Richard Kelley's Journal

Richard Kelley: Husband, Veteran, Educator, Triathlete - RIP

2009-10-19T10:59:00.002-04:00

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Richard Lynn Kelley
Richard Lynn (Dick) Kelley, 63, of Vinton, Va., completed his final triathlon on Wednesday, October 14, 2009. As he crossed the finish line his biggest fan "Sweets" cheered him on as he received the biggest, and grandest trophy of all time. He was preceded in death in July of this year by his father, Robert F. Kelley Sr. An Army veteran of the Vietnam War, Dick served for 11 years achieving the rank of Major before leaving the Army for a job with the Bedford School System and then later a job as Assistant Superintendant of Operations with the Roanoke City Public School System. In that position his job responsibility was to be the Superintendant's "right arm." He served in this capacity for 25 years before retiring in 2005. During his tenure he was responsible for the planning, renovation, and construction of 14 of the school buildings that the system now operates. Just last month he was recognized for his work at the dedication and ribbon cutting at the new William Fleming High School.Much has been written about his love of sports and his being an avid outdoorsman. These activities included participating in marathons, triathlons, skiing, running, biking, and hiking. In addition to these activities, he also worked to maintain a nature trail at Bobblett's Gap along the Appalachian Trial. His attention to detail was evidenced by his taking the time to identify the plants along the portion of the trail he maintained. He was also known to leave provisions at the Bobblett's Gap shelter for the comfort of those who would use the facility for rest as they hiked alo ng the trail.During the colder months when he couldn't spend time outdoors, he would spend his time working with his longtime hobby of model railroading. Anyone who has seen this display can attest to his amazing talent and attention to detail.Surviving are his wife of 31 years, Carol Kelley; children, Jack Eppard and wife, Melanie, of Rhome, Texas, Teresa Phillips, and Brad Eppard and wife, Debbie, of Raleigh, N.C.; mother, Eleanor Kelley, of San Diego, Calif.; grandchildren, Patricia "Tricia" Gangstad and husband, Erik, of Ft. Worth, Texas, Jessica Fay Eppard, and Ryanne Lynn Eppard, both of Raleigh, N.C.; brother, Robert F. Kelley Jr. and wife, Wendy, of San Bruno, Calif.; sisters, Marianne Roughley and husband, Robert, of Rochester, Mich., and Kathy Belo and husband, Diogo, of San Diego, Calif.; nieces and nephews; and devoted companion and family member, Max.The family requests that memorial gifts take the form of memorials to the YMCA of Roanoke Valley, 520 Church Avenue, SW, Roanoke, Va. 24016, the Ronald McDonald House, 2224 Jefferson Street, Roanoke, Va. 24014 or you may speak privately to Carol about making a gift to help a special family. The family will receive friends from 1 to 3 p.m. and from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2009, in the Community Room of the YMCA located at 520 Church Avenue. A celebration of Dick's life is planned for 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 17, 2009, at the Sunset Fields Overlook at milepost #78 on the Blue Ridge Parkway (about seven miles beyond the Peaks of Otter). Family and friends are encouraged to dress casually.Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home & Crematory, Roanoke, Va., 540-366-0707.

October 11th Song "Cry of the Celts" - Lord of the Dance

2009-10-19T10:51:00.003-04:00

Hello,
Attached is a picture of the birthday cake made by granddaughter, Jessica, from scratch. Sundays song is for her and is Lord of the Dance - Cry of the Celts,
view at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iQmBHHvmrD4&feature=fvw
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: ALS Walk, Hollins University, October 11.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software and Head Mouse hardware. =

October 10th Song: "Collide" by Howie Day

2009-10-19T10:44:00.002-04:00

Hello,
Yesterday was the first day of ski season in Colorado - see webcam from Arapahoe Basin at: http://www.arapahoebasin.com/ABasin/snow-conditions/web-cams.aspx
Pretty sketchy conditions. I still have ski clothes for sale, men's medium. Saturday's song is by Howie Day, Collide, view at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JTz7rhommHI
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: ALS Walk, Hollins University, October 11.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software and Head Mouse hardware. =

