Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff

Subject: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:23 PM

Wow, what a roller coaster this year has been! For quite a while (at least the last couple of years) I'd been concerned about a lack of energy, and some related stuff, but agreed with the Docs that it was probably just a symptom of hittin' the 'fifties'. Five months ago a huge malignant tumour was found on one of my kidneys, and from the reaction of specialists it wasn't hard to project that I wouldn't be around for very long. I went through many X-rays, CT Scans, Ultrasounds and the like, but the bottom line was that the only possible option was a complete kidney removal, with a LOT of potential dangerous complications.

Scared shitless? Yes....and no. I've had one heck of an interesting ride, with far less heartbreak than many of the folks I've known. You hate to finally say "goodbye", but I'm a fairly adventurous type, and if there was a "next step", well.....I'm pretty curious. So, I was willing take that step without any recriminations. BUT....

I was recommended to a young hot-shot surgeon, named Neil Fleshner (who has quite an internet presence I discovered) who was willing to take on 'dangerous or radical' operations. I was told he was considered the best in Canada, and when I managed to get an operating date (four weeks ago) Heather and I kept our fingers crossed.

The operation went great, Dr. Fleshner got all the cancer, and I got a brand new life! I'm still in a state of manic euphoria....so happy I can barely describe it.

Spent three weeks in Sunnybrook Hospital with SEVEN TUBES STUCK IN ME! Various IVs, catheter (Ugh!), stomach tube, needles in the arms, yada, yada...and when they finally let me out four days ago, I didn't even wait for my ride....I took the bus home (!!) even though I'm down 40 POUNDS (fortunately I started from a not so svelte 210)...poor Heather....the nurses probably thought I'd been deserted, but I REALLY wanted out.

Well...I've got virtually no muscle tone, feel as weak as a baby.....but Boy am I happy. The conditioning will come back over the next few weeks and I want to thank the few folks who DID know what happened when I came out of that operating room, and phoned Heather and the hospital. (I didn't tell anyone, how bad things were becoming over the last few months, simply because I didn't know how)

Man, did I hate cancelling concerts...but I had to cancel a few, and students as well (there were times when I simply had no energy for long drives, or even teaching). Plus my Mudcatting hobby took a severe hit, and had dwindled down to almost nothing....sorry to those folks who asked for musical help and got ambiguous (short) PMs back asking for patience. I'll be on the case in a few days as the strength comes back.

Well, I guess some of us on the Cat REALLY belong to quite a "club", don't we? Hospitals can be a mite scary!

So....eat yer vegetables, don't smoke, and DON'T brush off a pain in your side for several months as a "muscle pull"....it may be what I had....and my tardiness damned near killed me.

I'm SO glad to be checking out the Cat and the good people once more.

Luv

Rick

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST,.gargoyle
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:28 PM

Welcome back Rick! To LIFE!

Sincerely,
Gargole

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:28 PM

Ohmigod, Rick! I have been missing your posts and figured you took Heather on an exciting trip. But that's not what I had in mind! I'm so glad you're recovering!! Abby/hg

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:31 PM

I'm relieved to hear you're recovering.

I told you many times to quit smoking and you always blew me off. Now, here's a promise. If I ever see you smoking a cigarette again, I'm going to take your guitar and break it over your head. Believe me Rick, I'll do it.

Now, get well, play music and enjoy your second life.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: RichM
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:35 PM

I've been through the big "C" too, Rick. After a couple of operations, radiation and chemotherapy, here I am, healthy ----30 years after.
Attitude is a big part of healing. I swore I would fight the good fight,and it looks like you are too!
Loving friends and family are a big help too.
You go, boy!

Rich McCarthy

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Fortunato
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:38 PM

Rick, I have been watching for your posts, my friend. I thought you'd had no interest in the threads going past. I've had little myself. But I watch for you and Jerry Rasmussen and Art Thieme and 'Spaw and Micca and some others. Now I understand where you'be been. Well, I guess if you have to find out someone you care about has had cancer, then this is the best way: After the worst is over and there's a bright future. Congratulations, my friend. Welcome back. I wish you a speedy and full recovery.

