Email from Duncan (plane wreck survivor)

This totally made my day. A really nice email from Duncan Bridewell; he and his brother John were the plane wreck victims we came upon during the Green River rafting trip this summer. Following is his Thanksgiving day update:


Hey, on this day of thanksgiving, just wanted to say you folks and any rafters whose e-mails I don't have are at the top of our thanksgiving list. I am doing fine, walking around the block most days. I left the crutch at home when Becky and I went over to the big island of Hawaii and Kauai for three weeks in October and November. I didn't play golf in Hawaii, but plan to hit the driving range sometime next week and see what happens. I still wear an "old man's stocking" when the ankle is talking to me, and progress is slow. But I have definitely learned the meaning of the word "patience", and this week the local orthopod said he doesn't need to see me anymore.

John still has the numbness issue in the bottom of his foot and one side of his ankle, but he has an appointment with the neuro doc at Mayo Clinic on Dec. 2. We are very hopeful that Mayo can find out what nerve isn't doing what it's supposed to be doing and get him some feeling. He has been totally weight off the right leg since the accident and uses a scooter to get around the UND campus to teach and get to appointments. His attitude is still great, and he has Renae, kids and grandkids around to keep him upbeat.

I personally really feel blessed that you folks showed up in a timely manner and somehow knew exactly what to do. There you are relaxing, having a big old time, and then you run into the Bridewell brothers. We are here today doing as well as we are strictly because of you and your quick response.

This has become increasingly clear to both of us as my wife Becky's brother has been in the hospital since late July, dealing with a triple bypass and subsequent complications. He's only 4-1/2 years older than me, and ironically had his leg amputated above the knee two weeks ago tomorrow because of a (lack of) circulation issue. So our feeling of gratefulness to all of you has become even greater over the past few months, hearing about what Becky's brother has been going through.

I've rambled enough. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving, eat lots of great food, and enjoy the company of family and friends!