Paul's Heart

My friend Paul Vanderwerf has always had a big heart . . . which now needs some work. This week, Paul goes in for open-heart surgery. (The day after his birthday, no less.) While his medical costs will be defrayed somewhat by insurance, the recovery period is long - up to 12 weeks in which he will be unable to work. For freelance musicians like Paul, that kind of hiatus makes things quite difficult financially.

I've known Paul for 27 years. One could not ask for a better friend: generous, smart, and funny has hell. (I've tried to match him on back-and-forth puns countless times, and every time, he wins.) He is a great colleague in any violin section, and the most enjoyable company on any quartet job.

Paul has never hesitated to help out a friend in need, and I'd like to return the favor. Please do what you can to help him out.