One for my brother

[DaveTTC]

As some of you may know my baby brother (who happens to be taller and bigger than me) has been fighting terminal cancer since about May.

Since this time I have been carrying for his twins, boy and girl who just turned ten.

He is now on his third type of chemo and things don't look promising but he manages to keep a positive outlook and keeps hoping for the best.

This last round of chemo has sent him bald. So he's not going it alone I bought a few razors. This ones for you Timothy.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/19/178a50e30056e471fa1b72920c436b46.jpg

Never thought I would go bald before I was 95. Some thought I might have been under that hat I don't like to leave home without.

Looking after the twins is why I have been so scarce on here of late. They are both high needs and I have been hardly able to work or spend time in my cave since they have been with us.


Dave the turning cowboy

turning wood into art

[rwbuild]

If only the rest of humanity had a brother like you....Blessings

...and Yul Brynner.... eat your heart out.....

[Chesand]

Thoughts are with you, Dave. A positive attitude is important.

[DaveTTC]

Thanks guys.

Off to see him agains this morning before I return home. Realistically this may be one of the last times if this treatment does not kick in. He was told liver failure would likely occur within a couple of months if no progress.

On a positive he has not needed pain meds for a week so this could mean that chemo is finally working again and the tumour is shrinking.


Dave the turning cowboy

turning wood into art

[Nanigai]

Good one Dave, best wishes for a positive outcome for your bro.
We are going through the same thing at present with one of our woody mates and it is a tough road to go down.
All the best,
Ian

[crowie]

G'Day Dave, I don't have the words to express my heart felt for your support and love for your brother.... except well done, Dave. Peter

[NCArcher]

Good on ya Dave. It's your support that keeps his outlook positive. :2tsup:

[Bob38S]

Good family support is better than gold.

With your help and support the kids will have a great future, this will be of great comfort for your brother and a great weight off his mind.

Our thoughts and best wishes are with you all.

[DaveTTC]

I like to thank you all for your support, well wishes & kind words. Sometimes as I read your various comments I feel like you make me into a better person than I really am or that I am doing more than I am (or at least than I feel I am)

Yesterday I saw my brother again. It was the day after his chemo treatment so he was a bit wiped out though he was trying to play Xbox when we arrived. His new wife just got the all clear on a biopsy she just had, so some good news there. Awaiting results since she has had the entire mass removed.

This is my brother towering above me. The pic does not quite show the break out he is having as side effect, that and hair the most obvious visual side effects.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/20/c0b77590104f320967efd47847e6e521.jpg

My little Tom in my arms, other children Tyler and Sammy and my wife Raechell.

Coming on here is like an entire other family ... thanks guys


Dave the turning cowboy

turning wood into art

[fubar]

All the best wishes Dave hope your Christmas is all you can wish it to be
hooroo Dennis

[rwbuild]

Another treasured family moment :2tsup:

Slightly off topic but does this mean you will have to change your profile picture and keep changing it as your brothers hair grows back?

[DaveTTC]

Lol. Ray I reckon I could but my wife like her youthful look from a few years ago. Not sure if she is up for the update.

Thankyou Denis


Dave the turning cowboy

turning wood into art

[DaveTTC]

almost every situation has potential for humour. Some may like this. Went for my daily shower and as usual called out to my wife for a forgotten item after I was in the water.

"BABE .... I'll need some shampoo." She promptly came in foraged thru the cabinet and put it down on the end of the bath when she burst out laughing realising she had just been had.


