Monday, October 20, 2008

Still Fighting

Dear Fods,

Remarkably, Debbie seems to have turned one corner on her way back to us. Her organs appear to have come back on line -- with a vengeance -- and she took some solid food yesterday for the first time in a week. While she is still very weak, she is very alert and coherent. She is now complaining about wanting to take a bath!

Dr. Porter called yesterday afternoon and we spoke again this AM. They are going to send a nurse to draw blood today and see where we go to next.

Debbie sends her love to all.

44 Comments:

Blogger Bosszilla said...

Happy Happy Joy Joy! Debbie and Joe I am doing the dance of joy! Go Debbie! I prayed all weekend and kept checking the blog to see if there was any news. Lorraine finally convinced me that no news was good news and it was! Thank you God!!! And Debbie, so happy you want food! Keep thinking about those cheese steaks and that corn beef special from the Reading Terminal Market. If either of you need anything let me know - I can make it there in a flash.
Boni

10/20/2008 9:14 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hallelujah!

Been thinking, thinking, thinking about you all and still stalking this blog like the Son of Sam.

That quality Teklits time sure must be working! Hope that your pain is subsiding Chizzie and that you are hanging in there, gang.

Wowser.

I have to admit I was kind of scratching my head when I read today's word. But that was before I read your post, Joe. (Thanks so much for keeping us in the loop, buddy.)

Change

I am divinely guided to divine solutions.

"Change"--the very word may seem overwhelming. I may wonder how or where change is needed or how I should respond to it. In reflection, I realize that transformation is the orderly outcome of change.

I respond to being in the flow of the river of change by the choices I make every day. Aware of divine guidance, I am centered and calm. I receive sacred direction in prayer, meditation, or reflection, and in the synchronicity of my days. In making a decision that enhances my life and the lives of people around me, I may receive one divine solution or several.

I move with ease, understanding, and guidance--with change, through change, and on to the next change!


"Let us choose what is right; let us determine among ourselves what is good."--Job 34:4

(Debbie I bet you wish you could be "in the flow of the river of your bathtub right about now. There's some change you can believe in!)

I love you and continue to pray for miracles, large and small.

10/20/2008 9:19 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Wow.. the power of love!! deb. i sure hope those fluids are subsiding also, and that you are able to breath better now ..can;t blame you for wanting to take a bath.. always makes you feel better! I will continue the prayers that every minute you start to feel a little better.. hang tough deb.. love.. mdf.. oh, and kris,, is that the daily word from the episcopalian book? it almost is giving me the chills its so "on" at times!!! thanks for sharing that..

10/20/2008 9:52 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dear Debbie,
As Fall and Winter is upon us, a hot cup of tea seems to soothe the soul (in conjunction with a warm bath, of course).
As I have my cup of tea during the afternoons/evenings, my mind goes to you...always on my mind, forever in my heart...
Remember that sugar and creamer with the shamrocks (I love shamrocks) you gave to me when you and Joe were in Ireland? Thank you again for the gift, and as I still use it today, it is more meaningful than ever.
Hoping some nourishment will improve your strength, and that you are able to get in a nice warm relaxing bath.
much love,
xoxoxo
tessa

10/20/2008 10:05 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I am thrilled to read today's blog! I too have been praying for the entire Teklits family constantly. Wish there was more that I could do.

I met Debbie in 1966--42 years ago--yikes! We were both 13 and in 8th grade and her family just moved from Phila to Warminster. One of my earliest 'Debbie memories' is of us walking from her house to the Southampton Shopping Center--that had to be at least a 2 mile walk each way! (Oh to have youth on your side!) Debbie turned me on to Jewish pickles in a barrel--my family never bought them so it was a new treat for me. I can remember sitting on a curb and sharing that pickle--we would take a bite and pass it to the other. Naturally we were talking and giggling the whole time discussing cute boys, friend issues, vacations, and upcoming high school. How many million times did Debbie and I have these some conversations over the years--only the subject changed to husbands, shore houses, children and grandchildren. The constant was always the talking, laughing, not enough time to solve all the world's (and our own) problems, and most recently, getting so completely off subject in our conversations, that we didn't even know how we got there. And we forgot to mention the one thing that we wanted to discuss. We also shared a lot of tears--but it was all good.

