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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1193
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 07, 2008 - 09:40 pm: | 
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Hope all is well for you'all. Just want to share with you, me and my older brother Clarence. We both served in the United States Marine Corps. See pics below.... Clarence(B/W pic) passed away at the age of 30yrs old, due to a massive heart attack in 1960. Wow !! I had a full mouth of teeth back then. <chuckle>  
Living proof of Hereditary Heart Disease, my brother passed away due to heart problems and my Mom & Dad both rec'd heart bypass surgery. My older sister has a Pacemaker.
Ol' Bob
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Cass
Member
Username: cassq
Post Number: 562
Registered: 06-2006
| | Posted on Tuesday, October 07, 2008 - 11:03 pm: |
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What a handsome pair of dudes!
My father was a captain in the U.S. Marine Corps, Bob. He died at the age of 37 in a car accident on his way to reserve training (I was 6 at the time). He was a handsome dude, too. Is it the uniform, or does the Corps just attract hunks?
Cass
Kidney donor to hubby Mike, 12/2000. St. Barnabas, Livingston, NJ
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Jeff
Member
Username: jeff
Post Number: 1261
Registered: 07-2007
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 08, 2008 - 06:37 am: |
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Hey Bob, I have said it before and I will say it again, from one veteran to another, thank you for your service to our country. It's men and women like yourself that have kept this country free and have given us the liberties that we enjoy today. You sir, are a great American!
Now, I wish I could turn the clock back and look this young again:
Jeff W.
Forum Leader-Kidney
Kidney transplant Oct. 26,2007
Living donor, my sister Patty
email: unclemud@gmail.com
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1198
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 08, 2008 - 05:29 pm: |
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Cass, very sorry to hear about your beloved Dad.
Jeff, you are quite special yourself and a wonderful asset to this site, Thank you also for serving our wonderful country in the US Navy.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1201
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 09:17 am: |
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Rhonda Toomer Smith(Heart transplant)-Texas
My first meeting with Rhonda was in St Lukes Hospital in Houston Texas, during the time of my own heart transplant Jan 1991. She was 25yrs old at the time. Rhonda's heart donor was a 14yr old boy. She rec'd her heart transplant on the very same night that I rec'd mine. We became to closest of friends from that time on, even though she lives 220 miles north of me. Unfortunately, Rhonda passed away 12yrs later, due to diabetic problems. She had experienced heart problems ever since her birth. A man-made valve was placed in her heart 5yrs prior to her transplant. The transplant surgical team removed the valve from her old worn out heart, cleaned it up and placed it into a small jewelry box, then presented it to Rhonda as a remembrance token. I drove to Alvarado Texas to sadly attend her funeral service. As I walked by her coffin, I softly patted her hand and whispered "Goodbye lit'l transplant buddy". She was a wonderful lit'l lady and I still miss her dearly. She surely left footprints on my heart.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1202
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 09:20 am: |
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Mark Pickel(Heart transplant)-Tennessee
I met Mark during one of my post transplant checkups at St Lukes Hospital a few weeks after my return back to my home. I discovered that he was on the waiting list for his heart transplant. We instantly became good friends and I told Mark to call me on the phone when he rec'd his important call, to come on in to the hospital for his badly needed heart transplant. Several months later, I rec'd that call from my pal Mark, he and his Mom were headed to the hospital. I showered quickly, jumped in my car and drove directly to the hospital. He had already gone into surgery on my arrival, so I spent the whole night with his Mom in the OR waiting room to offer my personal/spiritual support to her during this traumatic time. Mark made it through surgery just fine and is now a Vice Principal at a High School in Tennessee 17yrs later. We still stay in contact from time to time.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1203
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 09:22 am: |
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Many people are not aware of the fact that they can save lives of other folks or enhance the lives of others by donating these various organs in the event of their deaths.
What organs and tissues can I donate?
Kidney
Heart
Liver
Lung
Pancreas
Intestines
Cornea
Skin
Bone
Bone marrow
Ol' Bob
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Hostess Risa
Member
Username: risa
Post Number: 6655
Registered: 05-2003
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 09:23 am: |
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Hi Bob
Your blog is wonderful. Now others can get to know all the important people in your life.
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1204
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 09:29 am: |
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Guy(Buddy)Hickey(Heart transplant)-Canada
I have never met this wonderful ol' gentleman face-to-face. I read his heart story in a online newspaper article and felt that I wanted to correspond with him, so I proceeded to contact the newspaper reporter(VIA email and phone call) who wrote his story. Luckily the reporter placed me in contact with his daughter Joyce. Joyce's father Buddy is 78yrs old and rec'd his heart transplant 20yrs ago there in Canada. Joyce and her family are now in the process of teaching Buddy to be computer savvy so that I can correspond with Buddy directly VIA emails. Buddy is no different than I was up until 5yrs ago. I knew nothing about computers and the joy of corresponding VIA emails. We share that "Old Fashion" trait. Buddy's daughter Joyce has been kind enough to share her many memories and photos of her dear ol' Dad with me for the past several months. Buddy Hickey's heart transplant story is a miraculous journey to read about. http://dailygleaner.canadaeast.com/rss/article/358090 I even sent a request to one of my British heart pals John Fisher, to post Buddy's story on his website "To Transplant and Beyond" and John immediately posted it. http://www.heart-transplant.co.uk/buddy.html John Fisher has been a wonderful friend these past few years.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1205
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 09:41 am: |
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Micky Byrne(Heart transplant)-UK
I'm sure that you will enjoy my pal Micky's heart story. I first met him on the Internet around the time that I met Andrew Wilson. Micky was born in Singapore and has lived in England since his early teen years. He has quite a amazing medical history prior to his heart transplant in 1999. Starting at the age of 13yrs old, Micky contracted Rheumatic fever that lasted for several years. He rec'd triple-bypass heart surgery in 1983, removal of a brain tumor in1993 and another heart surgery consisting of quadruple bypass in 1996, followed by his complete heart transplant in March 1999. Micky and I have become very close friends these past 5 years, almost like brothers. He is very talented with his steel guitar, and now performs with various C/W bands there in England. Micky was Blessed with a wonderful sense of humor and I'm sure that this has helped him tremendously through all of his medical problems. Laughter is mentioned in the Bible "Prov: 17:22 : A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones." Micky can be seen here, doing what he loves the best. 