Dave the turning cowboy

turning wood into art

[chambezio]

Quote "almost every situation has potential for humour......."
Reading the above posts reminded me of a old lady I know. She had a brother who was well into the grip of cancer and only had a few days to live. She and other siblings rostered them selves to be at his bedside 24 hours a day. He was very weak one evening and he was a bit restless. He couldn't talk either so she thought he may like a bit of water to drink. She had some sort of sponge on a stick for him to suck. After a couple of "sips" he seemed to have enough so she got a cloth to wipe his lips. As she was doing this he bit her finger and held it for a couple of seconds, all the while looking up into her face. She immediately sang out..."ow!!!". Even though the bloke could not speak or even communicate well he still had his "wicked" humour. She gave him a big hug to "chastise" him.
Dave my thoughts are with you at this time of the year. Its a rocky road you are all travelling so hang in there and just do what you do

[Bushmiller]

Dave

Whatever the future holds, your brother is in the best hands.

All the best for 2015.

Regards
Paul

[keltrader]

Dave, had a best mate go through this. It's a bastard, sometimes you laugh most of the time you cry. Ups and downs, all the time living with uncertainty, feeling helpless and occasionally wanting to blame. Everybody's life is impacted. Sure at times he was going to leave us, more setbacks followed by signs of improvement. Down we all go again. Waiting, praying. Most of our time together,before his cancer, was on the golf course. We both loved it.

After two years and three months, on a warm sunny afternoon, my mate with two other golfing buddies and myself played golf together again. Whilst he was still greatly depleted and had to ride in a cart, out of breath and sore all over after each shot, we laughed and joked our way around. We were all back together again. He still has a hard road to slog to recover his strength, but he is on the road, he beat the bastard.

Don't give up. Your little brother, you and your family are not alone in this fight, we will support you. Kel.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

[DaveTTC]

Thanks chambezio (name eludea me but sure we met at Brets), Paul & Kel

Saw my brother again yesterday he has this fine white stuff frowing on his head and his face while covered in 'acne' is looking better. He reports that he has had little pain till the last couple of days. He puts that down to the tumor shrinking. Another round of chemo today and tests on Monday. Wednesday he should get some kind of results

Not sure when I will get up there again.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[DaveTTC]

Timothy had his latest test today, now a two day wait to see how this new round of chemo has faired for him


Dave the turning cowboy

turning wood into art

[fubar]

All the best Dave

[Ironwood]

Dave, I hope these latest tests bring good news Mate.

[DaveTTC]

Results came in today. Not promising. He's off to the quack again Friday to look at the alternatives.

Most likely scenario radio active beads injected into the liver and while awaiting that go back to an earlier version of chemo that stopped working. There is new trial that starts this year sometime if he can make it that long.


Dave the turning cowboy

turning wood into art

[Bob38S]

I know the feeling of helplessness but keep strong and just keep providing the support your brother needs.

You have friends here.

[rwbuild]

I agree with Bob38S, we all will be praying for a full recovery

[DaveTTC]

Sad news ... I believe the count down has begun. More as I find out.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[DaveTTC]

Well they are letting him go home from hospital tonight as his liver function has slightly improved. Yesterday he was told his liver is starting to fail and now he is on hemp oil. Not sure what this is meant to do but all other treatment has stopped other than pain medication.



Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[crowie]

Our continued prays for you and the family Dave.....

[Pac man]

Thoughts are with you at this time

[rwbuild]

Our thoughts and prayers for you and all the family / families

[Sawdust Maker]

Thinking of you and your lil bro

and I think the haircut suits you!

[Bob38S]

Keep it together and keep going.

Thinking of you all at this time.

[Bushmiller]

Dave

I hate to hear this news. Unfortunately precious few of us are equipped to deal with death despite the inevitability and certainty that it will happen one day. I guess that untimely death is the issue and despite some experience of my own I am still hopelessly inept in this department. All I can say is that Timothy is fortunate in having such a caring brother in Dave, who has already looked after his children and I expect will still have significant input.

My thoughts are with you Dave.

Regards
Paul

[dai sensei]

Thoughts are with you mate :C

[rustynail]

These are the hard yards. Stay strong.

[DaveTTC]

They let him go home Friday but he went back to hospital overnight.

At this stage I will be taking the family to Sydney next weekend. I am fearing it may be the last time though he keeps trying to be optimistic about thing.

