A couple of thoughts, although none of them are fabulous:

• Use Process Explorer to try and look at what process are using what memory/CPU/file handles.
• Everyone says it, and I'm sure you've thought of it, but check any antivirus settings. Word also has a really annoying inbuilt virus checker thingy for macros. I don't know if that's interfering?
• If your OS is running XP SP2 or Server 2003 SP1, try disabling Data Execution Protection (DEP) on the vague off chance. See KB875352 for details.
• Maybe try upgrading to Office 2003 SP1?

Sorry these aren't great suggestions :(

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