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1206
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 09:52 am: |
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All of my family here in Texas and my close friends are aware of my close friendship with my heart pal Micky there in England. My oldest daughter Cindy created this graphic pic of both Micky and myself onstage together. One day in the future, I might get lucky enough to meet my pal. 
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1207
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 10:04 am: |
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Andrew Wilson(Domino heart transplant)-UK
Now, this is a very amazing story about my British pal Andrew Wilson, as you will see by the contents below.
I was surfing the Internet, looking for other organ transplant stories and discovered a wonderful UK website, in regards to heart transplants. This website was created by another British heart transplant recipient John Fisher. (My close friendship with John can be seen further down in this composition). John's website is titled "To Transplants and Beyond" http://www.heart-transplant.co.uk/ I first discovered Andrew's miraculous heart story on John's website. Andrew rec'd one of the very first "Domino" heart transplants in England at Harefield Hospital by very famous heart surgeon Prof Sir Magdi Yacoub in 1987. I have discovered even today, many people are not aware of "Domino" organ transplants. Andrew's heart donor was young Samantha Dawkins. Samantha was is need of a new set of lungs, due to CF, so at the time of her transplant(heart/lung combination), her own heart was still suitable for transplantation. Andrew rec'd Samantha's original heart, thus allowing them to meet face-to face post transplant. They became the closest of friends, sharing in many happy occasions until Samantha's untimely death one day after her 17th Birthday, due to complications. They were featured on BBC television, and rec'd the honor of flying on the famous Concorde Airliner before it was retired from service.
After I met Andrew VIA emails and phone calls in 2003, we shared many wonderful emails, including pics of each other. We even shared gift parcels through the Postal Service. Andrew was a very talented young man, composing his own songs and poetry. He dearly loved pics of old American cars and attended many Car Shows there in England. It saddens me even now, to announce to you that my dear friend Andrew passed away July 7th 2005 there in London, due to further heart problems, at the tender age of 27yrs old. Early on in our wonderful friendship, I had created some organ donor tee-shirts/with my own sketch of a lit'l praying boy on his knees. I then mailed these tee-shirts to many of my heart pals, Andrew being one to receive one of those tee-shirts. His parents sent word to me that they decided to lay Andrew to rest in that very tee-shirt. This was quite a honour for me, because I grew to love him as if he were my own son. Andrew's parents Bryan & Sue told me that my name was even mentioned by the Vicar during Andrew's funeral service, for forming a very close friendship with Andrew prior to his death. I still have some of Andrew's music CDs and I will always treasure them. It has now been 3yrs since Andrew's passing and I still stay in contact with his wonderful parents over there in England. I'm sure that my pal Andrew is looking down on us at this very time from Heaven. http://www.transplantsunited.com/
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1208
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 10:20 am: |
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My oldest daughter Cindy, also created this graphic of Andrew and myself. She knew how special Andrew was to me. I spoke with Andrew's Dad on the phone, the morning of his death.  
I regret not getting to meet my young pal Andrew face-to-face, but since we lived 5,000 miles apart, this was quite impossible. We did speak on the phone several times. I loved his British accent, by golly.
Andrew was once a member of this transplantbuddie website and was a wonderful asset with his wonderful talent.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1209
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 04:38 pm: |
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I'm almost sure that other Transplant Centers have a program in place, to help recipients celebrate their milestones regarding the amount of years post transplant. Our Transplant Center, St Luke's Hospital (Texas Heart Institute) here in Houston, awards beautiful trophies to heart recipients on their 20th year post transplant, such as the one given to my heart pal Howard Little of Muskogee Okl. 
  
Howard will be celebrating 22yrs post transplant Oct 10th 2008. Our transplant sugery was performed by the very same surgeon Dr (Bud) Frazier here in Houston. Howard has become a wonderful friend VIA emails.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1210
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 05:23 pm: |
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One of the original transplantbuddies members can be seen here with me, during our first meeting here in Houston this past summer(2008). Don Wong had to fly into Houston from New York to attend a wedding and invited me to join he and his lovely wife Kathy for a luncheon. We shared many stories of transplant recipients in our lives and had a wonderful visit. 
Donald rec'd his heart transplant in 1996 at the Columbia Presbyterian Medical Center in New York City.
Ol' Bob
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Hostess Risa
Member
Username: risa
Post Number: 6671
Registered: 05-2003
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 05:26 pm: |
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I am enjoying your blog Bob. I wish Don the best. Where is he these days?
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1211
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 06:13 pm: |
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I guess Don is still in New York. He still very often forwards those medical breakthrough news articles VIA email.I wish that he would visit us more often over here on transplantbuddies.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1212
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, October 09, 2008 - 07:37 pm: |
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This is a football program from back in 1957 at my ol' time High School in San Benito Texas. Do you see anything unusual about the football helmet? Many teeth were chipped or broken back then. 
No protective face guard. Face masks were not required back then. I have a scar inside my lower lip as proof of this.
NOTE: Face masks made of nonbreakable, molded plastic or rubber-covered wire were made legal in 1951 (with metal face masks having surfaces as resilient as rubber allowed in 1968). Mouth protectors were first required in 1973.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1216
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, October 10, 2008 - 10:55 am: |
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To fully explain the heart transplant procedure to others, during my organ donation advocacy, I most always use these contents below.
Heart transplant is one of the most common transplant operations performed in the United States. A healthy heart is obtained from a donor who is brain dead but on life support. The healthy heart is put into a special solution that preserves the organ.
The patient is put into a deep sleep with general anesthesia, and a cut is made through the breast bone. The patient's blood is circulated through a heart-lung bypass machine to keep the blood oxygen-rich. The patient's diseased heart is removed and the donor heart is stitched in place. The heart-lung machine is disconnected. Blood flows through the transplanted heart.
