Ely and Norma worked as telephone operators and 0.8 km away from each other’s workplace when the stars aligned for them. They met through a common friend, Dad’s former girlfriend to be exact, who introduced them. Soon they became phone pals and the rest is party line history.
Our father developed tuberculosis during his late 20’s and was often in the hospital. He overheard one nurse asked Mama, “Why do you keep on visiting him? Find another one, you’re just wasting your time because he will die soon.” Mama stood by his side, brought him food, didn’t mind if he was contagious and helped him recuperate until he got stronger. Love in the time of TB. A scarred lung is no match for beating hearts.
Ely (4th from left) and Norma (5th from left)
Ely and Norma in Bel-Air – their home and office for four decades