Whew! That's a relief; I was worried you went to sleep and the hogs ate you.

cheers, chance

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: kendall
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:39 PM

Such a relief my friend! What the hell is going on? cancer is everywhere. Been wondering why you didn't finish that guitar strap, now, I know! Welcome back Mate, and, if I ever see you smoke I will whisper in your ear, "Ya know, Heather wont be single for long" hehehe

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Fortunato
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:41 PM

Oh, by the way Rick. My dad had a similiar cancer of the Kidney. It was removed years back. He's 90 years old now. He keeps up his house and yard and gardens every day. Chance

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: catspaw49
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:49 PM

The bus still cracks me up. I always had someone sitting and waiting when I was close to a release'cause as you now know, by that point you are ready to walk home!!!!

JP says you ate 4 plates of Chinese the other day.......Take advantage of the weight loss. On the other hand, you can do what I have done each time.....Be so damn happy to be alive you eat everything in sight and do more than you should........Take it easy Bro.

BTW......This would be a damn good time for you to catch up on your corporate duties with Lane, Fielding Patterson, and Swan--Layabouts-At-Large. The rest of us have been relaxing overtime without you.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Sorcha
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:52 PM

Well, Judas priest, Rick! Glad to hear you are back among us. I had wondered what the deal was.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Cappuccino
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:53 PM

Good to hear you're in such good shape.

- Ian B

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: MMario
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:57 PM

! ! ! ! ! ! !

!

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Ebbie
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:57 PM

Whew Congratulations. I've been telling people about you- about your musical abilities, that is. So glad for the good part of your news.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Barbara Shaw
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 12:59 PM

I kept checking your website to see where the hell you were! Glad to hear it's over and the news is good. Frank and I are looking forward to your November concert in Branford, CT.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Lyrical Lady
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:03 PM

Yikes...what a scarey bit of business! I'm so happy that all turned out well in the end...I love a success story! Hoo-freakin'-ray!

LL

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: alanabit
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:09 PM

I thought you must have been off on tour. Welcome back and look after yourself mate. We like having you around here. Alan.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Eric the Viking
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:14 PM

Yeah, don't go getting sick-I've been giving out flyers for your Goole gig in September all weekend, and can't wait to see you.

Best of health

Eric

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST,Nella
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:14 PM

You're lucky. My father died of kidney cancer at 54. He'd be 61 if he was still with us.

Dad's cancer was a direct consequence of his smoking. Smoking doubles the risk of developing kidney cancer, and is believed to cause about 30 percent of kidney cancer found in men and approximately 25 percent of the cancer in women.

Take care and stay healthy. You have a lot of fans in Connecticut.

Nella

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: M.Ted
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:15 PM

You are one of the few that cares enough about all those old time musicians now in the Celestial Old Time Red Hot Country, Jazz, and Blues Band to keep their playing styles alive in your playing and in your teaching--most likely there was a unanimous vote to keep you here on the firmament as long as possible--those of us down here want to hold on to you as long as possible, too--

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: wysiwyg
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:28 PM

Wow, it sounds like this was something you couldn't even handle with your Dremel. Glad the doc had a better toolkit!

(you want light and breezy, OK, so it shall be...)

Shit, Fielding!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

love,

~Susan

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Mudlark
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:30 PM

Rick...I'm so glad that the outcome is good..it's great to hear you so full of joy! Thanks for all the wonderful musical knowledge you've given of so freely, and thanks for being alive....it will be great to have you back!

Nancy

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Mrrzy
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:32 PM

Yikes, man! Welcome home!

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: C-flat
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:35 PM

Congratulations on your recovery.
Time to start living again!

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Wesley S
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:46 PM

Rick - I'm glad to hear you're on the mend. I was also wondering why I hadn't seen any posts lately. I would have prefered disinterest to cancer however. Take care and best of luck.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Dave Swan
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 01:52 PM

Brother Patterson is quite correct. We've worked our selves into a stupor doing nothing, and could really use some help. Very glad to see you up and posting. Happier still to hear all went well. Come out to sunny California and convalesce!