I thank you all for your thoughts and comments. I come back and read your words often.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[toddbron]

Thoughts are with you.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

[KBs PensNmore]

Reading this, reminds me of my younger brother, he lived on the other side of the bottom of the leg to where where Fenderbelly is.
Early May 2013, he wasn't feeling all that well, and said that he'd go to the Drs, but always something came up. Eventually he gets there, and the Doctor said that he has to go to Adelaide to the hospital for tests, ending up with a biopsy, that was on the 11/7. A few days later, a Tuesday, he was told he had Liver Cancer, and nothing could be done for him, he went home on the Thursday Morning and passed away in the early hours the next morning,it was that sudden. I was lucky in a way that while he was in Adelaide, I was able to see him and say not goodbye, but see you later.
So enjoy whatever time you have together, and hope he recovers soon.
Kryn

[DaveTTC]

Just spoke to my brothers wife. His pain is such that he is unlikely to come back home. She does not want to break the news to his daughter till I get therr on the weekend.

His wife broke down and cried. Its hard when dealing with your own pain but you still try to help others.

Timothy's dying wish is to he baptised. No demoniation. The hospital does not even have a bathtub. Will see what I can do for him when I am there.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[crowie]

Timothy's dying wish is to he baptised. No demoniation. The hospital does not even have a bathtub. Will see what I can do for him when I am there.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

Dave, Put a call through to the hospital chaplain to ask about the baptism... Cheers, Peter

[Chesand]

Dave, I trust that the hospital has a good palliative care ward to keep his pain level under control.

It is a difficult time so take care of yourself as his family obviously needs your support.

[Evanism]

Dave, I feel your pain. I know this road, well.

My only advice is to do the best you can for your brother while you can and help the family. Keep tight.

[DaveTTC]

I like to thank my friends, mates, acquaintances and strangers (though i dont think there are any posts from those i dont recognise who have posted on this thread). I may not quote you or mention you by name but all your comments are appreciated. I read them all and visit this thread when ever Im feeling at a loose end. Some have also pm'd me. Thank you all.

I spoke to my brother on the phone tonight. He was in surprisingly good spirits and wants to get back on the trial medication. This is inspite of the fact that the doctors have told him it is time for him to tidy up his affairs and that it would be a good time to write letters to his children etc.

It is a real roller coster from hope to doom and hope again. I feel selfish in my own pain, I'm only his big brother ... I'm just a spectator.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[KBs PensNmore]

Dave, my thoughts are with you, Timothy and his Family. It is hard to know what to say at a time like this, but he will be in a better place, with the knowledge that, His family cared for and loved him, were able to say their goodbyes and that everything possible was done for him.
It is probably better for him to go like this, rather than in a MVA, where it may be to late to say goodbyes.
I hope that this does not offend.
Kryn

[chambezio]

Dave I would like to be added to the long list of well wishers.
Words are just not adequate at a time like this.
Treasure the time you have left.

I have a nephew who has a big operation next week for stomach cancer.
Its been a rocky road for him and now he is finally having the op next week.

[doug3030]

Dave,

We lost a niece to Breast Cancer last week, her funeral was Monday. Having someone we care for dying is a very hard road but one that most of us will take at some point in our lives.have been down it a few times. My niece, Jess's attitude to it in her own words was "Don't worry about me, I will be alright. Jut do not any of you stop doing the things you enjoy because of me." Of course we all want to respect her wish but in the short term that is impossible. We all have to stop and take it all in, but life will get back to normal.

Wishing you and you brother and families all the best you can make of it.

DOug

[shedman]

As some of you may know my baby brother (who happens to be taller and bigger than me) has been fighting terminal cancer since about May.

Since this time I have been carrying for his twins, boy and girl who just turned ten.

He is now on his third type of chemo and things don't look promising but he manages to keep a positive outlook and keeps hoping for the best.