I thrilled that I will get a chance to have some more conversations with my BFF (BEST FRIEND FOREVER!).

Love to all the Teklits clan,
Eileen

10/20/2008 10:13 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

So happy to read this blog. I have also been praying all weekend. God is good! I'll be praying that the blood work shows a miracle.
Love to you all
Pam K

10/20/2008 10:53 AM  
Blogger Patty Gianfelice said...

The power of love and prayer, it is an amazing force just as Debbie is an AMAZING force!
Lots of love and prayer headed your way,
Patty

10/20/2008 10:57 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I was thrilled to read the blog this morning! (Thanks for posting it Joe) I have been thinking of you all weekend and praying and praying. The power of the Teklits clan is amazing! Hope you are feeling more comfortable Deb and if there is anything at all you need, just let me know.
Jeanne

10/20/2008 11:18 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Ohhh ouuuuu wow! Debbie, you are a little miracle in a barrel! Still praying over in Sellersville. Give the girl a warm bath with some bubbles and candles!!! LOVE MEG ANG MATTHEW!

10/20/2008 11:34 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

We are going the Happy Dance!

Keep on fighting Debbie!

Love, COD Eileen and Family

PS...Today is Dave's 49th Birthday. He couldn't have had a better present! :)

10/20/2008 12:31 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Debbie and Joe,

The chorus of Hallelujehs is reaching Heaven, and our voices join in the chorus!!! Prayers, kind thoughts, and love have brought about a small blessing! Thank you, God, for this gift! And, thank you, Joe, for posting this morning’s good news!

It’s apparent, Debbie, that you knew just what you needed--to be in your own home, surrounded by those you love and who love you dearly. It’s so good that you’re eating home-cooked food; hopefully, you’ve already enjoyed that long, warm, bubbly bath!

It’s an absolutely beautiful autumn day here in central Florida, with temperature in the high-70s, bright blue sky, warm sunshine, just a touch of humidity. It’s a day for planting the fall and winter flowers. It’s a day for smiling with thoughts of you, Debbie, being awake and aware, warm and comfortable, healing.

Since we learned of your illness and unbelievable ordeal eighteen months ago, not one day has gone by when we’ve not thought of and prayed for you and yours. As you continue to fight your good fight, our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

With love,

Linda & Tim Radel

10/20/2008 1:37 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Debbie

I'm so happy to hear that you have rallied! Friday night before the game I told Colin that he needed to play hard for you because you had gone home. Low and behold...He had one of his best games yet and you are doing better! I love you so much and hope to hear more good news soon!

Love you tons! Mere

P.S. Jessie and Family I wanted to let know that I'm thinking about you guys right now also! We love you so much!

10/20/2008 1:54 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Debby & Joe,

What a delightful blog note to read. Mom & I have been thinking & praying for you ever since the call on Thursday. We'd be so pleased to continue reading more of these up-beat notes. I called Larry on Friday alerting him of the blogs just prior to his flying back to Japan.
Mom & Dad

10/20/2008 2:22 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Debbie, you are amazing! The little energizer bunny! So happy to hear this latest news! All of the love, prayers & warm thoughts of your friends & family must have helped! Keep on fighting & get that bath!
Love,
Bridget

10/20/2008 4:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dear Debbie,

I'm so very thankful you are back to us--I hope you now get to experience that much deserved "calm" after that stormy time. We are all praying so hard for you and glad you can feel it. As soon as I heard you were eating a bit, a grilled tuna and cheese came to mind--there was nothing like sharing one of those together, chips and a pickle too of course! Let me know if and when you have a craving for my tea, Joe told me you still had some and weren't drinking at the time. When you can, the lemon may help and also getting a little sugar too. I did not put the raw lemons in just in case. Take care my dear and Teklits family--that love you shared over the weekend was just what Dr. Debbie needed. Thinking of you all. Love, Donna K. (Brandon, Chad and Derek send their love too)

10/20/2008 4:56 PM  
Blogger Kim_and_Bob said...