Best, D

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Jerry Rasmussen
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 04:01 PM

Joyful, joyful!!!! Here everyone is telling you not to smoke, and you're whole COUNTRY is smoking!!!! It sure is great to hear the good news, Rick! Maybe we can hop over and hear you in Branford...

Jerry

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: KT
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 04:16 PM

Two words come to mind, Rick.....BRAVO and gratitude!!! Wishing you all the best as you continue in your recovery. KT

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: SINSULL
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 05:04 PM

Thank you for staying with us for a while, Rick. Have all the Chinese food you want but no MSG...SINS.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Hollowfox
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 05:34 PM

JAY-sus, Rick! You just about scared me into a heart attack with this post! I'm glad you shared good news with us by the end of the chapter, though. Let the strength build back slowly and steadily, and savor the manic euphoria for all it's worth, for as long as you can. And give Heather an extra hug for me, would'ja? (No digitalis for me tonight, thanks, my heart's going at a pretty good clip right now.) Mary

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Jeri
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 05:46 PM

Well, Rick seems to have the joy and mental energy of a little kid on Christmas morning. Rick, I'm glad you're back at Mudcat; I'm glad you're alive and gonna stay that way for a while; I'm glad you're around to yell at me for playing stuff on guitar in ways you don't like. That you're happy makes me more glad than anything else.

I hope that "manic euphoria" lasts for the rest of a long life.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 05:57 PM

Is it any wonder where our hearts have been
Listening to your music, visiting a friend,
Talking up your picking and ability to sing?
Then we come to find out you've had this thing.

Don't know where that was going, if even, but the lines wanted to be written.

This Kat isn't laughing, she is beaming, like the Cheshire Cat, with gratefullness that you are home and well...a survivor, but most of all because of your friendship and kindness to us all.

Oh, and, I think Heather has earned at least one full day at the Spaw!

luvyadarlin'...kat

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Morticia
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 06:05 PM

Merde Chaude,Rick, glad this story had a happy ending....be well, stay well, no more scares okay?

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: lamarca
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 06:36 PM

Rick, this is a Club that we members did NOT want you to be part of...but since you've decided to join us, glad you're here, Survivor! At least you get to keep your hair...my friends complimented(?) me on my Sinead O'Connor look-alike style while I was doing chemo...

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Deckman
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 06:44 PM

Congrads on the victory Rick. I sure understand about you not knowing how to post the news earlier. That's one kinda private hell that you and yours have to go through alone. CHEERS, Bob

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Steve Latimer
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 07:01 PM

Rick,

Glad to see you back on the 'Cat and well enough to go out for Chinese (I had to have passed you on Kingston Road). I hope to get over to see you this week. I tried my best to keep it quiet, but I have to admit that I leaked it a bit.

Welcome to your new life. I'm off to 3-2-5-1, 4-2-5-1.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Bullfrog Jones
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 07:09 PM

Glad to hear you're sticking around!

BJ

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST,van lingle
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 07:16 PM

All the best, Rick. Good to see you back. vl

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: bigchuck
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 08:07 PM

Wonderful news, Rick, and sobering to this old geezer. All the best and I hope to actually meet you and hear you live sometime.
Sandy

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Bill D
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 08:13 PM

geez...at least you saved Mudcat about 17 gigs of bandwidth by NOT advertising what you were going thru!....awfully considerate of you!...*weak grin*........so, maybe RT congratulations at the Getaway¿¿...and happy 1st day of the rest of your life!

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Stewie
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 08:26 PM

All good things, Rick. Welcome back.

--Stewie.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: little john cameron
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 08:49 PM

Jings!! Ye cannae get bugger aw past you ataw Fielding.This wis a select wee club we had oan the go here an' ye couldnae wait tae get in could ye?
Weel,noo that ye've gaun through the initiation ah suppose we'll hae tae late ye in. Noo,aboot the smokin,ye'll find efter a wee while that ye think a wee draw wid be awricht jist tae see if ye had it beat,or some ither rationalization.DON'T EVEN THINK ABOOT IT!!!!!Awbody'll tell ye,IT CANNAE BE DONE.
It is anither story in the ongoing Fielding saga.
Ah'll bet ye Alan is disappointed though as he probably needs his guitar tuned by this time.