This last round of chemo has sent him bald. So he's not going it alone I bought a few razors. This ones for you Timothy.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/19/178a50e30056e471fa1b72920c436b46.jpg

Never thought I would go bald before I was 95. Some thought I might have been under that hat I don't like to leave home without.

Looking after the twins is why I have been so scarce on here of late. They are both high needs and I have been hardly able to work or spend time in my cave since they have been with us.


Dave the turning cowboy

turning wood into art

I do not know you personally but if your into woodwork you must be a good guy. i would not wish your current situation on anyone and thank heavens the children have you to depend on.

[Bob38S]

Having followed this thread from the beginning, with the permission of Timothy, Dave and the family I would like all posters and readers to consider 2 requests.

Dave, if this is not appropriate please let me know so that it can be removed, having yo yo'd between should I or shouldn't I, I have decided to post.

We all understand and empathise with Timothy and the family and understand the frustration and feeling of helplessness, I would like to add some degree of positivity.

My 2 requests are as follows,

1 Consider becoming a blood donor, it doesn't hurt, takes little time, you have plenty and the little bit that is taken is easily and quickly replaced.

2 Consider the Bone Marrow / Organ Donor lists. I had been on these for many years until I turned 60, then received a letter thanking me but that I was no longer eligible, we have many forumites under 60 who would be eligible.

Timothy, Dave and family, I trust this meets with your approval and the forum's support and that this will provide a positive goal for us all.

[Chesand]

Hear, hear.

I was a blood donor (127 donations) until given the flick after heart surgery. It was very rewarding.:2tsup:

[DaveTTC]

I offered to dontate some of liver but sadly his cancer is through his lymph nodes and it wad jot a visble propsition.

We start our road trip in the morning. Kids dont travel well so we will break overnight maybe at Goldbourn

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[crowie]

Dave,
Could I endorse Bob's encouragement of folk to become a blood donor as 50% of the population are eligible but only 3-4% actually regularly give blood...
You can give whole blood every 12weeks now days but some people do plasma donation which can be done every fortnight...
I started donating blood at 17.5yrs while in the Navy and am still doing it, helping at least 3 people with each donation...
I too had my name added to the Bone Marrow registry about 20yrs ago..
Thank you for opportunity to encourage our woodworkers across the country to GIVE BLOOD!!!!
Cheers, crowie

[DaveTTC]

Finally made it to the hospital. My little brother (who is bifger than me) is not in good shape and somewhat drugged up.

I'll come back this evening and see if he is nore responsive then

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[DaveTTC]

Unbelievable turnaround. This time yesterday he looked twice his age and I thought ht he may only have days.

Last night he was with it and we olayed video games till midnight plus some.

Today i bought the kids back to see their uncle. Much better memories for them to form

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/30/5f14ffbc9f422b18c22effaec7cafb53.jpg

They are enjoying the visit

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/31/e43bdb18c919f382c6fa9470ddad3453.jpg

Even little Tom is joining in the fun

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/31/db655e11bbe6076b0c4dc31ac2f72dea.jpg

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[fubar]

Dave,
All the best
Dennis

[DaveTTC]

You guys are great. Woodworking family is great to have. Between comments here, PM's, personal phone calls and emails I have had a lot of support.

This week just been I had to make the call around to the little family we have. (Both out parents died young). Erik, the other of the twins, was flown up to see his dad for potentially the last time. Our sister is in Sydney now and our baby 1/2 sister will be there Wednesday.

I have come to terms (if that is possible) that I have likely seen my brother for the last time already. Each trip is a significant cost, not just to get there but lost wages. Its a double whammy not mention emotional impact.

If there was any certainty to timing of things I'd try to be there the moment he passes. I was there for my mum and would be for him too if I could

Thanks again guys. Sad as it is, it means a lot as I read various correspondence both here and personal. Even those 'quiet' on the forum have made contact. Thanks

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[Handyjack]

Dave, I don't know how you do it.
You give so much of your time to your family both immediate and extended and the community.
Life can sometimes be cruel. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Handyjack.

