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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Sasquatch Jim on February 11, 2021, 02:43:37 PM

Title: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Sasquatch Jim on February 11, 2021, 02:43:37 PM
Well Monday I went to the Cancer clinic and let their cat scan me.  Today I got a phone call to tell me the results of that visit.
 She says I have a fourth degree colon cancer that has spread to my liver and is not operable.  They will have a doctor talk to m about
 radioactive treatment.  Basically it means I have from 1 and a half months to maybe 6 months or more before it eats me up.
 The f#%&ing weather has kept me indoors for over a month now with no end in sight.  My bike has not seen me in that amount of time, and probably thinks I am dead.  If only the weather will give me a break so that I can at least ride out my days.  Maybe even croak in the saddle like I am suppose to.  Piss on it anyway, I don't expect a fair break from nature.
 The best I can do is remember all the good rides and campouts I have had with you folks from Iowa, to the West coast over the years.  And many others I have had in the years before and the 9 years I have ridden in Hawaii and a year in Alaska.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: oldbike54 on February 11, 2021, 02:56:59 PM
 Well dammit Jim , I have no words but as stated before , glad to have known you even if just from here .

 Dusty
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Ncdan on February 11, 2021, 02:57:54 PM
I’ve never met you in person Jim but over the years here on the board I feel I know you fairly well. I feel you are fighter and a man with a sense of humor that will serve you well. I hope the best for you and hope you find some enjoyment in each and every day, as none of us has a promise of tomorrow.

Dan in NC
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Dirk_S on February 11, 2021, 02:59:48 PM
Are you planning to come to the rally in NH? Don’t want to pressure you due to -, but it would be great to meet you, share a drink (even if it’s just healthy ol’ water) and share a story or three!
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Gliderjohn on February 11, 2021, 03:15:14 PM
Sorry to hear Jim. You have never come across to me as a person that rolls over easy. Take and enjoy and each day. We all need to do that. Best to you. Hang in there.
GliderJohn
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Huzo on February 11, 2021, 03:24:59 PM
Dan said it well and I can do no better..
I like to think that I have the balls to approach a fight like yours with the same “spit in the eye” disdain. I watched True Grit the other day and your refusal to lay down and just take it, is inspirational.
Funny how you can never have met a guy, yet you feel like you know him.
Somebody trailer Jim’s bike to a warmer location, so he can ride it flat out ‘till it runs out of gas... :bow: :bike-037:
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Huzo on February 11, 2021, 03:36:50 PM
Are you planning to come to the rally in NH? Don’t want to pressure you due to -, but it would be great to meet you, share a drink (even if it’s just healthy ol’ water) and share a story or three!
There is no joke intended here because it’s not funny, but I’ve the feeling that Jim can laugh in -’s face and tell it to f*** off, because it can’t hurt him.
What a great campfire show to see Cancer and - fight it out and beat each other to death...
Then the people who know how to live, can get on with it...
I was going to say “take care” Jim, but I reckon you’re more of a “**** it all and kick some ass” type of guy.
Go and play Bob Seger’s “Roll Me Away”, and sink a scotch as he sings...
“and we rolled...
clean out of sight...”

