OzSTOC

OzSTOC News & Rider Assistance => OzSTOC News & Events... => Topic started by: Diesel on April 04, 2013, 06:17:34 PM

Title: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Diesel on April 04, 2013, 06:17:34 PM
I have just received a text from Whizz' wife, Matylda, informing me that Paul had been rushed to the PA Hospital in Sth Briz after collapsing at home.


Whizz requires surgery on a brain tumor that let go. The absolute magnitude of the problem is not known yet.


Clearly, Whizz will be out of action for a little while. I will post up some visiting hours and more details after I next hear from Matylda as to progress.


It goes without saying that if there's anything OzSTOC can do for you short or long term - we are all here.


I'm sure you'll all join me in wishing Paul and Matylda all the best under the circumstances.


All well wishes and prayers hastily sent your direction guys.


Get well soon Whizz!


Cheers, Diesel
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: saaz on April 04, 2013, 06:22:04 PM
Get better Whizz, and best wishes to the family in such a time of stress
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: BigTed on April 04, 2013, 06:25:27 PM
all the best mate, we're all hoping for a speedy recovery.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Abe on April 04, 2013, 06:29:24 PM
All the best mate.

You and your family are in our thoughts.

Many, many more roads to ride yet.

Cheers
Dave
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Marcus on April 04, 2013, 06:49:34 PM
Oh gee whizz... that's awful news... my thoughts are with him...
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: ST2UP on April 04, 2013, 06:57:48 PM
Hang there family Whizz......our thoughts with you all.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Turtle on April 04, 2013, 06:59:40 PM
Not good news to hear tho thanks Diesel for informing the group I'm sure we will all send positive get wells to Wizz and thinking of the family at this terrible time :-[
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Skip on April 04, 2013, 07:31:49 PM
A shock is an understatement. Thoughts and prayers are with you and Matylda, Whizz.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sabie on April 04, 2013, 07:50:24 PM
OH no, thats terrible news.... Thoughts are with ya Whizz, what can one say but I hope all goes well and a full and speedy recovery.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Streak on April 04, 2013, 08:03:36 PM
Our thoughts go out to you and Matylda, Whizz.

Whizz is a damn good fellow, and I hope a speedy recovery is had, I need his sound advice back on deck ASAP!
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sicman on April 04, 2013, 08:13:32 PM
Jeanette and I send our best wishes for a speedy recovery for Whizz and family

 :slvr13
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: RubenCan on April 04, 2013, 08:22:34 PM
Sorry to hear of the turn in health, momentary as it may be. Whizz, my best wishes to you, Matylda and the family as I know this would be a trying time for all of you. I've been going through something similar with my own mother and understand how important it is for everyone to be positive and supportive. So even through the distance.......get well soon.

Ruben   :dred11
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Bluey on April 04, 2013, 09:03:20 PM
My best wishes. When things aren't that great, think of the next ride to bring a little cheer.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Tipsy on April 04, 2013, 09:36:59 PM
 :wht11 py
You WILL be getting better Whizz  as I said so or I will be coming around to kick your arse,,,  :spank :spank :spank :spank.
There are too many k's to be done and an AGM to attend.  :law :p :grin

Tipsy
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: ruSTyEB on April 04, 2013, 10:39:31 PM
Speedy recovery Whizz.  Thoughts with you and your family.

Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Gadget on April 04, 2013, 11:03:54 PM
Wishing Paul all the best in surgery and a speedy recovery. 

Diesel, please pass on all our best wishes to Paul and his family.

Gary
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: pault on April 05, 2013, 05:37:44 AM
hope and pray he remembers who he is. that he is loved. usually hardest on family
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Esstee 13 on April 05, 2013, 09:04:53 AM
Our thoughts and prayers are with Whizz and his family at this difficult time. Hope all is well and a speedy recovery is made.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Wombat on April 06, 2013, 12:08:26 AM
get well soon
Bill and family
 :wht11
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: keith3po on April 06, 2013, 04:35:25 AM
Best wishes mate get well soon.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: sargent on April 06, 2013, 07:23:55 AM
Get well soon Whizz,
Prayers for your recovery and strength for your wife to help you thru.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Poppy Dave on April 06, 2013, 12:08:19 PM
Get well soon m8. Thoughts are with you.

Dave and family
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: StinkyPete on April 06, 2013, 04:19:13 PM
Speedy recovery Paul.   Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: royst1100 on April 06, 2013, 04:23:20 PM
just read notice. sorry to hear of your condition and thinking of you and family get well soon
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Bikebear on April 06, 2013, 09:16:12 PM
I've only just seen this notice as well. All the best Whizz, here's hoping things are on the improve.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Biggles on April 06, 2013, 09:23:31 PM
I go away for a day and you go and have a brain fart!
Trust and pray you make a full recovery. 
You're needed in here with all the electrical engineering knowledge.
Get well soon,
Bill
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: doggy & Nola on April 07, 2013, 07:39:40 AM
 Paul to Matylda,   hope all go's well my thoughts with you
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Wild Rose on April 07, 2013, 09:22:53 AM
All the best for a speedy recovery there Wizz
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Lionel on April 07, 2013, 01:31:10 PM
Diesel,
Any update on Wizz's condition?
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Brian on April 07, 2013, 02:38:39 PM
Do we have an update ?
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Diesel on April 07, 2013, 03:00:38 PM
I originally got the news via txt from Whizz' phone - which may be off now or not monitored.