Ol' Bob
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Hostess Risa
Member
Username: risa
Post Number: 6691
Registered: 05-2003
| | Posted on Friday, October 10, 2008 - 11:00 am: |
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Hi Bob
Very nice blog post today. Where did you find this cute cartoon?
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1218
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, October 10, 2008 - 11:47 am: |
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OMG !! I don't remember where I found that cute cartoon, but I use it quite often..
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1220
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, October 10, 2008 - 11:11 pm: |
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A very sad but heartwarming story from my ol' 1952 classmate, the one that I was reunited with at the Magnolia Diner 2yrs ago, Bobby Beddoe. See attached pics. I remember that beautiful Cocker Spaniel._____________________________________ Bobby Beddoe with his dog, Ginger and his kitty, Boots - 1952
Let me tell you about my dog, Ginger. It all started one evening, a few days before Christmas, 1948. When Dad came home from work he set his lunch pail on the kitchen table, and said, "Open it Bobby."
I had no clue what to expect. So I very cautiously raised the lid and was I ever surprised; inside was a little ball of red-brownish fur. "A puppy!" I breathed loudly. It wagged its tail and licked my hands as I slowly lifted this little package out; its big brown eyes smiled at me as I held it close.
"Got to give it a name," I said. So Dad and Mom and I threw out a few dog names, in a minute I heard, "She is the color of ginger bread."
"Ginger. That's it, I'll name her, Ginger."
"Okay, she's all yours and you better take good care of her," Dad said.
"Don't worry, Dad, I'm going to really take good care of my Ginger. I'll feed her, bathe her, teach her tricks, and everything," I promised.
The very next day we took Ginger to the vet and had her vaccinated and wormed so she would grow up to be a healthy and happy dog.
Not end of story, though.
Seems that as time raced by, I became all wrapped up doing a lot of other things with my friends and unintentionally left Ginger out of many of my activities. Most of the time when I went off with someone to play, I'd leave her penned in the back yard. I'd tell her to, "Stay." She knew what that meant; It meant she couldn't go with me. Otherwise, she went everywhere with me. We went hunting together, swimming in the canal, was a good swimmer, Liked to mess around over at Landrum Elementary School and even followed me to town half of the time.
Then it happened. October 31, 1953. I made a little wooden tool box and was in the process of painting it when Ginger came strolling up and accidentally brushed against the paint can and knocked it over. Paint went all over the garage floor. Dad came into the garage about that time and saw the mess. "You're not going anywhere tonight until this mess is cleaned up. Understand?"
"Got it."
Was I mad? You better believe it. I couldn't go trick-or-treating; had to stay and clean this mess up. I latched onto an old fan belt lying on the workbench and I want you to know that I really laid into that dog. I thrashed her behind good. She tucked her tail and ran as fast as she could under the house next door. I could see her out of the corner of my eye, just under the edge of the house looking at me with those big brown eyes.
Well, pretty soon Dad came out to inspect my clean up job. He told me that I'd better be sure Ginger is inside the fence tonight because there might be reckless drivers speeding around since it's Halloween.
"Yeah, okay," I said quickly.
By the time I finished the clean up I was tired, tired, tired and it had gotten too late to do anything but go to bed. As I lay in bed half asleep, I heard the chilling screech of brakes then a dull bump. I turned on my lamp, pulled back the curtain and peered out into the darkness but didn't see anything.
The next morning a streak of sunlight woke me. I glanced out my window to greet the new day and saw Ginger lying on the curb. Instantly, I was startled, I suddenly remembered that I had forgotten to pen her up like Dad told me to do. I slid into my jeans and dashed out the front door. When I got to the sidewalk, I could see that she had been hit. She had been hit but was still alive. she was bleeding; her head was lying in a pool of half-dried blood. I knelt down and gently as I could, rolled her over. Blood trickled out of her mouth, she fixed those big brown eyes on me for a long minute then slowly closed them for the last time. I gingerly lifted her, rose, and held her limp form in my arms. I glanced over toward the house. Dad had just stepped out onto the front porch. I heard him call Mom.
 Bob & Ginger 1952  Reunion 2006
Bobby Beddoe and I attended Landrum Elementary School together in 1949 thru 1952 in San Benito Texas. Janet Williams(in pink shirt), also a 1952 classmate, was my very first "Puppy Love" back then. Very ironic, Janet was a double-lung transplant recipient and I am a heart transplant recipient.
 Janet 1952
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1221
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, October 10, 2008 - 11:34 pm: |
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My pal Robert (Bobby) Beddoe is now a published novelist with several books on the market. http://www.bookfinder.com/author/robert-j-beddoe/ FYI (not intended for advertisement)
I am just very proud of my ol' classmate, by golly.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1225
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, October 11, 2008 - 01:50 pm: |
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I rec'd a very sad phone call at 8am this morn. One of my heart transplant pals, Paul Roberts passed away last night in Methodist Hospital. Paul rec'd his transplant very recently, but like a few others receiving heart transplants, he experienced a severe rejection episode, due to a Virus. It's difficult to post such news on this site, but we all could face this in the future, hopefully not though. 
I have known Paul for many years and it's very sad to say, but Paul's outlook on life and his lack of positive attitude, was a huge part of his failed health. I tried my best to assist him in his hour of need.
This pic was made at a local cafe shortly after his release from the hospital post transplant. Please add my pal Paul to your prayer lists. God Bless
Ol' Bob
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Hostess Risa
Member
Username: risa
Post Number: 6712
Registered: 05-2003
| | Posted on Saturday, October 11, 2008 - 02:04 pm: |
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Dear Bob
I am very sorry to hear about the passing of your friend Paul. I hope he is now resting peacefully.
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1226
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, October 11, 2008 - 04:08 pm: |
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Thank you very much, Risa. Hope you don't mind my posting this news about my pal Paul. When we all receive our transplants, we are always quite concerned about this outcome, but with plenty of prayers and a very positive attitude,along with great Faith in The Lord, we most make this journey just fine.
I will attend Paul's funeral service Wed morn here in Magnolia.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1228
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, October 11, 2008 - 05:53 pm: |
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Somewhere back in this site, I noticed folks discussing their pets. Please meet my daughter Cindy's pride and joy, "Apache", a beautiful German Sheppard.