Great news pal. John

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: alison
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 09:00 PM

glad to have you back Rick........... you must have had a very "interesting" few months......

love to you and Heather

slainte

alison

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Nancy King
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 10:15 PM

Yikes, Rick -- you've had quite a time of it! So very glad to hear it's all turning out OK!

I enjoyed meeting you at last year's Getaway, and am definitely looking forward to seeing you again this year! Till then --

Cheers, Nancy

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Dharmabum
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 10:33 PM

Funny how something so bad can create something so positive.

Sunrises will be a little brighter,
Sunsets will be a little prettier.

ENJOY.

DB.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Ferrara
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 10:51 PM

Omigawd Rick!!!! You know what? I'm glad I didn't know this was going on. Not sure I could have stood it.

But so glad to know it went so well. Give our heartfelt thanks to Dr. Neil Fleshner!!!!

Rita

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Bob Bolton
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 11:48 PM

G'day Rick,

Best wishes ... get even better!

(And here I was making bad cricketing puns about your Goole Gig ... )

Anyway, I'm glad to hear that it may all be gone in one chop ... an old musical friend of mine, here in Sydney (and a keen performer for CanTeen ... a local charity supporting teenagers with cancer) has, just into his retirement and looking forward to enjoying a lot of bushwalking, been hit with cancer in his lower spine.

He's had a lot removed and is currently going through the radiation and chemo phases ... and a bone marrow transplant next week - but he's stayed right in there with the music, music workshops and encouraging his kids - all good musicians.

Regards,

Bob Bolton

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Paul Mills
Date: 09 Jul 02 - 11:52 PM

Rick must be thrilled to see such an outpouring from mudcatters, but he shouldn't be surprised. I have been priviledged to spend this past weekend celebrating Rick's victory with fellow mudcatters Big Mick, Jed Marum and Jeri and other friends and although I haven't been a regular poster for sometime, I surely feel the strength of this community. God bless you all!

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Escamillo
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 12:39 AM

It's great to see you back Rick ! My best wishes for your fast recovery and 50 years more of music. And a big THANK YOU to the doctors and personnel who dedicate their lives to save lives.

Un gran abrazo - Andrés

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: MAG
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 02:32 AM

About time you took advantage of the wonderful support waiting for you here .... I can only add ...

JEEZ. -- M.A.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: DonMeixner
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 02:35 AM

Well, Rick, by now I could only repeat what has been said. I am truly glad at your good news for us.

Don

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Rt Revd Sir jOhn from Hull
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 02:36 AM

Good to hear, you are doing ok Rick, I am hoping to hear you in Goole, have a few cans of Guinness, it will make you put the weight back.Take Care.john

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Barry Finn
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 03:14 AM

Congradulations Rick, glad you decided to join the club, the only other option is to grim. You'll be feeling better than before in no time. Should be well enough to make the getaway, eh? If not, hope you're well enough any way. If the Doc's got you on prednisone watch out for it's weepy side effects, not bad but you'll get a kick at some of the things that'll have you crying. Best of luck with your quick recovery. You sure got plenty to sing about & my best to Heather, hope she's well with all this too, she's probably been through as much as you.
Barry

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 05:46 AM

Glad to hear it's all behind you now, Rick. We are looking forward to meeting you in September in Goole.
Jane and Geoff

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Mooh
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 06:38 AM

Welcome back friend! Good thing you live so close to the best cancer treatment available...my sister's going through that right now in Toronto. I figured you were on tour, but it was a tour of a different kind, wasn't it?

I hope you get some songs out of this...

Look after you.

Peace, Mooh.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: black walnut
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 08:40 AM

Home on the TTC? Oh, Rick...that is so funny. I wonder what you did to get the bus driver to shorten his/her annoyingly long coffee-donut-break on the Sunnybrook Loop?
"Home, James/ie!"

Well, I'm thrilled to bits. We all are.

Love to Heather and Dr. Neil, ~b.w.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Mark Clark
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 09:01 AM

Congratulations Rick! And best wishes all 'round. Like most folks, I had no idea you were ill, I just figured you were busy. I'm no good at expressing shock and dismay but then you seem to have obviated any need of that for most of us.