I have asked for an update and will post as soon as I hear anything.

I imagine Paul is undergoing surgery as I type this and I may ring the Hosp later if I haven't heard back.

Stay tuned villains.

Diesel
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Brian on April 07, 2013, 05:18:31 PM
 Thanks buddy
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: JuST Peter on April 07, 2013, 08:21:33 PM
Just caught up with this.

Hopefully Whizz (Paul) has a speedy recovery. Best regards from myself and Patty to him and his family
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Shiney on April 08, 2013, 03:07:53 AM
All our best wishes for a speedy recovery for Whizz and family from myself and Carrol
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Diesel on April 08, 2013, 07:56:40 PM
*****UPDATE ON WHIZZ*****

I have just heard that Paul is going in to surgery tomorrow. At least he is taking a brain to a knife fight.. right mate?

Matylda wishes to thank Members of this Forum and express her's and Paul's gratitude for the ongoing support and well wishes. She will contact me once again when there is news to report.

C'mon Paul, go mate!      :thumbsup :thumbs :thumb :grin

All the best for tomorrow.

I will report back on results and visiting hours as soon as I hear back from the Howards.

Cheers, Diesel
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Abe on April 08, 2013, 08:26:02 PM
That's good news Diesel, and thanks for the update, but, "T"uesday is a great day for Whizz as "T":-

"T"houghts are with you Whizz and your family,

"T"errific bloke is Whizz,

"T"ake the bull by the horns and smack that "son of a *&^%$"

"T"here you go everything comes in three's, oops that's four.

Cheers
Dave

Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: saaz on April 08, 2013, 08:55:47 PM
As I am up there next week, there is a threat of visiting....
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Skip on April 08, 2013, 09:18:50 PM
I reckon we might have to do a roster for visits. He will be inundated.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Cerebral Knievel on April 08, 2013, 10:41:35 PM
Here's hoping the surgery goes according to plan.
If he's at the Mater , i know a doctor that works there.
Everything crossed-TOO MANY ROADS YET TO RIDE......

 
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: tj189 on April 09, 2013, 08:46:23 AM
I have just returned from a ride and found this report.  Whizz, thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sicman on April 09, 2013, 10:34:16 AM
Our prayers are with Whizz and his family this morning as he goes thru the surgery. God Bless you Whizz.

 :slvr13
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Diesel on April 09, 2013, 06:01:52 PM
*** UPDATE ON WHIZZ ***

Taken from txt msg from Matylda:


Paul is back from theatre, able to talk, and has his memory in tact.     :clap

Won't know about the pathology of the cancer for a few days - but the biggest hurdle is over.     :rockon

Thanks again for your kind wishes and support.

Matylda.




AWESOME NEWS!      :runyay



Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Marcus on April 09, 2013, 06:03:14 PM
Oh thank god...
I was not looking forward to you posting
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Skip on April 09, 2013, 06:21:55 PM
Thats great news. Thanks for keeping us posted Dave.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sabie on April 09, 2013, 06:43:32 PM
That's good news. It'll be a long hard road back for Whizz, our thoughts and wishes are with Whizz and his family, and may the good news keep coming....
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Shiney on April 09, 2013, 06:44:45 PM
Damn that is the best news I have seen in ages :thumbsup :thumbs

Awesome to hear Paul is doing so well :runyay all the best for a speedy recovery mate :rockon
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: SToz on April 09, 2013, 07:05:02 PM
Excellent news.....one step at a time......... :thumbs

All the best Buddy!
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Bluey on April 09, 2013, 07:07:53 PM
That is great news. Hang in there!
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: tj189 on April 09, 2013, 07:44:50 PM
good step in the right direction  :thumbs
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: sargent on April 09, 2013, 08:34:11 PM
Awesome News :rockon

Best of Luck with the Long road back onto the bike.

May be a little forward of me talking on behalf of 403 other members but fairly confident in saying.....

With just a simple message on here there is a huge family  :-++ that can and will band together to help in any way.

Continued prayers for your recovery.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sicman on April 09, 2013, 09:29:11 PM
Good stuff  :clap
 :slvr13
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: royst1100 on April 10, 2013, 03:06:16 PM
excellent news
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Mystic2 on April 10, 2013, 07:28:10 PM
Great news , speedy recovery Whizz  :rockon
 :13Candy
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Wild Rose on April 10, 2013, 08:33:23 PM
Great news.
Hoping for speedy recovery
Go Wizz we are thinking of you.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: phil-ST-er on April 10, 2013, 08:51:40 PM
Just caught up with the news. Sorry to hear of the set back but pleased to hear the good news. Speedy recovery Whizz and hope you get tro twiST the grip real soon.
BeST of luck mate
PhilSTer :blu13
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Brock on April 10, 2013, 10:07:10 PM
Not the sort of news I expected...

