UPDATE ON DON TIDWELL FROM HIS SON MATT

I received the following email from Matt Tidwell and have reprinted it here.

Would like to pass this information along regarding my father to be distributed to the members of the Lodge as you see fit. As you may be aware, my father was treasurer for the Lodge for a number of years and we are both Endowed Members.

On the 17th of this month, Dad underwent aortic valve replacement surgery (calf valve). We knew about his faulty valve for many years, so we knew surgery was inevitable at some point in the future. He was a textbook surgery patient - it was actually amazing to watch the speed of his recovery from this. Then, 48 hours after the surgery, he had a minor stroke, which was a blessing in disguise.

His MRI showed this was actually the second stroke he has suffered. The first was in early December while at the musicals with his girlfriend, Marsha. Originally, the episode in December was attributed to his deteriorating valve. We are so fortunate the latest episode happened in the hospital so he could receive medical attention immediately. At this point, it appears there is no lasting damage. The biggest "problem" from the stroke, is in his eyes, is that his recovery from major surgery is taking a little longer than he was expecting or had hoped for.

We were both also hoping he would leave the hospital and be able to return home with minimal medical attention. However, Friday we were informed by the medical staff that he would need more professional/medical assistance to accommodate his needs in the next week or two than Marsha, my wife or myself could possibly provide collectively as a team. Therefore, we are moving him to Presbyterian Village North for a short period to continue with his recovery so that he may resume his normal activities. He will be in Room #701.

In the same breath, I also believe that he might be a bit relieved to be under the care of an origanization which he has personal experience with on many levels - from being the husband of a loved one under its care, to his participation serving as its Chairman, and his continued support of them over the last 20 years. He has great respect and we are humbled for those who have now stepped up to help us in a time of need.

Many Thanks,

Matt Tidwell