8 Comments
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Indrani Goradia's avatar

Such sweet memories… I love you bestie!

Jessica Gilbert's avatar

I just loved reading about your beautiful memories in Mexico with Patch Adams. Those photos are so great! You know years ago I wrote a heartfelt letter to Patch…and he sent a handwritten one back responding back to questions I had asked him. I still have and treasure the letter from him. Anyway, your post really warmed my heart and made me smile. So glad to connect and sending you love and laughs from across the seas (from Canada, but based in Spain now) ❤️

Kay Walten's avatar

Thank you @Jessica Gilbert. How sweet Patch wrote you back. He certainly is a bit eccentric with an enormous heart and passion for what he does.

Kiran Robinson's avatar

Refreshingly heart warming!!

Lee Drozak's avatar

Every article cracks open another nugget - how did I not know about Patch Adams? Seeing the world through the real of it all is my favorite part of your writing.

Kay Walten's avatar

Lee, I swear, for every one piece I write, about 6 more come to mind. I appreciate your enthusiasm. To be honest for years people told me I couldn't write. Guess I am showing them. 😂

Jeanine Kitchel's avatar

Great story, Kay. "Like the vintage Buicks and Chevrolets still rolling through Havana. Dings, a touch of rust, and still something regal about them." I love this line. I remember these photos somehow. Not sure where I saw them. I'm sure that trip was sobering indeed, in spite of hanging out w/ Patch.

Kay Walten's avatar

Being a clown is emotionally draining. There were always a few clowns who broke down daily. We did go to The Federico Mora Hospital which was known for being one of the worst mental facilities in Guate at the time. I cannot begin to describe what we saw on that day.

But there are those moments that melt yours heart, a young girl I held on a playground. Or my BFF in her clown clothes teaching a new mother how to breast feed. And yes, with Patch there are always laughs.