Glad the op went well, now for Whizz to get back on the bike.

Wonder if the hospital would believe it if 400 of his brothers turned up to visit????
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Diesel on April 10, 2013, 10:18:01 PM
***UPDATE ON WHIZZ***

I have just heard that Whizz has had a GOOD day - all progressing well.

He has been moved out of the high dependency unit to a single room, and - all going well - may even be sent home late tomorrow! (If he can convince the Docs).

He has "had enough of the hospital, and is desperate to get home!"   <----------- lol            :rofl

Sounds like all is well for our Pommie mate on the strength of that!

Thanks once again to Matylda for the update, and thanks to Whizz for listening to all the sound advice you're getting from your OzSTOC family!        :hatwave


Cheers, Diesel
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: phil-ST-er on April 10, 2013, 10:25:58 PM
Excellent news  :thumbsup
 :blu13 :blu13 :blu13 :blu13
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sicman on April 10, 2013, 10:30:53 PM
 :thumbs :clap
Good news

 :slvr13
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Streak on April 10, 2013, 10:33:10 PM
 :hatwave :hatwave :hatwave

Fantastic news! Great to hear he is on the mend!
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sabie on April 11, 2013, 12:26:04 AM
 :thumb Good news... Keep it coming

Good onya Whizz keep up the good fight.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: saaz on April 11, 2013, 08:45:11 AM
Great news!  Hope the recovery goes quickly  :beer
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Shiney on April 11, 2013, 11:35:20 AM
Awesome news :clap :thumbs :thumbsup :hatwave :runyay
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: royst1100 on April 11, 2013, 04:41:39 PM
good news  :thumbsup
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Brian on April 11, 2013, 06:38:23 PM
That's great news..... Hope you have a speedy recovery and back on ya bike
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Diesel on April 11, 2013, 06:52:51 PM
***UPDATE ON WHIZZ***

Just got an email from Matylda regarding Paul's progress. Here it is, verbatim.....


I just wanted to let you all know that Paul is now at home - he somehow convinced the doctors that he should be allowed to go home. We will back at the hospital tomorrow to meet with the oncology brain tumor medical team to plan the next course of action.


While the prognosis is not what we were hoping for, both Paul and I, with your support, will give it all that we have to ensure what ever time we have is filled with love and positive energy to get the most out of everyday.


Thank you to each and everyone of you for your support, flowers, fruit, chocolates and well wishes. I will keep you updated if anything changes.


Regards Matylda


Thanks again for the update Matylda.

Seems like it's going to be a slow, steady climb out of there for Whizz folks. Whilst the news could have been much worse, it seems like Paul is going to need all the good vibes we can muster. I'm guessing the next update for us may come directly from Paul. Just wanna let you know mate - we're all supporting you and have everything we have, crossed for you and AJ.

All the best from here on in.    :thumbs

Cheers, Diesel
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: doggy & Nola on April 11, 2013, 07:20:56 PM
Great to hear  keep it up  :thumbs
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Biggles on April 11, 2013, 08:14:21 PM
Sounds serious, but you're an ST Rider, and you can beat this thing!   :thumbs
All the very best for tomorrow's appointment.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Tackleberry on April 11, 2013, 08:32:15 PM
Hey Diesel, this sounds like a perfect time to see how many ST's can fit in Whizz's driveway - yard - street - suburb to make sure he understands he has support from our family also.  Reading a forum is good, but a couple of mates calling around for a chat is always good. 
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Biggles on April 11, 2013, 08:33:41 PM
Hey Diesel, this sounds like a perfect time to see how many ST's can fit in Whizz's driveway - yard - street - suburb to make sure he understands he has support from our family also.  Reading a forum is good, but a couple of mates calling around for a chat is always good. 

What's everyone got planned for Saturday 13th?
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Diesel on April 11, 2013, 09:56:56 PM
Hey Diesel, this sounds like a perfect time to see how many ST's can fit in Whizz's driveway - yard - street - suburb to make sure he understands he has support from our family also.  Reading a forum is good, but a couple of mates calling around for a chat is always good. 

Great idea! Probs better to leave it til Sunday week though. Stay tuned.....       :think1


 :wht11 :bl11 :blk11 :dred11 :gldst11 :wht13 :blu13 :blk13 :slvr13 :rd13 :13Candy
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Whizz on April 11, 2013, 10:15:25 PM
Guys,
I was released from hospital this afternoon. I had a major operation on my head day before yesterday to remove a cancerous growth and I am still suffering very badly, but I have an appointment tomorrow with a collection of surgeons and neurologists and oncologists.

