[meteorite-list] Off topic, but thanks

[Walter Branch]

Greetings to everyone on the meteorite list:

It was three years ago this past week, when I was involved in a terrible 
automobile accident that nearly took my life, and the life of my daughter, 
now 10.

I don't know why, but a few minutes ago I did a Google search on my name.  I 
found my website for the psychology practice at which at work (I am the 
amateurish webmaster).  Evidently, there is a Walter Branch library in 
Houston, Texas.  That's cool, I like libraries.

A few odds and ends.

Then a found an email my wife had sent to the list soon after the accident 
and the subsequent well wishing emails from many list members.  Re-reading 
those emails literally brought tears to my eyes.  Many list members sent 
cards to me, letters and emails to my wife and even financial contributions 
and meteorites.  Eric Olson even visited me in the hospital. Thanks Eric.

I spent months in the hospital recovering from the initial injuries and 
complications.  More surgeries (ten total) followed my discharge but I saw 
my surgeon for the last time on Thursday of this week and well, that's it. 
My three year medical ordeal will end with a Band-aid over a small abdominal 
wound.

I know I have said this before, but I just wanted everyone to know that 
those cards, letters, contributions  and support meant a lot to me.  They 
still do.  I still have the signed poster, all the cards, letters, emails 
etc. which you good people sent to me and my family.  I cherish the framed 
card which begins, "Get Well Soon, Walter, From Your Meteorite Friends..."

Some "Meteorite Friends" have gone on to other pursuits, some have lost 
loved ones and some we have lost.  Some have found fame and fortune and some 
live in obscurity.

I know at times I have been grumpy on this list and perhaps sent some emails 
I later regretted sending but I really do enjoy being a member and I 
apologize to those I have offended.

Anyway, for those of you who made it made it through this rambling way off 
topic email...

Thanks again.

I hope a rock from space lands in your back yard, if not through your roof!

-Walter Branch
_________________