We were ecstatic to hear that things are coming back "on-line". All of us here in "Exton" have been pulling real hard - espcially lately. There's quality time then there's Teklits quality time, enough said. Deb, if your hungry, have anything you like (I usually do).

Love Always,
Bob, Kim, Laura & Tiger (he has a big head).

10/20/2008 5:38 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

I've been checking the blog several times a day for progress and was happy to read that Debbie is still hanging in there. It goes to show you what alot of prayer can do. I think a few years ago she was in terrible shape and then went into remission. Let's hope for that again. Hang in there kid!
Love,
Beach Betty

10/20/2008 7:08 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

AMEN to the news. Thrilled about the rally. Enjoy a bath and the love of those near and far. Thanks, Joe for the post and thank you Teklilts for bringing our Debbie back to us.
Love, hugs and kisses,
Beth

10/20/2008 7:20 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

My mom emailed me the good news this morning and it made my whole day! I am so happy to hear that things are looking up. Will someone please get the lady some food?!?!?! Fill up that big tub and start bringing in trays of whatever she wants! I'm looking forward to some more good blogs after the nurse's visit. There's definitely something to be said about the power of family and prayer (not to mention amazing will power!). I love you guys!

Lisa

10/20/2008 7:56 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Debbie,
What a great way to start the day with good news. I went right to the blog this morning and looked up at the sky and said thank you God!! You are truly amazing Debbie!
I am so thrilled to hear that you
were able to eat something and that you wanted a bath....
Sending you warm thoughts today that you continue to feel better.
I will continue to talk to God about you (I talk alot about to God several times a day) you are never far from my thoughts Debbie.
Love to you, Joe and the family.

Love,
Chuck,Donna,Wyatt and Mackenzie

10/20/2008 8:31 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Chizzie and T's just checking in to say good night and that I'm still here on the FOD prayer wagon.

Hope your day was uneventful, peaceful and relaxing. You guys are never far away in my thoughts.

Love - Kris

10/20/2008 10:25 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Good Morning.
I'm going with "no news is good news" today. I hope you had a peaceful night. Today is a beautiful fall day. Here's to many more!I'm looking forward to reading more good news. Have a great day.
Love,
Beach Betty

10/21/2008 8:24 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dear Mom - Mom,

Just want you to know how much Izzy and I love you.. We have been thinking about you nonstop and getting constant updates from Joey and Jess. We hope you are resting comfortably. We of course cannot begin to explain how much we love you and how thankful we are for all that you do for Izzy and I. You are truly a remarkable person and it is so evident by how much you are loved by so many people. We are sorry we cannot be with you during this time, but do know it is important to have Teklits time. Just know we love you to the moon!

Love Always,
Allison and Isabelle

10/21/2008 10:02 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Good morning Chizzie-

How are you my friend? I'm thinking of you as I watch a couple of whitetail deer outside my window and I'm wondering if you have seen any foxes out by your creek this fall, and of course, how your ducks are. I know how much you love watching them - here's hoping you're soon feeling well enough to sit outside and get some fresh air and sun on your face. That's got to be good medicine right there!

It's another beautiful day here in CO. (although snow is on the forecast for tomorrow - yikes!) And it's Tuesday, so of course I am reminded of our times at Rice's.

Ooh. What I wouldn't give for us to be going there today. I'm sure you second that emotion!

Afterwards, we could head over to that restaurant we can never remember the name of - the Brewery? And then we could nibble on something light and nutritious, like a Black and Blue burger. With fries. Have to keep our energy up! And we'll just look at the dessert menu. Okay, maybe split something little. Hah-hah.

Not one to throw in the shopping towel that early, we could then head over to the outlet stores for a quick trip to Jones.

Doesn't that sound like fun?