https://youtu.be/wdoT50N8uv4

Peter.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on February 11, 2021, 04:02:01 PM
I hate to hear this, Jim.. but you *have* given it the good fight. Of course, there are a lot of us that care about you. Wishing you the best..
Pete says..
Quote
Speaking of WG I see Sasquatch Jim has just posted up that he hasn't got long. I've met Jim several times, he's a top bloke. If someone could pass on my salutations and best wishes I'd be very grateful.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Tom on February 11, 2021, 04:08:06 PM
Sorry to hear what's going on with you.  Warmest "Aloha!" from Hawaii.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Wildroamer on February 11, 2021, 04:11:58 PM
Sorry to hear of that diagnosis, Jim, from another who has never met you. Just remember, these docs are guessing as much as anything, especially when it comes to "how long." You don't need me to tell you to enjoy the moments and memories as they come, because you clearly have a firm grasp of that already. I am wishing you some fantastic days ahead! As was said, no guarantees on tomorrow for any of us.
Cheers,
Todd
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: JJ on February 11, 2021, 04:35:16 PM
Very sorry to hear this news...Dan in NC summed it up nicely and I cannot add anything more worthy...I too, am wishing you sunny and warmer days ahead...All the best and I hope you can ride again soon...
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: lucian on February 11, 2021, 05:39:02 PM
Sorry to read this Squatch, you've always been one of my favorites around here.  I have always enjoyed you're posts and sense of humor . I hope you're next visit to the doc's offers some hope and a treatment option . 
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: john fish on February 11, 2021, 05:41:34 PM
Thinking of you, Jim.  I like your stories about your Citroen DS and your time in the services. 
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: egschade on February 11, 2021, 06:00:54 PM
Well that's quite the gut punch. My father has stage-4 cancer but can't imagine being on the receiving end of such a terrible diagnosis. Hopefully there's a treatment that can keep you around a while longer. You'll be in my thoughts and prayers. 
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: John A on February 11, 2021, 06:05:10 PM
Yep, Dan said it well. I miss your posts, thanks for letting us know.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Aaron D. on February 11, 2021, 06:10:06 PM
It is my fervent wish that you get a break in the weather, mount up and ride out.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: wavedog on February 11, 2021, 06:39:25 PM
 Is there anyone close enough to load up Sasquatch and his bike and drive him far enough south so he can ride for a few days? Just a thought.
   
 Good thoughts to you Jim.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Markcarovilli on February 11, 2021, 06:46:16 PM
Jim

Crazy times as you well know.  Everyday is precious and you’ve proved that.   Hoping the sun shines your way.

Mark
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Sasquatch Jim on February 11, 2021, 08:14:03 PM
 Thankyou all for the kindly advice and wishes.  I hope to last long enough to ride again even just short rides.
 Don't think I could last a trip to any campouts, much as I would like to. I remember fondly all the campouts I have attended in the past. 
 Pete, I remember you well from campouts in the past and your visit to south Seattle.  I will quote my favorite Vulcan at this time, "Live long and prosper".
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: kingoffleece on February 11, 2021, 08:40:14 PM
Don't cave.  My sister heard that exact thing-over 6 years ago.  She beat it-and you can, too.
Give 'em hell.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Dirk_S on February 11, 2021, 08:48:46 PM
Don't cave.  My sister heard that exact thing-over 6 years ago.  She beat it-and you can, too.
Give 'em hell.

That’s exactly why I added the - note in my suggestion about the rally. Nothing’s over until it’s over, and there’s no sense in throwing all cautions out the window. At least that’s what I tried to tell my grandfather the 9 years that I lived with him following my grandmother’s passing. There’s still life to be had, and who knows really how long. I have family members myself who’ve lived much longer than their prescribed expiration date.

I learned not to espouse too much “words of wisdom” to folks in situations that I’ve never been in, but I do hope at least that you keep in touch as long as you can, and may that be at least another 20 years ;)
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Ncdan on February 11, 2021, 08:59:10 PM

(https://i.ibb.co/5nScczT/2-DFB845-B-DFF4-484-F-98-F8-182887132844.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5nScczT)
I saw this a while ago and I knew I just had to post it for our buddy. I think we all will agree that it’s definitely an accurate Representation of Jim👍
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Ryan on February 11, 2021, 09:39:18 PM
This sucks, and I am sorry to hear it. Before you know it, sun will shine and temps will be in the 50's. When I was young with no responsibilities and a couple of days on my hands, I would pack a change of cloths, grab $50 and go somewhere I had not been. Would need $100 now, but I saw some cool shit and had some great rides, and rarely got more than 300 miles from home. Rides don't have to be marathons to be epic. Just go.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Shorty on February 11, 2021, 10:01:40 PM
Here's wishing you many more rides and fair weather.  :bow:
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Scout63 on February 11, 2021, 11:34:10 PM
Jim - if weather and time allow, my motorcycles and home are at your service on Cape Cod.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Guzzi Gal on February 12, 2021, 12:23:10 AM
Jim,

Well hell. No words ring quite right in this situation. I guess you have to try to take the best each day has to offer and let the rest go. Or, you could ride it like you stole it and don't make it easy to get caught. :evil: :copcar: :bike-037:

Elisha
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: pebra on February 12, 2021, 03:26:11 AM
I’ve never met you in person Jim but over the years here on the board I feel I know you fairly well. I feel you are fighter and a man with a sense of humor that will serve you well. I hope the best for you and hope you find some enjoyment in each and every day, as none of us has a promise of tomorrow.

