Shameless request for help

[DragonMind]

Roughly six months ago my little brother was diagnosed with Stage 4 Follicular Lymphoma, a cancer of the lymphatic system. Unfortunately, this form of cancer does not respond to radiation or chemotherapy because those therapies target fast dividing cells and this form of cancer is slow dividing. In fact, both of those would cause more harm by killing far more healthy cells than cancerous ones. There are effective treatments but they are not available in the US (not profitable enough for pharmaceutical companies) and not covered by health insurance. Scott was making good progress through diet and enzymatic treatment (at $1,000/month). That is until the supplier was unable to provide the compound for a period of several weeks. During that time, Scott's cancer has rebounded and is now resistant to the previous treatment. I just learned this morning that our only option left is to raise enough money to send him to a private facility that has had great success at treating this form of cancer. His savings are gone and he can no longer work as a house painter due to the chemicals in the paint supplies. I've emptied my savings and maxed out my credit card to help him all I can but we're far short of what he needs. :(

So here is my shameless request for help. Although the Internet has disproved that million monkeys writing Shakespeare theory, it does have an immense power to do good through tiny steps. Anyone who can spare a couple bucks will earn my undying gratitude and maybe some karma points. I wish I had some way to bribe/reward everyone who helps and maybe I can figure out something when I have the time to focus on something other than this but for now all I can offer is thanks. If you can, please donate at Gabriel Scott Cancer Relief (http://gsrelieffund.synthasite.com/)

Anyone who has to face cancer needs resources. Some great info can be found at www.cancertutor.com. My brother's specific variety is covered at http://www.lymphomasurvival.com/

Again, my thanks to any and all who can spare anything, however small. Literally, my brother's life is on the line if he can't get the treatment he needs soon. I love the American health care system...:hot:

[Tony Dismukes]

I'm sorry to hear about your brother's situation, Barry.

I can't afford much, but I tossed a few bucks in the pot.

[DragonMind]

I'm sorry to hear about your brother's situation, Barry.

I can't afford much, but I tossed a few bucks in the pot.
Thank you Tony. Every dime helps.

[Webmaster]

Can't afford much either, but Judy and I just donated a few bucks ourselves, plus you've got our prayers and thoughts headed his direction.

I am also going to move this thread to the Member Announcement, put a sticky on it and a redirect in the Official Announcements.

[DragonMind]

Thanks Boss! It sucks to feel so powerless.

[jwinch2]

I just chucked a little into the pot. Good luck with everything I hope something breaks for the good in the near future...

[STORMCROW34]

It's not much, but I hope it helps. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

[Webmaster]

Bump (Admin Privilege)... let's keep this one on top for a while!

[Jonathan Randall]

Things are tight here as well, but I was able to put in a little as well. Best wishes to you and your brother, DragonMind.

[Jonathan Randall]

I just learned this morning that our only option left is to raise enough money to send him to a private facility that has had great success at treating this form of cancer. His savings are gone and he can no longer work as a house painter due to the chemicals in the paint supplies. I've emptied my savings and maxed out my credit card to help him all I can but we're far short of what he needs. :(

You, sir, are an honorable man. :bow:


So here is my shameless request for help. Although the Internet has disproved that million monkeys writing Shakespeare theory, it does have an immense power to do good through tiny steps. Anyone who can spare a couple bucks will earn my undying gratitude and maybe some karma points.

Again, my thanks to any and all who can spare anything, however small. Literally, my brother's life is on the line if he can't get the treatment he needs soon. I love the American health care system...:hot:

Nothing "shameless" about it. As to the American health care system; I've worked in the industry for nearly twenty years (most of my adult life) and the system is BROKEN. I will send this thread link to my contacts in the field and see if they have any ideas. One patient I know, whose financial resources were exhausted after years of illness, found private party assistance from, surprise, drug companie's assistance programs. If I find anything out, I will let you know via PM.

I am sorry I could not help more. A year ago I could have made a substantial contribution. Now, I am living from paycheck to paycheck and can barely meet my own needs.

Best Wishes.

[Abbax8]

Barry,

I have to access my paypal account, and I have to find my password to do that :rolleyes:, but I will do that and do what I can.

In addition, have you tried to contact any of the local service organizations like the Lions Club or the Knights of Columbus. They may be willing to do a fund raiser like a Hoagie sale or Chicken Bar-B-Que to raise money.

Prayers also coming your brother's way.

Peace

Dennis

[DragonMind]

My deepest thanks to all of you. I'll relay all your suggestions and try to do what I can from here on the east coast (he is in San Francisco). What really sucks is that last year he was finally starting to get some real attention for his music and had booked a couple tours with his new manager. That has been put on hold, but I fear that his dream may be slipping away since the music business is so fickle. Life is definitely not for the timid...