I will tell you all now that I am expecting to have nuclear medicine and oncology over the next few months and I am expecting that to give me about another 2 or 3 years of life. It's crap but I am going to try to survive as long as possible. I don't know whether I will be able to ride the bike again, but I'm sure as shit going to try.

I thank you all for your good thoughts and support, and I'll let you know fairly soon when the prognosis is.

Cheers All

Paul Howard
(Whizz)
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Poppy Dave on April 11, 2013, 10:25:46 PM
Whizz,

I'm not sure how to react to your last post.

All I can say mate is that ALL (and I'm sure I can speak for us all on this) our thoughts are with you and your family.

Take care and do whatever is best for you and your's,

Dave Roper and family
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Diesel on April 11, 2013, 10:39:42 PM
Thanks Paul. I'm gunna say it... That's bloody SHYTE!

I suddenly find myself with nothing to complain about at all.

So far - those two lines have taken me 20 minutes to type!

It goes without saying mate, that we are all shocked and devastated by this news, and can only hope an pray for the best possible outcome for everyone through this.

It also goes without saying that you have our full support if you need anything to help you on this tough ride you are about to undertake.

I'm thinking we may have to have to have next year's National Rally at your place now - got room for 60 or 70?

Please stay in regular touch mate, as you have a lot of fans here who can only get progress reports on messages you or Matylda post here or txt me.

Go get 'em mate - you're only the hooker in a 400 strong scrum here OK?

All the best.

Cheers, Diesel
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: saaz on April 11, 2013, 10:44:36 PM
That crap news Paul. Makes other things that go wrong in life seem pretty small.  Lets hope there is some more positive news, in whatever form

John
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: RexJ on April 11, 2013, 10:53:06 PM
Second Poppy Dave's words. Whizz.

I had my medical trials last year. It's not fun and the days can be long, but as time is the price of healing, you WILL get there eventually.

(Not ride the bike again...???... steady on old chap.  :o Wot thuh)

Thoughts and prayers for you and the family.

Rex
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Tackleberry on April 11, 2013, 10:56:48 PM
Whizz it's good to see you have a positive attitude buddy. 

Keep the good times rollin through your thoughts buddy, and keep telling yourself you're gonna get back on the bike, whether you ride, or pillion mate.  You will get there. 

I'm sure the fellas in the south east will be more than willing to call in and annoy the hell out of you when you need a pick me up too. 
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: StinkyPete on April 12, 2013, 07:48:21 AM
Hang in there Paul.    Sometimes in life, shit happens ..... no one is to blame, it just happens, so hang in there and know that you have lots of family and friends to help you along the way.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Marcus on April 12, 2013, 07:52:14 AM
Hang in there man. That's rough! Glad you're ok ish though
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: sargent on April 12, 2013, 08:05:53 AM
 :eek Yeah thats pretty bloody crap news allright.

Think Big and Aim High.  :thumb

Sure would be good to see you back on the STeed down the road somewhere real soon Paul.

Prayers of Strength and quick Recovery coming your way mate.  :wht11
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Biggles on April 12, 2013, 08:56:47 AM
I'm with Sarge- prayers for strength and recovery!
They're getting more clever all the time with treatments.  Maybe you will get to trial something new.
There's definitely an ST gathering on your lawn soon, so include that in your plans.
Blessings,
Bill
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: tj189 on April 12, 2013, 10:04:35 AM
Well Whizz, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.  I love your tenacity in this fight, stay strong and when you need to, call to your friends for support, they/we are willing to be there for you  :beer
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Shiney on April 12, 2013, 10:26:47 AM
Well its good to hear you are out of Hospital and have such a positive outlook, you WILL get back on the bike (it just might take a while)
As with everyone else Carrol and my thoughts and prayers are with you and if you need or want anything just ask and you with have it (within reason :well)
And whenever you feel like having a visit from some friends just let us know, nothing better the going for a ride to visit a good mate :hatwave

All the best
Shiney & Carrol
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: ruSTyEB on April 13, 2013, 07:31:21 AM
Keep up the fight....   A mate of mine had brain tumour (malignant) removed 12 years ago.  Because  of its position it cannot be fully removed.  Back then he was given a 5% chance of living  past 2 years.  He is defying the odds due to the leaps in medical technology keeping him alive.

Never loose hope and stay strong!
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Gadget on April 13, 2013, 03:33:24 PM
Paul,

I was really glad to hear you made it through the op.  :thumbsup

I hope too see you again soon.  I need you to get better because, do you know how long it has taken to find someone else with a similar career background AND who likes to ride bikes, that isn't a work colleague. :grin

When you're ready to have OzSTOC rock up, let us know, we will even bring our own food and drinks so as not to put you or Matylda out.  :popcorn

If it comes down to it, I'll pillion you if need be. 

Anyway, chin up old chap, all the best and look forward to seeing you soon and really keen to be going on more rides with you.

