Ann James Freelander seriously ill

Everyone --

The family of former longtime Post writer Ann James Freelander reports that she is in very bad health and may not recover. She had gall bladder surgery recently and was re-hospitalized from complications of that and a failing liver.

She is under heavy medication, and under in-home medical and hospice care. Her daughter Sherrill says she has been drifting in and out of consciousness since last night -- doctors do not know if she will be able to recover. Sherrill will be back early afternoon today and will accept any calls on Ann's behalf.

Ann's phone number is 936-756-7436; her address is 3109 Wilson Rd., Conroe TX, 77304.

Ann is the widow of former city editor Doug Freelander. As everyone who knows her quickly came to realize, Ann could be a cantankerous, ornery tiger at times -- as well as a full-time, incredibly tender, loving, compassionate person who cared deeply about those in her life and work. She's showed her toughness, stamina, sheer will -- and selflessness -- in working major Post beats (and stories -- from the Frank Sharp Sharpstown scandal to the Dean Corll/Elmer Wayne Henley serial murders and so on) during the 1960s and 70s.

Please join us in praying that her unique kind of spirit can get her through the challenges of this ordeal. Her daughter Sherrill says she'll pass along the sentiments of those who want to call.

Thanks.

-- George Flynn