[meteorite-list] Off topic, but thanks

From: Walter Branch <waltbranch_at_meteoritecentral.com>
Date: Sat, 30 Jan 2010 20:06:26 -0500
Message-ID: <D848D72FF13C4C83BB4F6003682CF3C1_at_acer330bb84976>

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
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Received on Sat 30 Jan 2010 08:06:26 PM PST