbcglobal.net>
Ellington, CT - Tuesday, May 4, 2004 12:16 AM CDT

---

Deidre:

Just popped in to say Hi! I love your outlook - so cool!

Prayers your way today,
Kim Eplett <knadn_eh@msn.com>
O'Fallon, MO USA - Tuesday, May 4, 2004 10:08 AM CDT

---

Hang in, Deidre! And know there are a bunch of folks plugging for you, sending strong and good thoughts your way, even though you haven't the slightest idea who we are. (Well, you can see the name but I mean really know.) This Nebraska Mom thinks of you often, is glad she doesn't have any more finals, and is inspired by your courageous attitude toward pain. Hugs to you!
Tamsen <aichinfo@cox.net>
Elkhorn, NE USA - Monday, May 3, 2004 11:50 PM CDT

---

Deirdre ~ SUCKS!!! that you're in pain :( But WOOOHOOO! that it's okay with you that I'm now a lurker at your site. Wait, I'm not a lurker if I post sometimes, right? :) Besides, I prefer the term, "skulker." Yeah, it's late and I'm tired. Anyway, I sure hope that tomorrow is a better day, and I wanted to tell you that you're not a whiner AT ALL. You're just tellin' it like it is. So there.

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Monday, May 3, 2004 11:25 PM CDT

---

Oh, Deirdre, I'm so sorry you're in so much pain. I know there's really not words to describe it, just some basic human instinct to scream and maybe that will release all the hurt. I hope tonight is an easier night and that you will get some rest (or some serious drugs). ;)

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
DECATUR, GA USA - Monday, May 3, 2004 11:20 PM CDT

---

Deirdre I am really sorry for your pain, and the meds that help ruin your stomach. This I know all too well, difference is I am an ole lady and you are such a young one. I have had gout since my early thirties, but it only showed up on occaision, not all the time like yours does. But I have had to stop taking all the anit-inflamatory pain relievers too since the stomach rebelled a couple of years ago and developed a bleeding ulser, causing me a hospital stay to get a transfusion. It is not good for a heart patient to get low on blood, causes potential for heart attacks. Prayers your pain gets easier and you are able to get through finals without losing your mind from lack of sleep.
Ivy & Cam not feeling much like a BOSS or a Ham these days
ivy and cameron <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Monday, May 3, 2004 5:23 PM CDT

---

So, as requested I am signing your guest book. As usual I was behind in reading your journal entries and it sure sounds like it's been a tough week. Know that you are always in my prayers. Good luck with finals. I love you.
Janet <mcalaway@new.rr.com>
- Monday, May 3, 2004 10:53 AM CDT

---

Its nice to see someone in so much pain but yet goes on in life and tries to overcome. Maybe your an "old Sole" my son was I think from reading your quite a brave young woman. Good luck to you. www.caringbridge.org/va/maxie/
Christy <maxiewithlove@aol.com>
Amelia, VA - Saturday, May 1, 2004 10:42 PM CDT

---

You can't tell it but I am typing very quietly so as not to disturb your intense finals preparations. And I'm certainly not laughing because I got an extension on my finals, oh no, not me. ;) (so I got an extension because of being sick, but hey! an extension is...well, an extension) Anyway, hope the methotrexate is doing its job & that you start feeling better soon! And of course the best of luck on finals!! I'll be praying for you!

Love
Sara :)
Sara's CB Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Friday, April 30, 2004 2:01 PM CDT

---

Thank you for leaving a link in Cameron's guestbook so we could visit you page and get to know you. Wishing you great success with the finals and the paper, give it your best shot and you will ace them all. We appreciate your message in Cameron's guestbook and we will keep track of you now that we know how to find you.
Ivy & THE BOSS (Cam the Ham)
ivy and cameron <ivyjivy@yahoo.com>
lynnwood, wa usa - Friday, April 30, 2004 12:58 AM CDT

---

Deirdre, thank you
so much for checking
on Craig. Hope you
have a great weekend.
sending lots of love

CRAIGGY
craig <trula1@comcast.net>
- Thursday, April 29, 2004 11:25 AM CDT

---

YAY for completed classes and GOOD days!!! Thrilled to hear that all is going well for you and hope that methotrexate experience was minimal. And I love your quote from Agnes DeMille. :-) Take care of yourself, Deirdre. It's nice to hear how well things are going for you.

