One of Louisiana's former patients drops her a surprise email, to let her know what is up with her.
Saturday, January 29, 2005~
Dear Miss Louisiana~
Hello! You may not remember me, but I certainly do remember you! You took wonderful care of me when I was in the hospital, recovering from my gunshot wounds; and I will never forget the kindness or compassion you demonstrated towards me.
I am Pulalay. Pulalay Khelefi. Now does the name ring a bell to you? I am still living here in Tennessee, and I still live here in Nashville, but I llve near downtown; and I have found a nice apartment with my friend, whose name is Elele Tongwulele. She is from Rwanda, originally, and I met her at university, where I am currently taking classes. I have been going to university since the fall, and I enjoy my studies very much. Which is why you haven't heard from me lately.
I still go to church on Sundays; I go to Miracle Pentecostal Church, and I get so much out of the services! I am still reading (and learning) the Bible, and I am learning and growing in my Christian walk with the Lord. I have been so happy lately, and I think I owe a lot of it to you; so this is why I had to email you, so I could thank you. I wish I could stop by your home, but the truth is, I don't know where you live here in Nashville, and seeing the crazy drivers absolutely terrify me. I still have trouble at times accepting my disability, and I am still embarrassed to be seen in my wheelchair; but I suppose that will go away in time, no??
I would still very much love to meet you and your beautiful family. I still have the photo you gave to me of your family, and I look at it every day; and I pray for you all every day, too. I hope we can get together one day; I would really love to see you again, and know what you have been up to!
So on that note, I will leave; I have to leave to go to my therapy (still going to it, and I hate it just as much now as I did back then! LOL), so I will close. Thank you for being so loving, and thank you for being my friend. I was thinking of you, and I wanted to let you know just how much I love and appreciate everything that you have done for me. So thank you from the bottom of my heart!
God's blessings to you and your beautiful family!
In His Service,
Love, your African friend, Pulalay Halah Khelefi (now working towards becoming an American citizen, just like you!! :) ). :)
Yankee Doodle Daddy is a historical Appalachian Family Saga. The story follows a mother's reckoning as she struggles to survive and keep her four daughters alive.
Saturday, January 29, 2005~
