Going to need some Strong Healing thoughts. [Archive] - Page 2

Skafloc

12-03-2008, 05:16 PM

Alright, on the heels of posted photos I figured I might give a little update.

My radiation and chemotherapy sessions started Nov 20th as you know.

Initially the radiation sessions were set back to the original 6 week, limited exposure plan by my oncologist's associate while she was out of town (in his opinion it was a better plan than her reduced 3 week more intense program).

As I expected Wed last week when she returned I was put back on her more intense program. She didn't come right out and say it but Natasha and I were both convinced we detected more than a hint of irritation on her part at her partner.

So my sessions numbers were reduced to 19, finishing Dec 16th as opposed to early Jan, but the length of time for each exposure has been increased. In essence the total radiation dose is the same just compressed in a shorter time.

Here is the kicker. Once my treatments started my most prominent side effect was nausea. My afternoons and early evenings especially were brutal. I never actually throw up but I was miserable. I know some of you have heard me complain about that last week in chat.

Since the treatment change last week that symptom and side effect has more or less vanished. According to my Oncologist that is a normal reaction as my body gets accustomed to the treatments (sort of like getting used to a ship's motion after a week or so at sea and not getting sea sick anymore ).

However a new side effect has taken its place. Pain. Excruciating pain in my head, neck, upper/mid back and joints.

It feels like muscle spasm pain and pressure inside my head which radiates out and through my entire body.

I mentioned it yesterday morning at my treatment session and my oncologist was immediately contacted. We spoke for a time and her worry was that the symptoms were consistent with Meningitis.

The worry was that after all these surgeries and treatments that my immune system was suppressed enough that a Meningitis bacteria or virus may have taken hold and inflamed the lining of my brain.

So I was sent for a CAT scan after my treatment yesterday to see what was happening.

Good news, no Meningitis.

Not so good news. The tumor is back. :(

In the 2 weeks since my operation and the start of treatments the tiny vestiges of cells that remained from the surgery had grown at an incredible rate to actually become a new layer of tumor in the cavity left behind by the surgery.

Now to be fair Dr. Walling my surgeon always told me that the surgery was a measure to gain a head start on the tumor and remove as much as possible before the treatment plan, so this was not totally a shock. But what it did do was confirm that this tumor is most definitely on the far end of the scale as far as aggressiveness goes.

What can't be determined however from the scan is whether that new layer is in fact active or already weakened and dying (if not already dead). That won't be confirmed until the scan I get after all the treatments this session are done. If at that time there is still something there when the post treatment scan is done, or *gasp* its bigger then Dr. Walling may have to go back inside.

Then its going to be a case of rinse and repeat. Big difference is that the second time around the prognosis will be far more grim from what I have gathered from their talks. Basically I am getting the most effective treatment right now. If that isn't working there are few alternatives.

So the pain I'm experiencing is actually coming from the brain swelling that this new layer of tumor is causing as a result of the treatments.

I met with my oncologist today again after my treatment (the one posted on the picture thread) and got to see the images from the scan yesterday.

Yep its there again sho nuf'. Now we still have half the treatments left to go so lots can happen still.

Ellsbeth

12-03-2008, 05:20 PM

Sorry Skaffy. Thoughts are upped in my quarter for you.

Eowynn Blackstone

12-03-2008, 05:25 PM

Cellphones are bad. *hugs* :( Prayers incoming!

Grainia

12-03-2008, 05:27 PM

/target Skaffy
/hug
/cry
/knit!

Skafloc

12-03-2008, 05:29 PM

Cellphones are bad. *hugs* :( Prayers incoming!

Ironically the only real correlation to a potential cause for Glioblastoma Multiforme brain tumors is IONIZING RADIATION, the kind that comes from radars, high frequency emitters, weapons fire control systems and electronic warfare systems.

Hmm...... lets see, 20 years in the Navy... :rolleyes:

EDIT: I was also advised today by my military case workers to contact Veterans Affairs and start the paperwork for long term disability services and potential medical pension based on work related illness. Of course that will have to be investigated by them and the possible connection established.

Among other paperwork things. > > but I expected that.

Swerto

12-03-2008, 05:32 PM

Feel better skaff, at least you only have to put up with this for so much longer before you move onto the healing process.

Moknim

12-03-2008, 05:33 PM

Thoughts are with you Skaf.

Cancer stands no chance against the might that is Skafloc! (You did tell the cancer about the gun didn't you?)

Xaraphyne

12-03-2008, 05:40 PM

Skaf... <hugs>

Skafloc

12-03-2008, 05:41 PM

Cancer stands no chance against the might that is Skafloc! (You did tell the cancer about the gun didn't you?)

:D Funny story here. I have been told by my oncologist no less that during my radiation treatments it actually helps to "visualize" the beams zapping the cells like so many PEW PEW lazerbeams!

Today I changed it up a bit. They were playing Mariah Carey Christmas tunes as background in the treatment room. I was visualizing each and every cell cringing in agony and withering under the onslaught of Mariah's screeching harpy voice.

Grainia

12-03-2008, 05:42 PM

I was visualizing each and every cell cringing in agony and withering under the onslaught of Mariah's screeching harpy voice.

Just another reason why I love you!

opalexian

12-03-2008, 06:01 PM

You know I'd think they'd play whatever music you want in the treatment room, but if it helps your treament like that I guess it's ok too...maybe. I'm really sorry to hear it's making a curtain call (hopefully) but you can take it on. OMG guns!

Go Skaf!

Ansha

12-03-2008, 06:11 PM

Ironically the only real correlation to a potential cause for Glioblastoma Multiforme brain tumors is IONIZING RADIATION, the kind that comes from radars, high frequency emitters, weapons fire control systems and electronic warfare systems.

Hmm...... lets see, 20 years in the Navy... :rolleyes:

EDIT: I was also advised today by my military case workers to contact Veterans Affairs and start the paperwork for long term disability services and potential medical pension based on work related illness. Of course that will have to be investigated by them and the possible connection established.

Among other paperwork things. > > but I expected that.

I was doing research for a paper and was looking into the Texas Sniper incident in 1966. The shooter in that incident was discovered to be suffering from a glioblastoma himself in the autopsy. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Whitman)

Don't go doing anything quite like he did, k?

Eowynn Blackstone

12-03-2008, 07:02 PM

Ironically the only real correlation to a potential cause for Glioblastoma Multiforme brain tumors is IONIZING RADIATION, the kind that comes from radars, high frequency emitters, weapons fire control systems and electronic warfare systems.

Hmm...... lets see, 20 years in the Navy... :rolleyes:

EDIT: I was also advised today by my military case workers to contact Veterans Affairs and start the paperwork for long term disability services and potential medical pension based on work related illness. Of course that will have to be investigated by them and the possible connection established.

Among other paperwork things. > > but I expected that.

You probably already know what kind of fight you have ahead of you when it comes to disability from the government. It took my dad 16 years to get full disability for his problems. His problems were from dioxins in Vietnam and Korea. Extra prayers for you on this one.

Yichimet

12-03-2008, 08:12 PM

Luckily, Skafloc lives in Canada.

Prayers are with you, Skaf.

Skafloc

12-03-2008, 08:37 PM

You probably already know what kind of fight you have ahead of you when it comes to disability from the government.

As Yichimet mentioned I'm in canada and this was in fact the Canadian Military that are advising me to do this. Will it pass through? *shrug*. Frankly not really too much a concern for me as I intend to be working again by the end of 2009.

Also I have Canada Pension Plan Disability benefits kicking in soon (2 months from now). That is guaranteed for anyone that can't work due to a terminal illness (which Glioblastoma Multiforme is ).

As well as my Military disability benefits start soon. My pay will continue uncut (with a slight reduction for loss of active sea pay, but the benefits will more than cover that including benefits for my wife and kids). So we are being looked after from a number of different angles.

No worries on that front.

Fhenrir

12-03-2008, 08:50 PM

I know it's been said a thousand times, but my hopes and thoughts are with ya. Hope things get better for you soon Skaf/Lupa/Nouri/etc.

Aphraelle

12-03-2008, 10:08 PM

:D Funny story here. I have been told by my oncologist no less that during my radiation treatments it actually helps to "visualize" the beams zapping the cells like so many PEW PEW lazerbeams!

Today I changed it up a bit. They were playing Mariah Carey Christmas tunes as background in the treatment room. I was visualizing each and every cell cringing in agony and withering under the onslaught of Mariah's screeching harpy voice.

Oh. My. God. Sigged in appreciation. I just made my co-worker come ask why I was laughing so hard. If anyone can beat this, you can.

Chingaso

12-03-2008, 10:36 PM

I was doing research for a paper and was looking into the Texas Sniper incident in 1966. The shooter in that incident was discovered to be suffering from a glioblastoma himself in the autopsy. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Whitman)

Don't go doing anything quite like he did, k?
Or, you know, do it in Oklahoma or something...

Ok, bad joke, sympathy to the Whitman family, and Skafloc goes all Chuck Norris on brain cancer.

Skafloc

12-03-2008, 11:52 PM

Or, you know, do it in Oklahoma or something...

Ok, bad joke, sympathy to the Whitman family, .

I actually liked it. :D I have a convenient precedent now to use if I wind up going postal at some Christmas shopping mall nightmare scene.

Izrail

12-04-2008, 12:35 PM

:( My thoughts are with you. Between the treatment, Mariah Carey, and your level of awesomeness the tumor shouldn't be able to stand a chance.

Amoola

12-04-2008, 01:16 PM

Good to hear that you are doing well so far Skaf. Swift was asking if I had heard anything about you the other day.

We're still pulling for you. :)

Blyx

12-11-2008, 05:17 AM

Folks,
I know Rick in real life, I'm hoping that there is someone in this group that he is communicating with privately, i.e. providing current information on his condition.
If not and if desired, someone can send me a private msg, I'll come back and check as often as I can and let the person know what I know at least.
He and I are both in the Navy, I actually introduced him to the game and I can see that he has very strong connections here.
If someone is in contact with him however, please advise and I'll leave it at that.
Peter

Chingaso

12-11-2008, 08:21 AM

Something new? Tell us!

