BIG TALK/SMALL TALK

Dear Readers, a small note before we begin. Since my accident in December which left me without the use of my hands or legs - a considerable inconvenience - I have been writing, via dictation, a weekly dispatch, which you all read and respond to with such love and thoughtfulness. You have kept me alive. As we approach six months, and as I prepare to come home, I kindly ask that if you have the means, it would mean a great deal if could support my writing by becoming a paid subscriber, and keep this show on the road.

Me and my dad, who was also a writer.

Miss S suddenly swung back into my room a couple of days ago. As I might have told you, she left this hospital after five months and moved back into her apartment in Rome, which had been adjusted for her to live in. She returned to use the pool here, and there she was, next to my bed, smiling, laughing and bursting with news from the outside world.

Apparently there are people out there who are noisy and energetic. There are smells, tastes and activity, and a mad, compelling world that has little to do with illness. She informed me that people want to be kind to the disabled; when they can, they help. They don’t pity you but are gratified to assist. It was great to see her and I was wild with pleasure and some envy that she is able to go about with such freedom and joy.