He is very gentle with his feathered friend "Lucky" 
.....and he has 28 acres to romp and stomp around. 
Cindy reminds me of Ellie May Clampitt of the "Beverly Hillbilles" on TV, when it comes to her critters, by golly.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1229
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, October 11, 2008 - 06:43 pm: |
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I was very surprised when I checked out this unique pic in my digital camera whilst visiting with my daughter Cindy at Lake Limestone Tx. Normally this beautiful lake is very peaceful and just as smooth as glass. A unexpected storm blew up suddenly and created a whole lake full of white caps.
This beautiful lake normally looks like this. This is my daughter's pier house and pontoon boat. 
Jeff, you would love this. Great for catchin' large mouth Bass.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1231
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, October 12, 2008 - 12:50 am: |
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My Mom & Dad always loved to attend a local C/W show here in Magnolia Tx. In the pic below, you can see them seated at the Opry. Mom has a coat of many colors of which she made herself. She loved to sew and made several of these bright colored coats for her grandaughters. As you'all might already know, singing star Dolly Parton wrote the song "Coat of Many Colors". Dolly's original coat is on display at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville Tenn. I have seen it several times. 
Mom, Dad and my 4 sisters most always attended the shows. You can see all of my clan here, one night when I was performing onstage back in 1988. 
I once experienced a heart attack onstage whilst standing behind this very microphone and was transported to a local hospital. Three years later I rec'd my heart transplant. 
I always dreamed of being a C/W recording artist, but I ended up driving those big ol' trucks over-the-road for 29yrs. Loved that too, though.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1267
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, October 17, 2008 - 01:50 pm: |
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If you would like to read about some more of my young transplant pals, please click onto this link and scroll down. http://www.transplantbuddies.org/tbx/messages/29187/29188.html?1224242899 ......including some cute pics of very brave children.
Ol' Bob (Happy2Bhere)
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: happy2bhere
Post Number: 1275
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, October 18, 2008 - 05:11 pm: |
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We heart transplant recipients form a very close bond with our friendships, as you can see by my pal Cullen Newman's website here: http://www.wtv-zone.com/CullenN/CullensGuardianAngels.html If you scroll a bit over halfway down his beautiful site page, you will see where he posted my poem. OK? Please take a few moments to visit his website.Cullen rec'd his heart transplant August 30th 1992. We correspond quite often.
He is a wonderful compassionate man and a dear friend.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1276
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, October 18, 2008 - 11:00 pm: |
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Kelli,
I hope you don't mind, lit'l lady. I'm using your beautiful photo on this site alone to pass along a cute joke. I will not use this photo otherwise, I promise without your permission. Now for the joke......
Did you hear about that Ram accidentally running off the side of a mountain?***********He didn't see that Ewe turn !!see attached pic
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1279
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, October 19, 2008 - 11:16 am: |
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One of my Cyber pals, Charly Verrijt is a drummer for a Rock&Roll band in The Netherlands over near Germany. He forwarded this attached pic of his cute soul-mate, reading a Elvis book that I had sent to them through the Postal Service in 2004. I purchased this book whilst I was visiting Graceland Mansion earlier. Charly performs with a band called "CatSlappinChrissy". You can see Charly on the drums in this video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D8YgCGXWk6U We have been corresponding around 4yrs. 
Charly is not a organ recipient, but I have mentioned organ donation to him. When I first met him VIA email, we discovered that we have music interests in the same area.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1283
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, October 19, 2008 - 03:44 pm: |
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For all of you avid golfers on this site. You could cruise around the course in style.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1289
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Monday, October 20, 2008 - 12:02 pm: |
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Always try to live your life according to this and you will surely experience a wonderful carefree life. 
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1304
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 - 10:38 pm: |
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My clan when I first moved to Houston from Ft Worth in 1964. Lit'l ones are Ronny, Cindy, Glenda. This pic was made long before my youngest daughter Traci was born. Check out my lit'l black 1956 Ford Fairlane. Most always had a guitar in my hands back then, by golly. I was only 24yrs old in this attached pic. Hope you enjoyed this lit'l travel back into the past 'cause I'm enjoying my future. 
27 years before my heart transplant. Thanks to my wonderful heart donor, I'm able to still be sitting here posting this info for you today.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1305
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 - 11:03 pm: |
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I feel like that lit'l pink "Energizer" bunny that keeps on goin', goin;, and goin' !!! 
Ol' Bob
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Hostess Risa
Board Administrator
Username: Risa
Post Number: 6981
Registered: 05-2003
| | Posted on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 - 11:10 pm: |
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GREAT Pictures Bob!
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1324
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, October 25, 2008 - 06:10 pm: |
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Published in our local newspaper back in 1991. 
Ol' Bob < One of the happiest men alive>
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nicola j
Member
Username: Nicola_j
Post Number: 44
Registered: 08-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, October 26, 2008 - 09:13 am: |
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Great pic Bob. I love reading your blog
Nic x
| Nicola/22/ England/Cystic Fibrosis/ on the waiting list for new lungs. |
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1330
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, October 26, 2008 - 10:41 am: |
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I'm just sittin' here killin' time whilst my sweetie Darlene has gone to visit her cuz'n for awhile. Just want to share with you some of my past. Attached you will see a pic of my former residence, a 32ft travel trailer that I lived in for 7yrs. I built that overhead shelter all by myself prior to my heart transplant. I was living here at the time of my transplant. My daughter Cindy and her 14yr old son P.J. did the Christmas decorations. My grandson P.J. lost his life in Nov 1991, due to suicide with a high powered deer rifle. Never knew why, though. Teenage depression, I guess. He was a great lit'l guy and loved to ride horses and rope calves. His suicide happened just 10 months after my heart transplant in 1991. This was a very sad time for me. I have attached a pic of P.J. doing some of his roping. This pic is on his headstone at Klein Cemetery in Decker Prairie Tx where my parents are laid to rest.  
Ol' Bob
P.S. Nic, I'm thrilled that you are enjoing my Blog, lit'l lady.