October 9th Song: "Pictures of You" by The Cure

2009-10-10T09:27:00.001-04:00

Hello,
Leg is better must have been trigger point. Thanks for condolences. Song for Friday is by The Cure, Pictures of You. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EG0Q3kR7_9c
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: ALS Walk, Hollins University, October 11.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software and Head Mouse hardware. =

October 8th Song: "Let's Dance" by David Bowie

2009-10-10T09:12:00.002-04:00

Hello,
Yesterday and today were two of the most painful days I have suffered since being diagnosed with ALS. I must have slept too long on my right hamstring.I tried to move my leg but it was too painful and I had severe muscle twitching. So I tried a pain killer and range of motion exercises with minimal results. But this evening it was better - problem was created by having to sleep in one position all night. Not enough strength to change positions. Song for today is Let's Dance by David Bowie, view at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OyVjdQXNs9s
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: ALS Walk, Hollins University, October 11.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software and Head Mouse hardware. =

September 30th Song: "Until I Fall" by Gin Blossoms

2009-10-06T12:30:00.001-04:00

Hello,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y_zBQmrBcxU
Until I fall away by the Gin Blossoms. Nothing of note to report today except visits by Amanda, her daughter and Steve, Lynn, and Dick.
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: ALS Walk, Hollins University, October 11.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software and Head Mouse hardware. =

October 5th Song: "Break" by Three Days Grace

2009-10-06T12:17:00.003-04:00

Hello,
Off for 3 days for visit by grandkids. Also aide trouble with no show by same aide on Friday and Saturday - she moved to Nashville today and left $150 in pay !
Song for Monday is Break by Three Days Grace, view at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsjaIb2VhTM&feature=related
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: ALS Walk, Hollins University, October 11.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software and Head Mouse hardware. =

September 29th: "I Shot The Sheriff" by Bob Marley

2009-09-30T10:34:00.002-04:00

Hello,
Greatly appreciate the comments regarding the trach-don't regret the decision at all. Nurse said my breathing was better than last week. Must be the medical marijuana.
So the song for tomorrow is by Bob Marely, I shot the Sheriff . View at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XAixXMbyOBc&feature=related
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: ALS Walk, Hollins University, October 11.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software and Head Mouse hardware. =

September 27th: "Glycerine" by Bush

2009-09-30T10:24:00.001-04:00

Hello,
Now that I decided not to have any tracheotomy I am comforted by the fact that I really don't have any serious medical
procedures that would affect the progression of ALS. I mean I really don't be too worried about my blood pressure,
cholesterol or other medical checks that are necessary to long-term health. I am not even sure I need to brush my teeth
but my friends may not be too happy about that. I am now in one room with my bed and big screen TV along with power
lounge chair. I still have good communications to the Internet and access to a wide range of movies, documentaries, and
music. I'm getting so great food including meat loaf, shrimp, steak , and spaghetti. but no tofu.
the song for Sunday is by Bush entitled Glycerine. View at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pU6KhFWvKPM
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRI
Next ALS event: ALS WALK Hollins College, October 11.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software and Head Mouse Extreme Hardware. =

September 26th: "I Don't Wanna Miss A Thing" by Aerosmith

2009-09-30T10:12:00.003-04:00

Hello,
sorry I missed the Smith Mountain Lake triathlon today but it was too cool and rainy for my power wheelchair and breathing machine. So my granddaughter and wife attended for me and my granddaughter read my prerace remarks. I hope everyone is happy with the race and John Gregory did the race for me. The song for Saturday is for my youngest granddaughter who is learning to skate board. She likes 70s and 80s music star so the song I have selected is by Aerosmith and can be viewed at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vo_0UXRY_rY
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 23rd: "Burning Down The House" by Talking Heads

2009-09-26T09:13:00.003-04:00

Hello,
Head mouse at work URL NOW CORRECTED view song at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNnAvTTaJjM&feature=fvw
Also after a long discussion and decided not to proceed with tracheotomy and ventilator and will stay with breathing machine for
duration of this disease. That way I don't have to give up talking and eating.
I have received a number of e-mails from everyone but have not had time to respond individually-thanks for thinking of me.
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