Dan in NC

Well put!
Your stories, quips and comments have been killing me for many years, Jim.
Soon it's spring.

Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Huzo on February 12, 2021, 07:16:49 AM
Is there anyone close enough to load up Sasquatch and his bike and drive him far enough south so he can ride for a few days? Just a thought.
   
 Good thoughts to you Jim.
Yes, yes, yes....
I mentioned something similar earlier, reply #5.
Some bastard prop him up, get the bike and him on the road and...GO...!
In the light of his recent diagnosis, there’s nothing that he needs to fear. Have a few (too many) drinks and then ride.
Wave to girls in their cars.
Just do what you damn well like and bugger the consequences, because there aren’t any..
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: travelingbyguzzi on February 12, 2021, 08:54:29 AM
We are sad to hear this, Jim. Hope you can hang on at least til the sun comes back. You may or may not have known that Gail was diagnosed stage 4 ovarian 4 years ago. It has been a hell of a struggle, but she is a trooper and still above ground. Good luck!
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: drbone641 on February 12, 2021, 09:15:19 AM
Shit. Enjoy your time. Hate to hear it, for you, Some get notice, others not so much. Shit!
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Stretch on February 12, 2021, 09:25:26 AM
I don't know you, but I'm sorry to hear that.

I lost my dad to cancer this past summer - 90 days or so
from diagnosis until the final out. My last visit with him was
terrific fun in spite of the overall situation.

Where ever you end up in the next stage of your journey, save us
all a good seat, eh?  :grin:

All the best to you and your family.

                                                   -Stretch
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: jcctx on February 12, 2021, 09:48:27 AM
Damn~just Damn!
Peace be with you.........
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: blackcat on February 12, 2021, 09:48:52 AM
Jim, so sorry to read this and wish you all the best.

Have you considered a second opinion? MD Anderson, Cleveland Clinic,etc.?
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: bad Chad on February 12, 2021, 10:53:18 AM
Ouch, that an't good.  I have had cancer twice, Lymphoma, 20 years ago, and Testicular 5 years ago, that spread into by abdomen.  Serious shit, but what you got going on is worse.   I don't know what you may have decided regarding radiation treatment, but for what good it might do I'll tell you about mine.  After getting a couple months of chemo ( at least you aren't looking at that, it can be a real mother Fuker) I started a daily radiation regime.   For three weeks plus, I got to the hospital each day for a quick blast.  It's quick, and you don't feel it as it happens, and one doesn't really notice any side effects to speak of at first.  Radiation is cumulative, so it builds up, and towards the end of the treatment, I had a variety of unwanted, but manageable side affects. 
Everybody's cancer is different ( I bet you have heard that by now!) and they don't all act the same, the treatment regiment for yours would likely be somewhat different, ( many folks don't have to get it everyday for example).  My point is, if there is a reasonable chance it can extend your life for even a few months longer, I would think real hard about doing it.  Assuming your quality of life won't be complete shit because of it.

The weather is going to break.  As whacked out as the weather has become, it wouldn't come as any surprise if spring comes early and strong, anything can happen these days.  Even if it doesn't, if you can make it to May and June, that's the absolute best time to be alive in the Mid-west!

We are all pulling for you.   I would like to see you last a good long time, men like us (that is of appropriate human size) need to hang around to remind the rest of mankind what's lacking in them!
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: greer on February 13, 2021, 06:28:31 AM
I've been madly wishing for an Early Spring, especially so now.  Our thoughts are with you, Jim.

Sarah
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Texas Turnip on February 13, 2021, 06:44:50 AM
Jim,
Met you at the national in SD. By reading your posts you have already lived more than most.

Tex (13 year cancer survivor)
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: nobleswood on February 13, 2021, 08:30:10 AM
Jim,

Sorry to hear your news.

Enjoy the days you have. Spend time with family & friends. Catch up with those you've meant to.
Remember the good times. Go for a ride.