Blessings,
Merri Williams, mom to Sara (www.caringbridge.org/ga/sarawilliams) <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Thursday, April 29, 2004 9:29 AM CDT

---

Hooray for good days.....and new beginnings!
Aunt Lisa
Marietta, Ga USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 11:09 PM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre!
Thanks for the laughs - I was like, 'hmm, coke, well, she's in DC.' Heh. Hope your mouth sores ease up soon, those are the WORST (especially if you have to keep your mouth open at night while you sleep and then you nearly drown yourself in drool and...am I giving away too many of my secrets here?).

I love that Ginny Owens song. It was the first song I heard on the radio after I was first diagnosed - if she can sing that, then so can I.

Down with PAIN!!!

Sara :)
Sara's CB Page


Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 6:12 PM CDT

---

Deirdre ~
I found your site via another Caringbride site (can't even remember how...I got a little link-happy). You don't know me, but let me tell you - I know a lot of trivia...of the *really* trivial kind. But I did not know that stuff about WonderWoman and the polygraph. Good thing I have lots of empty space between my ears; I'll add that little tidbit :)
Have a happy Wednesday, and I hope the stinkin' mouth sores go away soon. Mouth sores are just awful.

Jadine Doyle <jadoyle@cox-internet.com>
Pflugerville, TX USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 8:55 AM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre - Happy "Hump" Day! Hope you get some sleep today and I hope your mouth sores are beginning to heal. Hang in there....brighter days are ahead!
Aunt Lisa
Marietta, Ga USA - Wednesday, April 28, 2004 8:34 AM CDT

---

Deirdre, I came across your site a few weeks ago (I don't even remember how I came across it now!) Congratulations on your upcoming graduation! I remember the torture of exam time, and I can't imagine feeling like junk in the middle of it all.

Good luck with the final days of classes and I hope you're feeling better :)
Jaime <jaime@inaudiblemelodies.com>
Asheville, NC - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 6:23 PM CDT

---

I so hear you - there are some men out there that can handle everything that comes with a chronically sick girlfriend/wife, but so far they all seem to be in hiding or else in medical coats and strictly interested in my blood. Hmph. If I find an extra, I'll send him your way. ;)

Sara
Sara's Page
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Tuesday, April 27, 2004 0:29 AM CDT

---

LoL Methotrexate..A hangover the next morning without the fun party memories behind you.. They should put that on the bottle. You know how they have those Cancer Sucks Club shirts.. I think we totally need to start an Arthritis (or Juvenile Arthritis) sucks club and make shirts.. It would be fun. Glad to hear you are doing better. We're in this fight together.. and you know we will prevail!
Lisa (www.caringbridge.org/ca/lisaspage)
- Saturday, April 24, 2004 3:06 PM CDT

---

Hey, Deirdre, from down south outside Atlanta-----> 0/

Checking in to see how things went and was glad to hear that your Remicade infusion went so well. Despite the methotrexate, I hope you have a great weekend.


Merri Williams, mom to Sara, www.caringbridge.org/ga/sarawilliams
Decatur, GA USA - Friday, April 23, 2004 6:47 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre, I hope you don't have too rough a weekend. Hang in there and keep that positive attitude. Love, Janet
Janet Calaway
- Friday, April 23, 2004 4:48 PM CDT

---

HI,
Just dropping in to spread the love and support! You are beautiful and have a wonderful way with words! May the Lord bless you always and grant you peace and serenity!