[DaveTTC]

Update

[DaveTTC]

Dave, I don't know how you do it.
You give so much of your time to your family both immediate and extended and the community.
Life can sometimes be cruel. My thoughts are with you and your family.

Handyjack.
Again, thankyou. Btw my youngest and his neice love the toybox and train. Had i had my camera handy I would have taken a pic of them using the toy box as a carriage as one was being pushed down the hall not long after they received it

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[DaveTTC]

My brothers wife sent me a message as she was not able to talk. I only recieced it as I drive home as I was out of range.

The hospital rang her and let her know Timothy's kidneys have started to fail and it is just a matter of days

I will talk to my boss and see if i can get a couple of long days in and with a bit of luck head off Wednesday night hoping to get there before he passes.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[dai sensei]

So sorry to hear mate :C

[Sawdust Maker]

not good news
so sorry to hear this
my thoughts are with you and family

[Simplicity]

Very sad news
My thoughts go to your self and the family
Very tuff times
Matt

[KBs PensNmore]

Hi Dave, my thought are with you and the family.
Regards
Kryn

[Tritonitis]

My mother battled breast cancer a little over 10 years ago. It was the bravest thing I have ever witnessed. I was with her when she took her last breath and it felt such a relief that she was no longer in pain.

My thoughts are with you and your family during this tough time.

...

[AlexS]

Thinking of you and your family.

[Chesand]

Dave, I feel your pain.
At this time last year we returned from an overseas trip to find my sister with just days to live from an extremely aggressive sarcoma. It gave me a great sense of closure and acceptance to be with her and her husband when she finally succumbed.

[DaveTTC]

Kryn, Tritonitus, Alex and Chesland - thankyou for your thoughts.

Chesland I feel the need for that closure and to be there for my brother at that final moment whatever he is or is not aware of.

Like you I was with my mum when she took her dying breathe. To know she was in pain no more was a relief.

Tonight Timothy's wife Claudia is able to spend the night in hospital with him. He had difficulty breatjing this morning but by last accounts he was resting well.

(Please dont feel I deliberately left anyone out in mybtanks and acknowledgment. Just commenting on what comes up on thisncurrent page. I appreciate you all)

Regards

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[simonl]

Hello Dave,

I just stumbled on this thread this morning aftrr it popped up in a notification on my phone. I couldnt help but read the thread from start to finish, sharing your ups and downs.

I was with my dad when he passed. It took all my strength to stay with him when my urge was to just run and keep running in an effort to outrun my pain. Im glad I stayed.

My thoughts are with you, your brother and all the familar in such a difficult time.

Cheers.

Simon

[DaveTTC]

Hello Dave,

I just stumbled on this thread this morning aftrr it popped up in a notification on my phone. I couldnt help but read the thread from start to finish, sharing your ups and downs.

I was with my dad when he passed. It took all my strength to stay with him when my urge was to just run and keep running in an effort to outrun my pain. Im glad I stayed.

My thoughts are with you, your brother and all the familar in such a difficult time.

Cheers.

Simon
Thanks Simon.

Its hard to explain the feeling when I read various comments from friends and strangers. It gives me that little boost thru the day and an extra smile.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[DaveTTC]

Im not in the habit of asking for help but thought I would put this one out there.

My brother is in Chris Obrien Life House which I believe is across the road from Royal Price Alfred (Sydney for those who may wonder)

My SIL has had so many visitors she needs some space and has offered to put us up in a motel for our next trip.

If there happened to be a member (pref in walking distance and with a parking space) who was hapoy to put us up for a few days that would be so great. I feel bad imposing on MY SIL'S hospitality as she has had so many expenses associated with looking after my brother. Claudia has been great, perhaps in the big scheme it may be a small expense but it is still an expense.