:beer
Gary

_____________________________________________________________________________________________ :blu13left
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: alans1100 on April 13, 2013, 04:21:48 PM
All the best from Heather and I
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Streak on April 13, 2013, 05:07:24 PM
Below is an update Whizz sent to Diesel and I, that he has allowed us to share:

Well, I've been home for a couple of days, I've slept like the dead, have enjoyed being out of hospital and at home and have spoken for some time with my family. I had a really good shower and my wife changed the bandages on my head, I love having my own nurse, with 30 years experience!!!! We shaved my head to #1 and refitted new dressings over what is still quite big, the scar looks like a giant question mark where they opened my skull to get the tumour out of there.

My arms are starting to recover a bit from the damage caused by the untold number of needles they stuck in me in both arms, one foot, right hip etc etc! and I've lost about 14 kilos in weight in the last 2 weeks, so probably about a kilo a day. I'm on a load of drugs most of which I don't understand, but while some affect me badly some don't. The worst is the Steroid, it makes me cry which makes me feel so dumb and childish, I have to take it to reduce the risk of seizures, but the quantity is reducing over the next few days to a minimum amount which hopefully won't affect me so much or so emotionally. I am also being considered for a new drug which should help me deal with the world, but it may cost me a big bunch for the first three sessions, after that it is on the public payment support system.

I am starting to feel somewhat recovered, the operation is over and I'm doing as much recovery as I can, as fast as I can. Yesterday my wife and I went back to the PA Hospital Department that deals with this whole case, and the first person I spoke to was the original surgeon who was very happy with what she achieved, she reckoned she got about 97-99% of the tumour out of my brain and is now saying that she and the rest of the surgeons/doctors/team will use Nuclear Radiation and Chemotherapy to try to deal with the rest of the thing. After that I talked to the Nuclear Doctor, then the Chemotherapy Doctor who basically explained the plan, which is Nuclear radiation treatment starting in about 3 weeks, then Chemotherapy starting a couple of weeks after that, which should all hopefully finish in a few months, then we'll see how well I get through it.

I can easily predict that I am likely to feel dreadful because of the level of the radiation and chemotherapy but I can promise you that I am going to do whatever I can to survive for as long as I can.

In a month or so when things start to recover a bit I will be very pleased to meet up with you guys for coffee etc, although I am not allowed to drive or ride anything for 3 months, so it might be a case of my wife driving me out to meet up with you when you have a weekend ride somewhere not to far away.

I want to thank you all for your support etc in a situation that seriously frightened the crap out of me, I have obviously never been this sick in my entire life and I am still having trouble coming to terms with exactly what my life is going to turn into and in what time period, but I don't think this is going to be a quick recovery, and I'm not sure for how long.

I wanted to send this personally to you two brilliant guys, just to let you know what happened, where things stand and where they are headed, but please feel free to publish it if you want. I really do appreciate all the support I got from the members, a simply champion group of blokes.

Cheers Guys
Paul Howard
(Whizz)
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: ST2UP on April 13, 2013, 06:16:44 PM
Whizz

Whilst we have not yet meet, and we will !! ....I admire your spirt and conviction in tackling the struggle that lays ahead of you and your family.......and if you stumble in your stride, rest assure their is an abundance of OzSTocers willing to drag you to your feet and propel you in the direction you seek.

All our best thoughts with you mate.....

Cheers

Chris
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: sargent on April 13, 2013, 10:51:19 PM
I stand beside a long group of people that will be there to have coffee with you when you are able too....
All the best and prayers again for a speedy recovery.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sabie on April 13, 2013, 11:55:47 PM
Whizz, we too have never met but we have exchanged posts on this forum. But that's not to say that there are no feelings toward your situation.

I feel for you, wish you all the best and stand with the guys and gals who are your OzSTOC Family, who sincerely wish you a speedy recovery and only want to see you well again.

I'm sure there's an army of OzSTOC'ers who would jump at the chance to help in any way, you don't even have to ask, just give the nod.

Best wishes Whizz, rest, recover, get better, all is waiting for you, we're not going anywhere, we'll still be here when you come back.

Michael (Sabie)
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: youngSTer on April 14, 2013, 03:19:02 AM
Whizz, keep on going, my prayers are with you until this thing is defeated.
Bless you both.
Tony (young one)
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: royst1100 on April 14, 2013, 07:30:46 AM
looking forward to meeting up when the time is right
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: tj189 on April 14, 2013, 07:47:50 AM
Whizz, I am not on steroids but I am still emotional reading your note above,  you are not alone, there is a lot of support here for you an your family. Thoughts and prayers are with you.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Tipsy on April 14, 2013, 09:34:43 AM
 :wht11 py
Hey Mate, it is good to hear that you are beginning your recovery with such strong thoughts, as a lot of us know the hardest thing to handle is such mighty big change to our lives and the greatest enemy to recovery is the dreaded black dog disease.....
So remember mate that we are all hear for you and even chatting online can help raise ones spirits.
I know it does for me,,,,,and we will be having coffee sooner than you think, and if that does not scare the crap out you nothing will.  :grin

Tipsy

Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sicman on April 14, 2013, 12:33:28 PM
Whizz - Glad to hear your on the way to a recovery. Our prayers are with you that it will be a full recovery :thumb Small steps lead to big strides so here's hoping that your positive attitude will make the hard days seem further and further apart  :wink1

Cheers

Tony

 :slvr13
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: RexJ on April 17, 2013, 07:41:59 PM
Soldier on Paul.  The biggest part of recovery is to be determined to do whatever it takes to get there. Forget time - it takes care of itself.

