lcfc party reports

1996: Meeting Leslie
Jessica R. Levine

I had been toying with the idea of joining Leslie Charleson's fan club for a few months when I found out about the annual luncheon at Sardi's. Living in New York City, I knew I would regret missing the chance to meet the woman who has been my favorite character on GH for the ten years I've been watching. When I saw the date of the luncheon, I knew I didn't have much time. I wrote a quick note to Kay and mailed it the next morning, hoping I wasn't too late. When I came home a few days later to find a message from Kay on my answering machine, I was ecstatic -- in less than two weeks, I was going to meet Leslie!

I was a little nervous about going to the luncheon by myself, but reassured by the fact that everyone there would have the most important thing in common: admiration for Leslie. As soon as I got to Sardi's, I saw some people cluttered around the entrance, and introduced myself. Right away, I felt at home. Once I got inside, I found my table, and looked through the folder that was waiting for me (I've already used up half of my "I'm a Quartermainiac" pad!). Immediately, I was impressed, and I knew that the club was strictly first class.

As I was getting to know everyone, I thought of my questions for Leslie, and handed them in. Shortly after that, the Guest of Honor arrived, and I snapped a few photos. It was all so exciting! Once Leslie started to speak, I realized (no surprise) that she was as warm, funny, and sweet as I had imagined she would be. After we ate lunch (which was also quite impressive), Leslie answered all our questions. To my surprise, the two I had written down wound up being the first and last that Leslie answered! (and without a doubt, answered to my satisfaction).

Then came the best part -- autographs and photo opportunities. I was really nervous, and I couldn't think of one clever thing to say. So she autographed my Quartermaine stationery and posed with me for two quick photos. I walked away, chastising myself for not having anything smart to say to this woman, whom I have respected and admired for over a decade. So I stood by the table and watched Leslie sign more autographs.

Suddenly, I knew what I had wanted to say. It wasn't much, but it was exactly how I felt. So I got on the end of the line and waited. When I got up to the table again, Leslie looked up at me, ready to take something to autograph. I smiled, and said, "I don't need you to sign anything. I just wanted to say thank you for everything -- you've been such an inspiration to me." She got out of her chair and gave me the sweetest hug. Tears came to my eyes, and I told her I had joined the club that morning. She welcomed me to the club, and I thanked her again and walked away.

Overall, the day went far beyond my expectations; Leslie's sincerity and warmth made me feel so special. I told her just that, in a letter I wrote the following day, accompanied by a copy of the photograph we took together. I couldn't have asked for a better day!