4 Comments
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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.