You've got an army of support out here. Get well soon and come join us.

God bless.

Rex (family and church)
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Barry and Marissa on April 26, 2013, 07:56:04 AM
Hi Whizz,
Mate I don't get on here often enough to keep up with all that's happening in Ozstoc land of late. Marissa and I are very sorry to hear of your health problems and we want to pass on our best wishes for a positive outcome.

B & M
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: WendyL on April 26, 2013, 04:34:22 PM
Hi Whizz,

I've been punished for not being on the forum anywhere near enough.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.  You can beat this beast.  It's going to be tough, but just stay positive.

All the best.

Wendy
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sabie on April 26, 2013, 05:01:43 PM
Hi Whizz,

I've been punished for not being on the forum anywhere near enough.  My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.  You can beat this beast.  It's going to be tough, but just stay positive.

All the best.

Wendy

Not hijack the thread,  :hijacked but I think you've had good reason Wendy...
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Streak on June 16, 2013, 03:57:28 PM
Visit to Whizz Sunday 16th June

Thought is best to add this to this thread rather than start a new one.

As you all know Whizz has some life changes recently and has been unable to ride his bike, or do much of anything recently....so Diesel and I arranged with Whizz (and Mrs Whizz), to go for a visit and say hello.

Hopped up and headed for Ipswich, took the slab as it was a quick run down and back, as I was leaving Toowoomba, diesel rang and had broken down, so I had to fly solo for once (kinda strange really).

Easy run down of about an hour, pulled into whizz's driveway and saw a very excited man! It was get to see whizz, and I have to say mrs whizz put on great food, diesel missed out I can tell you!

After trading a few stories I presented whizz with a 2013 Rally shirt as he was coming to rally until he had the health change

(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd499/ozstoc/null_zpsac93351a.jpg)

Then I took Whizz's very Nice 2003 ST1300 for a ten min Lap to turn the wheels over as well

(http://i1222.photobucket.com/albums/dd499/ozstoc/null_zps63094f53.jpg)

All in all it was great to see Whizz, and with everything happening that he has a positive face on  :thumb

For health updated I will let him tell you all about it if he is comfortable doing so.

Cheers

Streak

Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sicman on June 16, 2013, 04:47:50 PM
Great stuff Streak and Whizz - Diesel hates good food and grog anyways so he wouldn't have minded missing out :grin Yeh right this would have been Diesel -  :well :well :cuss :cuss :cuss :fp :fp :fp   

 :slvr13
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Marcus on June 16, 2013, 06:04:55 PM
Thumbs up
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Whizz on June 16, 2013, 06:29:24 PM
Hi All,
This is obviously not much to do with riding, but I'll give you all the latest update.

I'm going good so far, not too much sickness from the Chemo, although I am starting to feel somewhat more nauseated over the last few days. I have a week and a little bit to go until we are finished with the Radiation, and that also means I have a break from the Chemo for a whole month!!! HURRAH!! Then I start it again but only 5 days out of every 4 weeks, this to last for 6 months. Not looking forward to that too much but I suppose it will be better than it is right now!.

Also, because I'm not going to be doing any more Radiation I will not have to attend the PA every day again, which is a real blessing, currently it takes us 35-40 minutes to drive into the Hospital every day, 20 minutes to get the treatment, then another 35-40 minutes to get home...a real pain in the poo-shoot!!!

The Doc tells me that he won't be able to make any accurate predictions of my likely survival period for another 3 to 4 months, once the Radiation and Chemo are finished and I have had time to get over the 100% predictable side-effects they both cause. He does however sound happy and impressed with the descriptions of the experimental surgery I had to remove the brain tumour, which took the size of the removed part of the tumour from about 75% to 98-99%. Add to this level of removal, the application of the Chemo and Radiation, then I suppose we can assume that my survival period might be assumed to be somewhat higher than before.

One major pain in the proverbial is that I've been told that I won't be allowed to either drive a car or ride a motorbike for another 12 months, so I am thinking that I will probably goes insane from boredom before this tumour can actually do me in!! :-) In all probability I am going to have to sell the 1300 primarily because I won't be allowed to ride it again and secondarily, because if it sits in the garage for 12 months it will never work again. So, anyone interested in a 2003, ST 1300 with loads of farckles?? if so let me know and we can discus price!.