Please?

Evanthe

12-11-2008, 08:27 AM

Yes, please do.

Blyx

12-11-2008, 08:35 AM

Acknowledged friend, I don't mean to sound vague and raise alarms, I just wanted to ensure that you are kept appraised of the current situation.
It may not be my place to do this and I'm not sure if it is against Rick's wishes.
Regardless....Rick is in hospital at the moment, I just left there as matter of fact and he confirmed that he is in contact with someone here.
His condition has taken a turn for the worse, and it means that his treatment programme will need to be reshaped to fight off what is an extremely aggresive form of cancer. His family is by his side and he is in great hands, he has a lot of support, family, military peers and obviously you folks.
Rick remains extremely positive/optimistic and intends to overcome this recent setback.
I will keep in touch unless directed otherwise. On that note, please let me know if I should keep in contact or let someone else take over, i.e. the person he is texting, I don't want to overstep my bounds here.

Vilmah

12-11-2008, 08:39 AM

Holy shit, thank you for telling us. Please let him know we're all praying/thinking of him and his family, and we hope for his safety.

Chingaso

12-11-2008, 08:45 AM

Yes. And I would hope that whoever he has been texting is more mature to feel slighted if you have more current information.

More frequent prayers sent.

Lascivious

12-11-2008, 09:11 AM

shazzbutt. sorry for the flippancy, i missed Blyx's first post. thanks for the update.

Yichimet

12-11-2008, 09:51 AM

Fuck. :(

Evanthe

12-11-2008, 10:14 AM

Skaf texted me an update a little bit ago. He went into the hospital Tuesday with extreme pain, and they found that the cancer has spread to his spinal cord. His treatment has been suspended and he's not sure when he'll be back home.

Thank you for the update this morning Blyx. Please keep us posted.

Vilmah

12-11-2008, 10:15 AM

Anyone wanna pitch in to get some get-well-soon flowers? I was planning on sending some anyway, but I figured it'd be nice if everyone could pitch in and get him something nice. If you're interested, send me a PM and I'll give you the info.

Grainia

12-11-2008, 10:41 AM

I finished his hat and will be sending it out ASAP. I was half joking with Nadea over the weekend about a road trip to Nova Scotia, but I'm more serious about it now.

Please let him know that all my thoughts are with him and his family.

Redemptio

12-11-2008, 11:03 AM

I feel like a bum, I had a big list last year of addresses, names, phone numbers and what not from my WoW friends for Christmas Cards. I had Skaf's, now I can't find it...when I could possibly need it the most i can fucking find it.

my best hopes and wishes to Skaf and his family, Wish I could send you all a Xmass card...or something... I'm sorry...I really am. Cant stop crying cause of it.....I'm sorry.

Akuje

12-11-2008, 11:15 AM

While we haven't interacted much in the game, the times I have, it's been a pleasure. Keep fighting, you are too stubborn to let this take you down.

Blyx

12-11-2008, 11:51 AM

It may have been 3 years ago now that I talked Skafloc into playing WoW, we worked together in the navy and I knew he would like the game.
His first character was a human warrior and I also had a warrior and I remember vividly him being the noob and me being the expert because I already had about 3 months of playing under my belt. Within a week, I was the noob, he is such an intelligent man that his grasp of the game and all the secrets it holds became readily apparent to him while I was still grasping at the basics. He is the smartest person that I know as a matter of fact.
I'll ensure that he knows your thoughts and prayers are with him and I will keep you updated as necessary. I fear that I will not have good news to share but will do my best to keep you informed.

Vilmah

12-11-2008, 11:54 AM

Thanks man, we appreciate it.

Izrail

12-11-2008, 11:58 AM

Thanks for letting us know. It doesn't sound good. :( Really pulling for him here, hope he is able to come home soon. He's too good a guy to have to go through this.

Redemptio

12-11-2008, 12:00 PM

Blyx Is there anything we can do?

Ellsbeth

12-11-2008, 12:10 PM

Oh Skaf. Pulling for you this holiday season.

Blyx

12-11-2008, 12:30 PM

Redemptio, all.
There is nothing more that you could do that is not already being done by this group of people that he has come to know so well.
Keep doing what you're doing, in my opinion it is more than many have in similar circumstances. While it is true that WoW is just a game, we all know that it draws people together in such a way that they can find comfort among the group, within the Guild, (some Guilds that is, this is obviously one of them). This alone makes it more than just a game and I know with absolute certaintity that he is touched/comforted by the many kind words found in this thread.
I've played the game since day one and have no such bond, so consider yourselves fortunate and above all else, good people.

Nadea

12-11-2008, 12:44 PM

Hang in there Rick, my thoughts are with you....

we're all pulling for you here on Twisting Nether <3

RavenReverend

12-11-2008, 01:59 PM

See, the cancer's so afraid of Mariah Carey that it's attempting to flee.

You can do this, Skaf. We're all cheering for you.

opalexian

12-11-2008, 04:44 PM

Fucking cancer. If we all swear (like a sailor) and send Mariah Carey beams at it, we can help fight it off. Thanks for keeping us updated, Blix.

Thalevia

12-11-2008, 04:50 PM

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Moknim

12-11-2008, 04:59 PM

Thoughts and prayers still with you Skafloc, fight it bro. Fight it with all you've got. If we could, we would be fighting for you.

Aphraelle

12-11-2008, 06:02 PM

Adding thoughts, prayers, chants and a visualization of the cancer cells locked in an auditorium for a Mariah Carey Sings Cantonese Opera marathon. That ought to do it. Thinking of you, Rick, as we all are.

Villayna

12-11-2008, 06:57 PM

/hugs Skaffy! Rooting for ya!

Swerto

12-11-2008, 10:10 PM

Thoughts are with you Skaf. Kick that tumor's ass!

Esmi

12-11-2008, 11:00 PM

:( I've been gone so long and missed so much... I'm very sorry to hear about the brain tumor and my Healy thoughts are with you <3.

Taknar

12-11-2008, 11:38 PM

Oh no.

Get better Rick. Make sure those doctors know about the mob ready to lynch them should they fail.

Brakogar

12-11-2008, 11:56 PM

So as some of you know, I was supposed to be sailing this past Friday.

That didn't happen. Friday morning as were getting ready to set out I suffered a seizure at my desk on the ship.

I was immediately whisked off to sick bay and put in an EKG. TIe immediate worry was either a heart attack or a stroke. Neither one was the culprit.

So an ambulance was called and I was sent to the hospital. I was given a cat scan which revealed the cause.

I have a brain tumor on my right hemisphere the size of a small lemon.

Yesterday morning I was given an MRI scan which gave the neural medicine team enough info that by 1 pm I was in the OR and my head was opened for 3 biopsy samples to be taken for analysis. I get the results by Wed. I am out on an evening pass tonight but report back tomorrow for a consultation.

I will most likely be in surgery later this week and a lengthy recover process.

I have a number of good things on my side. Both the MRI and the robot probe the doctors used in my skull (yes I was wide awake for that) showed that the tumor is self contained on the surface of my right hemispherical lobe. There are no tendrils or streamers.Also my white cell count is good.

Also, my neurologist is perhaps North America's if not the worlds best. Dr. Ivar Mendez. (http://neurosurgery.medicine.dal.ca/imendez.htm) This guy is a pioneer and has been featured on the Discover Channel. I am in wonderful hands with his team.

Headless to say I will be out of commission for a time.

So if you have any prayers, rituals whatever for healing don't hesitate to send them my way.

I don't know when I will be able to give you any updates, so I will sea you when I see you.

Do me a favor and give your loved ones a hug for me. Because you never know when something big comes up and bites you in the ass..

Love you all..

Rick.

I just became aware of this.

I can relate a lot with what you are going through since i have gone through the same myself.

At the age of 13 while on Holidays with my family I suffered a strong epileptic episode while sleeping, I woke up in an Ambulance all disoriented. Never had a history of it before and despite MRIs and CAT scans the doctors could not ID what I had. After that I begun to have epileptic episode while sleeping every 3 months or so. Everytime it happened I woke up with this horrible but rather unique headache and left me exhausted and usually ended up sleeping for like 20 hours or so to recover. At least each episode was spaced out by months so it didn't hinder my life too much.

However as I grew older the episodes became a bit more frequent like once a month. The symptoms by then had also changed, it was no longer epileptic seizures during the night but also happened while I was awake. New symptoms also appeared such as spontaneous 'blackouts' while I was awake and sometimes I used to kinda sleep walk and talk nonsense to people and stuff after that I would 'wake up' but I would have no memory of what I did or what happened. However despite the increased frequency, the 'episodes' were still somewhat spaced out and didn't overall hinder my life.

When I reached my late teens, it was seriously hindering my life and it became really bad during my Final High School year particularly during the final exams (called HSC in AU) and I was then prohibited from driving and had to say good bye to a military career that I was aspiring to take and it also hindered my ability to get into University. I felt like a crippled and Neurologist could not ID what was causing the deteriorating symptoms which now included frequent short term memory loss.

Finally I got to meet a good Neurologist whose main focus with treating me was to find the source of the problem rather than trying to deal with the symptoms. He pointed me to a Neuro surgeon who suggested for me to have sensor pads attached my skull and stay in Hospital for a month so that they can monitor my brain as seizures happened.

I thought I looked kinda cool because I had my hair shaved with sensor pads inserted under my scalp with colored wires wires coming out of my skin attached to a computer. I looked like some awesome Cyberpunk Super villain :p. Yeah it was very painful but I have endured worse in the past.