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1331
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, October 26, 2008 - 10:57 am: |
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Please meet my very close friend Micky Byne of England. He rec'd his life-saving heart transplant in 1999 at Harefield Hospital there in London. Micky's story can be seen quite a ways above in this Blog. 
This guy is very special to me, by golly. He has posted on his website that we are inseperable friends. (in the "Friends & Acquaintances" section). http://www.micky-byrne.co.uk/index.htm You will need to copy & paste this link, if you would like to see Micky's many friends worldwide. OK?
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1333
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, October 26, 2008 - 06:32 pm: |
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A Parable of Grace
It's a sunny autumn day. The light of the morning sun is shining through the windows of an intensive care unit into patient rooms filled with IV stands and ventilators and heart monitors. In one room, the light reveals the jaundiced face of a 45-year-old teacher dying of liver failure. Next door, an ashen-faced 62-year-old grandfather needs a new heart. Three doors down, the light falls on the face of a 27-year-old mother who gasps for breath with ruined lungs.
None of them has walked in the light for weeks. They are doing all they can just to live another day.
They are waiting for a gift. It is a priceless gift. It is priceless because of what it will give them – new life and health and time with their families – and also because of what it costs – the life of someone else. How do you pray for a new heart when you know that it comes from someone else's death?
In another hospital, a family grieves. Someone they love has died and the autumn sunlight is swallowed in darkness.
Someone tells them of the possibility of donating their loved one's organs. They say it would be just like their loved one to want to help someone else. They talk about sparing some other family the pain that they are experiencing. So they choose to give the priceless gift to nameless strangers.
A 45-year-old teacher receives a liver, a 62-year-old grandfather receives a heart, and a 27-year-old mother receives new lungs. They all pray for a grieving family they may never know.
As a hospital chaplain, I have been with all of these people more times than I can count. It is a miracle for those who were dying, and also a miracle for those who give. What a profound and wonderful miracle. What a parable of grace.
— Chaplain Joel De Fehr
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1342
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Monday, October 27, 2008 - 04:00 pm: |
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This cute poem goes hand-in-hand with my own Analogy "The Fireplace of Life"
"Crabby Ol' Man"
What do you see nurses? ..What do you see ?
What are you thinking.....when you're looking at me?
A crabby old man, ...not very wise,
Uncertain of habit .......with faraway eyes?
Who dribbles his food.......and makes no reply.
When you say in a loud voice.....'I do wish you'd try!'
Who seems not to notice ...the things that you do.
And forever is losing .......... A sock or shoe?
Who, resisting or not...........lets you do as you will,
With bathing and feeding.... The long day to fill?
Is that what you're thinking? Is that what you see?
Then open your eyes, nurse......you're not looking at me.
I'll tell you who I am .. As I sit here so still,
As I do at your bidding, ......as I eat at your will.
I'm a small child of Ten.......with a father and mother,
Brothers and sisters ......who love one another
A young boy of Sixteen .with wings on his feet
Dreaming that soon now. ......a lover he'll meet.
A groom soon at Twenty ......my heart gives a leap.
Remembering, the vows......that I promised to keep.
At Twenty-Five, now ......... I have young of my own.
Who need me to guide .... And a secure happy home.
A man of Thirty ......... My young now grown fast,
Bound to each other ....... With ties that should last.
At Forty, my young sons .....have grown and are gone,
But my woman's beside me.......to see I don't mourn.
At Fifty, once more ..... Babies play ' round my knee,
Again, we know children ....... My loved one and me.
Dark day s are upon me .... My wife is now dead.
I look at the future ..............I shudder with dread.
For my young are all rearing......young of their own.
And I think of the years....... And the love that I've known.
I'm now an old man.........and nature is cruel.
Tis jest to make old age .....look like a fool.
The body, it crumbles..........grace and vigor, depart.
There is now a stone........where I once had a heart.
But inside this old carcass .... A young guy still dwells,
And now and again .......my battered heart swells
I remember the joys........... I remember the pain.
And I'm loving and living.............life over again.
I think of the years all too few......gone too fast.
And accept the stark fact........that nothing can last.
So open your eyes, people ........open and see..
Not a crabby old man ..... Look closer....see........ME!!
"Fireplace of Life"
"One's life from beginning to end, is like a warm blaze in a fireplace from start to finish. Whenever a few logs are set ablaze, they seem to have a small gradual burn. When I see this, I am reminded of an infant crawling, then learning to walk alone.
The flames seem to get bigger and burn more briskly. This again reminds me of a youngster growing and experiencing life as it is, gaining knowledge and growing to adulthood.
At it's peak, the logs in the fireplace seem to emerge into a roaring flame. This brings to my mind, the fast pace part of life,in the years, when marriage, raising children, and working to keep life on track, takes up all of one's time. There never seems to be enough hours in the day. Life in this period, is fully roaring, with many responsibilities. But, like the fire in the fireplace, life can be very warm and satisfying, if one chooses to let it. Then, before you realize it, the logs begin a lower, more gradual burn, reminding me that with the children grown and out on their own, one may tend to slow his or her own pace down to a gradual, more peaceful life.
Soon, the fireplace has only red hot coals, reminding me of retirement years. For extra excitement and a bit more happiness, one only needs to stir the red orange coals for a little flame. When the coals turn gray and cool, that means to me that we've gone to Heaven to meet our Creator. Our fire has burned out in this life........
One more thought comes to me, is that when I received a heart transplant 17 years ago, it was as if God simply, and with love,....threw another log on my fire....
Ol' Bob
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Cass
Member
Username: Cassq
Post Number: 574
Registered: 06-2006
| | Posted on Monday, October 27, 2008 - 04:40 pm: |
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That is so beautiful, Bob.
I see my stepfather in that poem. He had a genetic disease of the medulla part of the brain (it afflicted his father and uncle as well, but thankfully spared his son). While his mind was as keen as ever, he gradually lost control of voluntary muscles -- his speech slurred, he walked with an uncertain gait and fell often. He was crabby, but it was mostly frustration. He had such a ready wit, and now could not crack a joke. He was once a champion jitterbugger and now needed a walker. But right to the end, none of us could ever beat him at pinochle.
