My radioactive friend

GLADYS SHAY / For the Hungry Horse News

Jack Therrien has some words of advice for individuals receiving isotopes.

He was detained at the Roosville border station, searched, and asked why he was radioactive. Jack initially thought it was a gun at his back, but later realized it was a Geiger counter for radiation.

Answer was simple. Jack explained he had a stress test two days previously. When questioned about a doctor's certificate regarding this, Jack had to admit he did not have one. However, he referred border patrol officers to Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Jack plans to go to Quebec next year and wanted to get a passport. It seemed simpler to just go to the border as he was working in Eureka that day. Somehow, U.S. officers told him to go to the Canadian side. He explained his driver's license was in his wallet and he would have to step out of the car to get it. Next they asked for his car keys and parked Jack's car.

It was not humorous at the time. But it is now, Jack added. Jack reminded us of another incident, which family members can laugh about now.

Seems Jack, his wife, Dodie, son, Kevin, and daughter, Karla, went to Seattle to visit relatives. They stopped at a restaurant off the interstate to eat. Jack explained he had to go to the bathroom. He returned to the car and Kevin was in the front seat. It was dark, Jack drove off, assuming Dodie and Karla were in the back seat.

They were miles away when Jack discovered Dodie and Karla had been left at the restaurant.

I certainly wish Jack good luck in Quebec.

He retired as a pharmacist at Blackfeet Tribal Hospital in May 2009. A letter from the Blackfeet Nation, signed by Blackfeet Tribal officers, paid tribute to Jack for his work in Browning. It referred to his positive impact on health of Blackfeet people. One of his most prized possession is the blanket presented to him at that time.

Jack used to announce Peewee baseball games for Columbia Falls teams.

Plays would be interspersed with his Norwegian accent and perhaps an extra quip or so. He is long-time member of Columbia Falls Lions Club.

Dodie retired as director of hot lunch program for School District No. 6. Therriens reside in their new home located on 20 acres near Olney.

Another comment about Jack. He can laugh at himself while sharing experiences. I like that attitude.

Gladys Shay is a longtime resident of Columbia Falls and Hungry Horse News columnist.