Head Mouse

2009-09-26T09:01:00.001-04:00

Hello,
Praticing with mouse.headhttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNnAvTTaJjM&feature=fvw
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

September 16th: "Wish You Were Here" by Pink Floyd

2009-09-20T08:26:00.001-04:00

Hello,
well the visit to the lung doctor went as I expected since I knew
I had lost a lot of lung capacity since my last visit. I am now down
to 16% of normal capacity. This means I need to go on a ventilator
within the next few weeks. So I will have a tracheotomy probably
the week of September 28. The tracheotomy may cause me to lose
some or all of my speaking capability plus it will also lead a change
in eating. But I can no longer stay on my breathing machine and be assured
that I don't go into respiratory arrest. So now when you come to see me
you will have to do all the talking! But remember I'm still looking forward
to your visits and watching a movie or TV.
The song for Wednesday is by pink Floyd and is wish you were here.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXdNnw99-Ic&feature=related
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 15th: "Walking on a Dream" by Empire of the Sun

2009-09-20T08:13:00.003-04:00

Hello,
well tomorrow I go to see the lung doctor for my 90 day evaluation-at some point in time I have to make a decision about a ventilator. But right now I am still talking fairly well and I am able to swallow and eat just about anything. Now that football season is here I have some new protagonist to keep me motivated-one of them is Bill Belichick the coach of the patriots. I can't believe how lucky the patriots were last night. Let's hope they don't get to the Super Bowl. I am a just about ready to challenge some of the NFL athletes anyway since a number of them have big heads to go with their steroid bodies. I was thinking of challenging several of them to a foot race but since I can't run that may cause me to be at a disadvantage. But I am sure I could beat them at anything involving brainpower.
Tuesday's song is by empire of the sun and is entitled walking on a dream. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tj_Nlm0871E
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 14th Song: "Leave It" by Shout Out Louds

2009-09-20T07:56:00.003-04:00

Hello,
I know the past few days I've written about are AIDS situation. But CNA's are the backbone of the medical community. They are comparable to the offensive linemen in football in that they do all the heavy and basic work required to ensure the patients needs such as dressing, eating, bathroom requirements, and medical procedures are attended to. Many doctors and nurses and the general public do not recognize them for the vital services they perform. The key to longevity for a patient with a terminal illness is a quality of care they receive and CNA's are the primary determinant in the quality of care provided on around the clock basis. If you are in a situation that requires such care, will truly appreciate their work. the song or today is tonight I have to leave it by shout out louds. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3XDFdXy8-0c&feature=related
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 12th Song: "Take You There" by Sean Kingston

2009-09-13T08:44:00.001-04:00

Hello,
well just as we thought we had the aid situations straightened out-one of the AIDS fired herself. The aid called us at 2:50 PM on Friday afternoon and said she was just getting off work at the hospital and would be there by her scheduled time of 3 PM. As of 6 PM we had not heard from the aid so we called in a substitute who came by 7 PM. Needless to say we fired the aid since it is ridiculous to call us to tell us you're coming and then not show up. But we did find an excellent aid by the name of Sue who is now working for us full-time. So again hopefully the AIDS situation has resolved itself again. I also went to lunch yesterday at Sam's monthly luncheon-Sam is a stroke victim. Also not to alarm you but I found out that I'm eligible for hospice care if I so desire. But right now I'm happy with the VA but I'm going to see my lung doctor on Wednesday and I hope he doesn't want me on a ventilator since I can still talk fairly well and eat most anything.
Mike e-mailed me from Australia and he had a bad day in the Olympic distance triathlon but still managed a two hour and 30 minutes time-which is great for anyone who is almost 56. Today he was doing a sprint distance triathlon. He also said that the only food they had at the finish was watermelon so it seems the bigger the triathlon the less food is provided.
The song for today is for my new aid Sue who likes music from the Caribbean and it is By Sean Kingston and is entitled Take You Their. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sHmvMa5FfHI
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 11 Song by INXS