Oh honey, I love you so much. (mini seeping as I write this.) I sure hope you had a good night and that all our precious Teklits are taking care of themselves while they take care of you.

I pray that all is in perfect harmony...ha-ha. Anybody else remember that old Coca Cola "I'd like to teach the world to sing' ad?" Now I'm going to be singing THAT all day!

Here's the word:

Harmony

I live in and contribute to a happy, healthy world.

To ensure that I live in harmony with all others today, I begin my day by spending a few moments in communion with God--my source of love and peace. In the stillness, I feel God's love welling up within me, and I reflect on the truth that this love lives in the hearts of all others.

Through shared experiences, people everywhere create new ways of expressing themselves--their ideas and ideals, their needs and dreams. I contribute my prayers for harmony to this process as I immerse myself in divine love.

Love encourages us to communicate with one another in harmonious ways. Love guides us in acts of kindness, feelings of compassion, and thoughts of understanding so that we live in and contribute to a happy, healthy world.


"Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."--Colossians 3:14

P.S. mdf - the Daily Word is from Unity Church. It is amazing, isn't it? I was turned onto it by another good friend (April, I know you're lurking and praying here!)during a rough patch in my own life and I have been a user ever since.

10/21/2008 10:12 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Debbie and Teklits,

Debbie, I have gotten big Matt praying for you. I must have seen a cow jump over the moon last night when I told him you were doing better, and he replied, 'Well I've been praying for her and thinking about her.' Of course he mumbled this into his sleeve- and I didn't make a big deal out of it, because then he would probably say that he was never praying again! If I tell him to do something he will normally do the opposite. Case in point... asked him to shave his beard alittle, when I found out I was pregnant... and then he said that he was not touching it until the baby was born. UGHH! I can't believe we had our picture in the paper like that! MEN! I do love him though! But I might love you a lot more- don't tell anyone...! Good thing Matt doesn't even know how to turn on a computer, so he can't read this. HA! That is not an exaggeration either.

Okay, okay enough small talk. I hear that you are lookin' good! I hope they gave you a nice bubble bath...? I love you. Stay strong, we are here for you!
xoxo MEG, Matt and MATTHEW THOMAS

10/21/2008 10:52 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hello Miss Debbie,

Just checking for lab results and thought i'd say hi. It's so funny that Kris mentioned the Coke song b/c I was just thinkin bout that the other day....in relation to you of course...how you're such a caregiver and nurturer and could really teach the world a thing or two about taking care of each other. I know I look to you as an example of tolerance and acceptance. I have to say that you are the most non-judgemental person I know. You're so slow to criticize and always give the other fella the benefit of the doubt. Oh I'm so thankful to have you in my life.

Well, Bob is waiting to get on the computer so I'd better close. Hope you're restin easy right now.

Love you,
Mo

10/21/2008 2:49 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

dear joe and debbie...and kids-

hallelujah!!!!!God is great and God is good!
you continue in our prayers-may the sun
hit your cheek in just the right place so you will feel God's love and peace enveloping you (and His healing power).
you've been here before...and we will look forward to doing alan's clam bar!
hugs...and fashionable pj's...and hallelujah anyway!
love
tony and jill

10/21/2008 8:27 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Just saying good night Chiz. Hope you had another good day and that you are resting, comfortable and well-bathed. (ha-ha) I didn't have to wait til Wednesday for the snow. We got about 2-3 inches this evening. I don't know if it will still be here in the morning. It usually doesn't last long this time of the year.

So now I'm thinking of you and how you LOVE the snow, honey. If you were here I'd make a snowman for ya!

Love you guys. Joe, Jessie, Joey and Mike sending you all good vibes!