God Bless You
www.caringbridge.org/ny/josegomez
Dinah and Jose Gomez <djgomez350@msn.com>
Tampa, FL USA - Wednesday, April 21, 2004 10:11 AM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre,
It's nice to 'meet' you - my mom has been really impressed with your site (& your writing, heh). It's also nice to know that other people with autoimmune diseases are going around being normal and doing normal things. ;)

Sara :)
www.caringbridge.org/ga/sarawilliams
Sara Williams <BethieAUS@msn.com>
Decatur, GA USA - Tuesday, April 20, 2004 8:33 PM CDT

---

thank you deirdre for rememering
craig's birthday and surgery.
we are home and he is doing good.
we really needed the extra prayer,
love, and support. thank you for
giving so generously.

craig, lauren, and helen

CRAIGGY


craig <trula1@comcast.net>
- Tuesday, April 20, 2004 12:26 AM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre, we want to wish you a great weekend
sending you lots of love,

craig, lauren, and helen

CRAIGGY
craig <trula1@comcast.net>
- Friday, April 16, 2004 2:39 PM CDT

---

Congrats on choosing a grad school! I have a friend at Columbia, and my sister is going to college in NYC, and I will be working there this summer and hopefully after I graduate from grad school... so we can and should definitely be able to keep in touch. Glad you're feeling better, too! Let me know when you're feeling up to pizza or other restaurant fare :).
Caitlin MacAlpine <Caitlin1027@hotmail.com>
Washington, DC USA - Wednesday, April 14, 2004 10:06 PM CDT

---

Hey Deirdre, thank you for coming to Craig's site. I love the picture on front. i hope you have a great week!!!
love, craig, lauren, and helen

CRAIGGY
craig <trula1@comcast.net>
- Monday, April 12, 2004 8:27 AM CDT

---

Stopping by to say hello from Georgia. Thanks for your nice note to my daughter, Sara Beth, on her webpage. (www.caringbridge.org/ga/sarawilliams) Although it's not so nice that you both are having to struggle so, it *is* nice to know that there are other young women like my daughter doing their absolute best at keeping on keeping on and looking ahead to their future. I hope you had a lovely Easter celebration and will definitely keep you on our prayer list. Good luck next week with your tests and doctor appts!


Merri Williams <Mamamerri@msn.com>
Decat ur, GA USA - Sunday, April 11, 2004 9:38 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre - haven't been here in a couple of days.....been home w/a sick son :( Hopefully he's on his way to feeling better and you are too! As always, you're in my thoughts and prayers.

Hope you have a wonderful Easter and the Easter Bunny is especially good to you this year!
Mary Lou Harney <jamesharney@sbcglobal.net>
Ellington, CT - Friday, April 9, 2004 9:57 AM CDT

---

Hey! I know we haven't talked in a long time and we've pretty much lost touch, which is horrible considering i'm only an hour and a half away from DC...but I wanted tyou to know that I've been thinking about you and try to at least stay up on how you've been through your profiles. Hopefully we can try to reconnect sometime, even if it is just online to talk. IM me or email me sometime! dariakt. My thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Katie Boehne <fallingswinggirl@hotmail.com>
Shippensburg, PA US - Wednesday, April 7, 2004 11:14 AM CDT

---

Hey hon! It's been ages since I've talked to you. Sounds like things are pretty rough but you've always been a strong person and you always seem to manage to surround yourself with people who love and care about you :) This website was a good idea it's pretty neat that you can post an on-going journal to let us all know how you are doing and feeling. Good luck w/ the grad school search Heather and I are looking too. The end of the semester is drawing steadily near and it seems we're all feeling just a bit overwhelmed w/ work that's due between now and then, I bet you are no exception to that rule, especially with being sick ;) Well I hope all is well with your family and I will keep them and you in my prayers. Here's to hoping the week brings some brighter news! Love ya hon.
P.S. Heather, Elizabeth, and I were talking about Girl Scouts over spring break and we had to laugh at some of the times we had and the memories we got from them, especially tornado connection :)
Carly Beveridge <Branwen11@yahoo.com>
Frederick, MD, High Point NC - Sunday, April 4, 2004 11:25 PM CDT

---

Hey there, we are stopping by to wish you
a happy weekend and a happy easter early.

