Not so good a day for some Bears - But it will get better

[cellboy]

As some may know, I manage a large apartment building in SSF. We are a small staff, so working as an integral part of a team, is very important. Maintenance, as many may or may not know, is a very very important part of the scheme of things. Most residents befriend the maintenance man/staff. Trust is developed, important, when allowing them to enter your home for repairs, when not resident is not there. In turn, the residents communicate (personal issues, problems, etc)to the maintenance person. Maintenance are at times, the liaison to me, and the management company. Their knowledge of the history of the place and residents is invaluable.

George, our maintenance guy, is loved by everyone in this community.(It especially shows at Christmas time!!). He reminds me of "Meat Head" from the All in the Family- Archie Bunkers son in law. A sweet nice guy with a big heart.

An nice "Italian Bear" .

He reported to me 3 weeks ago, that he has Hodgkin's Disease. He is only in his 40's. And many residents, some upset, are pouring their hearts' of good luck to him. .

Understandably, he is a mess. In denial one moment, and the next moment ready to conquer the world and the disease.

He is off for the stint insertion today... then begins chemo next week. But all in all...he is a trooper.

Understandably, his stress level is high. Our level is a bit stressed also. For finding temporary staff to be as good as George, is a challenge. He plans to continue to work, however his Dr's tell him to go on disability for one month, to see how the therapy works. So we will see how it goes. We have back ups for maintenance.... but it is not always the same. And with our vacancies on the rise for next month..... scheduling outside staff, and getting them here will be somewhat challenging.

What is more important is that George gets all of our, and his family's "Positive Support", completes his chemo sessions; and with his positive attitude, he'll be back on track.

Comments

[urbear]

Hodgkin's Disease often responds well to treatment. It's not going to be easy, but there's a good chance that George will be fine.

[cellboy.livejournal.com]

Yes, Thanks! At least he does not have Non-HD. He will do fine :-)

Keep hoping..

[hartseyeview.livejournal.com]

I knew someone that was diagnosed with Hodgkins in his pre-teens and he lived to almost 50. And how many near and dear ones have been living with AIDS for way more than the anticipated 5-10 years. The doctors don't know all the answers. They can never anticipate the power of believing. So don't give up hope.

Re: Keep hoping..

[cellboy.livejournal.com]

Thanks Kelly. Have a good day. See ya this weekend...

George

[(Anonymous)]

A sad but kind and thoughtful entry, Rick. George is lucky to have you as a friend.

Re: George

[cellboy.livejournal.com]

Thanks. Good news he's back, still has 1-2 more chemo sessions, but his energy is at most times good. Hope it all works out. Sad thing is that during his ordeal, his girlfriend of 12 yrs left him (bitch). Funny how some bolt when illness crops up. Anyway, hopefully all will be fine in the near and far future.