K

10/21/2008 10:58 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Debbie,
You are truly amazing! Boni and I prayed and cried all weekend hoping to hear exactly what Joe wrote on Monday. I believe in miracles and you are one for sure! There is power in numbers. You are blessed to have so many praying for you and we are blessed to have you here with us. You are special. And as Boni said, keep thinking about cheese steaks and corn beef specials from Reading Terminal Market - I'll chaffeur!
Hugs to you and all the family.
Lorraine

10/22/2008 8:02 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

"Bevie" here,adding my love and prayers and utter happiness that you are feeling better....love does conquer all....not to mention warm bubble baths,lovely candles burning, and delicious hot tea in your tummy...surrounded by the prescious,and devoted "T's" ,you are all amazing!!!..if you need ANYTHING...Love and continuous prayers from all of the Zapata's

10/22/2008 9:41 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Well, the snow is still here, Chizzie....and it's brrr-cold here today. But, the sun is out so hopefully it will melt - although truth be told there's also a bunch of big black clouds hovering over the mountains. We could be getting some more!

How are you this morning, my dear? Hoping and praying that you are comfortable and cozy. That you are feeling like a little something to munch on and that your organs are working so well that they are practicing "Handel's Messiah" in their spare time.

Teklits family - you know I am with you in spirit and vibe.

I love you all AND in keeping with that spirit, here's the Daily Word.

Free

I am free to be all that God created me to be.

Freedom is just as much about all that I am capable of being as it is about what I have discontinued doing. That vacuum that was created as I released all old, unwanted thoughts and habits is now being filled with new, desirable, life-enhancing thinking and acting. I am strengthened and inspired.

Affirming what is positive and enriching in thought and action, I know that nothing can deny me the healthy, happy life that God created me to live.

Declaring myself free from harmful habits, I let God direct me in a total mind-and-body renewal. I am bold and confident in leaving behind past ways of life and embracing new, enhancing experiences.


"When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, 'Woman, you are set free from your ailment.' When he laid his hands on her, immediately she stood up straight and began praising God."--Luke 13:12-13

10/22/2008 9:59 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Juat read that blog before mine that was from lorraine! if that is lorraine booth, then really think twice before letting her chauffeur you to that place to eat.. wasn't she the one who didn't know nyc and manhattan were the same place! ha.. jk lorraine...
I also hope and pray you are feeling better today.. think about you all the time.I know that the prayers and love from your family helped you feel better by monday.. but , can't help but wonder if it was also the news of madonna and guy that gave you a little push..
Deb , you and all the teklits are wonderful people.. nothing but love and good thoughts and prayers are headed your way!! Love.. mdf

10/22/2008 10:00 AM  
Blogger Bosszilla said...

Hi Debbie and Joe. Debbie, hope you are feeling better by the minute! You are in my constant thoughts and prayers.
Let's see - MDF, no, that is not the Lorraine you are thinking - it is the Lorraine that works with Joe - sorry.
Kris, been wanting to blog back at you. I look for your word every day as I find comfort in it myself. Ever think of having your own daily blog? I'd sign up!
I too read a daily - by Joel Osteen. His writings touch home and bring me comfort and great insight.
Kris, I do want to ask, where do you find your daily readings exactly?
So my story is - I've only spent less than 24 hours with the Teklits on a great weekend in Ocean City at the end of September. But, during that time I got to know Debbie very well - we sat up and talked late into the night and shared a lot of great stories which left me feeling like we have known each other for years. It's not often that I meet someone I connect with like I did with Debbie.
Well I'm off to print my shirts now. Today is the day that the shirts ship to Robin Roberts at Good Morning America. I just officially announced them and already I have sold a few - which will also raise money for the Susan B. Koman foundation for breast cancer research. I am hopeful that Robin will share them with the world (on GMA) with her message on them - "Make your mess your message". Still can't believe she answered my email and gave me permission to use it!
Debbie, you be well, feel better, enjoy many many more baths.
Bye for now.
Boni

10/22/2008 10:29 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Im thrilled to hear the turn of events Deb, keep fighting. Glad to see you are with your family and you are resting easy. I contiune to pray that things will keep progressing for you and miss the whole fam. You truly are an inspiration to us all through this entire fight.
Love
Brandon

10/22/2008 1:13 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Debbie and family,

Always thinking about you guys. I hope you are nice and toasty in your bed, sipping hot soup and listening to the breeze. It is very blustery out here in hickville, and we are getting ready for the PHILLIES tonight! We'll add acouple hail marys on Debbies rosary for the Phillies...

xoxo MEG, MATT AND MATTHEW

10/22/2008 1:19 PM  
Blogger Kava said...

