April 13, 1947

Dear Mom and Dad:

Just finished eating dinner, had fried chicken, mashed potatoes, string beans and ice cream. The food seems much better here lately.

I went to Chicago Monday to see Dr. Chandler. He recommended that a derotation osteotomy of the right humerus of approximately 45 degrees be done. He explained it to me this way, they cut the big bone in my upper arm and twist it outward 45 degrees. He thought that by doing that I could have much better use of the hand because it would be away from my body and that I could get it to my face, etc., much easier. He thought that my hand would improve in time but didn’t think that my shoulder should be touched. I wasn’t completely satisfied when I left his office because he had spent such a short time with me. He looked at a couple of x-rays and spent a little time examining my shoulder so I really wasn’t encouraged a lot after seeing him. I’m going to see another Dr. in Chicago within the next two weeks, there’s a Colonel here who used to be on Ward 23 with me, he is getting the appointment for me and said that he might go with me if he possibly could. He is a medical officer, lives in Aurora, Illinois.

Send me the addresses of any relatives living nearby. As soon as the weather decides to stay pleasant for a while I plan on seeing a lot of Mich., Indiana and other states close by.

Went to a formal dance last night, Lucy looked very nice. I felt a little out of place, it was a staff party so there weren’t many patients there. About the only time one ever sees a doctor around here is when you se them at a party.

Mom, I’m thinking about combining your birthday with Mother’s day and getting you something that I think you really want. I’ll know for sure this week just how long it will take so don’t be disappointed if your birthday present arrives a little late.

My car is running much better with a new motor. I have 200 miles on this one. If the phone strike doesn’t end someone may have to break down and write a letter. Not much else, so I’ll say goodbye for now.

“Bob”

(envelope)
Capt. Bob Dole 0-1327518
Ward C-11, PJGH ANNEX
Fort Custer, Mich.

(postal seal) BATTLE CREEK MICH. 
APR 14
10:30 AM
1947

(postage stamp) AIR MAIL
5 cent
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

Mr. D.R. Dole
1035 Maple Street
Russell, Kansas

Air Mail