Reading: Uncle John's 4-ply Bathroom Reader
Music: NPR
TV/Movie: we'll see
Link o' the Day: The National Foundation for Depressive Illness, Inc.

Some folks here may be aware of the events surrounding actor, writer and monologist Spaulding Gray. In short, following a car accident in the UK a few years ago, he's been suffering with serious depression. A couple of weeks ago, he disappeared from his NYC residence and is suspected of having committed suicide by jumping off the Staten Island Ferry. (One theory being bandied about is that his recent viewing of the move Big Fish was the inspiration for this.)

Now around twelve years ago, I saw Spaulding Gray perform one of this famouse monologues at the Trinity Repertory Theatre and got the opportunity to have a drink with him at a nearby bar after the show. The man who introduced us, a respected theatre professor and Polish scholar, was also suffering from depression brought about by a lifelong migraine affliction. Six months ago he committed suicide by jumping from the roof of his university's parking garage.

I'm wrapping up a chapbook on character actor Albert Salmi. He was never a well-known name, but you've probably seen him on any number of TV shows from the 60s and 70s including Lost in Space and various cop dramas. Likewise, Albert was also suffering from depression and also killed himself.

Now the good news is that depression can be treated. You can ask your doctor about it, or if you'd like, you can visit The National Foundation for Depressive Illness, Inc. website. (Today's link of the day.)

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Short entry today. I've got the cold that's been making the rounds and my head feels like it's been stuffed with cotton soaked in kerosene. I'm going home as soon as I can get out of this too-busy office so I can sleep before my very busy night.

Strength!