The good news seems to be that you have many close friends who were able to help see you and Heather through the crisis. Thank God for skilled doctors and for good friends.

      - Mark

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Hawker
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 09:05 AM

Rick!
Welcome back to life! I wish you a speedy recovery and lots of tlc till you do! Glad to hear things are looking more rosy!
Lucy

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: SharonA
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 11:06 AM

*Whew!!!* Well, I'm glad to hear – again – that the Fielding Banjo isn't Mute quite yet! Remember my misunderstanding the title of THAT thread?!?

Anyway, thanks for sharing your story with us, Rick. I hope your recovery is swift and uneventful (i.e. no setbacks!), and that you'll be singing and playing soon.

Sharon

P.S. – So if you eat four plates of Chinese food, does that mean you're hungry again four hours later?

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: MikeofNorthumbria
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 11:56 AM

Rick,

Your postings are often enlightening, and always cheering - but until this one, none has made me want to jump out of my chair, punch the air, and shout ..."Yeah!"

Wassail!

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Bardford
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 01:38 PM

I'll echo everyone else's sentiments. Welcome back to neighbourhood. Glad to hear all is well. I was kinda worried when I saw your name on the promo for the new disc- "Sick Things North of the Border", but gladdened when "Upswings North of the Border" was announced. Be well.

Bardford in Cowtown

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: bet
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 01:52 PM

Rick, Really glad things are on the up swing! We need yu and your music. I agree with Kat, Heather needs a day at the Spaw. bet

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: catspaw49
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 02:32 PM

Heather can have a day here anytime........Might present a problem with Karen, but then again..........Hmmmmmmm.........

hehehehehehehehhehehehehehhehehehehehe

Spaw

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: wysiwyg
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 02:40 PM

She sure will need those duck boots. And a sou'wester too from the sounds of it.

~S~

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: hesperis
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 03:38 PM

Don't you DARE not tell us again if something important comes up! Glad everything's ok, and take it easy.

Oh, and just in case you haven't had time to check your PMs, I'm moving to TO next week.

*Hugs Rick and Heather, too*

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Lonesome EJ
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 04:04 PM

Rick, I'm shocked! REALLY glad to know everything turned out well for you!

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: katlaughing
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 06:00 PM

Musicman and Night Owl are away from their computers at the World Trap-seat Championships Regatta for disabled competitors who are sailing in British Columbia.

I am on the phone with Night Owl and she says they both send their Congratulations and wish you a speedy recovery. Night Owl says good job having the courage to pay attention to what your body was saying.
She will send you a potato peeler when she gets back home and you are in line for a Dangly Bits Green Light Luck Duck, just come in this week at my house!

Also, JenEllen's computer died, but has been resurrected, but has a weird colour-card which is making everything come out plaid, so she'll be along after they get that sorted, though she did say it was kinda growing on her! Anyhow, she'll be along in a few, too.*bg*

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: JenEllen
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 07:04 PM

Yeah, I'm kinda diggin' this plaid thing...I may just not get it fixed. I mean really, in the grand scheme of things?

I do, however, pass along good wishes, and thank you ever so much for just sticking around.
Love ya madly as always,
~JenEllen

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 07:14 PM

Thanks so much!

Well...I'm still lookin' up at the trees and birds with a new sense of wonder....I'm a lot less manic than I was three days ago (just kinda calming down). It's still pretty mindblowing though. I guess the major reason that I didn't tell anyone about it (apart from being a 'crawl off in the corner' type when sick, period) is that I wasn't actually being TREATED for anything. The only option I had was kidney removal (this kind of cancer doesn't respond to chemo or radiation) and there were serious complications. I was SO fortunate to get an appointment with a top specialist, while there was still time.

As regards "blowing off" anyone with cigarette warnings....Nope not me. I was an addict plain and simple...never proud of the awful habit, simply too weak to break it. Won't ever do that again.

Even though I'm still a bit physically shakey, I was so pleased to be able to go into the studio today and play and sing a bit on Jed's new album. Trust me my friends, Paul Mills and Jed Marum are makin' a verrrry good-un!

S'good to be alive!