Eventually this helped to narrow down where the 'electrical' disturbances were coming from and they found that it was indeed a tumor roughly the same size as yours but a bit deeper in my brain. After some months I went through surgery (I was then 23 years old). Before the surgery I was given this very scary scenarios on how I could end up after it, all with percentages such as "There is 25% chance that you may loose or incapaciate movement of your right leg" or "There is 15% chance that you may suffer some sort of neural damage that may incapacitate your memory", etc. I felt that their 'scenarios' were mainly there so that the hospital can cover themselves from being sued if something bad happened and regardless I knew that if I left things how they were, I would just gradually end up crippled or worse so I risked going forth with surgery despite the risks.

After the surgery I spend a couple of months in Hospital and went through a lot of physio like getting the hang of walking again, etc which wasn't difficult but I could feel how weak I was and how I had to retrain some of my 'locomotion' again. By the end of the couple of months I was able to walk and run and stuff like normal although for a while I felt dizzy while going down stairs and I took on a habit of 'jumping down' several steps at a time like little kids do but eventually that went away.

At the age of 23 (almost 24) I had finally started to regain my life as I have not had any more epileptic episodes since and only then was I able to put my life back on track including a career path. It wasn't I what I wanted to do but it serves me to earn a living (Systems Admin) and at the age of 26 I was finally granted a driver's license which was a huge milestone for me as I thought I would never drive.

Now I am a relatively successful despite the economic hardships of being single and having started life so late. I am happy with how my life is progressing even though its nothing how I pictured it would be.

Rick, I hope everything goes good for you and I am sure that it will. Regardless of the outcome, this event may require you to change your life but that doesn't necessarily mean that you have hit a wall, It could just be a change of course in your life but the destination could end up as rich as the original one.

Skafloc

12-12-2008, 01:43 PM

Well I managed to get some few minutes access to the hospital patient courtesy workstation. As you can imagine its pretty much occupied 24/7.

So.. in a nutshell. Last week I was describing how my side effects from my chemo and radiation had changed from slight nausea to excruting pain.

This Monday to went to another level. The pain intensified and the nausea returned with a vengeance, with full blown vomitting. I was admitted Mon evening to emergency and had an MRI done on Tuesday.

Turns out the treatments aren't the cause.

The tumor cells have indead returned. But worse than that they migrated. The've been steadily moving through my brain and down my spinal cord. All this dispite the treatments, which is the most comprehansive program available bar none.

As of Wednesday my radiation treatments were suspended. Its a focussed treatment that serves no purpose any longer. Yesterday the decision was made to cancel the chmo as well. It isnt strong enough to fight this cell.

So..... I will be waiting 5 weeks until after the holidays and possible trying one last variety od chemo. Its the only thing that has a slght chance of any effect, albeit a remote one. The one I was on was the strongest and best hope, and it failed.

Today I was handed over to Plaiative care.

So now I am going to explore any and all Hoeopathic options I can find. Its all I have left really.

Time frame? *shrug* Not sure, weeks, maybe a month or two.

Vilmah

12-12-2008, 01:47 PM

Good luck, man. We all miss you and are sending you as much good mojo as we can.

Chingaso

12-12-2008, 01:47 PM

Is there anything you need (apart from the continuation of thoughts and prayers) that we could possibly help with?

Malorii

12-12-2008, 01:48 PM

I'm so sorry skaf, what we need to do is find a paladin or a priest maybe even a druid to go up to Canada and cast Renew on your ass. That will work /nod

Akuje

12-12-2008, 01:49 PM

Rick,
Everything I have heard about you makes you out to be a extraordinary person. Someone that is worth meeting. I have admired your strength, your courage, and your attitude during this ordeal. Your attitude is one of Honor, and Valor. I will continue to pray for your health, miracles happen once all hope is lost.

Never loose hope, never give up, so that if nothing more, you will be remembered as someone who loved life so dearly, you fought for every day.

~Jared

Imara

12-12-2008, 01:51 PM

There's really nothing to be said aside from the fact that you are constantly in my thoughts and prayers. As is your family. <3

Malorii

12-12-2008, 01:58 PM

Hell once I finish my degree I'll reroll and go up there to take care of you :D

Izrail

12-12-2008, 01:58 PM

Thanks for updating us, I jumped to see a post from you. You really are an extraordinary person. Best wishes to you and yours.

Taknar

12-12-2008, 01:59 PM

Don't give up hope, Rick. We won't.

Irithel

12-12-2008, 02:03 PM

I can't think of anything to say except that you'll be in my thoughts and I want to believe in miracles.

Ishinara

12-12-2008, 02:07 PM

Please get better Ska.

Moknim

12-12-2008, 02:22 PM

Don't give up hope, Rick. We won't.

This. A million times this.

Just know that there are folks all across the world rooting for you and love you.

Keraph

12-12-2008, 02:29 PM

I'm thinking about you, even if I haven't been able to find the words to say in this thread. I keep thinking of your visit to Boston, and what a great time Anna and I had with you. I realy hope we can do that again sometime. Besides that, you bought beers last time, so I think I owe you!

Selash

12-12-2008, 02:30 PM

I believe whole heartedly in miracles, and I, like many people here on the Gazette am not going to give up hope. It's too early in the game to do that.

And while Selash and Skafloc may not get along in game at the minute, do know that I think you are an amazing guy and that I'm behind you and your family 110% in this. I'll be keeping you in my prayers and intercessions until that tumor's good and dead. Get better, man!

opalexian

12-12-2008, 02:42 PM

I just keep staring.

You can do it, dammit.

The_Golden_Wolf

12-12-2008, 03:00 PM

So now I am going to explore any and all Homeopathic options I can find. Its all I have left really.

I sent you a message concerning this. I am crossing my fingers for you and sending thoughts of love and healing. <3

Kethryvaris

12-12-2008, 03:00 PM

Don't give up hope, Rick. We won't.

^ This. *sends hugs and healing thoughts* <33333333

Grainia

12-12-2008, 03:08 PM

I just hypothetically mailed a hat. Gotta keep that bald head warm!

Thelsuo

12-12-2008, 03:08 PM

Skaf I know little of you apart from what i've seen, what i've heard is another story as you've positively touched so many people. Each time your name is brought up it's in a good light.

Keep fighting the good fight man. I was hit with cancer when I was younger and it go so bad, i'd flatlined soo often they almost pulled my plug during a coma. My mother said no, and it was a struggle since, but it was won.

Fight on man, it's your will, friends, and family that will help you through this.

In my thoughts and prayers Skaf.

-Mike.

Grolish

12-12-2008, 03:12 PM

Wow, I'm speechless. It's been a while since I looked at this thread.

Though you don't seem like the type to do so, don't give up hope. Along with your family, you have people here pulling for you from all over the world.

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

poGrolish

Rand_Shea

12-12-2008, 03:17 PM

I don't pray very often... but you will be in mine tonight, Rick.

Yichimet

12-12-2008, 03:22 PM

Just keep fighting it, dude. We all know you can make it. What are they, a few mutated cells, against the awesome virility of the Ran'deau line?

Much love for you and yours. I'll be praying for you.

Leoren

12-12-2008, 03:29 PM

I can't even begin to imagine what you or your family must be feeling right now.

I don't know what to say. I've been sitting here at this keyboard wishing I had something more to offer, or could do something - ANYTHING to help. I know there's no one liner wishing you better that could provide you the comfort I know we all so want to give you.

I refuse to write anything remotely resembling a eulogy, because you can keep fucking fighting this. Never forget that you're greatly loved and that we're all here behind you. If you need anything at all, you need only ask. We're here for you.

Kiaransalius

12-12-2008, 04:08 PM

RavenReverend

12-12-2008, 05:27 PM

We love you, Skaf. So keep your chin and your spirits high.

Brakogar

12-12-2008, 05:55 PM

Yeah, keep the spirit up. Keep a positive attitude despite what you are told and it will help you through it.

I don't really know you and I am on the other side of the world but I will be thinking of you just like everyone else in this thread.

Skafloc

12-12-2008, 06:22 PM

Hah! I did have an entertaining moment a little while ago when my wife was trying to pronounce all the names on a certain basket of lilies that arrived at the house this afternoon. :D

I especially like how she butchered Akuje. (or was it Akulazeel?) I can't be sure without seeing it so she is bringing the card in. Unfortunately the flowers have to stay at home for health reasons but I'll see them soon enough.

Vilmah, I am going to assume you had a hand in this somewhere. :rolleyes:

Much love to you all. Seriously.

(Oh and Santa just stopped by with the most adorable elf in tow. Ohh Ya!

Izrail

12-12-2008, 06:32 PM

Vilmah, I am going to assume you had a hand in this somewhere. :rolleyes:

She did. :) Good to hear you will go home soon to see the lillies. Requesting pictures of the finished product!

Kained

12-12-2008, 08:03 PM

You have been a good person to me man I don't know what to say but that my prayers are with you I know you can get over this. It takes spirit to overcome such a dire situation I mean medical treatment has done it's best. I know you can dude It's just something you can't give up on. The funny part is Redemption I learned from you, It's not like you told me of it but from talking to you I became a much stronger person inside willing to fight till I'm no longer able to stand or breathe.

I'm here if you ever need me man, I know you aren't going to give in without a fight.

Thank you for being a Friend.
-Kained

opalexian

12-12-2008, 08:38 PM

(Oh and Santa just stopped by with the most adorable elf in tow. Ohh Ya!

See? He's fine :D 'cancer doesn't stand a chance against the Rand'eau virility' indeed X D

Taknar

12-12-2008, 09:08 PM

Ohh Ya!

I knew it! Skafloc is the Kool-Aid man forum troll! =D

Tillna

12-12-2008, 09:45 PM

No idea waht to say...

But yeah...I wouldn;t be suprised if it vanished.

Good thoughs skaff

Vilmah

12-12-2008, 11:23 PM

Skafloc

12-13-2008, 09:50 AM

I'd have paid to have heard her read the names. XD Glad you got the flowers so quickly!

