"Gordo is still in ICU at UCLA Medical Center from the massive (right sided) stroke he suffered last week, and probably will be for another two weeks or so; then hopefully he will have the ventilator removed and move to a regular room. He is responding on demand (i.e. if they ask him to hold up a certain number of fingers he can ... he's also giving a lot of 'thumbs up'), however he cannot speak yet due to the ventilator. He was in very good health before the stroke, so hopefully this will help him recover fully. She said it's just really too early to predict the outcome.

Marie hardly leaves his bedside and sounded very strong, but of course is worried as we all are. Many of you have asked what you can do - she said Gordo likes receiving cards and emails (he can't receive packages in ICU, but will be able to once they move him). You may send cards to their house (44046 28th Street West Lancaster, CA 93536-6026), she goes home every 3 days or so to check the mail. You may also email his son Andy at Andrewfullerton - at - sbcglobal.com which he will receive at the hospital. Marie asked that you copy her at mgfullerton - at - verizon.net , as she reads these to him. - Linn LeBlanc, Executive Director, Astronaut Scholarship Foundation"