Cheers

Rick

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 07:16 PM

Luvya, Rick. Welcome home.

Sandy and Caroline

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST,Sandy Paton
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 07:18 PM

Looks like I've tossed my cookies again. Ah, well....

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Susan A-R
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 09:47 PM

I'm so glad that all's well.

Susan A-R

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Susan A-R
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 09:50 PM

I'm not sure if I'm doing this twice,odd things are happening with my computer, but I am so glad that all's well Rick.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Joan
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 11:33 PM

Holy cow, Rick! No more bad surprises, promise? Sending along a hug and a sigh of relief, which is no where near as windy as yours must be. Joan Sprung

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: CarolC
Date: 10 Jul 02 - 11:59 PM

(((((((((((((Big Hug)))))))))))))

For Rick and Heather.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Chris Amos
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 01:34 AM

Rick,

I was astonished when I started reading the first part of message and relieved when I got to the end, this is a great gift.

Looking forward to seeing you when you come to the UK.

Chris

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Bert
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 01:53 AM

Bugger me Rick, you've really been through it. Must have been scary. Glad you made it through OK. I'm sitting here with a big silly arsed grin.

See ya around.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Jeanie
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 10:18 AM

To be very British, and quote William Shakespeare at you:

"O wonderful, wonderful and most wonderful wonderful ! and yet again wonderful ! and after that, out of all whooping!!!" ('As You Like It, Act III Scene 2)

In other words: Wonderful news !

With Love,

- jeanie

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: PeteBoom
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 10:35 AM

Great news! Here's to a short recovery and an extended after-recovery surge of happiness -

Cheers -

Pete

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST,Pete Peterson
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 10:48 AM

wow! thanks for sharing good news! so happy for you & for Heather! gotta meet you on e of these days-- 'this one's the dreamer' is fun to listen to!

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Big Mick
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 10:56 AM

Rick looks great, but more importantly, he is acting great. You folks should have seen him play this past weekend. And talk about an intimidating crew! Rick in the middle surrounded by (at various times) Paul Mills, Grit Laskin, Glen Reid, Jed Marum and our own Michael K (wotta picker this gent is!). Now folks, pickers just don't git no better'n this. So I just took care of the grinnin'. And sang the odd song. These folks were universally joyous at still having their old friend in their midst. The feelings of friendship were palpable. To say that Rick is manically euphoric will get you considered for understatement of the millenium. I enjoyed watching him when he didn't realize you were watching. Our Rick would look at every detail of everything around him. I will bet money that there are some great songs coming from him.

I want to take a moment and talk about Heather. For those of you for whom the meeting of your soulmate has yet to happen, I wish for you someone like her. This is a person of incredible depth, and her love for Rick is something that one is privileged to have been in the presence of. It is what I wish for each of you. Her reaction to all this, her support of her life partner, and most of all her obvious relief and elation are some of the strongest emotions that this old empath has ever witnessed. Rick is a lucky man to have this wonder in his life.

Rick's friends..............what can I say? We are bards. Our business is the capturing of the myriad feelings and emotions that humans go through, and passing them on. How would one capture the feelings coming out of this group in one song? Paul Mills, Grit Laskin, Glen Reid, Peter T., Banjo Bonnie, Marion, Jeri, Jed, and others whose names escape me, were all there. All of them just greatful that he is still with us.

Rick is not just lucky to be alive, he is lucky to be alive in a world that has so many people that care so deeply for him. Genuinely care. Count me in that number.

Now get busy on those songs. Oh..........yeah...........I am going to get busy on the right hand control straight away. Now that you are going to be around a while, I don't want you bitchin' at me constantly..............and I am not to old and set in my ways! hahaha

All the best,

Mick

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST,DancingMom
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 11:08 AM

One of the coolest things I get to do as a nurse is see people walk out of that hospital, go home, and get on with their lives. Good for you, life IS sweet, isn't it? Sharon

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Jimmy C
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 11:31 AM

Rick, I too went through the cancer/ chemo thing. It's been just over 5 years now years now and all is well. So glad to hear your are on the road to recovery. I must admit, the first part of your thread scared the living bejaysus out of me. The ending was what I was hoping for. Keep healthy, stay away from the tobacco. Really glad to have you back.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Clifton53
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 11:51 AM

Glad you came through it all okay Rick. If there is anything I can ever do for ya ( place to crash etc), just let me know.