2009-09-13T08:41:00.000-04:00

Hello,
For Mike in Australia At the world triathlon championships. as he competes he wanted a song by INXS. so Fridays song is for him. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KL7FY7rwVtQ
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 10 Song: "Beds Are Burning" by Midnight Oil

2009-09-13T08:35:00.001-04:00

Hello,
my friend Mike is now in Australia preparing for the world triathlon championships.
So the songs by Australian bands continue with a group called Midnight Oil and the song is
Beds Are Burning which is a song about returning land to the aborigines. View at Colin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=10BbpGKLXqk
by the way Sunday starts the NFL season and I can watch anyone 14 different games.
So let me know if you want to come over Sunday afternoon to watch a game but not the Redskins!
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 9th Song: "Cool Change' by Little River Band

2009-09-13T08:22:00.003-04:00

Hello,
since Mike and his family have now arrived in Australia for the world triathlon championships in
I am continuing to play songs by Australian bands. The song for today is by the little river band.
The song is cool change. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9JPLJk-UOHc&feature=PlayList&p=E505689AAC10CD0C&index=0&playnext=1
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 8th Song: "Thunderstruck" by AC/DC

2009-09-09T11:06:00.001-04:00

Hello,
my good friend Mike is on its way to Australia to compete in the World
triathlon championships for both the Olympic and Sprint distances.
So this week I am playing songs by Australian bands.
The song for Tuesday is why the Australian band named the number one Australian
band-the song is thunderstruck by AC/DC. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvoeeq-BH4w
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 7th Song: "Weird Fishes" by Radiohead

2009-09-09T11:03:00.001-04:00

Hello,
I have been working on some new software from Apple which took me awhile to get set up.
So I have been lax in sending out a song of the day. However I will be getting back in the routine this week
we now have 4 good AIDS to help us-2 regular aid, one night time aid and 1 substitute.
Unfortunately we had to terminate an aide who was good but had trouble showing up.
One of my favorite bike Tours is coming up, the peanut ride in Emporia Virginia. I did
the ride last year even though they did not officially hold the ride. If anyone is going to the ride
this year, please do a ride for me-especially the Lake Gaston ride on Friday. The song for today
is entitled Weird Fishes by Radiohead. view at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FcANFVcJeOM
Best Regards,
DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

September 4th Song: "Sugar Foot" by Black Joe Lewis

2009-09-07T06:12:00.002-04:00

Hello, I had a wonderful time yesterday at the dedication of William Fleming high school-saw a lot of people who worked with me in the school district. The new school is a great addition to the city and compares well with the high school built at Patrick Henry. The architect for the project suggested the song for today so here it is by Black Joe Lewis and is entitled sugar foot. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6UOJUbiWC5Mby the way another way to have an aide terminated is to have her catch your biscuits between the commode and toilet seat-talk about a painful experience!Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

September 2 Song: "Empire of the Sun"

2009-09-07T06:01:00.001-04:00

Hello,
I found a new moneymaking venture today-charging the neighborhood
kids to ride up and down on my chair lift which goes from the first
floor to the basement. A round-trip ride cost only a dollar which I
think is a good deal for their parents. So next time you visit break
a few Rugrats with you so I can make some dough.
In the continuing saga regarding pink slips for home health aides,
one incident that will definitely get them terminated is to leave my
dog Max out in the rain for 4 hours. The aid on Saturday let max out
about 1 PM and when I woke up from my nap I noticed he was still out
of the front porch and was wet from the rain.
I was watching the movie Empire of the Sun last night which has in
it 3 well-known American actors and a great lyrical theme song. To
win a $15 iTunes gift card, be the first person to e-mail me with
answers to the following questions regarding the movie-1) name the
three well-known American actors in this movie and 2) what is the
name of the song sung by Jim in the video listed below. View at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tztl6ZEjrw4&feature=related

Best regards,

Dick

Strength and Honor

What We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!

Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.
Twitter At: FRE2TRI
Next ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia,
September 26.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

August 30th Song: "Clocks" by Coldplay

2009-08-31T22:57:00.000-04:00

Hello,
I have been incapacitated on Saturday by a sinus infection which affected by breathing and talking with my breathing machine. It gave me some difficulty breathing but it is now cleared up and I am back in communication. The only good thing about the infection was I got to see a large number of old classic movies. For example, I saw Shane, a Western with Alan Ladd, Jack Palance, and Brandon de Wilde - my friend Don live next door to Brandon as a child. Brandon was killed in his mid-30s in a car wreck.
Last night I watched Lolita with James Mason and Shelley Winters. The movie was made in 1982 but was considered extremely racy for its time. Sue Lyons was 14 at the time and one of the stars of the movie and she could not get in to see it because she was not 18.
The song is Clocks by Coldplay. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbI1FpLd4Vk
I forgot to tell you, on the way back from Lake Norman last weekend, one of my passengers who was trying to get something out of the back seat when he was in the front seat told the driver while we're going 70 miles an hour on interstate "don't stop here".
The good news is last night I went to bed at 11:30 PM and woke up at 8:20 AM and didn't have to wake my wife once during the night. I guess it was the plastic sheep given to the buy fight
by Mike M. That put me to sleep.

Best regards,

Dick

Strength and Honor

What We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!

Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.
Twitter At: FRE2TRI
Next ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software
=

August 28 Song: "Road to Nowhere" by Talking Heads

2009-08-30T08:17:00.002-04:00

Hello, just had a visit from my good friends Mike and Donna. Mike got me a great letter from Jon Blaize's father-Jon did the Hawaii Ironman after being diagnosed with ALS. After his death his parents organized a foundation to spread awareness about the disease. Mike also got me a letter from Andy Potts, a member of the USA Olympic triathlon team, who won the race Mike competed in last weekend. It was a great honor to get letters from Andy and Jon's father, Bob.It seemed like I'm accumulating more George like stories-last night my friend John came to visit me at 6:30 PM but did not get here until 8 PM. He said that he got lost twice because a 30-year-old map. So I'm starting a collection to raise five dollars to get him an up-to- date Roanoke County Road map. Of course if anyone wants to donate $175 we get him a GPS. So the song for today is Road to Nowhere by Talking Heads. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ER5AZDzrvRk&feature=relatedBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

Lake Norman Triathlon

2009-08-27T10:18:00.001-04:00

Hello,
I have no song for today but wanted to let you know about my experience at the Lake Norman triathlon. The Lake Norman YMCA triathlon was the last triathlon I did last year. This year my good friend John Gioffre did the triathlon in my honor and also organized members of his triathlon club, team in motion,to also do it for me. John and his running mates were great as well as Dan Hyre. Not only did they do the race in my honor may also help me get in my wheelchair to it from the race announcements area which was on the beach. John ran with me on the entir entire 5 km run course which I did it let borrow wheelchair. The only problem I had was in the last 50 yards with a wheelchair that stuck in a hole on a grassy section of the finishing stretch a number of race participants helped pull the wheelchair out of the hole. John's running club and other race participants signed several race shirts in my honor. The overall masters winner, Frank Fawcett, also gave me his first-place award. All in all it was a great experience-and I want to thank everyone involved for their support. Particularly John, Sabrina And Jason from the Lake Norman YMCA, and Bill and Linda from set-up events.
I am also attached by prerace remarks.
=
Best regards,
Dick
Strength and Honor
What We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!
Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.
Twitter At: FRE2TRI
Next ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.
Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=
AHello, I have no song for today but wanted to let you know about my experience at the Lake Norman triathlon. The Lake Norman YMCA triathlon was the last triathlon I did last year. This year my good friend John Gioffre did the triathlon in my honor and also organized members of his triathlon club, team in motion,to also do it for me. John and his running mates were great as well as Dan Hyre. Not only did they do the race in my honor may also help me get in my wheelchair to it from the race announcements area which was on the beach. John ran with me on the entir entire 5 km run course which I did it let borrow wheelchair. The only problem I had was in the last 50 yards with a wheelchair that stuck in a hole on a grassy section of the finishing stretch a number of race participants helped pull the wheelchair out of the hole. John's running club and other race participants signed several race shirts in my honor. The overall masters winner, Frank Fawcett, also gave me his first-place award. All in all it was a great experience-and I want to thank everyone involved for their support. Particularly John, Sabrina And Jason from the Lake Norman YMCA, and Bill and Linda from set-up events. I am also attached by prerace remarks.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Big Lick Triathlon, Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, September 26.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software=