Wish God had thrown another log on his fire, Bob. But it was a good fire, warming and bright, and it was built on good, seasoned wood, so it lasted a long time.
Cass
Kidney donor to hubby Mike, 12/2000. St. Barnabas, Livingston, NJ
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1344
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Monday, October 27, 2008 - 06:01 pm: |
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Cass, it appears that you and your Stepfather were quite close. He was very fortunate to have kin such as you to stand by him through his medical ailment. God Bless
Ol' Bob
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Cass
Member
Username: Cassq
Post Number: 575
Registered: 06-2006
| | Posted on Monday, October 27, 2008 - 10:09 pm: |
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We were close indeed, Bob. He donated his body to the University of Kansas Medical School, which in due time returned his ashes to us. He was laid to rest in a beautiful ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery, where I put his ashes in a niche together with a few family photos and a deck of pinochle cards. I have only a few memories of my biological dad, who was killed in a car accident when I was 7 (on his way to Marine reserve training). But my stepdad was as good a father as they come, and I miss him dearly.
Cass
Kidney donor to hubby Mike, 12/2000. St. Barnabas, Livingston, NJ
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1348
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Monday, October 27, 2008 - 10:27 pm: |
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This is a beautiful testimonial to your Stepdad and "Semper Fi" to your biological Dad.
Hi to your hubby Mike. OK?
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1401
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Monday, November 03, 2008 - 08:40 am: |
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You may not be aware of my heart pal Jim Gleason's story. Jim has a amazing story that can be seen on his Blog. Like many of us, Jim remarried later in life and amazingly married a sweet Donor Mom Pam. Pam was gracious enough to donate her teenage son's organs so that others could live a productive life. Below you will see a pic of Jim and his lovely wife Pam.
You will truly enjoy reading Jim's story posted in my next post.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1402
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Monday, November 03, 2008 - 08:44 am: |
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Jim Gleason's amazing heart transplant journey and his never ending endeavors.
http://gleasonjim.wordpress.com/ ...advocating Organ Donation.
I have permission to post Jim's story.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1422
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, November 09, 2008 - 02:20 pm: |
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Below, is a heart story, of one of our very own, SLEH heart transplant recipients, Doris Skinner. She & I, correspond with each other, at times.
Published in the Houston Texas newspaper in 2004
Texas Heart Institute and St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital
to Celebrate 20th Anniversary of Patient's Heart Transplant
HOUSTON (Nov. 12, 2004) – Physicians, staff and volunteers will gather Monday, November 15th to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Mrs. Doris Skinner's heart transplant. Mrs. Skinner is the 11th known person in the world to reach the 20-year milestone, and the second patient at St. Luke's to do so.
Doris Skinner was no stranger to heart disease. She was born with an hereditary cardiomyopathy, a condition that runs in her family and that took the lives of her brother and sister. Still, she was managing well with her condition and in her early 30's decided to adopt a child with her husband, Michael. Just three weeks after adopting her newborn daughter, Erin, Mrs. Skinner suffered a heart attack. In less than 15 months she was near death from heart failure. She was on the waiting list for only ten days when a donor heart became available.
"I was very sick at that time and I know I wouldn't have lasted much longer than ten days. You know back then, transplants were still pretty much a new thing and I didn't know what my prospects were. I just wanted to live long enough after the transplant so my daughter would remember me. She'll never forget me now!" laughs Mrs. Skinner.
Mrs. Skinner's life could have taken a very different turn if not for the intervention of her internist, who would later become her brother-in-law.
"I was in another hospital in Houston, just getting worse and worse. I remember watching the Fourth of July fireworks downtown from my hospital window. I thought they would be the last I would ever see. But then my internist took me to see Drs. Edward Massin and Mark Schnee and they got me into St. Luke's," she explains. "Now I drag my husband to Fourth of July celebrations every year just because I'm thrilled to be able to see fireworks again."
Since her transplant, the Pearland resident has moved to Ohio. A chemist by profession, she returned to school to get her degree in accounting. She's been working full time for the last eight years and she's been promoting organ donation since her transplant.
"It's overwhelming when you think about it. I've had 7,305 days full of opportunities to get up every morning and make the most out of every day. And every day is an incredible gift made possible by the gift of a grieving family. It's very profound," says Mrs. Skinner. "I live a very normal life and all of that is sweeter because of the transplant. I'm grateful to have hot flashes and wrinkles!" she laughs.
Ol' Bob
P.S. My heart transplant surgeon also performed Doris's transplant.
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BostonPaul
Member
Username: Liverboy_08
Post Number: 9
Registered: 08-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, November 09, 2008 - 05:46 pm: |
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Hi Old Bob!
I've seen your name in other postings, now I get to know about you by reading your own blog. It's fun to read about people who've been dealt a bad hand, but through sheer will, good friends & family, and the miracles of medical science and donor's, and oh yeah, I almost forgot GOD ,get to still play cards in the game of life. I myself was luck enough to get a liver transplant in Jan 08. While not a heart, I've got to believe we both have alot in common, in as far as facing death, thankfullness, and a desire to maybe help others facing similar circumstances. I got a kick out of the picture with you and the truck. If I ever get that far south of the Mason-Dixon Line, I'll swing by and pick You up in one of my trucks, for lunch. I'm glad to see all your encouragement to those of us riding on the transplant roller-coaster. Be good. Paul
| Paul F., liver tranplant benificiary, date of new life 1-16-08 Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital Boston,MA |
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1424
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Sunday, November 09, 2008 - 06:49 pm: |
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Hi Paul,
Thanks for the kind words, my friend. Glad to hear that you are a fellow trucker. I had been pushing those big rigs down the highways, coast to coast for almost 29yrs before my ol' ticker went bad. Even did a lit'l truckin' after my transplant. Had more than my share of callouses on my rear end, by golly. LOL If you ever get south of the Mason Dixon Line, I would surely love to shake your hand.