Dear Teklits family, I am checking the blog and am grateful to be able to do that. You are all in my prayers inside my heart. Blessings, and peace, Kava

10/22/2008 1:51 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thinking of you often. Hope you are having some great family time. Prayers and love, Jenny

10/22/2008 2:25 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Just a quick note to say good night my dears. Busy day here in Colorado land. It was cold and blustery all day. As far as snow goes, we got maybe another thousand flakes. The sky is clear and bright tonight and the stars are out with a vengeance.

Just wanted you to know I was thinking about you all with love tonight.

K.

P.S. Kava - how nice to see you here. When I pray for caring, enlightened individuals to cross my girl's path, I hope you know that I always think of you. I know you have been a great comfort to our friend Debbie.

t shirt girl Boni - OMG. So you were the one that spent the great weekend with Debbie down at the shore this fall! Debbie raved about what a good time you guys had and how much she enjoyed your company. How nice to see you here, too. Look for me in your email box!

Hugs and kisses Mo and Meg!

And to all FOD's while we're at it!

10/23/2008 12:23 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi, Just checking in. Another glorious day. I'm glad you're part of it. I'm just trying to make up for lost time. I'm a little behind with work. We had Addison's christening on Sunday. She's 13 weeks old now. She's wearing 6-9 months. she's laughing out loud, smiling and doing rasberries. Not to mention almost putting her whole fist in her mouth. I'm babysitting both kids twice a week and having a blast doing it. I'm looking forward to next summer when all the grandchildren are on the beach. Maybe we can sit back and watch their parents chase them and Joe can bring us cosmos. And of course don't forget your chocolate chip cookies. They go great with the cosmos!
Hope to hear something great soon.
Love,
Beach Betty

10/23/2008 9:24 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

feel the sand between your toes...hear the surf...feel the
sun on your cheeks...hear the giggles of the grandbabies, taste the sunscreen on your lips (yuk) and know you are loved and thought about-all of you
grace and peace
tony and jill

10/23/2008 10:12 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Come on Debbie - don't give up- too many people praying for you - God ls listening. You can do it.
Love Shelly

10/23/2008 10:43 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Debbie,

Just wanted to say hello on this colllldddd October morning. Frost on my windows- had to warm my car up fo 10 minutes before putting the Mattster in. I think about you all the time and are hoping you are doing as well as can be expected, getting stronger, and comfortable as always. Carolyn and Kel (who come to LTN,and Caro used to come to the shore with us) are praying hard for you and sent their love. A bunch of us are going to the homecoming game tonight- Kels little brother is on the homecoming court. Hence- all of my friends who know who you are say hello and send prayers and well wishes! LC alum praying for Ms.Debbie! I love you, stay warm!

xoxo Meg & Matthew

10/24/2008 9:21 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey Teklits!

Just checking in on your week! It's Football Friday here and Colin wanted me to tell you "this game is for you!" This is game two of districts and tonight's opponent has unfortunately not been having a good season...so it should be a favorable game. We are thinking of you constantly and frequently checking in to see if you are back doing laps around the nurses station.

We love you all and hope you are continuing to improve.

:) COD Eileen and family

10/24/2008 3:19 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Debbie,Joe and Family,
I have been thinking about you constantly. I hope you are resting peacefully. I was thinking about you and how we had such great chats on the beach. You are so easy to talk to and I so enjoyed all our long chats...thank you for that. Well I hope you feel the warmth of Gods arms around you...you are so loved by so many people. You are such a special, special lady and I feel so blessed to have you in my life. I am sure that you are surrounded by all the love from your amazing family. God watch over you day and night.
Sending a big warm hug to you my dear, dear friend.
Love ya,
Chuck,Donna,Wyatt and Mackenzie

10/24/2008 6:13 PM  

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