[Jeff Burger]

Just saw this.

[DragonMind]

Just had word from my brother. He's overwhelmed at the generosity of you folks. You have my deepest gratitude.

[AlivePFC]

I will toss in some on my next payday. You have my prayers and will be put on the prayer list at the local house of prayer.

[DragonMind]

Thank you kindly, Andrew.

[DragonMind]

Just got this from Scott:


Hey Friends and Loved Ones,
Just a quick update on the Cancer Funds latest news.
First of all THANK YOU SO MUCH to everyone who has been soooo generous already! The out pouring has been amazing. It's strange that something so scary can also have such a beautiful and inspiring side too. We've really got the ball rolling and off to a really good start. There's still a long way to go but I'm starting to think this just might really happen. Although we just have to find new ways not to loose the momentum. If you haven't passed the word along yet or have planned to make a donation but just haven't quite got around to it yet. Now is a great time. : ) We need as much help as we can get. And always remember no donation is too small.
Don't get me wrong the big ones are great (My brother Barry has been a powerhouse fundraiser in fact most of what we've raised so far has been due to his help and generosity)
BUT... the small ones mean every bit as much to us too. Hell, someone even sent some Polish money along with a very sweet note as a donation. In the note they said "I don't know how much it's worth but I hope it helps." It turned out to be worth about $7 after conversion but I just thought it was beautiful, considerate and maybe most importantly fun and interesting! It made me giggle all day long. It was a really touching gesture, and an exciting little adventure too. Don't let pride or doubt stop you. If we manage to pull this off it will be because of ALL OF US pulling together to make it happen.

And...I know some of you passed the last email along to people I don't have on this list...please pass this one on too.
And if you've received this from a friend and want to be on this email list just let me know and I'll add you on. You can always unsubscribe.

There are some fundraisers coming up (listed below) and there will be raffles and auctions at the events AND there are also raffles and auctions on the Donation Site
www.gsrelieffund.synthasite.<wbr>com (http://www.gsrelieffund.synthasite.com/)
So if you can't make the parties you can still help raise the funds for the much needed cancer treatments and have a chance to win some REALLY GREAT things too.
Now....
Some MUCH NEEDED FUN is on hand to keep the fund raising moving toward the goal and take some of the edge off the stress of all of this seriousness:

UPCOMING EVENTS

San Francisco CA
Monday Feb 2nd :

FUN'draising Party!
The Triple Crown
1760 Market St., San Francisco

An evening of fun with BeBe Sweetbriar & Special Guests Motown Review *sponsored by Ciroc Vodka.Doors & DJ @ 6:30. Live acts & DJ entertainment alternating till 11pm.
10$ Suggested donation comes with Ciroc shot or cocktail.
Yummy finger food plus the kitchen is serving for those bringing an appetite. *all proceeds go to the Gabriel Scott cancer relief fund. Have fun and feel good about it in the morning!

San Francisco CA
Saturday Feb 21st :
Pot Luck Dinner based on the "Nourishing Traditions" diet and philosophy. Featuring a keynote speaker for the evening. Raffles and Prizes at the party

Erie PA
Sunday Feb 22nd :
Another 'FUN'draising Party! @ The Sacred Hearts Ushers Club, featuring Food, Drink, Music, Dancing and Karaoke!!!! Again...more details as soon as they get confirmed.

These are a great start !!! Way to go everyone!!! Figures this is where my friends would excel!!! hahaha!

A HUGE Thanks to everyone involved in putting these together
If you too are planning a fundraiser just let us know and we'll post it here and help you get the word out!

Keep an eye on the Donation site for upcoming events in your area plus all the other stuff and of course to make donations through.
www.gsrelieffund.synthasite.<wbr>com (http://www.gsrelieffund.synthasite.com/)

So thanks to everyone for all you've done! I am humbled by your kindness.
Sincerely
Gabriel Scott (Robison)

Oh yea
If you wanna make donations but don't want to do so online you can send checks and money orders to:
Cancer Relief Fund C/O
(make checks payable to)
Gabriel Scott or Sabine Luis
954 Geary St #43
San Francisco CA 94109

: )
http://fburls.com/65-V4hgFmrD

All I can say is thank you everyone.

Deb, tell us about the party!

[dao]

If you (ERIK!) can somehow get to one of the FUNdraisers - just go. I went to the party on the 2nd and it was hoot. Even though I didn't know anyone there it has a been a long time since I laughed as hard or danced as much- and I only had one beer!

I even won some yummy Salsa Verde in the raffle!

I have conflicts on the 21st and 22nd but, I'd definetly be up for going to another one.