August 19th Song: "Superman" by Five For Fighting

2009-08-21T11:08:00.002-04:00

good evening, last night we had a great time at the Salem Red Sox game. I had a few remarks before the game and then it's Ian Kessler's chance to throw out the first pitch. So a lot of good friends came out to the game's and two support ALS. Wednesday song is Superman-it's not easy by five for fighting. View at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=84b949k8HCw>> Best regards,>> Dick> What We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!>>> Strength and Honor>> Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.> Twitter At: FRE2TRI> Next ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, > August 22.> Message Composed With Mac Dictate SoftwareA book in a

August 18th Song: "Hollywood" by Collective Soul

2009-08-21T10:59:00.001-04:00

Hello, please remember the Salem Red Sox game tonight is for ALS and is the rescheduled game from August 5. The song for today is Hollywood by collective soul. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Og1vtUbbVPYBest regards,Dick with aStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

August 17th Song: "Sweetest Girl" by Wyclef Jean

2009-08-21T10:50:00.001-04:00

Hello, well the weekend is over and it's back to the old grind-my granddaughters in Raleigh both started school today. I got a new shower transfer system which lets me transfer from the bed to this unique shower chair that is rolled into the bathroom and then latches onto rails and then I pushed into the bathtub. Please remember the Salem Red Sox gave is tomorrow night, the 18th. Hope to see you there. I haven't heard too much feedback lately about my music videos. So here's one by Jean Wyclef called Sweetest Girl. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FydN2IhiKtcBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

ALS Olympics

2009-08-16T16:22:00.000-04:00

Hello, the ALS Olympics with the aide events had to be canceled. The organizing committee failed to take into account that the site for the events, victory Stadium, had been demolished over year ago. So the committee is now looking for new site for next weekend.Best regards,DickWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Strength and HonorWebsite: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate SoftwareA book in a

August 15th Song: "Summertime" by Billie Holiday (Happy Birthday, Don)

2009-08-16T16:15:00.002-04:00

hello, Saturday song is for my friend Don who is celebrating his 67th birthday. One of his favorite artists is Billie Holiday and the song is Summertime. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5ddqniqxFM&feature=relatedBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Softwaref

ALS Olympics - Aide Competition

2009-08-16T16:09:00.002-04:00

Hello, the ALS Olympics continues Sunday with the competition among home health aides. The aides will be competing in a series of skill events to judge how well they treat their ALS patients. The events will be held at victory Stadium starting at 10 AM Sunday. The events will include: a backward wheelchair race, a transfer from a wheelchair onto a commode, a meal feeding activity, a range of motion exercise, a speed dressing contest, a brace fitting activity, and a body cleansing shower. Other events may be added as time allows. All competitors must be CNA certified and must be presently employed by an ALS patient.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

August 13th Song: "Help I Am Alive" by Metric

2009-08-16T15:59:00.002-04:00

Hello, the summer is passing quickly and I haven't been to the beach yet. Maybe this Saturday. I've been watching several movies this week with friends, last night it was Bombay Sapphire martinis with Ken and Don and we watched Casablanca. I also watched tropic thunder with my granddaughter and her friend Ian. I didn't realize it but Tom Cruise was in the movie as a producer but he was bald with a strange face. I found a great new song today called Help I am Alive by a group called Metric. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwPs2P2T5Kc&feature=relatednow that I have DirecTV with 256 channels and streaming video downloads from Netflix, I'm open for visitors in the night after 6:30 PM. I also have a NFL Sunday ticket so I can watch any NFL game on Sunday-I'm not stuck watching the Redskins every week. But if you decide to come by please bring your favorite drink and be it alcoholic or nonalcoholic.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