It would be my family, wife and three kids as seen in previous pics. One room and a matress on the floor woukd be fine. We can bring an extra matress for the kids and they can share.

We would look after ourselves and try not to be a burden in anyway.

It may be that I can get there one last time to see my brother and really say goodbye as last time he just kept saying he was going home in a week.

If i time it right I hope to get in the last visit and a funeral in one trip. Feels like Russian roulette trying to wait till the last minute but trying to minimise time off work too.

If it so happens someone can help that would be awesome.


Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[doug3030]

If there happened to be a member (pref in walking distance and with a parking space) who was hapoy to put us up for a few days that would be so great. I feel bad imposing on MY SIL'S hospitality as she has had so many expenses associated with looking after my brother. Claudia has been great, perhaps in the big scheme it may be a small expense but it is still an expense.

Dave, I am not in a position to offer you a room as I live in Melbourne, but I can offer you this:

If nobody can help with a room and you need to rent a motel room I am prepared to donate $50 towards the cost of your accommodation.

CHeers

Doug

[Tritonitis]

If no-one nearby can help, I am happy to offer to put you up in our camper trailer in the back yard. It has plenty of room, can put electric blankets and heaters in etc.

We take our family of 5 away in it and are quite comfortable.

Only problem is we are at East Maitland near Newcastle, but we are only 5 minutes from the expressway and you could come and go as you please.

[Bob38S]

I'm in QLD country.

Great offer from Doug which I'm more than happy to match the $50.00.

[rwbuild]

Put me down for $50-00 as well

[chambezio]

The generosity of this Forum is great. As helpless as we all feel a donation could be very timely for Dave and his family. I would be happy to kick-in too.
I have a nephew who has just had an 8 hour operation to remove some tumours from his upper stomach. He is 34. We are hoping the Docs have got it all and he will be OK with maybe chemical treatment taken as maintenance. My sister, brother-in-law, and the nephews partner have rented a unit for a month so they can visit easily. Being close by saves a lot of time and effort.

Hang in their Dave.

[Bushmiller]

Yep

I will be in for the same donation too.

If anybody is able to accommodate Dave I can vouch for him and say that he is no trouble at all. Not being a huge person, you will hardly notice him :). He is a pleasure to have around.

Regards
Paul

[Bushmiller]

This obviously needs to come together quickly.

If nobody has been in a position to offer a bed near the hospital perhaps I could suggest that Dave PM his bank details to those who have offered a donation. That way we can get the money directly to him when he needs it most.

Regards
Paul

[DaveTTC]

Guys I sat down at smoko and started to write a reply but my eyes started to well up and i had to abort mission as my boss was coming into the room. I am overwhelmed at your generosity and support. I was by no means soliciting finacial support.

I thank you all

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[Bob38S]

Dave, no reply required.

Just PM me the bank details and it is on it's way - I understand the time constraints you have.

[Bushmiller]

Ditto.

Send me details in a PM.

Regards
Paul

[rwbuild]

And me to please Dave, no thanks needed

[doug3030]

I am overwhelmed at your generosity and support. I was by no means soliciting finacial support.

Hi Dave. I know you were not soliciting financial support, but you have been missing work and hence payment. I have been in similar positions to what you are in now.

I was running my own business 13 years ago when my wife passed away. I had to stop working for a couple of weeks and as a one-man business that meant no income. I had money in the bank and would have been alright, but people's generosity overwhelmed me.

Many of my friends, casual acquaintances and even relative strangers were very generous. I used to attend a local market to pubilcise my business and knew many of the other stall-holders. One of the Fruit and Vege sellers come over to me with two big boxes of prime vegies, not leftovers that he could not sell. This was at the start of the market. He said "take these. you will have all the relations to feed when they come to town." He also pressed a $20 note into my hand. Other stallholders also provided material support. A lady I barely knew turned up at the house with a cooked meal for me and the three teenage kids.