Congratulations on your successful liver transplant. One of my cop friends here in Tomball is on the liver Waiting List at this very moment. http://www.transplantbuddies.org/tbx/messages/11/28354.html?1226164166 Sgt Keith is a wonderful young man with a very bright future with law enforcement. Please offer up a few prayers for him. Thanks
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1446
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, November 13, 2008 - 07:29 am: |
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With Christmas just around the corner, I have decided to post a pic of my Cyber pal Ted McKenna of Utah. He devotes much of his time each year, bringing happiness and smiles to small children. 
No, he is not a transplant recipient.
Ol' Bob
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Hostess Risa
Board Administrator
Username: Risa
Post Number: 7211
Registered: 05-2003
| | Posted on Friday, November 14, 2008 - 02:57 am: |
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How cute Bob! What nice people.
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1459
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 - 06:20 am: |
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My very close friend Gene P had surgery on his bladder over 10yrs ago and the surgery required a tube to be installed in his side to urinate through. Don't mean to alarm you with this news, but Gene is still living because of this medical procedure. He was my trucking dispatcher for over 16yrs at Safeway Stores Inc and I love him like a brother. Pics attached...... We are the same age 68yrs old. He worked as a WalMart stocker after retiring from truck dispatcher. We are having a Safeway driver Reunion this Saturday and I plan to drive over, pick up Gene and take him with me, so that he can visit with his driver friends. He and his wife Becky only live 25 miles east of us in Woodlands Texas.   
"True Friends Leave Footprints On Your Heart"
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1482
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, November 28, 2008 - 09:03 pm: |
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It seems as though I'm always playing the game "Show & Tell" with you'all about my various achievements, by golly. There's a story behind this attached pic of Jesus that I sketched back in 1982 for my Mom. I used a pic from our Family Bible for my inspiration for this sketch done with charcoal pencils. My Mom always believed that I had a higher power guiding my hands as I drew this sketch. It is by far the most detailed sketch that I have ever done. The gold frame was graphically added by a close friend in Oklahoma who is computer savvy, more so than I am. God blessed me with these various talents. 
Ol' Bob
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DAP1122
Member
Username: Dap1122
Post Number: 428
Registered: 05-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, November 29, 2008 - 08:00 am: |
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Ol'Bob ......... you continue to amaze me with all that you have to share. You truly are a blessed man. Thanks once again!
DAP
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1483
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Saturday, November 29, 2008 - 09:35 am: |
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DAP, it also amazes me, the ways that doors have been opened for me, since my transplant years ago. My life lately reminds me of the beautiful poem "Footprints In The Sand". God seems to carry me in many directions almost everyday, allowing me to meet many of my new friends worldwide. For example, I just this morning rec'd this message from a church pastor in Northern Ireland:________________"You continue to be such an inspiration to us all - and an encouragement."
David and Joanna McFarland
2hearts - http://2hearts.org.uk - offering spiritual support to all who face the trauma of heart illness
2hearts Ministries - http://2hearts.co.uk - assisting Christian ministries to have a presence on the web
2hearts Bible Ministry - http://bible.2hearts.co.uk Biblical and practical ministry to the heart
2hearts Photo Ministry - http://2ireland.org - "The heavens declare the glory of God." Landscape photos of Ireland and much more.
Ol' Bob
P.S. Pastor David and I have been corresponding VIA emails for more than 4yrs. 
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1503
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Wednesday, December 03, 2008 - 12:09 am: |
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My pal Howard of Oklahoma has placed this Christmas tree in his yard there in Muskogee Okl. Howard rec'd his heart transplant 22yrs ago here in
Houston by the very same surgeon who performed mine. NOTE: The big red heart.....
 Christmas 2008
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1522
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, December 05, 2008 - 06:36 pm: |
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You might enjoy this. My pal Christian Daumal brought his family to the USA back in 2002 for a tour. http://www.heartandcoeur.com/page__gaelle_usa_1.php Christian created this webpage for me over 4yrs ago. http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php He told me that he dearly loves America. We correspond quite often. He lives in Paris France.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1539
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, December 11, 2008 - 01:41 pm: |
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Our British pal(heart transplant recipient) Micky Byrne was once a member of this C/W band there in England "Henry Smith & The Country Dreams" http://henrysmith.moonfruit.com/ (Sound) These guys sound as good or better than many C/W bands here in the States, by golly. When I first met Micky on the Internet, he was playing his steel guitar with the "Dusty Rhodes Band" in 2003. I am always amazed of the Texas Flags hanging over the stages of the bands there in England. Micky even had a Texas Flag sticker on his steel guitar. See attached pics.....    Micky is 2nd from right
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1585
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Monday, December 22, 2008 - 02:00 pm: |
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I often wondered how my life would turn out in my later years while I was a student in San Benito back in the '50s. After serving in the US Marine Corps, raising a family and trucking over the road for 29yrs, I rec'd my heart transplant in 1991. http://www.heartandcoeur.com/story/bob_story.php Shortly after my transplant, I had a long discussion with my older sister Bernice about why God had spared my life. She quickly replied: "Bobby Lloyd, God has a plan for you." As time went by, I came to realize that she was possibly right about this. Thanks to my computer, I became acquainted with hundreds of organ recipients and donor families worldwide VIA emails and phone calls. For example, you can simply type my name.....bob pitcock......into any search mode on your computer Internet. My organ donation advocacy can be seen around the world, thanks to God's guidance. Where he leads I will follow. My life now reminds me of that beautiful poem "Footprints In The Sand".
God is Great
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1586
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Monday, December 22, 2008 - 09:07 pm: |
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Arlington National Cemetery "Christmas 2008"
Rest easy, sleep well my brothers.
Know the line has held, your job is done.
Rest easy, sleep well.
Others have taken up where you fell, the line has held.
Peace, peace, and farewell...
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1596
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Wednesday, December 24, 2008 - 12:21 am: |
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Attached you will see a pic of my heart transplant pal Howard Little of Muskogee Oklahoma with his beautiful family and friends. They were celebrating his 20th year post transplant. He is now 22yrs post transplant. This pic was made 2yrs ago. Howard has red necktie, front center. Our transplants were performed by the very same surgeon Dr "Bud" Frazier at St Lukes here in Houston.
