<p>Having been through Hugo, admittedly nothing compared to Katrina, and after having been without the normalcy of electricity, clean tap water or my family for weeks, I have to say that my stress relief came from being in classes and at work. It added structure and normalcy to my days, and really helped me to keep my sanity. IMHO starting classes, wherever, is a first step toward getting back to your life and putting things in order one step at a time. Of course, it depends on your student, and you know your student best, but it is so easy to fall into dwelling on something which you cannot control if you do not have some other purpose. </p>
<p>As to returning to Tulane, it will be traumatic in itself, as it will be very different. We don't realize, sometimes, how much we rely on the appearance of our treasured places to make us feel secure. The amount of light which we had in Charleston due to the massive loss of trees was disturbing, the routes around town were varied, the infrastructure was improvised for quite a while. So, as happy as all will be to return, it is also another source for depression when places are no longer as we remembered. </p>
<p>I am really not trying to be negative, just giving another perspective. I would love to take a family in, to help, to show that America is out here, concerned and wanting to help. All I can do is send cash, since Alaska is a bit out of the way, but I am sending my best wishes, too.</p>
<p>Everyone take care!</p>