Ephraim (Freddie) Friedman

Transcription of Above Letter:

Aug 23, 1952

Dear Sam:

We have one more day until the end of our quarantine period and then although this polio virus will be in our systems another week, we expect to pull out of this crisis alive and uncrippled.  Yesterday we had a scare when Ralph developed some fever, but it was fatigue and the aspirin the doctor prescribed took the fever down.  When you live so close to the possibility of having crippled lives or no life at all, it makes one want to live to the fullest, do the most good possible, and enjoy every bit of laughter our children can give us. I trust your family has recovered to some degree from the shock and that the doctor can give Clara the encouragement and determination to face a new life.

Dr. Fishbein just called me and said that (in recapitulating) he informed your doctor by telephone that Fred’s case was critical and that he prescribed every known medicine and aid to help fight the infection, and he actually hoped Fred would have lasted a few more days or possibly fight off the virus. The fact that Fred went so quickly indicates he had no resistance, or that it was down just enough that contact with a carrier at the merry-go-round or in swimming at Fairfax proved the fatal combination. There were another two cases this week in San Francisco and both were fatal so perhaps only God knows when it is our turn to go.

Various bills have come in and there may possibly be one more from a nurse. I have enclosed a receipt for the ambulance – $12.50 and for the hospital entrance – $50.00. Fred had emptied the safety-deposit box of war bonds the week previous and had returned some to Joe that were in their mutual name and that Clara had forgotten to return. There was also three in my name and Fred’s that, as I remember, I had given as birthday presents. I had to cash in these three bonds to cover the expense of the hospital entrance and ambulance.

Sol has told me also that he mailed a check to the rabbi for $20.00 and paid $5.50 to the locksmith.

When the quaranteen is lifted – Wednesday I shall have the bedding and certain clothing cleaned. If you wish, I can dispose of these and his shoes to some charity. Of Salvage there is a small radio, watch, new sports–clothing and suit. Please let me know what you wish sent to you.

I know you have been bearing heavy burdens on your shoulders, and I trust to God that you and all of us can be given some relief from any more troubles and that we can klive our lives with as much satisfaction and enjoyment as possible.
Yours truly, Sam

{This letter written from Fred Friedman’s older half brother Samuel David Friedman (1916-1982) son of Morris Friedman (1896-1942) and Rebecca Maltzer (1893-1929).  Fred was the son of the same Morris Friedman above, and Clara Friedman.  Clara (1904-1985) was the mother of Fred. Fred died of Polio on 15 Aug 1952 in San Francisco. This letter is written to Samuel Friedman, the brother of Clara.}