Ansha. It was Ansha that she stumbled over. And she kept calling Sifar...Sipper. Hehehe...:D

Lovely

12-13-2008, 10:00 AM

I love ya Skaf. In that platonic man way of course. Been praying for you, and I hope that things turn out for the best. You still have hit points left, so hopefully God will listen to us and send a few paladins and priests (not shadow!!!) your way.

*hugs*

Malorii

12-13-2008, 10:48 AM

Yeah been reading up on stuff, you got some vicious things in you skaffie. But yeah the pollen from the flowers, pet dander etc can really frakk with you. You're Canadian your nomadic ice people are like the vikings of the cold north, don your hockey mask take a shot of maple syrup and dps those little bastards!

Sinthe

12-13-2008, 10:52 AM

I don't know how I missed this thread. It doesn't really matter.

I met you last spring and thought you were a great guy. I hope my driving didn't scare you too much. Boston's not the best place for it, and with rain and whatnot...

I... am honestly speechless. I wish nothing but the best for you, and I sincerely hope things look up.

I'm 99% sure the wool bag in my one of my bank bag slots is the one you sent me when I re-rolled alliance way way way way back when you played Nouri. =)

Xaraphyne

12-13-2008, 11:40 AM

I believe in miracles, Skaf. You're constantly in my thoughts.

Yatokth

12-13-2008, 03:39 PM

Best of luck, man, you've always been great to RP and talk with since I joined RC, even if we haven't done it much.

Be prayin' for ya.

Cristok

12-13-2008, 05:58 PM

Am praying for you Skaf. Good luck sir...

Sifar

12-13-2008, 07:58 PM

Ansha. It was Ansha that she stumbled over. And she kept calling Sifar...Sipper. Hehehe...:D

Siffer, Seefar, Seyefar...those I've heard, but not Sipper. :D Glad you got a few giggles out of it as laughter makes everything better.

Jeedup

12-14-2008, 12:36 AM

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!

I BE CALLING A WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH ON DEMS BADDIES IN DAH SKAFF'O'LOC BRAIN CAGE!

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!

ME LOVINS DAH GIT NAMED DAH SKAFF'O'LOC! HE'S DAH BESTEST SHOOTA IN DAH WHOLE WAAAAAAAAAAAGH!

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!

BANANA!

*love*

Skafloc

12-14-2008, 06:05 PM

......... Jeedup...... :rolleyes:

On another note I may be sent home as early as tomorrow or Tuesday. Nothing much further they can do here so as soon as my nausea and pain is stablized im homeward bound until we get a chance to talk about the next step. (whatever that may turn out to be )

Regrettabley I will be missing that birthday Xara..

Vilmah

12-14-2008, 07:44 PM

Regrettabley I will be missing that birthday Xara..

Your health is more important. Get lots of rest and enjoy the Holidays with your family.

Ansha

12-14-2008, 08:20 PM

Ansha. It was Ansha that she stumbled over. And she kept calling Sifar...Sipper. Hehehe...:D

She didn't call me Ah-NAH-sha, did she?

Glad to see you're hanging in there, Skaf! <3

Izrail

12-14-2008, 11:44 PM

Jeedup

12-14-2008, 11:48 PM

Hey, i'm a goofball, so I love like one too.

Wait....that didn't sound right.

Tindary

12-15-2008, 01:48 AM

I sit and read with tears in my eyes, not knowing what to add to all the good thoughts and words here. Make the most of being home with your family for Christmas. Have fun. Make memories. That's what the holidays are all about, right? Oh, that...and Christmas miracles. Gotta believe...

l3rokken4ngel

12-15-2008, 02:25 AM

wubbles for joo skaf... be safe!

Daedraug

12-15-2008, 09:04 AM

Sometimes its easy for people to become so engrossed in their own personal tragedies that they shut themselves off from the empathy they would normally feel toward others. Since my mom passed away at a young age in late Oct. this has been my struggle. Along with that, I haven't spent much time here, and I don't know that I've checked the personal news forum in months.

Now I'm really sorry that I let myself shutdown like that.

When my mom was at her worst, both during initial treatment and then in the last few weeks before she died, she remained focused on one thought every single day: something good will come of this. She was fortunate enough to participate in a clinical trial, one which shows some signs of being extremely effective in prostate, pancreatic, and brain cancers. She showed her kids and her family what it meant to never give up, even when things are so dark you can't see what direction to turn. She never allowed her disease to keep her from saying the things she needed to say and letting everyone in her life know how she felt about them.

Because of that, something good will come from her sickness and passing. I know the information gathered from her treatment will save lives. I know that no matter what the odds say, I will help my family fight any and all challenges that we face, and that every day they will know how I feel about them and how much they all mean to me.

Skaf, win or lose something great will be the result of everything you're going through and the character, bravery, and positivity you have exhibited in the face of something so frightening. You are a hero to your family and children as much for how you've faced these trials as for everything that has come before. The information that could be gathered from an investigation as to the cause of your illness could lead to procedures and safety measures which prevent any of your current and future brothers and sisters in arms from having to face this battle. Within this community, you have shown your friends - many of them young people still trying to learn how to become adults - how a real man faces his problems: not with bravado and stone-jawed lack of emotion, but with honesty, a willingness to share, and enough humor to help himself and those around him laugh through the hardest times.

I don't know that I've had as much fun role playing in any form as when we were setting the world abuzz with the Red Scorpion and Blackhawk. Playing on different sides may have limited our contact, but since our time together in-guild I've always considered you a friend and beyond that a stand-up guy the likes of which is rarely known in a place where the anonymity of the internet makes it all to easy for us to adopt less respectful personae.

If you need anything I'm right across the river.

Skafloc

12-15-2008, 10:45 AM

Thanks Daedraug. Your words are in fact extremely timely.

My father flew down east here from Toronto this past Saturday to help out around the house while I am in here. To pass the time he has been doing some research on Glioblastomas and related tomors.

Seems today he stumbled on a clinical study Pfizer is conducting in the Halifax region on a new drug therapy dedicated to Glioblastoma. They are specifically looking for patients who's prescribed therapies have failed. That would be me.

Now there are some other criteria they are looking for I am certain, so there is no guarantee that I fit the bill but it is enough to warrant further questions. He is bringing in his findings this afternoon to the hospital for my doctors and I to peruse and decide if this has merit.

Fingers crossed here. Really I have nothing to lose and everything to gain. In the end data collected my lead to more effective treatments down the road.

My mother died in 1991 from luekemia after just such an experimental trial she volunteered for after her normal treatments failed. 10 years later a good friend of mine underwent the exact same treatment after her normal therapies failed. It was a resounding success and she is healthy and happy today. Icidentlly she was pregnant while undergoing this leukemia treatment. Both she and her daughter are perfect. I fully attribute that to the bravery people like my mother displayed years ago. She is my inspiration.

Malorii

12-15-2008, 11:01 AM

Skaff your very brave, Although I'm worried about you in your current state if you could fend off a zombie attack and make it safely to your haven of choice. Please tell me you brought a crowbar with you.. just in case..

Broxigan

12-15-2008, 11:10 AM

Malethia

12-15-2008, 11:14 AM

Although I'm worried about you in your current state if you could fend off a zombie attack and make it safely to your haven of choice.
I have no doubt that Canadian zombies would be well-mannered, and considerate of his physical condition when searching for their next victim.

"BRAAAAAIIIINNNNSSS!"
*Skaf points to zipper on head*
"Brains." *Zombie tips his hat and shuffles away.*

Malorii

12-15-2008, 11:18 AM

Hmmm... Maybe we could work on Sakffies Security Detail? Hospitals are bad.. What if those nursey things in silent hill attack. We need to be prepared to protect our own.

Do we really want him fighting this lady in a weakend state before we can get a real healer up there?

http://i112.photobucket.com/albums/n170/xiexieni/Skafsnurse.jpg

RavenReverend

12-15-2008, 11:59 AM

Could be worse. Could be THIS nurse saying that :D
http://members.fortunecity.com/pikachu112/pnurse5.jpg

As for the treatment studies, Skaf. Go for it! If they can get you in then grab it! My Dad underwent a treatment study like that for MS. Granted it's not CURED and he's still got MS but it's given him a lot more time out of the wheel chair than many get.

The_Golden_Wolf

12-15-2008, 03:34 PM

Aest

12-15-2008, 05:16 PM

*Skafloc's Auto Shot hits Brain Tumor for over 9000 damage. (1337 Crushing Blow)*

*Brain Tumor Dies*

Sabachthan

12-15-2008, 05:36 PM

Nobody ever types anything where I look. (I just found out about this.) Skaf knows where he stands with me. Strength and honor.

Khaell

12-16-2008, 04:05 PM

Wow Rick, I just heard about all this...

I don't know what to say brother, I only wish I had known sooner.

I love you man, and so do the rest of the Ghants. We've missed you in WAR, so now you better get better and join us...obviously WoW has given you cancer ;)

Take care.

Kurohane

12-16-2008, 10:30 PM

Nouri sweety! *hugs* Barke just directed me to this thread, as I hardly ever drop by these forums anymore. (I know, shame on me.) It's a bit creepy... That first post you made in this thread, if you changed the enviroment it happened in, was almost exactly how we found out that my grandfather had a large tumor this past spring. His was a quick road to recovery, though, and he's now more active and alive than he has been in years. I hope and pray that you'll come out of this in the same manner. My thoughts and prayers are with you, sweety. If you need anything, just drop me a mail and let me know what I can do. *huggles more*

Skafloc

12-18-2008, 12:32 PM

So I was released from hospital yesterday and am now recuperating at home.

Just the act of being home has given me a good boost. I still have some pain and side effects but no where near what those damned rock hard hospital racks deliver.

In the mean time my father has been doing research on clinical trials, bio experiments and such for patients of glioblastoma multiform who have not responded to their treatments. I have been accepted for several of them, dependent on approval of my military medical community.

1 is in Cleveland, Ohio
1 in Halifax here
and 1 in Toronto.

Of the 3 the TORONTO plan appears to be the most promising. They all commence in January or sooner.

