Thursday, November 10
I turn this post over to our guest author:
I decided this blog needed a little twist.
This week the Heil Bro’s (shy Tommy) shanghaied Mikey for a “Poker Excursion” to eastern Oregon. Like any other family outing, along with the poker stake came the other toys; golf clubs, pinochle deck, swim goggles & chess board. We left the PSA testing, doctor appointments and body scans behind. It was a Boys Only getaway TRIP.
During the week Mikey commented on the need to get some things done, his blog being one of them…… Well, I’ve got you covered – Kick off the shoes, sit back and enjoy some down time.
How does poker and dealing with a life changing health condition relate? Well, someone once told me “Poker is Life and Life is Poker”. As in life, some players are guilty of playing a good hand really bad; others do fairly well playing a mediocre hand; but, the most talented and feared players are the ones who can maximize all angles on the poorest of hands.
From my perspective Mikey has recently been dealt a tough hand in life. As with poker, the true test in life is how does one strategically navigate thru those tougher challenges. After all there simply is no bluffing! As I see it, big brother has found the grace, tenacity, perseverance and emotional dexterity to rise up to this daunting task. Further, he has tapped into the energy of a larger community (many of you now reading) and is reaping the benefits. His skills are serving him very well and I, for one, am excited to be a part of the growing ‘rail bird’ crowd.
Borrowing another phase: “You can’t judge an entire poker session on just one hand”. So, Mikey, as you navigate thru the twist & turns of the cancer rollercoaster, I/we plan on walking along with ya. Sometimes I will walk at your side, other times in front and still others perhaps even behind. But, bear in mind, you will never be forced to walk alone!! This is another “Life Adventure” and I want to experience it up front, close and personal with my own eyes.
There will be time enough for counting when the dealing done. So, Mikey (Harry), keep artfully teaching us the lessons of life, both on & off the tables….
–Rich
Ps. Gale & TC thanks for joining our festivities. Great having ya along for the ride!
As I began to read the blog this morning I realized I knew the person writing it. No, I didn’t skip to the end to find out. 🙂 The writer was familiar. I could hear him saying,”Spence, why change a winning game.” I’m so happy Mike has his family and friend support team as well as his medical peeps……..Thanks Rich…It was a much appreciated read.
Pam and I are following from down south with thoughts and prayers daily. I am amazed but not surprised the way Mikey is playing this hand. I can’t wait for my visit next month.
A post from Pendleton??? When I saw that, my heart sang! My home town, back where cowgirls are common and everyone knows your name, “hey, there’s Kottkamp!” Remember singing those country tunes at the top of our lungs on the bus home from Oaks Park in PDX with the the 8th-graders-aka-we-know-everything-bunch-of-punks? Aw, Heil, those were the days, when beer was cheap and often. Luv you!!! Xoxo oh, and ya, I guess Rich can write, too!!!