BTW, many thanks to Streak for his wonderful visit, and for riding some of the cobwebs off the bike, pity Diesel didn't make, better luck next time, mate!!!

I must admit to feeling more on the road to recovery than I have felt previously, and more coming to terms with the probable prognosis, so life seems somewhat more promising.

Cheers All
Paul
(Whizz)
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Brian on June 16, 2013, 06:36:13 PM
Good to hear from you Paul.... I wish you strength and all the best for a painless recovery
Cheers Brian
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: saaz on June 16, 2013, 06:50:02 PM
Good to see an upside in the recovery  :thumbsup.  If you are up for a visit on the way through to Biloela around 20 July I will call in.  :wht11  Haven't organised exactly what I am doing on the way there or back as yet, so perhaps might give it some thought  :think1
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Biggles on June 16, 2013, 09:25:33 PM
Good to hear the docs are pleased with your situation.
The nausea doesn't appear to have dropped your weight much   :grin
So that's a positive- still got plenty of condition in reserve- way to go.

Will be sad to let the ST go, but the realities of rego, insurance and the aforesaid deterioration over 12 months dictate it's the right thing to do.  Put the money into a good interest-bearing account, because when it matures Honda might have the new ST1400 out ready for you to be one of the first to buy.   :beer

I visited Diesel at home with his sick ST13.  He was looking particularly unhappy at her bedside, and STella didn't look her cheerful self- very dull in the eyes, I'm afraid.  The new battery isn't wasted, since the dead one owed Diesel nothing and might have been about to expire anyway.  It looks like a pacemaker is what's needed.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Gadget on June 16, 2013, 09:54:49 PM
Good to hear there's positive progress Whizz.  :thumb

If I'd have known a visit was on, I'd have liked to join in.  I was down Southbank way for lunch tofday and the wife and I could have bought the VW Eos convertible over afterwards and taken you and Mrs Whizz out for a spin.  The convertible is the next best thing to an ST1300.  :grin

Keep smilin' and have fun. 

A mental challenge for you to keep the mind active.   :think1 I came up with the idea today to have a program that you can run to keep track of where you've put your icons on the Desktop, so that when windows decides to do a change of resolution, re-arrange of your Icons, you run the icon restore and have all your icons put back where you wanted them and not where windows decided it wanted them. 

It could be run once when you're happy with the icon positions or periodically so you do a reposition from a backup date and time list database.

Shouldn't be too hard, but I think if it got up and sold for a fiver it'd be well received.

Cheers,
Gary.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: tj189 on June 17, 2013, 05:44:58 AM
Keep plugging away there Whizz  :thumbs
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: ST2UP on June 17, 2013, 06:17:07 AM
Keep fighting the good fight Whizz...... :clap  :thumbsup
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: StinkyPete on June 17, 2013, 08:31:52 AM
Thanks for the update Paul, and know that you continue to be in our thoughts and prayers.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sabie on June 17, 2013, 09:27:01 AM
Good onya Whizz, hang in there and keep fighting like you are....

It'll be a pleasure to finally meet you at Biloela...

Cheers

Michael
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Tipsy on June 17, 2013, 09:41:09 AM
Hey Whizz its good to hear how you are getting along.
as for the loved one how about giving her a start up every once in a while and I am sure that the likes of Diesel and Streak and others would quite happily take her out for a run every now an them.
As for not being able to ride......who said so,,,,Hell someone reckoned I shouldnt have survived this long but I have.
Its a only a case of if you want to believe them or yourself. It may be 6 or 12 months down the track or a bit longer but we all know you love to be out riding so hang in there and keep fighting an the Ostoc Family will always be there to support you the best way they can.

Tipsy
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Tipsy on June 17, 2013, 09:41:48 AM
Hey Whizz its good to hear how you are getting along.
as for the loved one how about giving her a start up every once in a while and I am sure that the likes of Diesel and Streak and others would quite happily take her out for a run every now an then.
As for not being able to ride......who said so,,,,Hell someone reckoned I shouldnt have survived this long but I have.
Its a only a case of if you want to believe them or yourself. It may be 6 or 12 months down the track or a bit longer but we all know you love to be out riding so hang in there and keep fighting an the Ostoc Family will always be there to support you the best way they can.

Tipsy
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Brock on June 17, 2013, 10:32:50 AM
Whizz,

The Doc says you cant ride, but I'm betting that you still can. Any way, whats to stop some one calling by, and you jumping on the back. The endorphin release can only be good for you.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Shiney on June 18, 2013, 09:33:22 PM
Thanks for the update Whizz, it's good to hear that things are going well :hatwave
It's a shame your selling the beast but on the up side when you get another one in a year or so you get to have fun farkleing again :runyay

And whenever you are feeling board or feel like a visit just put up a post and I'm sure there will be people swinging by for a coffee in no time :thumbs

All the best mate
Shiney
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: youngSTer on June 18, 2013, 11:33:11 PM
Thanks for the update Whizz, it's good to hear that things are going well :hatwave
It's a shame your selling the beast but on the up side when you get another one in a year or so you get to have fun farkleing again :runyay

