March 27, 1986

Dear Betsy,
I have called you so many times and no answer.  Last night I talked to Kristie for quite a while.  I have been sick and had hypothermia and forgot about everything.  I am fine now.  The doctors here in Toledo want to send me back to MAYO or to the Cleveland Clinic but we can't afford motel bills, etc.  We have insurance.  It is awful to have a rare disease like this.  It may be Dr. Harin's ideas weren't so wrong.  He is gone or I would contact him.  The swelling in my feet has gone down and I am alert and not slurring my speech.  I have low blood pressure and my meds make it 80/50 and I get dizzy.
Today I am driving 1/2 hour each way to get groceries in the South end.  Grandpa and Grandma usually get them but they are in Dallas.  Sunday is Easter and I am going to make it to church.  It is a long way but it is worth it.  I must wash and set my hair.  It is still curly but growing longer all the time.  Did I remember to thank you and Kirstie for the beautiful picture.  I just love it.  Kirstie said I have never written or called since Sandy left.  I have and I call 2 or 3 times and talked with your dad because Kirstie was out.  Please tell her.  I also wrote at Christmas and sent a present.  I know I have a bad memory but I am positive I have written, etc.  She never writes me.  I love you both and miss you.  When are you coming to see me?  How are you feeling?  I hope well.  Today is a lovely day.  Our apartment is a mess.  I haven't been able to do much of anything so I must get busy after Easter.  I'll fix my nails for Easter and wear the blue dress you picked out to marry Bob and pearls from you.  And Raffeine' perfume.  I wish I could have gotten my hair done.  So when do you start school?  Do you still like your car?  Min is 5 years old and starting to need repairs.
Well, I must close and go get all our groceries, etc.  I dread it.  Bob promised to meet me at the entrance and get some groceries.  I have to buy him beer and wine.
Remember I love you dearly.  I miss you.  Give my love to Kirstie and I will write her next.

All my love,
Mom

I love you - Happy Easter!!!

March 18, 1986

Dear Betsy,
Just a little Birthday card to say you're held in high regard and you're wished life's best without reserve for that is just what you deserve!
I hope your birthday is one of happiness.  I am proud of you.  I love the pictures of you and Kirstie.  I love you both for giving it to me.  I wish I had a couple wallet size.
Have a happy day.  You can always count on me.  Did you go in OES?  You never said.

Love,
Mom

March 15, 1986

Dear Betsy,
Excuse me for not writing you except I am exhausted lately.  I had to go to an Endocrinologist last week and they sent me to the lab for thyroid tests.  If my thyroid comes back normal then he is going to give me cortison IV and see what my body does.  My temp has been between 91-95 degrees instead of 98.6 normal.  My ankles are so swollen.  Grandma came yesterday and said I look terrible.  Real nice to hear.  They are planning to go to see Uncle Dick next week.  My cat gets spayed on Wednesday.  She is so lovable.  We call her Kelly.
I am going to start exercising.  They have an exercise bike.  I don't get much exercise with my legs.
March 16
Today I got up at 2:40 and ate breakfast.  I spent the afternoon in the community center.  I had planned to get up at 8:15 and then overslept.
I bought this card from a lady here where I live.  Sorry I couldn't get out for something better.  You know I love you and miss you.
One of the residents has very high pressure and I have to take it every day.  My phone number is ….  I have call waiting.
I appreciate your letters.  Sorry I haven't felt well.  I'll write again soon.  Remember I love you dearly.

All my love,
Mom