Friday, July 16, 2010

July 16, 2010

I apologize for not keeping up with the blog, but things were moving so quickly as you will see soon below, that I was unsure what to say.
Not only has the cancer metastasized to the liver, but to the bones as well. An MRI on Tuesday afternoon confirmed that. So now it is really everywhere.
The chemotherapy, unfortunately, made my life even more miserable than the cancer itself, so i have, at least temporarily, declined any more chemo.
I came hone to get affairs in order.
While there is no real prognosis (nobody knows), the cancer is not curable.
I will be having an initial meeting with hospice soon with the hopes of some relief from pain which is very constant and tormenting.
I am humbled by the many offers of assistance and will contact you when specific needs arise.
Thanks for all your cards and calls of support.
Please call before coming to 5129 Rondel as I am not always in shape to receive guests.

10 comments:

  1. I'm so sorry to hear this, Bob. Was thinking of you as I drove down Elliott's Oak today. And you don't have to apologize for not keeping up with the blog...no need. If I could, I would make you well in an instant. Even though we don't see each other often, you've been such a wonderful presence in my life. My fondest memories of serving on the council involve you as well and the amount of laughing we used to do. You always handled the many AHs with such aplomb! What a gift!! Fondly, Kathy

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  2. I have you in my thoughts and prayers. I hope that the doctors can make things easier for you and soon. All my best, Wendy

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  3. Dear Bob -- you and your family are in my my prayers and thoughts. Thank you for keeping up this blog so that I and so many others know what is going on. You're a very special man to so very many -- I hope you know that. Love to you and yours, Mark

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  4. Bob,
    I'm not sure if you remember me...our "Matthew's" went to elementary & middle school together many years ago, and I felt compelled to write to you, to let you know that you have been a positive influence in our community, and we're very grateful for the many personal & professional contributions you have made as well. Our thoughts and prayers are with you & your family. Fondly, Heidi Brown

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  5. Bob,

    I am glad we had some time together last year. Buying the Aussie wine together from the guy you knew who had a daughter who once lived in Brisbane was an unexpected buzz; and the trip to see Lou Hammann was indeed out of the blue. My mind goes instantly to crab cakes, with the big bits. I see your name on the recent psi chapter TKE email list. Perhaps contacting Jim Myers, who is organizing the TKE Reunion at the end of September, with some of your news might be good. Your update is so final, but I'll never regret the time we've had together as "brothers" over the years, begining way back in the summer of 1963 when you and Dave Sachs "summer rushed" me in Nutley. Keep the updates coming, good friend!

    Love,
    Dick Hutch

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  6. Bob,

    I'm saddened to see that things are happening so quickly. I hope you are able to come to peace and put your affairs in true order. You were my first theatre boss and I believe that my growth as a professional has come, in part, from my experiences at Spots and working with you. You've instilled in me the constant reminder that whomever are working for you are deserving of your thanks, and that that thanks can never be said enough. And I always try, though not always successfully to 'make everyone happy.' I don't always do this, but I keep trying. Thanks for that. My prayers will continue to always be with you and your family. I would like to drop by and pay a visit sometime soon.

    Brad J.

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  7. Bob and Barbara,

    I do so wish my prayers are more powerful than they seem to be right now. And where is that magic wand when you need it?

    Bob, the love you see from all of us is indicative of the love you gave over the years. We are honored to be with you on this journey.

    Suzie (and John)

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  8. Bob, I'm so sorry to hear you are in pain and that the cancer has spread. You are in my prayers. I've been thinking about you a lot lately, and realized that we've been working together for over 20 years. My love to you and Barbara and the rest of the family. If I can do anything, please let me know.

    Love,
    Joanne

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  9. Hi Bob,
    I had a dream about you a few weeks ago and when I woke up I thought about you and that long and winding road between Oakland Mills and now, and I smiled about your telling me the difference between administer and administrate. :) So don't despair. In your lightened state, you can visit women in the night and make people smile.
    Blessings and love to you and Barbara and all those who love you dearly. Patty Klosko Clark Kirby Gibler

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  10. Bob -

    Was much distressed to learn of your circumstances from an email from Jim M. and a phone call from Donnie D. You are at a top position on my prayer list. I will pray that God will give you and your family peace in ways that only He can provide.

    With fond memories of 45 years ago...

    Dick Spencer

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