August 12 Song: "It's Not My Time" by Three Doors Down

2009-08-12T23:38:00.001-04:00

Hello, the song for Wednesday is by three doors down and is its not my time. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHU9dN0Itrk&feature=relatedBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

August 11th Song: "Into the Night" by Santana

2009-08-11T23:02:00.001-04:00

Hello, I went today with my aid, granddaughter, her friend, and George and to see the movie G.I. Joe. I would rate the movie as only an average, the plot was predictable and the special effects overwhelm the story. But my granddaughter and her friend, Ian, thought it was great. I was in my power wheelchair and was able to watch the movie in relative comfort although the theater was cold. When we first set down to watch the movie, George went out to get a drink and when he came back he was talking to a woman in the same row as us. The woman asked George (a year younger than me) if I was his son and had I been injured in an accident. George said I had ALS but wasn't his son.Again since it's late sending out the song I've selected one by Santana entitled Into the Night. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S7amYNaPTRIBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

ALS Olympics Results

2009-08-11T22:59:00.000-04:00

Hello, all contestants in the cross-country obstacle course have left Valley view Mall and are headed into downtown Roanoke of the Greenway. But three contestants were disqualified at the ball. One contestant could not get off the commode in Macy's because it was too low even though it was in the handicap restroom. A second contestant could not make it up the ramp outside JCPenney and his power wheelchair tipped over backwards and he got a minor concussion. A third contestant lost is battery while trying to get over the curb outside a Wal-Mart store since there was no curb cut in the vicinity. We also just had a report that a contested on the Greenway was attacked by a pit bull and did a wheelie which scared the pitbull back into the woods.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

ALS Olympics Update

2009-08-11T22:57:00.000-04:00

ALS Olympics in Progress

2009-08-11T22:53:00.001-04:00

Hello, the ALS Olympics cross-country obstacle race is now in progress. The obstacle event started at 10 AM at the Roanoke regional Airport. Unfortunately one of the contestants did not make it out of the airport building because his power chair got stuck in the revolving door. Since he did not have use of his hands he could not press the restart button. However all the other contestants made out of the building and are now on the way to Valley view Mall.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

ALS Olympics resumes

2009-08-11T22:50:00.001-04:00

Hello, the ALS Olympics resumes tomorrow with the cross country obstacle event. The event will start on Sunday at 10 AM at the Roanoke regional Airport. Contestants will negotiate a course starting at the airport, winding through Valley view mall, then onto the lick run Greenway and into downtown Roanoke. They will then circle through the market area and end up at the amphitheater at Elmwood Park. Contestants will be docked one minute in their overall time for each obstacle in the course they failed to negotiate. All contestants will be using power wheelchairs with their speed governors set to a maximum of 6 mph. We will have special course marshals to ensure contestants and spectators follow all contest rules to avoid incidents such as those that have been at the nap marathon and invisible person event.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

August 9th Song: "Starlight" by Muse

2009-08-09T23:13:00.002-04:00

Hello,Sunday song is going out at dusk so I selected Starlight by Muse. view at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJ6jyzK9pGgI was thinking tonight that summer is drawing to a close and I still haven't made it to the beach or two West Virginia four Mountain biking trip. My granddaughter is here this week and I did notice tonight that she and the neighborhood kids got some slushies from the ice cream man. It's been a long time since I remember the ice cream man coming to the neighborhood.It's hard to believe that school will start next week or the following week for number of school districts.Despite being inside most of the summer I have seen some good movies both new and old, tonight I plan on watching the completion of the HBO series John Adams. On Friday I watched Sling Blade with Billy Bob Thornton. Wednesday I plan on going to the theater a new movie.Best regardsDickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

An ALS Caregiver's Letter

2009-08-09T22:32:00.002-04:00

August 7, 2009

Dear Family and Friends,

I know you get a daily e-mail from Dick, that is full of inspiration and positive updates (or even funny tales that are often half truths but great for a laugh)! He was blessed with a brilliant mind and he continues to use it in many different ways.