I should have more info in a day or so as to what the plan is going to be.

In the meantime its good to be the king...again. (just don't tell Natasha)

Taknar

12-18-2008, 12:36 PM

Go go Toronto!

Moknim

12-18-2008, 12:38 PM

Awesome. Simply awesome. Get in the trial, become the trials poster-boy, speak at conferences, get flown around the world and wined and dined.

Oh, and don't forget about us.

Good news man, still in my prayers.

Evanthe

12-18-2008, 12:41 PM

In the meantime its good to be the king...again. (just don't tell Natasha)

I'm so telling!

Glad you're back home, and that's good news about the studies.

Grainia

12-18-2008, 12:42 PM

And while you're speaking at all these conferences, you can be wearing a totally awesome hypothetical hat!

opalexian

12-18-2008, 12:47 PM

That is fantastic news! Don't come to Cleveland, or I'll have to come visit you ; 3 DOOM! (I might visit in Toronto anyway since Meaya is up there... >_>)

Malorii

12-18-2008, 12:55 PM

YAY! I'm so happy skaffie, rember just tell them they need to aim shot, tranq shot when it enrages and keep that up and you'll be better in no time.

I wish I could have your cancer for you, what I would do is take the cancer and find a way to mutate the tomas, and then when the Toma teaches its mass I shall have it cut out of me and put into an incubatetion tube. Then, with the magic of Sceince! I will give it intelligance and an uncanny will to obey, I shall unleash it upon the sinful town of Compton and begin my march to human enslavement.

So you're going to be like a daddy.

I shall call it, STEVE! THE TERRORTOMA!

It's because of you skafloc that you and you alone have inspired me to unleash my greatness on the world. don't worry skafloc for every problem there is always a final solution and mine involves 60 foot high walking cancer tumors that have a hungering for the flesh of the living.

I love you.

Yichimet

12-18-2008, 01:41 PM

I feel like it's the season for good news, then--my aunt with breast cancer just heard back that it had only spread to one lymph node and they've already removed that one.

Get in the study, kick some ass, pray some prayers, and we'll keep sending our warm thoughts your way.

Lovely

12-18-2008, 02:10 PM

Glad you are home. Will keep prayin' for ye!!! :)

Nadea

12-18-2008, 02:37 PM

*hugs* Im so glad to hear you're doing better! And Im REALLY glad to see you qualify for some of these studies! <3

Rand_Shea

12-18-2008, 04:13 PM

Totally gonna pounce on you if I see you in game.

I sent you a PM regarding something I'd like to do for ya, Skaf... please get back to it as soon as you can?

Xaraphyne

12-19-2008, 06:21 PM

Still thinking about you Skaf! I figured you'd become a bit too busy for the birthday bash. Don't worry, we'll drink plenty for you!

Errigal

12-24-2008, 12:54 AM

I would have loved to have my name on that card, but you already knew I was going through my own hospital hell.

I'm glad you're home now and I can't agree with you more-- it helps so much to be home.

Evanthe

12-25-2008, 07:08 PM

My phone has been off the past few days. I received a message from Skaf's family two days ago that said: "Rick is dying he doesn't have much longer. He's being so brave and I'm so proud of him."

That's all the information I have right now but I thought I should pass that message on to everyone.

Kyrion

12-25-2008, 07:13 PM

...:(

The_Golden_Wolf

12-25-2008, 07:31 PM

There are no words .

Xaraphyne

12-25-2008, 08:04 PM

No words at all.

Kained

12-25-2008, 08:05 PM

When shadows fade echos cry water drops chime in the caves of eternity, preservation of mind is what's left to be strong to have faith to be your own man. you were twice the man anyone could hope to be for having such endurance and faith. I send my love, look it in the face and hold your head high come that time.

When light shines and echos cry water drops chime in the caves of memory, preservation of your will is whats left to be kien and headstrong will point you to your destiny. you will forever be here with me skafloc, and I will hold my head up high to face you come that time.

-Kained

Moknim

12-25-2008, 09:32 PM

I am still thinking and praying for you Rick.

Swerto

12-25-2008, 09:50 PM

I'm so sorry, my thoughts are with him.

Sifar

12-25-2008, 09:56 PM

I began to wonder, and hope, and send up additional prayers. We're all pulling for him and his family - facing something no one ever wants to imagine possible. Each day, each hour, each minute more precious than the last....

Rand_Shea

12-25-2008, 10:47 PM

These past few months I wasted so much time fretting and fussing over someone who turned out to be just another scum of the Earth... time I could have spent talking with you.

You listened to me and reassured me even though you were going through worse... I look back and still marvel at how strong you were, and still are... and how weak and foolish I was.

I wish I'd known you better, known you longer... If by some grace of a higher power I can see you again, I would cherish every moment like I should have before.

You are the last person on Earth this should have happened to. I will pray for that miracle, still... until I know you are at peace. If that is the case, then I hope that there is a heaven and that you'll be there waiting to greet everyone.

I miss you.

Taknar

12-25-2008, 11:40 PM

Oh no...

Roth'rili

12-25-2008, 11:52 PM

Hey Skaf,

We started as nemesis, but you and the people you brought around you quickly grew to the reason why I kept RPing after the things that happened. The times where I would...pop up at the wrong times, hehe, might have been small and insubstantial to your RP but it was fun times and sometimes the only RP I got. I am glad I could provide that short burst of random RP and be your...ok I forgot the guy you referenced but it was funny and it made me not feel shooed away. You encouraged a RPer and I guess thats what every RPer wishes to do.

Just wanted to let him know Skaf was a great part and respected part in Roth's history. You and Eva added some great times to my enjoyment to the game. Worse thing to happen to a good guy like you man, you effected so many people in a positive light and it shouldn't have to end. I'll always be your comedic "pop-up at the wrong time" man

Blyx

12-26-2008, 08:27 AM

Folks,
I knew the day would come that I would need to send this:

I'm sorry to say that Rick passed away in the early hours of Christmas morning, he went peacefully and surrounded by loved ones.

Please know that your friendship over the time that he has known you had a profound impact on Rick. The bonds created here filled gaps in his life that not many people would understand or appreciate. I do, and I thank you.

Know that his family will be well looked after.

Farewell

Peter

Leoren

12-26-2008, 08:32 AM

Thank you Peter.

Our prayers go out to you all.

Szordrin

12-26-2008, 08:44 AM

My heart goes out Rick and his family...

I'm at a loss of words.

Imara

12-26-2008, 08:46 AM

Thank you so much for letting us know. Please, please pass on all my thoughts and prayers to his family.

Thoraggar

12-26-2008, 08:56 AM

Thank you Peter, and best wishes.

Justin

drippygoo

12-26-2008, 09:00 AM

Wow, I dont know what to say.

He will be missed.

How appropiate is the tag "Skafloc is awsome*.

Ellsbeth

12-26-2008, 09:00 AM

Oh Rick, we'll miss you.

Niethan

12-26-2008, 09:05 AM

The world is a little darker for your absence, Rick.

RavenReverend

12-26-2008, 09:16 AM

We love ya Rick, and we'll miss you.

Therium

12-26-2008, 09:49 AM

I just logged on this morning and heard about skaf.

I dont know why it hit me so hard when i read it, i only knew skafloc so-so, he was a nice guy from what i could tell.

All my prayers are for skaf and family.

Christmas may be a day of happiness, joy and family togetherness, but I think there was no better day for him to go, than in the midst of such love from friends and family, while love is being shared all over the world.

Xaraphyne

12-26-2008, 09:53 AM

May all the love shared here for Rick be felt by his family at this time.

Grolish

12-26-2008, 10:00 AM

Peter, my deepest sympathies go out to you and your family for your loss.

Though Rick is no longer physically with us, his spirit lives on in each of us that knew him.

This speech was given at my son's college graduation. I have a feeling Rick and Randy were much alike.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcYv5x6gZTA&feature=channel

Mark

Gorvena

12-26-2008, 10:32 AM

At a loss for words here.

Prayers for the family.

Villayna

12-26-2008, 10:37 AM

I don't know what to say. Mch love to all his family, those who knew him in real life and those who knew his characters and stories.

I had a few things I planned to do on this day that I cannot accomplish here at my parents. I will be going home today, but it'll be late tonight before I can assist in anything that anyone wants to do.

Those who have not done so already, or who didn't know about it, there is a private group called "Friends of Skafloc" that gives access to a section where Nymare and many others are planning a video.

Until I can get home to a real computer and internet there isn't much more I can do.

Such sad news :(

Nadea

12-26-2008, 11:21 AM

Thank you Peter, for letting us know...

My thoughts go out to his friends and family- Rick was such an amazing guy. One of the nicest people I ever had the pleasure of meeting in real life. He fought this battle hard, and kept a positive additude the entire time. Brave till the end. He has touched so many people's lives, and brought many smiles to faces. He will forever be in our thoughts and minds.

I'll miss you Rick, even though I know you are watching all of us from above.

Barke

12-26-2008, 11:24 AM

My thoughts go out to his family.

He will be missed.

Izrail

12-26-2008, 11:36 AM

:( He is definitely missed. No words yet.

Thank you for keeping us updated, Eva and Peter.

Abric

12-26-2008, 11:41 AM

I was going through my private messages, trying to find a bit of information Rick and I were talking about. While I would not count myself as one of Rick's close friends, I do feel we shared very similar thoughts on our real life commitment and gameplay. I'd like to share with you a post he gave to me when he found out I was leaving for a month to meet up with my new ship. I think it shows the sort of person he is, and while we were not close personally; I do know we shared something that a select few can because of our job.