Clifton

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 01:25 PM

Excellent outcome! Congratulations!

SRS

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Dave Swan
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 01:25 PM

Dear Rick,

You're a bright spot in our lives, and we're all SO glad you're on the mend-- we couldn't do without you, sweetie. Take good care of yourself physically and emotionally, and let us know how you're progressing.

Thanks, also, for reminding us that there could be a lightning bolt out there with any of our names on it at any time-- we all tend to hold onto each other a little closer when we nearly lose someone we love. I'll take a bit longer look at those trees and birds myself today...

Big smooch to Heather p.j.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: p.j.
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 01:28 PM

OOPS, forgot to reset the cookie...that last one was from me (p.j.) but Dave agrees, especially the part about slobbering on Heather!

lots of love p.j.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 02:49 PM

Many blessings and joy, Rick!

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: fat B****rd
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 03:10 PM

I'll probably never meet you face to face, Rick, but I invariably enjoy your Threads/Postings and would like to say how happy I am for you. LOL AND ATB from the fB.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: flattop
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 04:20 PM

Hope you're soon feeling like a new set of strings, Rick. I'd like to hear you play those Leadbelly runs on your 12 string many more times in the years to come.

david

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Jeri
Date: 11 Jul 02 - 04:35 PM

I was waiting for Mick to say something about the weekend! All the people Mick mentioned are absolutely wonderful and the music was out of this world. I loved meeting all the new folks (including Marion - I FINALLY met Marion!) and I loved renewing friendships. These folks were all gathered because they care for Rick and Heather, and joy just saturated the air. I've been using the word "joy" a lot lately. No apology. It was a turning point. It was the place where the future began. I still don't quite know how to put my feelings about Rick, Heather and the weekend into words. Maybe I don't have to. If you can imagine the happiest time in your life, one where the world was better than perfect because it didn't just go right but there was a sense of wonder in the air - that was how the visit felt to me. I carried that feeling home.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From:
Date: 12 Jul 02 - 10:24 AM

Welcome back, Rick! I've been listening to "This one's the Dreamer" for the last couple of weeks, and wondering when you'd be down this way again. Glad to hear you're healing!

Vixen (and Reynaud too!)

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: mooman
Date: 12 Jul 02 - 10:54 AM

Dear Rick,

I'm so glad for you and Heather to hear the good news of the successful operation. All our best wishes for a speedy return to full fitness.

If you're still coming across to the UK, I'll try my damndest to get across from Belgium to the Goole gig to hear and meet you (and Heather).

Very best regards,

mooman

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 12 Jul 02 - 12:03 PM

You bet I'm headin' across the pond! Two months ago it looked like I was headin' to "Hillbilly Heaven"* but I'll take England and Scotland anytime!

*cornball country song from the sixties.

Cheers

Rick

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Kernow John
Date: 12 Jul 02 - 05:47 PM

Welcome back, mighty glad to hear your sticking around.
John

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Art Thieme
Date: 13 Jul 02 - 07:39 PM

Wow, I just found this thread. But I'd heard about this through the grapevine (thanks Caroline) and, as Rick knows from recent p.m. communications, I've sent him my best healing vibes and our sincere good wishes for a spectacular rehab.

Be well !!!

Art Thieme

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST,Roger the skiffler at the public library
Date: 15 Jul 02 - 04:45 AM

Just caught up with this on my return from Greece. Glad to hear my cyber-buddy has come through this. All the best for a speedy return to full health, Rick. Try Professor Jim "Knees" Moriarty's guaranteed pick-me-up and furniture restorer.
RtS

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Jeremiah McCaw
Date: 15 Jul 02 - 10:07 AM

Of course I had no idea this was going down until just now. Rick, I am SO glad you're gonna hang around a while longer.

Many good thoughts for you and Heather.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Naemanson
Date: 15 Jul 02 - 11:06 AM

Wow! I thought I was missing your posts because I haven't been around much. So glad to hear things came out fine in the end.

