Bill, I'm so sorry for the bad news, my grandpa passed from cancer so I know just what your family is going through. You are all in my prayers. I don't know what your belief in God is but I pray you have a faith in Him, He will give you peace that surpasses all understanding. God bless you and your family.

Dearest Bill, Patricia informed me of your situation. First I want to say that you have been in my thoughts since she shared this info. You are sitting somewhere in my body between my forehead and my heart, perhaps that explains the lump in my throat. I like what you said about not being a fighter but ready to become one, (something like that). I like that! Gosh buddy, if I could take your pain, I would but until then, perhaps this note might just lessen a wee bit. Patricia and I are departing for a tour tomorrow to Guatemala where you and I and Julie all met! I have all the greatest memories of you guys, Irene, Liz ,Jeff, and Al. I smile when I think of you slamming into me on the mourning pre dawn truck ride up the mountain as we were all tossed here and there. I think of the great time at the Bird Festival at Lake Side, the time you popped those fake and fucked up teeth into your mouth and started talking like... let's just say, a "funny guy". I think of you at all the various events, birding spots, beginning birder classes, your books, the Bird Watchers Digest, blogs, interviews, musical performances, sipping beers on jungle verandas... I really am just getting started. You live LARGE in my mind and in the bird world. You pretty much are a force of nature, a force for good, so let me just say that I love you so much, I am thinking about you and sending a BIG Left Coast hug your way. Keep your eyes to the skies, (but watch your step!) Keith

Hello Wendy and Julie - I have donated to help Bill and loved ones but would like to offer some advice.

We lost my father three years ago to cancer after an 8 month battle. As you already are experiencing, it is a devastating journey for everyone involved.

Here are the things I learned going through that experience that may be helpful. You may already have this information but sharing just in case.

One - talk to the oncologist about resources available to the family. We ended up working with a county social worker who was very helpful in providing resources for extra support - emotional and financial.

We were able to get very expensive drugs at no cost or greatly reduced cost (with help from the oncologist).

We were provided the emotional support of a non denominational pastor/ counselor. We are not a religious family and this pastor was also a trained therapist. She visited my father whenever he wanted to talk to some one about how he was feeling. We also had group support available to us.


Two - discuss hospice options early - just in case.
There are sometimes waiting lists for the best options available.

Three - get care giver help. Primarily so you can take an emotional break from the constant, daily worry and take care of yourself for a few hours.

Finally - cry alone and often (or whatever catharsis you need) to help release the anxiety, grief, fear, sadness that comes with this journey.


My heart goes out to you all.

prayers up

Bill, I am devastated by the news of your diagnosis. I had chemo and radiation 20 years ago for a different cancer and the best advice I can give, is to be positive, let go and let the treatment do it’s thing. It is no “walk in the park” but on the good days between treatments, take control again and do something that makes you happy. Be strong, be patient, we are all pulling for you

Love and prayers coming your way . We love you and know you are a fighter and such a stronger soul ❣️

We’ve been thinking of you today, wondering how it went and hoping for the best.
We love you, and our thoughts are with you!

We have been thinking about you all day Bill, wondering how it’s going. We send love and plenty of laughs your way. ❤️, Barb & John

Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers. I can't seem to find the words I want to say, but please know we are only a few miles away if you need anything. We will be sending positive vibes your way and praying for you daily.

Sending thoughts, prayers & positive vibes your way, Bill, as you begin treatment today. ~Ruth Devol