July 8, 2002

Jim Hunt has a terminal disease which he inherited from his dad called "Huntington's Choria". He is not doing well, and to cheer him up, would you please consider sending him a birthday card - his birthday is this Friday - July 12, 2002.

Please mail all cards to his mothers address:

James Hunt
17 Sam Street
Enfield , CT 06082

Even if you didn't know him, please consider sending a card or letter and sign it "Class of 83."

Please read the letters below.

A letter from Karen Debonis Greene (July 9, 2002)

Hello!

At the last class reunion Mrs. Hunt wrote a touching letter about how Jimmy would have loved to have been at the Class reunion but was terminally ill with a disease he inherited from his dad.

She said "What I think Jim would like is if he knew that some of his school chums didn't totally forget him. I remembered him from elementary school. My heart went out to his mother and him. Imagine watching your own child die before you! I started writing letters and sending pictures of my girls. His mom always wrote back how much they meant to him.

Well, it's been 4 years. Jimmy can't walk, can talk so anyone can really understand him - and his is basically a prisoner in his own body. Well, things have gotten worse the past few months. His mother was rushed to the hospital with heart problems. The doctors told her she could leave the hospital for a few days to get Jimmy into Kettlebrook, but then she would have to undergo heart surgery! Jimmy has been there and is VERY depressed, she has been able to visit him and all he will try to say is HOME!

I've visited him twice but it is very hard to see someone in so much pain! Now to get to why I am writing you! His birthday is this Friday - July 12, I thought it would be great if you could send a note to the classmates asking them to send him a birthday card or letter anytime. Even if they didn't know him they could always sign it Class of 83. I know it would mean a lot to his mom to know people are thinking of him.

She is hoping to get him back home sometime in August or September is the Doctors will let her.

Thanks!
Karen Debonis Greene

October 16, 1998

Dear Mr. Dyer,

I am writing on behalf of "James R. Hunt" (who is my son) who was in your graduating Class of 83.

Though he would have liked to attend the gala, he is unable to. You see, Jim has a terminal disease which he inherited from his dad called "Huntington's Choria". I'm not sure if you are aware of what it is but it effects the brain, muscles, and nerves. Jim has an aide with him all day until I arrive home from work. He cannot be left alone because he needs assistance in everything he does.

At the present his speech is distorted and very hard to understand. He uses a walker or wheelchair to get around and must wear a gaite belt at all times. Eventually he will revert back to an infant stage provided he lives that long.

What I think Jim would like is if he knew that some of his school chums didn't totally forget him and would it be possible to send him the "Reunion Memory Booklet" because of this reason that he cannot attend. I know it would be greatly appreciated by him!

Will hopefully be looking for it. It would be a nice surprise for Jim.

Sincerely,
Ms. Hunt (Jim Hunt's mom)