craig, lauren, and helen

CRAIGGY


craig <trula1@comcast.net>
- Sunday, April 4, 2004 3:04 PM CDT

---

Hi Deirdre - I have been checking back every day hoping to hear that you are getting better. Hooray for the oatmeal! I know it's not much (especially when you like food as much as I do - and I think you do!) but like you said, it is something. I check in on you every night about this time so if you are ever up and in the IM world, feel free to IM me......hang in there, sweet girl. We are all thinking of you - Love, Lisa
Aunt Lisa
Marietta, GA - Saturday, April 3, 2004 10:36 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre - checking in to see how you are. I hope the Z pack does the trick. For now, rest is the way to go!

Sending, love, hugs and prayers from CT.
Mary Lou Harney <jamesharney@sbcglobal.net>
Ellington , CT - Friday, April 2, 2004 9:23 AM CST

---

Hey Deirdre!! I miss you and am thinking about you :)
Amanda
Duluth, GA Gwinnett - Friday, April 2, 2004 7:53 AM CST

---

Hi Deirdre, I found your website in Katia's guestbook and saw you were in DC. My daughter, Leah age 4, is a Children's Hospital patient. She had ALL and had a bone marrow transplant last November. Thanks for volunteering there! Do you also have lupus? My middle daughter, age 19, just recently had mono and hepatitus and may possibly have lupus. She is going to a rheumatologist in a couple of weeks. She is experiencing terrible joint pain. I would love to hear from you. You sound like a courageous young woman who doesn't let her illness stop her. My Leah wants to be an oncology nurse at Children's someday. I believe that she will.Sending a hug and prayers!
www.caringbridge.org/va/leah
Carrie Holdcraft <choldcraft@yahoo.com>
Sterling, Va - Thursday, April 1, 2004 8:37 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre,
Just thought I would leave some love to let you know that I was thinking of you. I'm really blessed to have gotten to know you over the years and we have had some great memories (Eagle Eye Cherry was the second concert I ever went to). Keep in touch and you are always in my prayers.

David Shaw <dshaw@udel.edu>
Frederick, MD / Newark, DE - Thursday, April 1, 2004 0:17 AM CST

---

Hi Deirdre - just stopping by to say hi and see how you are. I hope you're feeling better real soon. We are definetly "cheering you on!" Enjoy those re-runs!

Sending love, hugs and prayers from CT.
Mary Lou Harney <jamesharney@sbcglobal.net>
Ellington, CT - Tuesday, March 30, 2004 8:52 AM CST

---

Hi Deirdre - I came to your site from my sister Deirdre's.....(www.caringbridge.org/ct/deirdre). Thanks for visiting and signing the guestbook. I read your journal history and am happy to say I found this site as you truly are an inspiration! I have added your site to my favorites and will check on you daily. Hope your feeling better really soon and that the Remicade does the job.

Thinking of you in CT.
Mary Lou Harney <jamesharney@sbcglobal.net>
Ellington, CT - Monday, March 29, 2004 8:42 AM CST

---

I just wanted to let everyone who's reading Deirdre's guestbook and webpage know - as someone who knows her at GW (and from our Mexico trip!) - she's truly an inspiration to everyone she meets here. It took months before I even knew she was sick - that's how selflessly and quietly she lives with her pain. Here's to a cure and many more years - this is a person I want to get to know so much better!
Caitlin <caitmac@gwu.edu>
Washington, DC USA - Sunday, March 28, 2004 10:40 PM CST

---

Hey there. It's been a long time. Sounds like you're as motivated and determined as ever. I'm very glad you've been able to do so much. I hope to be able to keep up with your adventures a little more. I'm sure you have a lot of great things ahead of you. Tell your family I say hi. Take care of yourself, I know that's a big job.
David Brandner <dgbrandn@unity.ncsu.edu>
Raleigh, NC - Sunday, March 28, 2004 1:09 PM CST

---

Hey Deirdre!