--------------------------------------

10-28-2008, 01:35 AM Skafloc (http://www.wow-tng.org/member.php?u=870)
Senior Member
http://www.wow-tng.org/images/ranks/exalted.jpg

http://www.wow-tng.org/image.php?u=870&dateline=1217684099 (http://www.wow-tng.org/member.php?u=870)

Join Date: Dec 2006
Location: In a van, down by the river...
Posts: 3,319

http://www.wow-tng.org/images/icons/icon1.gif Seriously
Have a great time out there. All things considered that is exactly where I would be at this very moment through to mid Dec. A day doesn't go by when I don't worry about the little things my po's are suddenly faced with having to cover for my absence. I know its stupid, I trained them well and they are top notch. But still. I have this feeling you know?

They are my guys.

Savor the moment friend. Savor it.

---------------------------------------

No matter what country we serve or port we call home; I'm proud to be part of the history we've shared, Rick. I promise, I'll savor it.

Tindary

12-26-2008, 12:06 PM

He fought bravely, he showed all of us what a stand-up guy he was...and that is something his family can hold on to in sad times.

Christmas...joining "THE" birthday party celebration. It seems appropriate.

Kethryvaris

12-26-2008, 12:09 PM

at a loss for words. my thoughts and prayers go out to rick's family. he was amazing.

Amoola

12-26-2008, 12:10 PM

Been gone for about a week and just found this after stumbling across the memorial thread.

Many thoughts are going out to the family from me and Swift. It is a subject that hits close to home for us.

I will be lighting a candle.

Vilmah

12-26-2008, 12:22 PM

I just sent him his gift two weeks ago.

Selash

12-26-2008, 12:46 PM

I'm deeply saddened to hear that he's gone. Rick was not only an excellent RPer and member of the TNG, he also was one of the best players I've had the honor of enjoying the game with.

I'm going to continue to pray for him and his family, and for all of us here.

~Marc

Vilmah

12-26-2008, 12:56 PM

You know what gets me is how unselfish he was, and what a normal good person he was. This was what he sent me after he got the flowers:

Thank you for everything. It was totally unexpected.

It did remind me of something though.

Sectret Santa is something I may have to bow out of this year, or at least rigg it so that I get someone who isnt going to be put out by a delay. I have no idea when I will be able to get out and get a gift.

Hopefuly not too long, but I doubt I will make the deadline.

The fact that he still wanted to participate in some stupid gift exchange with people he hardly knows, after going through all this crap, really hit me hard. Nobody even sent him his gift, last year.

I think if people want to remember him well, they should remember what made him such a great guy to begin with. Be good to each other. Be honest, be thoughtful, be mindful of other people's feelings. That's what he did, and I think he'd appreciate having that sort of impact on people's lives, many of which he never even met face to face.

Jabiba

12-26-2008, 12:59 PM

:( That's all I got. Will be missed, glad I got to know him for what I could.

Moknim

12-26-2008, 01:14 PM

I am at a total loss. He was a wonderful and beautiful person.

edit:
I love poetry (my audio was a reading of my favorite poem, sailing related, from one sailor to another), so for Rick:

Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,
But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.

Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;

For tho' from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crossed the bar.
--Alfred Lord Tennyson

Errigal

12-26-2008, 01:59 PM

Though I hopped from clique to clique on TN, Skafloc was always the constant. He knew all my alts and he was one of the few who knew the entire truth about me.

I don't think Bir will ever take off his red crimson hat.

The_Golden_Wolf

12-26-2008, 02:34 PM

Rest in peace brother wolf.

Izrail

12-26-2008, 04:11 PM

Did he get the journal, Vil?

I think if people want to remember him well, they should remember what made him such a great guy to begin with. Be good to each other. Be honest, be thoughtful, be mindful of other people's feelings. That's what he did, and I think he'd appreciate having that sort of impact on people's lives, many of which he never even met face to face.

Yes. He is one of the people I will remember even if I quit the world of internet gaming for good. Because on top of his outstanding creativity, he was an all-around awesome guy. Not perfect but a better man than most.

Rest in peace, Rick.

Aphraelle

12-26-2008, 05:10 PM

One more with nothing to say but that TNG, RC and the world are the poorer for his passing. Go well, Rick. Like so many others here, I'll miss you.

Peter, thank you for bearing this sad news to us and for reassuring us that Natasha and his kids will be looked after - that's a relief, to know that at least we needn't worry on their account, even if I'm quite convinced that they have an auxiliary help network here on TNG if they need it. :)

Ansha

12-26-2008, 05:17 PM

I will miss him. I didn't know him well--not as well as I wanted, at least. But I have never heard a negative word spoken about him, and he has had a big impact on this entire community.

The following seems appropriate, given its significance to both the Royal Navy (and I would hope, its Canadian 'branch') and the US Navy:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjqIgRPYeBQ

Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy word,
Who walkedst on the foaming deep,
And calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!

O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger's hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe'er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.

Rest in peace, Rick.

Kained

12-26-2008, 05:33 PM

One less fire put out in this tainted darkness that we call a world surrounding us...

Advurb

12-26-2008, 05:45 PM

A terrible loss to everyone he's known. Endless condolences to all applicable.

Aphraelle

12-26-2008, 06:28 PM

Ever since reading this sad news I've been thinking of a poem I read in Ursula LeGuin's book Always Coming Home. In context it's the Initiation Song from the Finder's Lodge, the Finder's Lodge being a group of travelers and traders from the culture the book is about, but I offer it here as a prayer of sorts for Rick's spirit.

Please bring strange things.
Please come bringing new things.
Let very old things come into your hands.
Let what you do not know come into your eyes.
Let desert sand harden your feet.
Let the arch of your feet be the mountains.
Let the paths of your fingertips be your maps
and the ways you go be the lines on your palms.
Let there be deep snow in your inbreathing
and your outbreath be the shining of ice.
May your mouth contain the shapes of strange words.
May you smell food cooking you have not eaten.
May the spring of a foreign river be your navel.
May your soul be at home where there are no houses.
Walk carefully, well loved one,
walk mindfully, well loved one,
walk fearlessly, well loved one.
Return with us, return to us,
be always coming home.

Okhu

12-26-2008, 07:23 PM

Thats a shame.

Vilmah

12-26-2008, 07:25 PM

Did he get the journal, Vil?

I hope so. I sent it about two weeks ago, and it would have shown up about 2-3 days after. I didn't get word from him like I did with the flowers, but, I'm betting it's just because of all the other things going on. I hope he got it.

Yichimet

12-26-2008, 09:09 PM

A haiku series for Skafloc, by Yichimet:

I've erased a full
dictionary's worth of words
trying to say, what--

well, thousands of years
and better people than I--
I don't know, it's hard.

It's hard. It's winter
and it's hard. I hope your soul
is singing, I hope

the BBQ there
is delicious, and I hope
you know we love you.

Kyrion

12-26-2008, 09:29 PM

I'm really going to miss you Rick, I really enjoyed our short but awesome RP's together on both my rogue and Paladin, I really wish there was someway we could speak even if it was for one last time.

Rand_Shea

12-26-2008, 09:36 PM

I hope one day to be half the person that you were, Rick...

Words cannot explain just who you were to me, and why your words and actions meant so much. You told me not to give up... I hope I live up to what you want.

I wish I hadn't been so blind... I wish I had been able to see beyond myself and given you more than just my lamenting...

I still miss you... and I always will miss you...

Irontoe

12-26-2008, 09:56 PM

Christ. All this in two months. I wonder whether he had any inkling of how quickly this could/would all play out.

Vilmah

12-26-2008, 10:32 PM

Christ. All this in two months. I wonder whether he had any inkling of how quickly this could/would all play out.

That's the same thing that's been running through my head. How could this have happened so fast?

Gorvena

12-26-2008, 10:35 PM

Similar situation as the mother of a good friend of mine. She went from diagnosis to gone in 7 weeks.

Inwa

12-27-2008, 12:28 AM

Christ. All this in two months. I wonder whether he had any inkling of how quickly this could/would all play out.

In a perfect world, Skaf would still be with us.

However, I am glad it went as quickly as it did. He did not have years to suffer and slowly wither away. His wife and children have mostly memories of a healthy, happy husband and father.

We all loved Skaf, and although we would much prefer he still be with us now, I think we should all be thankful he went quickly, and missed the years of suffering many cancer victims endure before finally succumbing to it.

Grayslin

12-27-2008, 12:55 AM

He will be missed, that is for certain.

*salute*

Good luck in your new adventure, Rick.

Redemptio

12-27-2008, 06:07 AM

When is the funeral?

Malethia

12-27-2008, 07:05 AM

That's the same thing that's been running through my head. How could this have happened so fast?

It doesn't sound like it happened that fast; only the end stage did. From the way he described it initially, the cancer had probably been building for some time. He was fortunate that it didn't affect him until shortly before its discovery; but then again, perhaps if some fluke or symptom had allowed it to be detected sooner, a different treatment could have been established. Such is the speculation of hindsight.

I wish I had some beautiful words I could express, , but death is one of those things where words seem to be wholly inadequate. My hope is that the desire within a global community of people to find some way to memorialize the man in a permanent fashion brings at least a small level of comfort to a grieving family.

Humor is often a defensive mechanism, and thus do I find my own way to move on from the absence of a missing friend. So there's a worm, and there's a phallic rock. Let's face it, the man was completely immature.

Here's hoping you find a penis-shaped cloud to chuckle at, Rick.