Howard is a wonderful compassionate man and a very proud grandpa.
More info about Howard as you scroll upward.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1623
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Thursday, January 01, 2009 - 04:57 pm: |
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Another chapter in my life.
Oakley Williams(Heart transplant)-Texas, friend of Ol' Bob
While I was in St Lukes Hospital during the time of my post heart transplant in January 1991, I was requested by one of the Transplant Coordinators to walk down to room #1022 early one morning to offer my assistance & personal support to a young 18yr old African American boy named Oakley Williams. A heart donor had been located for him and he had become very fearful of his upcoming transplant. When I entered his room, he was curled up in a fetal position on his hospital bed and was very scared. His Mom & Grandmother were also in the room plus several nurses. I carried on a gentle conversation with him for almost 2hrs and finally convinced him to "Go for It !!". I then turned to his Mom and asked her to come to my room as soon as the surgical team came for Oakley. She did and I walked to the elevator, leaned down to give Oakley a gentle hug and explained to him that I would see him again in ICU just a short time post transplant. His heart transplant was very successful and he lived for many more years, even went to Jr College in Alabama. I spoke with him on the phone several years later.
Here's the very sad part of this story. I just this moment Wednesday Dec 17th 2008, called St Lukes to schedule my 18th year Annual Exam and my Transplant Coordinator informed me that my pal Oakley Williams had recently passed away.
The whole Transplant Team including transplant surgeon Dr "Bud" Frazier credited me for my intervention in this situation involving Oakley's transplant. Even though Oakley is now deceased, he had some wonderful added years because of a wonderful organ donor.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1651
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, January 16, 2009 - 02:39 pm: |
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I rec'd some very sad news today. My cousin Eugene(Gene)Pitcock passed away in Tomball Hospital early this morning. He weighed over 600 pounds. His weight created super problems for his vital organs. See attached pic. (Gene, my sister Bernice and Gene's older brother Buck) at a Family Reunion back in 2003 in Paris Texas.
Gene owned his own company "Able Electric Co". (residential/industrial). Gene's Dad was my Dad's brother.
One of our personal hair dressers passed away Tues morn in the same hospital. Darlene and I will attend her Wake(viewing) at the funeral home this evening and her burial tomorrow in Tomball. Her name was Elsie Davis. http://www.legacy.com/houstonchronicle/DeathNotices.asp?Page=Lifestory&PersonId=122865955 
Ol' Bob
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Christena's Dad
Member
Username: Christenas_dad
Post Number: 14
Registered: 01-2009
| | Posted on Friday, January 16, 2009 - 03:35 pm: |
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Condolences on the loss of your cousin and your friend. My thoughts are with you.
Christenas Dad
Father of Double Lung Recipient at St. Louis Childrens Hospital June 2005
Kentucky, USA
Christenas Journey is at www.geocities.com/debgabehart |
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Hostess Risa
Board Administrator
Username: Risa
Post Number: 7679
Registered: 05-2003
| | Posted on Friday, January 16, 2009 - 03:37 pm: |
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I am sorry to hear about your cousin. He looks big but not as big as 600 pounds in this photo. It is amazing he lived so long. Sorry to hear about your hair dresser. Take care of yourself. This is a heavy week.
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1653
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, January 16, 2009 - 05:18 pm: |
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"He looks big but not as big as 600 pounds in this photo."
Risa, Gene weighed 420 lbs in the pic above. He gained another 200 lbs in the past 3yrs. He couldn't even leave his bed the past 12 months, was placed in the hospital 3 weeks ago. Luckily, he had 3 wonderful daughters caring for him all this time.
Gene was originally from Paris Texas but moved to the Houston/Tomball area 40yrs ago. He was 74yrs old at the time of his passing away. Wonderful man with a great sense of humor all the way to the end.
Ol' Bob
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Hostess Risa
Board Administrator
Username: Risa
Post Number: 7689
Registered: 05-2003
| | Posted on Friday, January 16, 2009 - 07:32 pm: |
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He lived a long time and lived well.
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1663
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Tuesday, January 27, 2009 - 01:30 pm: |
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Many of my Pitcock ancestors are laid to rest in a cemetery in Monroe County Kentucky. Very famous pioneer Daniel Boone's sister Hannah is buried in that very same cemetery. See attached pic.... I visited that cemetery in June 2006 whilst I was enroute to the 2006 Transplant Games in Louisville Ky. 
Ol' Bob
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Christena's Dad
Member
Username: Christenas_dad
Post Number: 52
Registered: 01-2009
| | Posted on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 - 02:02 pm: |
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Hi Ole' Bob,
Your Pitcock relatives are laid to rest in a very beautiful portion of our great state. I'm familiar with that area and it is particularly gorgeous in the fall when the leaves start changing colors and in the spring when the wildflowers start to bloom. I see you visited my hometown, Louisville, for the 2006 Transplant Games. I hope you had a great time while you were here and that your were treated to some good old fashioned Southern (Kentucky) Hospitality. I live south of the city now, but am only about 15 minutes from Freedom Hall where you were located in a picture you have previously shared on the site. Conversely, I have been in your hometown of San Benito a couple of times when I took my wife and later my son to Port Isabel and South Padre Island. I haven't been to the Magnolia- Tomball area, but I did once have an office I supported on the northwest side of Houston and visited there several times.
I hope your 18th anniversary has been filled with great times and great blessings with friends, family and your lovely wife. And I hope everything is going well with your tests. Have a great day.
Christenas Dad
Father of Double Lung Recipient at St. Louis Childrens Hospital June 2005
Kentucky, USA
Christenas Journey is at www.geocities.com/debgabehart |
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 1928
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 - 09:09 am: |
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This is another of my heart transplant pals in Colorado. Her website attached.... http://www.gaeashaw.com/
Gaea Shaw, author of wonderful book " Dying to Live:"
Wonderful lit'l lady.
Ol' Bob
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Happy2Bhere
Member
Username: Happy2bhere
Post Number: 2380
Registered: 02-2008
| | Posted on Friday, June 05, 2009 - 11:15 am: |
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Bump up. My life is a open book.
Ol' Bob
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