From the day I began this blog Dave McGowan (uberfave) has been a constant in the sidebar of the blog. He became known to me via his appearances on Meria- the mouth that roars I can't say with any certainty how many years ago I first heard him talking up his writings?It likely had to be around the time he published his first book -Derailing Democracy So that was at least 13 years ago??? I own and have read all of his books. Yes, there are more books then the more recently published "Weird Scenes Inside the Canyon" A book, I actually have two copies of. One purchased from Dave with a very lovely autograph. And the other copy bought to read and lend. The other books are Understanding the F-word and of course Programmed to Kill- and the already mentioned Derailing Democracy. Dave is no 'Johnny come lately' to what I characterize as the questioning authority and everything else scene.Hell, yours truly is even responsible for the 'send in the clowns' title of the regular show that Meria and Dave did every month! It described the tomfoolery (playful or silly behaviour) of the two hosts, but especially of Dave, while delivering some of the most difficult or challenging information. Like a spoon full of sugar...Sigh.. I don't know how to say this, but, I'm going to just get it out there. Dave McGowan is facing the toughest life challenge imaginable. I'm going to quote from his last facebook posting:
Weird Scenes Inside the Canyon
7 hrs · So I guess I’ll just cut right to the chase and say that the prognosis is not good. I’ve been in the oncology ward of Glendale Adventist Hospital for several days now subjecting myself to various tests (X-Rays, a C-T Scan, an MRI, blood panels, a bone scan, and a biopsy). And the news has gotten progressively worse. As it stands now, I have small-cell cancer aggressively attacking my lungs, liver and bones, and the doctors fear it could soon invade my brain. The survival rate for this form of lung cancer is very low and beating the odds is a daunting challenge. I’m a fighter by nature, but this is going to require a hell of a fight. On the plus side, the staff here has been wonderfully supportive and they have done everything possible to keep me comfortable and to take the edge off the intense pain. Start my first round of chemotherapy this morning, which hopefully will go well.
I don't have 'facebook' so can't comment there- I, like Dave, detest that giant information sucking, manipulating, anti-social, anti human space.Therefore what I have to say about this sad new is going to be right here:I'm dam sorry to read this news Dave.. Truly. Your FB mesage is pure Dave- the fighter in you is apparent in the words. My husband and I send nothing but the best thoughts imaginable to you and your family at this very difficult time.If anyone wants to comment here, please do, well wishes would be appreciated.Thanks!