Blyx

12-27-2008, 07:15 AM

Good people: the funeral will be held on Tuesday the 30th Dec, here in Halifax.
I am trying to link his obituary that appeared in the paper today.

www.thechronicleherald.ca is the site and if you will see a clickable "obituraries" in small black print above the words Herald that is in red.

http://thechronicleherald.ca

Peter

Villayna

12-27-2008, 07:30 AM

here is the direct link: http://thechronicleherald.ca/announcements/display.php?anntype=obituaries~2008/12/27~16810265

MOHR, Petty Officer First Classs Richard Walter "Rick"
42, of Lower Sackville, passed away at home on December 25, 2008, lovingly surrounded by his family. Born in Etobicoke, Ont., he was a son of Gerhard Mohr, Missiauga, Ont. and the late Elisabeth (Oswald) Mohr. Rick served in the Canadian Navy for 22 years receiving his basic training in Cornwallis and Esquimault. He served on the HMCS Nipigon, the HMCS Gateneau, the HMCS Athabaskan, the HMCS Fraser, the HMCS Charlottetown, HMCS Preserver, HMCS Provider and the HMCS Toronto and most recently again on the HMCS Athabaskan as manager of it's communication department. He served during the 1990-1991 Persian Gulf Conflict, many NATO Tours of Duty, and was an instructor at the Fleet School. Although Rick served his country with pride and dedication, he devoted his spare time to family activities with particular attention to his children's soccer games and playtime with his dogs Schroeder and the late Maggie. He coached soccer for the Scotia Soccer Club where he also served on the executive. He enjoyed cooking, gardening, hiking and the time spent as a Scout leader. He will always be remembered as a loving and devoted father and husband. He is survived by his wife of 17 years, Natasha (Zinck); daughter, Elisabeth; son, Andrew; sister, Sandra (husband Al); grandfather, Walter; stepmother, Florence; cherished mother-in-law, Tootsie; sisters-in-law, Cynthia (husband Andreas Paul), Carla (husband Glen), Alexis (husband Phil) and very special sister-in-law, Chrissie (husband Gary); brother-in-law, Shane (spouse Rhonda); and very special family friend, Gary Carson. He will be sadly missed by his many aunts and uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by a very special grandmother, Stephanie and grandparents, Martin and Theresa. Visitation will be held Monday, December 29, from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m. in Atlantic Funeral Home, 125 Sackville Dr., Lower Sackville. A funeral service will be held Tuesday at 1 p.m. in Stoneridge Baptist Church. Burial will be in Oakridge Memory Gardens. No flowers by request. Donations may be made to the Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada or QEII Foundation Neurosurgery Unit. On-line condolences may be made to the family by visiting the website: www.atlanticfuneralhomes.com

The online condolences thing doesn't have his name listed yet. I'll keep an eye on it.

Kazthul

12-27-2008, 08:22 AM

I didn't really know Skafloc much, I'd seen him around plenty as I was running to wherever and I thought, I should stop and say hello, but I was busy doing whatever it was I was doing.

Its only now, after that moment has come and gone a dozen or more times and never will again, that I realize how much we take for granted. Every moment of every day is precious and shouldn't be squandered on the mundane or trivial, but we're just too busy and oblivious to notice. It leaves a sadness in my heart.

RavenReverend

12-27-2008, 10:05 AM

here is the direct link: http://thechronicleherald.ca/announcements/display.php?anntype=obituaries~2008/12/27~16810265

The online condolences thing doesn't have his name listed yet. I'll keep an eye on it.

His names up now if you want to post.

Ellsbeth

12-27-2008, 10:12 AM

http://www.ebituaries.ca/Ebit.aspx?DaId=659689668

His profile.

Taknar

12-27-2008, 12:10 PM

I have posted my condolences there, and asked his family to contact me to see where they would like a memorial bench set up. Once I have that information from them, and have contacted local government to see about what it would cost I will create a new thread to see about support and what we can do as a group and individually to raise funds.

Swerto

12-27-2008, 12:18 PM

I say a memorial book would be better... but benches work.

Blyx

12-27-2008, 04:00 PM

Vilmah

12-27-2008, 04:03 PM

Totally understood, thanks for telling us.

Redemptio

12-27-2008, 04:57 PM

Rand_Shea

12-27-2008, 05:11 PM

I completely understand. I don't want to do anything that may upset her or the kids...

I do ask, though, that you possibly look at the memorial thread and the log I posted of my conversations with a GM in regards to safeguarding his account from ever being activated by hackers who would desecrate and ransack it. The GM told me that Rick's family should contact the billing department to discuss options for the account, but also told me that if an authenticator were bought for it, that it could be linked to the account as additional security.

I think it's important because a few people here who canceled their accounts told that they had come back only to find that the accounts had been reactivated, used, and banned after being ransacked. It would greatly upset people here if anyone other than a family member ever logged into his characters again... I'm sure it would also possibly cause heartache for his family if some unscrupulous hacker took something that belonged to him and abused it as such, too.

I would like to buy an authenticator for them, if possible... but safeguarding it is something that his wife will probably have to do when she goes about settling his affairs.

Thank you...

Skallagar

12-27-2008, 05:15 PM

Woah, man...that's tragedy. Rick/Scaf was a great guy, and this place will be a little less chill without him.

Xaraphyne

12-27-2008, 05:38 PM

There is something you all need to be aware of regarding any follow on plans you have.
Please remember that this is coming from someone who knew Rick personally and also knows his wife well.
You'll have to be sensitive and aware that if you deal with his wife on any matter, that she did not share Rick's enthusiasm with WoW. I will not go much more into this, suffice it to say that she may not welcome ideas of yours if they are connected to the game. Please be careful, it could upset her.
Memorial benches, or whatever extremely thoughtful ideas you have, should be pursued keeping this in mind.
Again, you knew Rick in game, I knew him and I know his family in real life, I would not mention this if I didn't think it was important.
Bottom Line-His wife and WoW do not mix well, at least they didn't six months ago. Perhaps things have changed that I am unaware of.
My advice, any correspondence with his wife should come from a friend, not from a world of warcraft friend.

Folks, I would not be here if I didn't think you were owed this insight, it could save some heartache on both sides.
Clear?

Very understood. Thank you. The last thing I want to do is cause his wife to have to deal with anything more than his passing.

Rand, your idea might cause the very offense Peter is suggesting we avoid. I don't think we need to suggest to her that she should worry about safeguarding the insubstantial in-game things she may have preferred he had not spent so much time with, especially now that his time is over. I understand how you feel, but it sounds like she might not feel the same way.

Blyx

12-27-2008, 06:23 PM

Rand_Shea

12-27-2008, 06:48 PM

Rand, I read your post with the GM and understand.

Be assured that when the time is right, I'll discuss the matter with his wife and offer my services to contact Blizzard for her, perhaps with her present if necessary.
I also plan to make sure, again when the time is right, that she knows what impact he had with many peoples lives , people that she will never know. I don't want that to go unnoticed, I can tell by the posts here how important and appreciated he was. She won't be ready to listen to this for awhile but I will get this across to her, she'll be tender for some time but she should know this particular piece of his life.

If something happened to me, world of warcraft would just go away forever, gees I've only ever been in one Guild (with Rick actually). However, Rick had you folks, she should know that, I promise to make it known to her.
What Rick had here with you, she should be aware of that, it's important enough not to let fade away unnoticed.

By the way, I have the honour of being a Pallbearer at the funeral, I'll keep in touch as long as I can or as long as you wish.

Yeah, no rush. I can get that she wasn't at all fond of the game, and may think of us as obstacles that got in the way at times.

His family always came first, however... There were times that he would go AFK to take care of something his wife or kids needed him to do and none of us ever felt slighted in the least bit. If he were still here and for whatever reason opted to not come here or onto the game anymore, no one here would fault him for that, and we would still love and appreciate him as we do now.

But, he gave us the privelege and pleasure of his time, his writings, and his humor. For that, we will be forever grateful.

When the time is right, I'd like to also send her a drawing. Rick asked me for a picture once, in exchange for a song that he wrote for one of my characters, and I'm still working on that one... However, perhaps a portrait of him would more suite her and her family, or some kind of symbolic print. It's one of the few things I can offer and do for them other than contribute to what has been suggested.

Brakogar

12-27-2008, 07:08 PM

My sympathies to Rick's family and loved ones. Everything happened very fast but he maintained his courage and positive attitude the whole time and that is a true show of his character.

He is not truly gone as long as he is remembered.

Inwa

12-27-2008, 08:14 PM

By the way, I have the honour of being a Pallbearer at the funeral, I'll keep in touch as long as I can or as long as you wish.

That is indeed a great honor.

Please stay in touch.

Alucian

12-28-2008, 01:11 PM

Nadea just told me about this. I am so sorry for this tragic loss. Nouri was a bright point in many lives, and his passing leaves the world a little darker.

While I don't fear death, the unknown quality of it always unsettled me. I've never felt more at peace with the idea until I saw this. I know it's probably not at all faithful to the source material, but for some reason...it definitely stilled a part of me that I didn't know needed it. I come back to it whenever this fearsome concept arises in my life again, and it continues to give me comfort.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWa_PqcbhSs

And, in honor of Nouri:

God be with you till we meet again;
By His counsels guide, uphold you,
With His sheep securely fold you;
God be with you till we meet again.

Till we meet, till we meet,
Till we meet at Jesus’ feet;
Till we meet, till we meet,
God be with you till we meet again.

Malorii

12-28-2008, 01:15 PM

Please keep in touch with us though.

Blyx

12-28-2008, 05:47 PM

Alucian,
Very nice, the scene with Gandalf and his calming words to the hobbit before what seemed like certain death.

My brother sent me this poem over thirty years ago,shortly before his passing. (J.R.R. Tolkien wrote this one as well

I think it is fitting in this case.

Day is ended, dim my eyes,
but journey long before me lies.
Farewell, friends! I hear the call.
The ship's beside the stony wall.
Foam is white and waves are grey;
beyond the sunset leads my way.
Foam is salt, the wind is free;
I hear the rising of the Sea.

Farewell friends! The sails are set,
the wind is east, the moorings fret.
Shadows long before me lie,
beneath the ever-bending sky,
But islands lie behind the Sun
that I shall raise ere all is done;
Lands there are to west of West,
where noise is quiet and sleep is rest.

Guided by the Lonely Star,
beyond the utmost harbour-bar
I'll find the havens fair and free,
and beaches of the Starlit Sea.
Ship, my ship! I seek the West,
and fields and mountains ever blest.
Farewell to Middle-earth at last,
I see the Star above your mast!

Inwa

12-28-2008, 08:26 PM

I love that poem.

Since we're sharing words which ease and express our grief, I wanted to link you this song (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=scLcUfhd2kY&feature=related).