Wishing you the best
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Tkelly on February 13, 2021, 09:25:41 AM
If you are so inclined,now would be a good time to share some good and bad riding stories.I bet you have a few.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: 80CX100 on February 13, 2021, 10:59:54 AM
     Really sorry to hear that news Jim, tbh it sucks sh*t.

     I've been lurking in the shadows here reading about your antics for a long time, you've been blessed with a very full interesting life.

     I agree, please share some of your more bizarre stories and history, my life has been relatively beige compared to your colorful existence.

     You're in my prayers and many others I'm sure; the Holy Spirit can work some amazing miracles, and bring light to the darkest of days.

     Thanks for your service and living as large as you do.

      :bow:

       Kelly
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Vince in Milwaukee on February 13, 2021, 06:45:52 PM
Very sorry to hear this. I will be thinking about you here in Wisconsin.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on February 13, 2021, 06:59:28 PM
I remember many years ago seeing a giant dancing around the campfire at the Illi noise rally playing the accordion.  :smiley: "Hmmm, just another of the *great* characters that ride Guzzis.."   :grin:
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: davedel44 on February 13, 2021, 08:59:04 PM
I'll always remember you stories about you adventures on Hawaii.  Good luck my friend


Dsve
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: bad Chad on February 13, 2021, 10:06:48 PM
Indeed, few CSC spin a yarn like Squatch.   I remember a one about a guy shooting explosive bullets, that weren’t!  Truly great story!
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: mtiberio on February 14, 2021, 07:15:46 AM
Hop on your bike and ride to Mexico.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Rough Edge racing on February 14, 2021, 07:59:22 AM
Jim, well, we have something in common, I have stage 4 esophagual caner that's spread around despite the best treatments. To be blunt ,digestive system cancers are especially lethal. You likely have have a 6 months with no treatments...With proper care you could have several years. In my case the treatments have beat the cancer to some degree but the drug side effects are quite unpleasant...I look good but feel like shit,and I mean real shitty...
 People tell me stories of so and so that lived for years with stage 4 cancer and that I can beat it..Bullshit, that ship sailed months ago....But, no matter how lethal the cancer, a few do survive, the trick is to be
that person.
   There are a few advantages ...I laugh at the doom and gloom presented by the news. A motorist went road rage on me. I told him i'm dying from cancer so shut the f*** up, he did...It's interesting  to see some friends and family treat me like leper becase they are very uncomfortable around me.. I never make the disease the topic of discussion..
 I'm not a religious man but the phrase " Walking throught the valley of death I fear no evil" does have some comfort...Cannibus does help me with the chemo side effects...
  Everyone dies, just some of us know when....
 



Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Dave Swanson on February 14, 2021, 08:07:59 AM
Not much to add, but please know my thoughts are with you guys that are going through this, and that my heart goes out to you.     
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Sasquatch Jim on February 14, 2021, 08:15:42 AM
 Rough edge racing, your letter strikes a familiar chord.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: John A on February 14, 2021, 11:03:58 AM
Rough Edge, you are right about family and friends acting like you have leprosy or something after a serious diagnosis. They don’t know what to say or think when they contemplate your demise so they stay away so they don’t have to be in an uncomfortable situation.  That’s what I think and I never bring up the subject but I don’t avoid it.  I’ll ask how they are doing if it interests me but don’t volunteer much about my own difficulties even when asked so it’s probly my own fault but I do try to put them at ease if I sense they are uncomfortable but most avoid me, especially during the - scare. I know it can’t be me for I have such a sunny disposition . I often think I’m ready to check out but like most, I’d rather do it later . They keep me supplied with enough morphine but I hate the crap and it doesn’t help all that much but I’m grateful for it. Life is not what it used to be and I’m dealing with continually  loosing functions which is troublesome but what the hell, my problems are small. When I go up to the Vets hospital and see some of the young people so messed up they stay out of public view I’m grateful I have it so good.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Groover on February 14, 2021, 02:07:10 PM
Sorry to hear this. Thank you for hanging out with us during these times. All the best.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: pete mcgee on February 14, 2021, 04:10:15 PM
Well that sucks.
But youre not dead yet,  do what you can while you can.
Dont give up, that makes a difference.
My best wishs to you and yours.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: 80CX100 on February 14, 2021, 05:15:56 PM
Hey Jim,     My oldtimers brain and memory let me down; I apologize for bringing the subject of prayers up against your wishes, sending you a pm.