All I am doing is remembering the kindness that was extended to me and passing it on now that I am not the one in need. I have done it before and I will do it again.

Two years ago when I lost my 5-year-old granddaughter a member of this forum extended a wonderful act of kindness that i had not expected. He did this privately so I will not name him or specify what he did but I had never had any dealings with this gentleman before or since, but his kindness and generosity is still remembered and appreciated.

No thanks are needed Dave. I have only met you a couple of times and I am sure you are a decent person. One day when you are in a position to do so I am sure you will pass on the batten to another person in need at the time. When you know you need the money, PM me your bank details and I will send the money as soon as I can.

Cheers

Doug

[DaveTTC]

Tonight I sent a link for this thread to my wife. As she read all the various posts she went through a full range of emotions.

When finished one of her comments was "WOW! You have real woodworking family. I wish I had something like that."

I am left speechless by everyones generosity. Bushmiller has volunteered to send my details to all that offered help. If anyone else wants thoae details or is inadvertently overlooked you can PM him.

Today I got these messages from my Sister In Law

"Just spoke with the doctor. She said ..... people should see him ASAP because he will be less and less conscious."

"The head nurse just called me in to sign his resuscitation directive incase anything happens over the weekend.

She says no more than one week."

I will keep close tabs of how he is going but expect likely to be heading that way by Sunday.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[Bushmiller]

To all the readers of this thread:

I have taken the liberty of offering to pass on Dave's banking details to anybody who would like to offer a donation. Just PM me and I will forward his bank details. I don't need to know anything more than that and whatever you are able to contribute I know will be gratefully appreciated.

Dave also mentioned that he has trouble keeping capacity in his mail box and already I have been unable to reply to him (Dave, clear some mail out!)

Many of you know Dave personally and the extent to which he puts himself out to support various Forum sanctioned functions. Many of you also know how he has supported various members of his extended family including his brother's children as well as his own large family. He is not somebody with unlimited funds: In fact quite the contrary, but he is there for them. It is very emotional to see people step up and offer support when he needs it.

I know we don't expect re-payment, but the way I see it is that one day we may be in Dave's unenviable predicament and I hope that somebody will be there for us.

So Forumites: Whatever you can do.

Regards
Paul

[doug3030]

I have taken the liberty of offering to pass on Dave's banking details to anybody who would like to offer a donation. Just PM me and I will forward his bank details. I don't need to know anything more than that and whatever you are able to contribute I know will be gratefully appreciated.

Thanks Paul,

I started the ball rolling with the offer of a donation. When I did that I was hoping that others may follow suit. Having been in a similar position to Dave more than once in my life I have always appreciated any support I have been offered, and I know as well as anyone how humbling it can be when you get this kind of unsolicited support.

I know that not every forumite is in a position to help out but I am overjoyed to see as many as there are who put up their hand to follow my lead here.

Dave, at this moment you need to concentrate on your own immediate family and your brother's family. You have been great in taking on your brother's kids as if they were your own. Right now you are really only on the first mile of a long hard road. If I can take some of the bumps out of that road for you we are both richer for it.

Cheers

Doug

[Uncle Al]

Hi Paul,
Please send me the bank details too. I haven't commented on this thread previously, I think I'm better at entering account numbers and BSB numbers than putting the right words together. I can appreciate the difficult times Dave and his family are going through, and a suitable contribution from me and others will help ease some of the pain.
I first met Dave at the WWWS last year, and enjoyed a fabulous weekend at his Jerilderee home with quite a few other forumites earlier this year. A nicer bloke and a nicer extended family you would have to travel many miles to meet.

Alan...

[Bushmiller]

Thank you to all of you who have stepped up to assist Dave. Some have not posted here, but have still donated.

Congratulations to all of you. I will keep checking my inbox up till late morning, but will be out through the afternoon until this evening.

