DR. DOTSEVI SOGAH, Gladys' former student, reacts to the shocking news.

Atsu:

I just returned yesterday from Germany where I was on a special joint research program in addition to teaching a short course from September 6-30.

I heard of Gladys' untimely, sudden and totally unexpected passing from Frank Kpodo, I think, almost immediately after Akpene called him with the sad news. Frank and I communicated regularly via Skype while I was in Germany.

You know she taught me English literature in Form 4. Besides, because I was living at Abutiakope in my in-laws' (Fiawornu's) house at that time, I saw her regularly as the Tsikata house was one of our gathering places. In addition, we overlapped at Legon. She was the person who introduced Josef Amuzu and me to Volta Hall by inviting us to visit a few times in early 1967. She was also one of the handful (although, frankly, I did not know any other student with a personal TV) that had a personal television in her room even at that time, and Joe and I were quite impressed. I called Josef and related the news to him immediately after Frank told me. He was just as shocked as I was.

From time to time I find myself talking about her and Lucia Amenuvor any time there was a conversation about achievements. The last time was this past August when Lucia said she was retiring. This is because the two received Grade One when they finished form 5 at Holy Child. Because, it was somewhat rare for girls in those days their accomplishments made national news. Even their scholarship to go abroad made the headlines. These things tend to be seared in a young person's mind and I am no different. Lucia just retired last month but still in Virginia. I asked Lotsu Amenuvor to convey the sad news to her cousin.

Atsu, forgive me for my rambling. It's just that I am really saddened by this. You see, when Dzidzorgbe returned from her brother's funeral at Anyako she mentioned to me (and Frank confirmed it) that Gladys was at the funeral and that they were all admiring how well she looked. So to hear just a few weeks later that she is no longer with us is a shock. But I know my shock is nothing compared to yours. All I can tell you is that you and the family will be in my thoughts and prayers for quite some time. Receive my sincerest condolences and, please, convey them to the rest of the family on my behalf. These losses are hard to understand but we just have to let God handle it. He knows why and why now.

Once you know the details of the arrangements, please, let me know.

Ketascho Network: It is perfectly appropriate to announce it to the Ketascho network. It is one of the easiest ways to get the word out to those old students who knew her. Kodzo Gbewonyo is in Ghana and I am sure have already heard about it. He should be getting back shortly.

I will call you. Meanwhile, remain strong.

Dotsevi