      Kelly
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: TOMB on February 14, 2021, 05:39:30 PM
My. Grandmother was blind and depended on everyone to help her on a daily basis.

Her frame of mind was sharp right to the end.

Her favorite phrase was as follows.

"When I get out of bed every day and my feet touch the floor I know its going to be a great day.

So get out of bed and let you feet touch the floor and enjoy your day.

TOMB
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Sasquatch Jim on February 15, 2021, 07:40:33 PM
My VA nurse came by today and gave me the first shot of the two shot - against - 19.  I guess they don't want me to catch - and pass it on in my last year.  No reactions to the shot so far.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Ncdan on February 15, 2021, 08:26:34 PM
My VA nurse came by today and gave me the first shot of the two shot - against - 19.  I guess they don't want me to catch - and pass it on in my last year.  No reactions to the shot so far.
I’m up for mine also Jim. Keep us posted on any ill effects as I’m a little nervous with taking it anyway.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Tkelly on February 15, 2021, 08:38:46 PM
I had no reaction to the first moderna shot.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: John Ulrich on February 15, 2021, 09:07:52 PM
Jim,
Your writings were always looked forward too.  All the beautiful ladies who sweet talked you into riding in your sidecar rigs.  Your squeeze box that made it to few rallies.
Sorry I don't have my photo SD card with me from the early 90's with photo's of the ILL rally etc.... lots of great times!   
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: TOMB on February 15, 2021, 09:35:30 PM
I get my second - shot at the VA on the 26th I didn't have any reactions or side effects or anything on the first one I would suggest that you get it I would rather have it just in case instead of not getting it and be sorry that I didn't get it

TOMB
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: jrt on February 15, 2021, 09:57:49 PM

I've enjoyed reading many of your posts- you have a good way with words and a story.  I hope you are able to stick around awhile.  I had stage 4 also.  I acquired a healthy glow as a side effect of getting rid of that shite.  You would think it would diminish over time, but my wife appreciates the extra heat this winter.

Do not go gentle into that good night.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: BillinPA on February 16, 2021, 07:16:27 AM
Still pulling for you!!!

I remember meeting you at Luaps first rally,  it was fun to talk. My first instinct was to stare a minute, somebody said, hey whats up? I said Who brings an accordion on a motorcycle?
I got my answer!!!! Sasquatch Jim
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Rough Edge racing on February 16, 2021, 07:52:29 AM
My VA nurse came by today and gave me the first shot of the two shot - against - 19.  I guess they don't want me to catch - and pass it on in my last year.  No reactions to the shot so far.
  I'm being treated at  one of the best hospitals in NY state ..They have no idea of when - shots will be available. Only half their staff has gotten the -. I might refuse it
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: SIR REAL ED on February 17, 2021, 05:45:21 AM
  I'm being treated at  one of the best hospitals in NY state ..They have no idea of when - shots will be available. Only half their staff has gotten the -. I might refuse it

One of my riding buddies is a retired doctor.  His wife runs a health care clinic in NC.  He says only 40% of her staff have taken the - even though it has been available to all.  None of the staff who are black have taken the -.

Very counterproductive in light of all the news stories about white supremacy being everywhere and the govt trying to balance the scales of social equity.  But actually quite understandable if one takes the MSM news seriously.

Best to listen to one's doctor and ignore the MSM.  That's my plan.
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Chuck in Indiana on February 17, 2021, 07:02:47 AM
Quote
But actually quite understandable if one takes the MSM news seriously.

Multi Screen Media?
Title: Re: Dr. diagnosis
Post by: Ncdan on February 17, 2021, 09:02:46 AM
My neighbor and close friend is a drug rep for a large national company. I had the opportunity to get the first shot last week. However she has advised me that I need to wait until the Pfizer brand became available. I have no idea why but her advice went along with a gut feeling I had not to take the one that was available at the time. So I’m guess I’m on hold for the time being.

Back to the post subject.
Hope you are feeling well this morning Jim!
Maybe we can figure a way to get you and your rig down south next month for some riding. Right now we ain’t in much better shape than y’all are. Another system is heading this way bringing freezing rain and temps hovering around 32 degrees 🥶