The first time I met Joanie was at the New Jersey SayCon. It was my first Saycon and I was nervous. Had arrived late so everyone was sitting down eating. As I was being introduced to others a lady jumped out of her seat, and into my face. She scribbled something on a piece of paper. I forget the exact wording but it introduced herself and explained her writing, hearing loss, etc. As I finished reading it I looked up to respond. She was busy eating away acting as if the encounter never happened!

Hahaha. Hmmm. What was that all about, I asked myself. Later I realized it was Joanie's way of getting in yer face, saying what she had to say.. Cold, cruel? Not at all. It was her way of dealing with her difficulties while not being a wallflower.

She was a warm loving compassionate person. Her warmth was as deep as her strength was strong. We stayed in touch over time. She was as strong-minded as me and occasionally we had spats. But we always came back to each other as friends. She held no grudges.

As for her reputation as the condom lady: Yup! I was there. All true.

Bless you dear Joanie. I will miss your persnickety mood and sweet charm. Above all, you were a fighter. Wish more people had your gumption and power of conviction.

--- Curtis Dickinson

I am so sorry to hear that Joan Emerick is in such serious condition. She has always been such a character and has such spirit. She was one of the first SWCers I had the pleasure to meet. I first met her at the CampCo in Colorado. I found her to be witty and funny.

I also saw her at Cape May, NJ where she was affectionately known as the condom lady. She blew up colored condoms and sailed them through the air like balloons on a dance floor. She loved practical jokes.

--- Marti Castor in Kansas