(Edit) I should add that more contributions will still be very helpful as I suspect accommodation near the hospital will not be cheap and I doubt there are enough funds to cover a stay of more than a day or two at the most.

Regards
Paul

[CAG]

I should add that more contributions will still be very helpful as I suspect accommodation near the hospital will not be cheap and I doubt there are enough funds to cover a stay of more than a day or two at the most.

Regards
Paul


I can fix that. Send me Dave's banking details when you get back online.

[DaveTTC]

Latest news from my sister-in-law

"Timothy can't speak anymore and his breathing is becoming more erratic now."

Looks like I've missed tha chance to converse but I may stilk make it to talk to him. Organizing to go now

Thanks all for your support in every way

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[DaveTTC]

It seems sometimes when you think you are ready for a trip you just aint. Finally on the road and Raechell is driving the first leg. Sammy had an emergency toilet issue and as we were stopping she said she can wait 20 minutes. We'll see if we can stretch it Kerang. Nice clean toilets there.

We will do about 500km tonight and stop. It must be about 650km the second leg.

Just sent my boss a text. Ive only recently started the new job and have no entitlements to use up. This is the secind time he has let me take leave without pay in less than a month. Really dont want to loose this job as I like it.

Damn she cant wait 20 minutes, maybe a 5yr old just hasn't quite got the time concept lol

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[Handyjack]

Dave the important thing is being there. Your presence at this time is worth more than any words.
While your journey is important, arrive safely.

Our thoughts are with you and your family.

[Bushmiller]

Back online and two more requests for banking details awaiting. All done.

Thanks men!

Regards
Paul

[DaveTTC]

Got the word he is no longer responsive and has the shakes. Have decided to cancel overnight atop and just push through.

Worst of roo country will be over in about 200 kms then Raechell will do some driving again

Feel I have to get there



Dave

The Turning Cowboy

[crowie]

Be safe on the highway please, Dave....

[DaveTTC]

Just mafe wagga

Ready to tag our but so is Raechell and she hasn't even started again.

Looks like we'll be finding a truck stop around Gundagai

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[shedbound]

Dave I have been following this thread, but have avoided commenting as I am not great with words, My thoughts are with you, be safe

regards Joel

[DaveTTC]

60 km south of Yass and we have pulled over to snooze

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[DaveTTC]

Back on the road again

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[fletty]

Dave,
I don't know how I've missed all of this! I'm at Camden which isn't close enough to the Hospital but good for a stop, a shower, or a bed on the way in or out of Sydney. Full contact details on PM

fletty

[DaveTTC]

I made it. Had to stop for another sleep while the kids had breakfast (round 2) at hungry jacks.

He is still hanging in there. Felt I had to rush as was afraid I might be to late.

He can hear me and was able to turn my way when I asked him too thiugh he does not seem to focus on anything.

I will spend some ti.e talki g to him, reminiscing on the past and trying to reasuure him.

Thanks all for your support through this period.

Dave TTC
Turning Wood Into Art

[Bushmiller]

I will keep the Forum page open today and revisit it frequently so I can pass on details if required.

Overnight some more people contacted me for Dave's details. I know he is extremely grateful for all the support from you blokes and particularly because it has come from Forum members. It has been terrific to see, very emotional for everyone and great to see that a bunch of obsessive woodworkers can see beyond their hobby to a greater need.

Just fantastic!

I expect Dave is either at the hospital now or very close. I also expect that he will update again when he can, because that is what he does, but this is going to be a very difficult time for him and family. I have no doubt that there will be a very traumatic aftermath period and these contributions (I count about 15 to date) are going to help enormously.

Hell; He is going to need them!

Well done all of you, including those who offer moral support (not everybody is in a position to offer financial support.)

Regards
Paul

[chambezio]

Dave, I'm glad you "reported in". I was worried about you driving all those k's at night with nocturnal animals potential "targets".
Hang in there mate, I'd reckon today may get pretty rough.