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A BIG Thanks from Big Jim
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 4:44 pm
by Big Jim
Just wanted to say Thank you to those who contributed at the Valley Show to the fund raiser Mark Alford organized to help with the almost over whelming expenses that go with being sick.
For those of you who are not aware...Mark is Bob Izumi's next door neighbour and a wonderful guy
Bob also deserves a big thanks for his almost daily calls and e-mails from the FLW while he is on the road...and "NO"Bob I am not growing boobs or trying on dresses from the hormones as you recently suggested to the wife.

.
I am coming along OK and with a head like a cinder block, I remain as positive as the Dr's ever see which makes me feel good. I still have another 5 weeks+ of radiation and then 18 weeks of chemo along with the hormones I have been on for 3 months now, for an additional 16 months after the chemo. It is a long ride to Smyth Road everyday from Graham Lake Rd near Brockville but the options are not at all appealing so the drive is not really that bad I guess.
The people who work at the Cancer Unit on Smyth Road are all absolute ANGEL'S and they make you feel like a KING during a pretty tough time... they listen with their Eye's and Ear's...

all the time.
Fishing is here, and hopefully I will remain upright enough this summer to catch my fair share from the secret spot I found last summer

.
Thanks to Mark and all those who helped out...much appreciated and for all the right reasons.
BIG JIM
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 4:49 pm
by joco
WAY to go big jim.
a great positive attitude..
nice to see everything is ok.and its coming along .
you the man.
yes people are nice...this is what you are all about.
you are so nice yourself wit everybody.
take care and see you on some water soon.
thanks for the update.
joco...i am always a pm away B.J

Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 5:37 pm
by Wallyboss
Big Jim you know that you have a lot of friends at F-H, so if you ever need anything make sure to ask.
Going thru chemo and radiation is not an easy feat and you are probably very weakened by it. So if you need any help around the house for springtime clean up or anything like that a pm is all that's needed.
Take care of your self and keep us posted.
Dan aka WB
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 5:50 pm
by Andy_L
I'll second that Jim....say the word and we can have a weekend work party to get anything done that you need doing
cheers
Andy
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 6:16 pm
by OBD
It was nice to chat with ya a little bit at Lebarons last week. Never seen a guy with such positive attitude

Keep it up Jim!
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 6:53 pm
by fishead-ed
Jim,
You don't know me but I've known of you for a long time....but never really introduced myself (I didn't have a good reason to)

. Over the years you've helped me buy the right rod holder at the old LeBaron's, you threw a lure to me at the recent outdoor show at Lansdowne Park, you held the door for me going into Bennett's in Smiths Falls many days (also drooled over the bass boat you were trailering), and I drove right past your old house in Franktown for 4 years on my way to work. I feel like I know you so I was really sad to hear about your health trouble.
I can say unequivocally that you strike me as the nicest guy around.

I always saw you with a smile on your face, you're always quick to help strangers and I now look back at the way you treated people at the recent sportmen show in Ottawa (since learning of your health problems). I now realize you were dealing with this at the time. It was an occassion when many people in your condition might feel self-pity

, you clearly weren't (atleast I couldn't see it). You laughed and mingled with the crowd, had fun with the kids. They say the most important factor in beating any kind of cancer is attitude. You really seem to have the genuine article my friend...you'll fully recover.
Next time I see you, perhaps I'll introduce myself.
LIVE TO FISH !
Ed
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 7:10 pm
by Pints
Hey Jim, I'm only about a 15 minute drive from the hospital. If you ever need a place to crash for the day or night. Feel free to give me a call. I'll PM you my phone number and address.
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 7:39 pm
by slabjerker
Jim,
I rarely come on here, but to offer my wishes and support to you in your ordeal- I wish you all the best and I am really pullin' for ya!!
You might remember my ex-employer from Germany who you took on a very meaningful trip on Mississippi Lake some years ago, back in 1996ish.
He and his son still recount that day every time I see them on vacation, and ask me to say hello, and to thank you. You gave that little lad a love for fishing, and he pursues it with a passion now in Europe. It was the highlight of their trip that summer, both the fishing and the great guy they got to spend time with. I think he remembers the enjoyment of your company more than the two or three 3 lb eaters he had me fillet..lol
Steve has fished with you as well, and I know he loved it and learned alot from you.
I am positive I echo what they would say to you when I say- GET BETTER SOON, and don't ever lose that amazing outlook on life you possess- I love what you do for kids and the sport in general. True passion-and a genuine respect from everyone you choose to involve yourself with.
Hope to see you over the summer Jim , fishing and healthy!!
Cheers,
Chris
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 7:44 pm
by RJ
Glad to hear you are keeping up that fantastic attitude Jim! It comes as no surprise...
I just missed you the other night on your way home thru Prospect....pop in anytime for a cold one...if the boat is here...so am I...
RJ
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 8:41 pm
by Scum Frog
Now that folks is an inspirational post!
Keep up the good spirits Big Jim!
Posted: Wed Apr 23, 2008 9:04 pm
by JustinHoffman
Hey Jimmy,
Sorry I missed you at the Carp Show - I had planned on being at the Bait Casters booth, but a flood issue at the folk's place while I was housesitting it kind of got in the way...
You know how I feel about you, bud.....so I'll refrain from saying it again. (Don't want you to get an even bigger head than the one you currently have!

)
You're an inspiration to all that wet a line each and every season...
Looking forward to a day spent chasing bass this season - and let me know if you need anything...
All the best,
Justin
Posted: Thu Apr 24, 2008 9:46 am
by hawgwild
Hey Jim,
You have helped out the wife and I and you continue to do so to this day. Keep up the great attitude.
If ever you need anything, I'm just a PM/e-mail and/or phone call away.
See you soon,
Pete
Posted: Thu Apr 24, 2008 8:49 pm
by karma
Posted: Thu Apr 24, 2008 8:55 pm
by Tribal Legend 1
Big Jim...
For a guy, who is battling like you are, to take time out to thank others speaks volumes to your character.
You are a credit to our society, and to us as fishermen, a legend in our culture. The "THANKS" go to you, for all you have provided us to date and in the future.
As you know by now, you are in our prayers. God speed.
Be well,
TL1
Thinking about you
Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2008 6:43 am
by Superdad
Big Jim,
We're all thinking about you and pulling for you in your battle.
The words of the other posters clearly show how many people are thinking about you and EVERYONE is pulling for you.
David Delcloo aka Superdad