Thanks for signing my Guestbook! That stinks that you are not feeling good, I hope you feel better. I also saw how you are going all over the world traveling, that's very cool! Way much more than I've done. I've only gone to Cali and Ireland for things in Special Olympics. Well, talk to you later and feel better.
Adam Hays www.caringbridge.org/md/adam <SportsSO456@aol.com>
Frederick, MD - Saturday, March 27, 2004 9:31 PM CST

---

Hi Deirdre! hope the search for grad school is going well! You continue to amaze me in how you achieve so much after all you have been through. I love and miss you! Maybe I can visit you this May sometime.
Elizabeth Yackley <sweetylizzy@aol.com>
Greensboro, NC - Saturday, March 27, 2004 3:10 PM CST

---

Hi! My name is Cheryl and I am always inspired how young adults live with chronic illnesses. My daughter is 10 and needs a liver transplant from autoimmune disease. She also was on Remicade for awhile, unfortunately it didn't work for her pain. She takes steroids and painkillers now. Good luck!
www.caringbridge.org/ga/haley
Cheryl and Haley <bandcvincent@aol.com>
- Saturday, March 27, 2004 10:35 AM CST

---

Hey Deirdre thank you for signing my guestbook.. I was amazed to find another person on Caring Bridge who is fighting the Arthritis Beast!! I'm glad to hear you got your remicade back.. I'm doing the Enbrel thing. I'm book marking your page so I can check back.. Hoping for a cure for the both of us..
www.caringbridge.org/ca/lisaspage
- Saturday, March 27, 2004 4:50 AM CST

---

Thanks for the updates today Deirdre - I hope things do continue to improve for you and that you are playing with kites in the cherry blossoms tomorrow, too! I am also sad today that you have to suffer like this and can't be out on the lawn with your peers.....I even told your Dad that I was upset about your suffering and that it is just not fair! How's that for whining? Anyway, I admire your strength and perseverance and positive attitude and sense of humor! Have a good weekend. Love, Lisa
Aunt Lisa <lblume2@yahoo.com>
Marietta, GA USA - Friday, March 26, 2004 2:02 PM CST

---

Oh Deirdre....I am so sorry for the crummy day you are having and for how awful you feel. I hope that the drugs get there and that they work!! I will be thinking of you on Friday - keep the faith and hang in there!!
Lisa
Marietta, GA USA - Tuesday, March 23, 2004 9:04 PM CST

---

Deirdre--this is very cool. I don't always know what's going on with you and will enjoy reading your journal entries. I think about you often and your struggles with your health and my heart goes out to you. Congratulations on your summer job. I look forward to hearing where you will be going to grad school. Good luck with everything and keep that positive attitude. Love, Janet
Janet Calaway
De Pere, WI USA - Tuesday, March 16, 2004 9:28 AM CST

---

To my Pretty Precious Sweetheart: Hey there kiddo...You've been busy setting up your site, haven't you? Great job! Congrats on the RA job for the summer...and good luck with the doctor appointment on Monday. Things on looking up...just keep swimming...Mom
Darlene Goltz <Leanyjoan@sbcglobal.net>
Chesterfield, MO 63005 - Sunday, March 14, 2004 8:31 AM CST

---

Deirdre - this website rocks!! Caringbridge is how we keep up with Kelsey's pal Will who has Ewings Sarcoma and Wills' buddy Carter who has the same thing.....(www.caringbridge.org/ga/will_hennessy and www.caringbridge.org/ga/cartermartin). I love it and I love you, too! I try to keep up via your 'away' message and this will just add to that. I've already included it as one of my 'favorites'. You are in my thoughts and prayers always - we love you!
Aunt Lisa, Uncle Dave, Amanda, Kelsey and Morgan <lblume2@yahoo.com>
Marietta, GA USA - Thursday, March 11, 2004 5:22 PM CST

---

Know that I still care about you and hope that a cure will be found.
Michael M. Promis <MPromis@gwu.edu>
- Thursday, March 11, 2004 4:20 PM CST

---

---

Click here to sign the guestbook.

Click here to go back to the main page.