he last day of November was Dick Clark's birthday. He's had many, (77) ,and will likely enjoy many more as he continues to battle the aftermath of the stroke which disabled him at the end of 2004. On his birthday he found the time to 'phone my wife, Alana, who is currently recuperating from knee replacement surgery. Word has it that he was having trouble with his speech as a result of the paralysis that accompanied his stroke. Alana said that he spoke with volume and clarity. 'Nuther words, the man long known for his constant youthful appearance, "America's Oldest Teenager", is showing considerable improvement and will most likely be in fine form when he returns to "New Year's Rockin 'Eve". The two of them share the same therapist and they have something of a competitive relationship - each, understandably, complaining at times and each seeking praise when things go well. If you have been a reader of my journal reports, you may remember that Alana had a stroke over three years ago. She has had a tough time, and for those who may have followed her story, she does continue to make progress...oh so slowly...but one day she'll walk again. Her fighting spirit has been an inspiration to me.
Starting tomorrow I intend to get back to writing the journals with regularity. There is so much to write about.