Diane wants to thank you:

Happy 40th Birthday, DeAnn - we all love you and are so very proud of you!

Well, I have reached the 4th week since my surgery; and when I read all your comments on the blog I am so filled with emotion - your love and support have been awesome, and I am sure you are all responsible for my meeting and surpassing each & every hurdle along the way. A Giant Thank You doesn't begin to express how much I appreciate and love each and every one of you.

I was in the hospital for 3 weeks and was never left alone. Family and friends were always there to anticipate my needs and be proactive in my care. I can't tell you how much that meant to me. I had so many obstacles and challenges along the way; but, I never had to worry or face them alone. My gratitude is forever.

To my husband Jeff, I know sometimes it was hard, but you were there for me day and night: Making my bed perfectly, and particularly supporting me during those horrible tests - Thank you honey.

To Randy and Lois, how can I possibly thank you enough for all you have done and continue to do. Allowing us to stay in your house and making us feel so at home. Lois for spending that terrible first night out of Cardiac ICU with me. You said before the surgery several times that you would help me get through this; and you have and continue to be there for me at every turn. Lois, is constantly doing laundry, and always cheerfully! Thank you Randy for always making me laugh. We have grown up together and you both have always been there for me and my children.

To Marc and Christine, for treating us to a magical trip to Catalina before the surgery; and have been there every day for three entire weeks after the surgery. Always listening to doctors, anticipating my needs, decorating my hospital room with pictures, balloons, flowers; for updating my I-Pod, even providing books on tape, and most of all for your never-ending support. Your caring, your advice, your stories, and laughter, all taking my mind off my troubles; and filling me in on baby updates, reminding me that the "Grandma" incentive is ever present.

To Jay and Alicia who tried to see me before surgery but weren't able to because their car broke down in Baker (half way here from Las Vegas) and had to be towed home. After surgery they tried again and spent 2 days with me. I so appreciate their love and support. Alicia was always filling my ice water.

One of my best moments in the hospital and one I will never forget was when "all the kids",Jay, Alicia, Marc, Christine, Dana, and Eric were in the room together: I had great pleasure just watching and listening.

To my niece, DeAnn, who actually spent a night at the hospital; and to my niece Dana, who visited often and took care of Katie so Jeff and I could make that wonderful trip to Catalina.

To my cousin Clark, thank you so much for the wonderful visit and gorgeous orchid (complete with the address for board and room when it gets tired)!

To Maggie who spent 2 nights with me and brought brownies for all the nurses. And to JoAnne and Sandi who spent a night with me, and visited often. I know it wasn't easy and I want you to know how much you are all appreciated.

To Diane Cunningham, a friend forever. Words can't express how grateful I am for your constant care and love for our Katie girl. I have missed her every day; but every day, I know the incomparable hands Katie is in. You have been unbelievable to her, you have supported me - you are an amazing person, and very appreciated. My prayers are with you always.

And to all our friends who write, call, pray, light candles, and support us: I am forever grateful. When I think of all the "bullets" I dodged, I know it happened because of all of your prayers and support. All of you are responsible for my swift recovery and being able to leave the hospital on my birthday! Best birthday I ever had, Welcome Home banner, cake and most of all peace and quiet! THANK YOU, THANK YOU ALL!

I have turned a corner! The infection finally seems to be diminishing, I am no longer hooked up to a feeding machine, I take short walks, and I am feeling better day by day.

Jeff is planning to set up our rig at the Newport Dunes on Sept. 2; and hopefully, within about a week, I will be able to join him. Randy and Lois will finally be able to have their house back, and Katie will be coming home soon. Then, Oct. 13, Jeff has his knee replacement surgery and I will become the caregiver! WOW!

Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. LOVE ALL, FOREVER AND FOREVER, Diane.