The following is a note, written to Dave Ackerman with the intent of his sharing it with the rest of us, from George Smith ("Corky"), a day or so before the 50th reunion.

To the Class of 1958:

 It is with much regret and disappointment that I cannot join you this weekend at our momentous 50th Class Reunion.  I waited until I couldn't any longer to decide whether I should attend or not.  All through the spring and summer months I kept in touch with Dave Ackerman and the Reunion Committee about the festive plans for this weekend.  They were even kind enough to ask me to write a website article and the program "In Memorium" page.  Penning that reminiscence "Surfing Down Memory Lane, as well as the "In Memorium" tribute, kept me believing I would be there among you tonight.

However, what I didn't tell Dave at the time was that I was experiencing some medical problems.  Despite months of visiting various doctors and undergoing medical testing I was perplexed as to the source of my discomfort.  I was having severe back problems, so I believed that I had some form of a degenerative or herniated disk. So much for my medical insights!

Finally, in early June my wife, Maureen, and I went to the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida for extensive diagnosis.  After a week of testing I was informed that I have what is commonly known as "Lou Gehrig's Disease."  Known otherwise as ALS, Amytrophic Lateral Sclerosis is an incurable disease, degenerative in nature and certainly one with a life-changing impact.  ALS is a motor neuron disease that attacks the body by rapidly destroying one's muscles...i.e. "absent of muscle nourishment." 

Presently, I am most affected  in my lungs, having now only about 25 % of my breathing capacity remaining. Also, I now require a non-invasive breathing device day and night, and I soon will face having a trachesotomy in the near future.  Lastly, I have lost about 50 lbs.(which I could afford, almost!) and my mobility is now severely restricted.

While my neurologist strongly advised me not to fly any longer due to the increased risk in contacting a lung infection, which he feels I would not survive , I still wanted so much to be with you tonight.  However, the alternative of driving from Hilton Head Island to Livingston is almost impossible given my belabored breathing and the associated dfficulties of gasping, eating and just....relaxing.  Damn!

One last consideration is my diminished voice because of reduced lung capacity.  I can barely be heard even now, although I am expecting the delivery of a "voice enhancement" device this week.  Plus, you know I like to talk but can't much these days.  And I don't know sign language just yet!

Therefore, it was a choice I didn't wish to face, knowing that I had to keep my health concerns foremost, even though my heart's wish was to be present this weekend with you.  Maureen and I explored every possible means to join you, but we could not overcome the travel ob-stacles associated with my breathing, lungs and limited mobility.

I just want each of you to know that I so wish I could be here with you.  I even had this trip on my original "Bucket List."  I don't want to kick the bucket.......I just want to refill it!!!!  However, sometimes in life we have to face the cards dealt, and in this case, I have a "poor hand."

So, what will I do?  Well, I will re-read everyone's postings on the website, look forward to receiving the printed program (yes, I can still read!) and trying to place names with faces in the class picture!  How-ever, the most important thing is that my heart, absent my weakening body, will be with you.  Also, I will remember with absolute recall those wonderful years with you at Livingston High School, 1954-1958.

I miss you guys and gals......No doubt I will feel an empty spot in my stomach this weekend, but I have the comfort of a loving family, the support of wonderful friends on Hilton Head Island and I have had a life rich in rewarding opportunities.  I am reminded of the belief that this George is more fortunate than unfortunate; more rich in spirit than bereft with anger, and more thankful of life's gifts than unthankful due to its trials.

In closing....just have a terrific time.  As special hello to Carl Collins, Larry Cotton (if you show up!), Pam & Jon Steiglitz, Dave & Eleanor Ackerman, Paul Havas, Larry Umbreit, Don Schnetzer, Barabara & Jim Salerno, Jackie Fay (DeRuiter), Pat Ippolito, Jack McKay, Ernie Petrone, Mike Glickson, Betty Van Ness, Mary Ann Knapp (Morrissey), Butch Flinn, and so many more, but most of all Beverly Trebour (Keenan) who remains in my prayers every night.

I remember writing in my website article that PEOPLE not places significantly mould our character and influence us far beyond what we imagine when we are young aand so impressionable.  Yes, we are the sum of our experiences, and my memory of all of you is rich with fondness and friendship.

Anytime you are welcome to Hilton Head to visit us, or send a card or e-mail (lccgolfer@hargray.com) about your latest news.  I promise to respond!

Everyone....have a great, great weekend!

George N. Smith.....AKA "Corky"

41 Knollwood Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926

Home: (843) 681-7516
Cell:    (843) 384-4777