Best of luck to you and Heather.

Brett

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: bbc
Date: 15 Jul 02 - 11:18 AM

I can't believe I didn't see this thread till now! Don't bother answering personal email from me; I'm just glad to know you are home & on the mend. I'm so thankful you are still w/ us. You & Heather have a special place in our hearts.

love,

bbc

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: InOBU
Date: 15 Jul 02 - 05:05 PM

FUCKSAKE RICK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
How else can I begin to say, Genie and I are holding you in the light!!! We all need you well and fiesty, and I know you will be so soon.
Keep mending, and hope to run into ya in the frozen north one day soon.
Cheers
Larry

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Steve Latimer
Date: 15 Jul 02 - 07:52 PM

Rick & Heather are back on the Radio tonight. It's nice to hear him, sounds great.

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Jeri
Date: 15 Jul 02 - 08:13 PM

Well, CIUT wasn't on the internet (again). They were fine at around 5. Oh well. Thanks for letting us know they were back in the studio, Steve.

Love 'em both like they were family...

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST,Arnie
Date: 15 Jul 02 - 08:23 PM

WOW! I'm so happy for RICK and Heather and us folks who know and love him for so many reasons. I'm so glad we have you around Rick - it was great to see you the other night and hear your incredible story, and listen to your guitar playing and singing. We must celebrate every time we get together! ( and I'm glad you finally quit smoking so you don't have to hide in another room between sets ). Arnie & Kathy

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Áine
Date: 15 Jul 02 - 09:47 PM

Hey Rickster -- Glad to see that you're on the mend and still kickin' butt! ;-) Just let me know when you're up to it, and I'll bring the beer (and my Taylor) and we'll go bite some Yankees!!

Love ya, Áine

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 16 Jul 02 - 11:19 AM

Speaking of "biting some Yankees"! Our friend, ace songwriter, Rick Speyer gave us Bluejay tickets for Thursday night at the Skydome. We'll go watch some Orioles get bit!!

It's great to be.......period. But oh boy, are these stitches startin' to hurt! The scar is at LEAST 16 inches long!

Cheers

Rick

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Big Mick
Date: 16 Jul 02 - 11:30 AM

It is a beaut, Rick. You will win bets with that baby! And the hurting is a good thing. It is a natural part of the healing process. Write a song about it.

Mick

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: wysiwyg
Date: 16 Jul 02 - 11:36 AM

Scar, hm, well just pretend you had a baby. Yourself, your new life. So they had to ream you a new one to do it. Trust me, it was probably better than the old-fashioned way! And no diapers to change afterwards! I mean I'm assuming that you're out of diapers.... nevermind....

~S~

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: GUEST,Audi0000girl
Date: 16 Jul 02 - 11:42 AM

I have never met you RICK....................But, what a truly enlightening story...Good Luck to you and yours!! Take care, and a speedy recovery! Audi

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Jeri
Date: 16 Jul 02 - 12:18 PM

Rick, what stitches? I thought you had staples. Staples AND stitches? Get some ointment (Theres some diaper rash stuff here "A+D Ointment" that's great) and rub it on the sucker if you're just being euphemistic about the stitches. Massaging the thing (the skin part, not what's underneath it) will make it feel better. If it's anything like my knee, it's going to really kick in when the weather gets humid or rainy... (The itty-bitty nerves grow back, and BOY, do they let you know they're there!)

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: McGrath of Harlow
Date: 16 Jul 02 - 12:35 PM

I chickened out of opening this thread, because I was scared what I'd find. And it turns out to be great news.

"...pretend you had a baby. Yourself, your new life." I like that, WYSIWYG.

It might be a cliche, but often cliches are just true things people keep saying because they are true - "Today is the first day of the rest of your life."

Any details on where Rick is likely to be on the English trip?

Subject: RE: Rick: Life, Cancer, Friends, Gigs, Stuff
From: Rick Fielding
Date: 16 Jul 02 - 12:42 PM

Hi McGrath. T'will all be on my website when it's finalized. Couldn't leave the UK without meeting you guy.

Cheers

Rick