[AlivePFC]

We just donated $5.00. It is not much but we have just paid for a massive overhaul to the site. We will do more as we can.

[DragonMind]

Thank you Andrew. Every bit helps. My brother commented the other day that he's beginning to understand why I've always told him that martial artists aren't like other people. We're a special breed.

[AlivePFC]

You are very welcome. We will send more as we can. I am just glad we can help.

[DragonMind]

Stay strong, brother. Let me know if I can help.

[DragonMind]

Latest update from my brother:

Hey Everyone,
Just a couple of quick notes on things going on this week.
First of all Thanks thanks thanks to everyone who has been just showering Sabine and I with so much love and support. All the kind words, cards, letters and heart felt hugs have been doing wonders for our spirits and hopes that this may just work out ok after all. Not to mention a little renewed faith in humanity. haha Life is really full of surprises.
We're very happy to say that we are currently just shy of HALF WAY TO OUR GOAL!!! It just amazes me what can happen when people set their minds to it. There's still a long way to go but...only half as far as there was! : )
Please continue to help spread the word, we can make this happen. We are making this happen. This is happening....

As far as my health goes...I've been feeling pretty good overall. I've had a lot of work this week and also a show coming up on Thursday that I've been trying to get ready for. It's in these times where I am made most aware of just how low my batteries really are. However I've been being really strict on my diet and have been keeping a food journal, so I'm starting to get a much better idea of just what foods my body's doing well on, and what ones to avoid. That one factor in it's self really helps keep my overall daily well being on a much more even balance. I unfortunately don't feel so good about my current treatment plan and I'm starting to make some changes. It seems like I've yet to stop the spread of the cancer but do believe we have slowed it. We've had some freak outs and some stress but most of the time our spirits are good and we're staying quite positive.
Again thanks for all the love, IT IS making a difference!

Anyway, on to the fun and festivities of the week!!!

I'm VERY happy to announce:
The Bleeder Project Live in Petaluma CA
@ Gales Central Club
This Thursday 2/19 at 8pm
I'll be doing a short(ish) set to open the show. This is my first Bleeder show since last August and most importantly since things have gotten so bad with my condition. I'm however very excited to be playing live again since everything has been all about cancer and treatments and clinics and diets and on and on! I think some good, hard, rocking the F%@# out, will do me tons of good!!! I'm gonna keep it pretty stripped down and pretty punk rock style but it will still be fun.
So be sure to be there early if you wanna rock with me. I'll be doing songs from the new CD and some older favorites too.
Also performing
Inner Orbit Machine
and With out a Thot
There's no cover but donations and merch purchases are always welcomed

UPCOMING FUNDRAISING BENEFITS

San Francisco, CA
Saturday Feb 21st :

For all you food freaks and health nuts....
A pot luck dinner and fund raising benefit based on the "Nourishing Traditions" diet and philosophy. Featuring a keynote speaker for the evening and raffle.
Here's a link to the Evite. If you're interested in going check it out so you have all the details:
http://www.evite.com/pages/<wbr>invite/viewInvite.jsp?<wbr>inviteId=UOTSRIJWRMFWELREBRVN&<wbr>li=iq&src=email (http://www.evite.com/pages/invite/viewInvite.jsp?inviteId=UOTSRIJWRMFWELREBRVN&li=iq&src=email)


Erie, PA
Sunday Feb 22nd @ 2pm:

This looks like it's gonna be huge!!! (and we certainly hop it is)
Another 'FUN'draising Party! @ The Sacred Hearts Ushers Club, featuring Food, Drink, Music, Dancing and Karaoke!!!! Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door. I understand that they have great prizes for the raffle like movie passes, free drinks at local bars, tattoos, gym memberships and tons more. Please spread the word and bring all your friends!

These are a great start !!! Way to go everyone!!! Figures this is where my friends would excel!!! hahaha!
A HUGE Thanks to everyone involved in putting these together
If you too are planning a fundraiser just let us know and we'll post it here and help you get the word out!

Well that's all for now but please continue to visit: www.gsrelieffund.synthasite.<wbr>com (http://www.gsrelieffund.synthasite.com/) to keep up on all the latest and again please pass this address on to anyone you think may be either interested in the info available or making a donation. As I said we've only got about half way to go now and with your help we're gonna be just fine.
Thanks and all my love to everyone of you
Sincerely
Gabriel ScottMy thanks to everyone who helped out. You folks are the greatest.

[dao]

Yeah! Always wonderful to hear good news :cool2:

[DragonMind]

James and Arlene Martell are a wonderful, caring couple I had the pleasure of meeting last year. James is an authority on Internet marketing and creating a sound, sustainable business. His approach doesn't rely on hype or the other crap you see all over your spam email. He has taught his techniques at many of the best marketing conferences.