I think Eva may have posted this somewhere else already, but both she and I think it expresses how we feel, and we have drawn at least some comfort from it.

Blyx

12-29-2008, 08:42 AM

Folks,
I have been talking to Rick's wife and her attitude towards the game is not as bad as I believed.
She does appreciate all the kind words here and in fact has asked me to do something for her.
She wants to gather all of the the writings by Rick for the purpose of perhaps having them published.
I have seen that in the Nether Legends section, that people have made a compilation so that may suffice.

The only thing that is a little strange to her, is when she see people saying that they didn't know him in real life, only in the game.

I'm going to make another post in the Nether Legends forum, on the Sticky titled Salute to Skafloc.

Vilmah

12-29-2008, 08:48 AM

If someone went through and removed all of the WoW-owned stuff from his writing, I'm sure it could be easily published.

Broxigan

12-29-2008, 08:51 AM

The only thing that is a little strange to her, is when she see people saying that they didn't know him in real life, only in the game.

Usually, this means that they never had face to face contact. At least when I put it that way, that is what I mean.

It is good that she is accepting it. Yes, we may not have really known Rick "in real life" but he touched most of us in one way or another. And to think that he has touched people from Australia to England and everywhere in between. Either in game, in character or what have you.

Good luck on the possible publishing of his work. He had a talent. I wish I could write half as good as he did.

opalexian

12-29-2008, 10:53 AM

I hadn't been on because Meaya was here, but got up a little early to check things. When I was heading to the computer the first thing I thought was 'Skaf is gone.' I hate it when that stupid little voice is right. My condolences to the family and IRL friends. I know I'll cry at some point. Thank you so much for taking the time to come keep us updated on everything, Blyx-I hope you'll stick around.

There are many self-publishing options that can be considered for his work; I'd have to look into it further, but it may not be necessary to take the wow references out at all if they are made for little or no profit, or the profit goes to a non-profit.

Naheal

12-31-2008, 10:32 AM

The world is a little darker for your absence, Rick.

Then it's now on our shoulders to brighten it back up.

He's not here to brighten up the world anymore, so we should. In his memory.

Rhowen-Prea

12-31-2008, 02:17 PM

I just found out about this from Kuro. My desktop died a few weeks ago and I'm just now getting back to my foruming.

Skafloc - Rick - was one of my oldest friends on this server. I remember when I was writing that ridiculous fanfiction and he requested that I write for Lil' Lupa and the Corsairs as a gang/rap group. He was never anything but a gentleman to me, always quick to try to cheer me up when I was down, or harass me for RP, or whatever was going down. I do not think I would be wrong to say he was not only a pillar of this server's community, holding it up through thick and thin, but a cornerstone of the house that holds us all.

I count myself lucky to have known him. I extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

I'm sure there isn't anything I could say that hasn't been said already. He was a terrific, stand up gentleman who will be deeply, sorely missed. I know I will.

Kurohane

12-31-2008, 02:36 PM

I'm honestly at a loss for words at the moment. I knew Rick for close to three years, and even after I left this server, and eventually left the game, he remained a dear friend to me. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, and with all of you as well.

Redemptio

12-31-2008, 02:43 PM

She wants to gather all of the the writings by Rick for the purpose of perhaps having them published.

If you do get them published...may i suggest using some of the better artists on this form (excluding me xD) to illustrate some of them?

It would be so neat to have a book of Rick's writings.

Rand_Shea

12-31-2008, 05:06 PM

If someone went through and removed all of the WoW-owned stuff from his writing, I'm sure it could be easily published.

It wouldn't hurt to just ask for their permission for the references to be used, particularly if they are published and any profits made from distribution go towards some kind of non-profit venture... such as paying for the funeral, a memorial bench, or even just providing his family with them.

The issue would be if his works got popular and there was a high demand for them... then Blizzard would want royalties and such.

But... PR means a lot to big companies like that. They'd probably forgo them entirely.. though permission would still be needed, and to get that you'd need to contact their legal department or somesuch.

Villayna

12-31-2008, 05:33 PM

publishing his work discussion is being done at http://wow-tng.org/showthread.php?t=14864

Blyx

01-04-2009, 11:36 AM

I'm going to bid farewell at this point, I'm finding it tough to be here to be honest. I've asked Rick's wife to make contact here and she has done that and I'm confident that she will get whatever she needs from you.
I was just the middle man anyway.

I regret meeting under such sad circumstances but nonetheless I am grateful to have been able to post here for a short time.

Thank you for all that you have done and will continue to do.

Farewell friends

Peter

Izrail

01-04-2009, 12:13 PM

Thank you again, Peter. Your presence here has been invaluable. Be well.

Xaraphyne

01-05-2009, 10:20 AM

Thank you Peter for reaching out to us. Take care.

opalexian

04-29-2009, 09:20 PM

I asked Villy to move this here so it wouldn't be lost. I think these posts are very special to all of us and wanted to keep them for love and for inspiration on those bad days. Especially the lizard picture. :)

Zethrin

06-10-2009, 05:44 PM

As a fellow Canadian and someone who knows a bit of what it's like to see loved ones struggle with cancer, I offer my belated condolences. It is deeply saddening to know that Rick is no longer with us, yet in a way, it's also inspiring how his memory seems to have brought out the best in the people writing in this thread (and now subforum).

I regret greatly now not making a greater effort to roleplay with Rick/Skafloc when I had the chance to. I still remember the one time Karryn and I were in a normal Nexus PUG leveling together, and we kept wiping on Keristrasza (trying to heal as a ret paladin was suboptimal). One of the other random players we were grouped with had to drop out, and this was getting tedious, so Karryn called in Skafloc, who just happened to be online. Despite being level 80 already, he was kind enough to drop whatever he was doing to help us out.

In retrospect that would have been a great opportunity to RP and introduce Zethrin to the Baron (who's reputation as a great writer and RP personality proceeded him), but I was too focused on finishing the instance and not sure of roleplaying in the middle of a mostly out of character pick up group, and I let that opportunity pass by (this was in late November or early December of 2008 I think).

Alas, regrettably I cannot say I really knew him personally like many of you, only that I respected him from my very brief in-game encounters, reading his writing on TNG, and from his reputation as one of the more decent and honourable characters inhabiting our fair server.

/salute

(Hmm, perhaps I should level a blood elf hunter alt in his honour when I finally have the time to subscribe to WoW again, and make up a backstory of being one of the Baron's former indirect subordinates... *goes back into lurking mode*)

Kyrion

06-23-2009, 10:09 PM

Were still thinking about you bud, I hope heaven is treating you well.

opalexian

07-05-2009, 09:54 PM

Please be aware, if you go to the previosly listed pages, ''skafoc' brings up malware' (http://www.ebituaries.ca/Ebit.aspx?DaId=659689668) (WTS I know under normal circumstances this would be awesome, Villy, but this is pretty fucked up -_-)

I think I might have found reference to Skaf's last post (http://forums.somethingawful.com/showthread.php?threadid=3140263&pagenumber=14&perpage=40#post361074791) anywhere, but any Canadaian's attempts to get to Ebituaries not hijaked (http://www.ebituaries.ca/) would be awesome (I'm currently too stupid to do that....) Anyway, my search of cancer info was completely hampered by this, including info about research. I think Skaf would have been very displeased by this and the appropriate parties need to be fucked up. Or maybe that's just me....

opalexian

07-05-2009, 10:42 PM

My post for bio 101 on cancer-the post we were supposed to read was here (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/29/health/research/29drug.html)-I was answering the 3 questions we were referred to answer-

Please read the article below, and then answer the following questions:

1. Cancer is likely to influence every person in this course in someway, and the treatment of cancer and a cure are the holy grail of cancer research. Explain what this article is telling us.
2. Can we assume that there is a single cure for cancer, why or why not?
3. We will see that animal studies show promise over and over, but why then are we not seeing the results transferred to human studies? Are there some fundamental issues with the use of animals as human substitutes?

I probably fail but fuck you and the retarded goat you rode in on--

1. Cancer is likely to influence every person in this course in someway, and the treatment of cancer and a cure are the holy grail of cancer research. Explain what this article is telling us.

That cancer cells are under attack by a variety of methods-via genetic materials in the transformed cell, via reprioduced DNA and RNA that then reproduce cells that are divergent from the DNA and RNA they were supposed to reporduce to create healthy cells.

2. Can we assume that there is a single cure for cancer, why or why not?

No, because all of our attempts to innoculte either the DNA or RNA, or immunise cells directly, has just resulted in human DNA/RNA mutating and becoming a part of the cancer spreading.

3. We will see that animal studies show promise over and over, but why then are we not seeing the results transferred to human studies? Are there some fundamental issues with the use of animals as human substitutes? Animals don't have the same number of

'Animals' have less chromomes than 'humans' and are thus easily identifiable from the 'masses' that are trying to ward off cancer than the 'humans' who want into these genetic studies who are waiting to die and therefore want to try anything they can to stop themselves from dying of cancer (forgive me, a friend online died of rapid onset exemplified by this post (http://wow-tng.org/showpost.php?p=230967&postcount=1) [he was dead within a month and a half, died on Dec 25th he had gliobastoma multiforme (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glioblastoma_multiforme)]Humans just don't have the genetic simplicity of humans when it comes to cells and cells dividing into these new cells to create cancer cells. We need to be more agressive and use exerimental treatments on terminal cases. Doctors need to be more honest so those people can participate in trials as is needed. Rick would have wanted to be a part of any trial, so I highly advocate this approach. Sorry.

I linked this in my post about this NYT (http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/29/health/research/29drug.html) article...fuck you, I cried the entire time I posted the info about Rick. I just hope that one more person understands their cancer moments before he did and ask for these experimental treatments to possibly cure them, and if not, to at least further the science needed to try and find a cure. I miss him every time I go onto my friends list and I know you all do too. I wish there was more we could do.

More to come...