And whenever you are feeling board or feel like a visit just put up a post and I'm sure there will be people swinging by for a coffee in no time :thumbs

All the best mate
Shiney

Hi Whizz, I would like to do the same as Shiney, anytime you feel up to a visit just post and I am sure I will be there.
Blessings.
Tony.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Barry and Marissa on June 19, 2013, 11:19:20 AM
Thanks for the update Whizz. Keep plugging along mate and you'll get there!
B & M
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Poppy Dave on June 21, 2013, 11:32:00 AM
Chin up M8
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: RexJ on June 21, 2013, 01:16:50 PM
Prayers for recovery Paul, and the family.  Get well soon. Everything has a season. This one will come and go and you'll be into life again.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Whizz on August 30, 2013, 10:04:08 PM
OK people, Well I went into the PA on Monday this week for a complex MRI of my head where the tumour grew, and then went back today to see the specialists about progress, and to cut a long story short there has been absolutely NO tumour re-growth since the operation. 98% of the tumour was surgically removed and the 2% remaining is still at the same level of development as before, i.e. no expansion.

Seems like this is the best thing that can happen, the specialist was all smiles and basically said OK we will move to 3 monthly progress checks from now on, so I think that the prognosis is good and I should have at least a few more good years of survival. The Chemo therapy is not fun but if it adds to my general survival then I will put up with it, I suppose!!

I am fully aware that the tumour I had was a malignant one so there is no 100% cure anywhere on the books, but with the complete stoppage of growth of the tumour the period of survival sounds quite promising.

Trust me guys, I am smiling now, which I wasn't able to do this morning!!!.

 :Blow
Title: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Marcus on August 30, 2013, 10:09:03 PM
Best news ever.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Poppy Dave on August 30, 2013, 10:19:28 PM
 :Blow :Chocies :Blow :-++ :-++ :-++ :-++ :-++ :-++ :-++ :-++


GREAT NEWS MATE



Poppy Dave                                        :wht13
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: saaz on August 30, 2013, 10:20:14 PM
That's great news  :beer  Time to think about what bike to get next I think...
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: youngSTer on August 30, 2013, 10:21:26 PM
Hi Paul & Family,

Thanks to the Lord Jesus for the healing so far of your recovery, and He will complete the work that He has started.

Blessings and complete healing.

Tony (youngSTer)
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: StinkyPete on August 30, 2013, 10:42:44 PM
Great news Paul.    :grin
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sabie on August 30, 2013, 10:45:03 PM
Good onya Whizz, that's outstanding news.  :thumb

Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Biggles on August 30, 2013, 10:50:05 PM
Great to hear.  That's a huge load off your mind (pun intended).   :thumbs

Now to get on with LIFE!

Tell us the plans as they emerge.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sicman on August 30, 2013, 11:23:11 PM
Excellent news  :beer :beer :thumbsup :clap
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: ST2UP on August 30, 2013, 11:32:58 PM
 :hatwave  :hatwave brilliant news Whizz  :thumbsup
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: tj189 on August 31, 2013, 06:29:33 AM
excellent to hear that news Whizz
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Gadget on August 31, 2013, 06:56:30 AM
Paul,

That is fantastic news.  I'm sure it's not just you smiling either. Your family at home and your family here are grinning with you. :runyay

Cheers,
Gary
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Wild Rose on August 31, 2013, 08:04:33 AM
Excellent news Wizz. Your day 2 Day can start getting better. Enjoy yourself  :thumb
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Neale on August 31, 2013, 08:10:08 AM
Great to hear Whizz. Keep up the good work.  :clap :runyay
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: gaz on August 31, 2013, 08:38:26 AM
Good onya Whizz, that's outstanding news.  :thumb
:thumb
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Brock on August 31, 2013, 09:36:53 AM
 :runyay :runyay :runyay :runyay :beer
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Bluey on August 31, 2013, 11:36:26 AM
Without doubt, good news. Modern medicine and good luck are a great combination. I am very happy for you. Thanks for letting us know.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Sean on August 31, 2013, 11:40:02 AM
Fantastic news Whizz. Everyday forward is a great day. It's not just your family that has a beaming smile about the good news. Your other family is smiling too.
 :thumbs  :clap  :thumbs  :clap
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: royst1100 on August 31, 2013, 01:20:33 PM
grerat news and keep up the good news
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: STill dreaming on August 31, 2013, 04:03:23 PM
Paul such wonderful news ,may you have many years to come.Hopefully it's a lesson for the rest of us to be greatful for good health.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: SToz on August 31, 2013, 05:51:18 PM
Great news Paul! :thumb
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Skip on August 31, 2013, 07:21:57 PM
 :thumbsup Great news Whizz.
Title: Re: OzSTOC Rider down....
Post by: Shiney on August 31, 2013, 08:47:37 PM
Awesome news Whizz :clap :runyay