Well, when I mentioned to James and Arlene what was going on with my brother, they immediately wanted to help. James has just started his second class on affiliate marketing. This is a 26 week course that takes you from ground zero to a solid online business. James donated a seat in his latest course to be auctioned off to help my brother's treatment fund. This course usually goes for $1,200 and sells out pretty quickly. If you or anyone you know is interested in both learning how to build a profitable Internet business and helping out a good cause, please go to the Silent Auction (http://gsrelieffund.synthasite.com/raffle-and-silent-auction.php) (second from the top). If you would like to see more about James' course, take a look here (http://martell-newsletter.com/super-bootcamp-announcement.html). To give you an idea of the kinds of business James teaches you how to create, here are some examples of his and his students' sites:

http://www.epilepsymoms.com/
http://www.kitcarconnection.com/
http://www.piano-keyboard-reviews.com/
http://www.womens-tennis-apparel.com/home.html
http://www.organicfamilycircle.com/
http://www.winerackbutler.com/winerack.html
http://www.goldendoodletime.com/
http://halloweenalliance.com/
http://www.only-cookware.com/
http://www.babyinasling.com/

[DragonMind]

Just a reminder, the Silent Auction ends this Sunday.

[DragonMind]

Just an update:

My brother leaves for Germany tomorrow to begin 3 months of treatment for his cancer. The doctors tell us this form of cancer can not be cured but with aggressive therapy he may be able to gain control of it and manage it in future.

I want to give my heart-felt thanks to all of you who helped him with your thoughts, prayers, and contributions. Thanks to your generosity we were able to raise the necessary funds to get him the help he needs. I owe all of you a debt that can never be fully repaid. Thank you all.

[Webmaster]

Best of luck to your brother and family. Lots of prayers and hoping that this new course of treatment is effective. Please keep us informed.

[DragonMind]

My brother returned from Germany in time for our sister's wedding last month. He's been busy catching up after being gone for four months. Here is his latest note:

Oh, the audio at the end is hilarious.



It has been an extremely challenging year for me in many ways, as you already know. However as we come to the close of 2009 I'm very happy to report that it all seems to have turned out quite well, when all is said and done. This time last year I was "very" sick and we really weren't sure where I'd be by this point. The truth was that it all seemed pretty grim. But miraculously we were able to raise all of the funds necessary to get to Germany for the natural cancer treatments I so desperately needed. I know I've talked with some of you about it already but for those of you who don't already know...The treatments were HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL! Not quite a complete recovery but easily a 75% improvement in my condition! I'm looking forward to getting back there when possible to pick up where we left off. I want to be sure that everyone knows...

"The natural cancer treatments can and do work. I'm living proof."

And I know, and saw so many people who were told there was no hope, who were totally turned around and doing great now. It was a truly amazing experience in so many ways. Sadly not everyone had such success and some really great people aren't here any longer to share these holidays with their friends and family. They will be sorely missed. And it honestly makes me feel all the more grateful for this opportunity to enjoy yet another festive season. (and oh I'm enjoying it! haha) Not only to be here for it but to feel great, to enjoy the company of friends, and all embrace and enjoy the season has to offer.

I feel great, I look great (so everyone says), I've nearly completed a new Cd and even have plans of returning to touring and playing live music again in the year ahead and I truly feel all the more alive with every new day now.

Things could have been "so" different. I feel genuinely blessed.

May you all be lucky enough to feel the joy and gratitude that I been lucky enough to feel for all of the magic that is really around us everywhere. (Often in some of the most unexpected, overlooked, and even nearly forgotten places.) Reach out say hello, and let those you know, love, and appreciate know it.
And...Thanks so much for all the love and support, kind energy, encouraging words and prayers that have turned what originally seemed like a horrible catastrophe in the making, in to the most inspiring and magical year of my life.
I'm grateful for all of you
May you and yours enjoy the happiest of holidays!

Love, Respect and Peace to everyone
Sincerely
Gabriel Scott

AND NOW...GIFTS FOR EVERYONE! HAHAHAHAH
Here's something I found accidentally last year about this time (when I couldn't have needed a good laugh more!). It's a recording of a writer named David Sedaris talking about the differences between christmas legends in the US and the Netherlands. It's called 6 to 8 black men. It's absolutely hilarious! (I looked it up again recently and Sabine had the idea of sharing it as a sort of holiday cyber gift. I thought it was such a great idea that I decided to do the same) May the smiles, laughter and joy this brought me, be yours and stay with you always!

Here's the link:
http://odeo.com/episodes/4475683