Laura at Kevin's Dead Cat has lost a third of her tongue and undergone surgery and radiation. Last week she had a second tracheostomy (announced by her new husband), but they got out to the Arclight over the weekend to see most of Star Wars before she fled to the bathroom to let the morphine work its magic. Since she can't speak much, posting to her website is keeping her in touch with friends. It's also getting noticed in the L.A. blog community, especially since her sister Celia of 5th and Spring is writing with raw emotion about "this fear that has engulfed me and my family since she was diagnosed in July 2004." There's also this incredibly nice gesture on Celia's blog, from Brian Humphrey of the Los Angeles Fire Department's media relations office:

Celia:

Our hearts go out to you and your family at this difficult time.

If your Neighborhood Firefighters and Paramedics can do anything to make you and your sister more comfortable, please let us know.

One of the little known services we offer is palliative care. Sometimes its just a matter of assisting the hospice staff with a physically demanding task, or attending to some necessary though difficult matters that require Firefighter's teamwork. We'll always be there when you need us.

We can also help through our Crisis Response Team volunteers, who are pleased to offer on-site emotional support in trying times, or through a referral to Info-Line, where you can connect with free guidance and advocacy by calling (800) 339-6993.

Respectfully Yours,

Brian Humphrey
Firefighter/Specialist
Public Service Officer
Los Angeles Fire Department

Humphrey, who started the LAFD media relations blog, has reached out before.