But, because he has always kept our personal life private, it is the case that you rarely know what is happening in our everyday life. I thought you may have wondered what it is like living with this dreadful disease and as such, I wanted to share some things with you.

On Jan. 15th Dick was diagnosed with ALS----he had known for sometime that something was going on with his health, but he nor the Dr’s could really figure it out. In some ways that day, he was relieved to know what he was fighting; in fact, he came home and said “Sweets, sit down, I have something to tell you”-----We cried over this devastating news---- and then we started making a game plan. We have enjoyed 30 years of marriage and while we have the same values, our interests and even our friends have been independent of our marriage. This was never a problem for us, as we didn’t depend on each other for our own happiness but rather allowed one another room to grow and enjoy the things that were of interest to our personalities. After the ALS news however, this arrangement was going to be different ---- we would have to face this challenge as a team. No longer would we be able to do our own “thing” as this disease would impact both of us. We plugged along during the first few months and hired a friend to help us several hours each day. Many friends and family offered suggestions and support, and I continued my work in a professional job that I dearly loved.
In the very beginning, our Drs. warned us of the future and ideas as to how we should handle situations. I have taken their advice to heart and have followed it to the letter as I have been Dick’s Caregiver----realizing that I am not skilled in the medical field to give him the formal clinical attention he needs. HENCE, we decided it was best that I quit my job at the end of June and put to use the information that I had personally been gathering the previous months and hire the professional assistance that he required.

Dick’s “man-cave” was downstairs and we decided we would bring all his favorite things upstairs and place them wherever he chose. He wanted the back 2 bedrooms, and although the openness of our living room area would have provided more room, it was NOT his choice and in this example (among many others) I stress that Dick’s mind remains strong despite his weak physical body. With the help of good friends and neighbors we have made many changes to our home that now support an individual who has no use of his limbs and no ability to physically care for himself.

As for me, I have one room I use personally to think, plan, work and relax. As Dick’s Caregiver, the most important thing to me is making sure he is well taken care of, providing him with as much happiness as possible, and allowing him space to enjoy some of the people and things that he has enjoyed during his life. . Recently, we hired CNA’s from 9 am to 11pm – 7 days a week. In addition to taking care of Dick at night and sleeping in a hospital bed next to him, during the long nights I am often repositioning his arms and legs and helping him move in ways an able body takes for granted but in Dick’s case he can not do for himself. Even during the day, I or the CNA’s listen to him from rooms other than his bedroom via a “baby monitor” to ensure that we
can hear his requests and simple needs such as breathing (he is on a BIPAP machine round-the-clock). I’m sure that in the near future, we will need formal 24 hour medical care. Needless to say, the “private” life we enjoyed for decades prior to the diagnosis is long gone what with the number of clinical personnel we now have in our home; physically there are times for Dick that this is taxing, but for me, it is challenging from more of an emotional and mental perspective and as such, I guard whatever privacy I am granted or can grab and it is often in the company of my dear friends and support system having a cup of coffee, or if Dick has friends visiting, I may retreat to my room – simply times for me to “recharge” and resume the Caregiver journey.

In conclusion, the past 8 months have been a whirlwind – some days fly by while others drag on indefinitely it feels. From Dr. appointments, healthcare visits, meals, laundry, errands, unforeseen happenings in a day, both Dick and I remain as positive and resourceful as ever. As his Caregiver, I believe we have as much normalcy in our lives as possible as I continue to care for both of us. Many times someone calls to ask me about Dick’s health, our business affairs, an opportunity for visiting, etc., and I insist that they talk to Dick directly as I reiterate that there is nothing wrong with his mind. He will tell you he is “fine”---and as was the case before ALS, he is never one to complain and since the diagnosis, we believe that despite his circumstances that we are blessed. Please continue to call and visit him. Again, treating him with dignity and respect honors him (as always) and me, too, and it is in this spirit that I close with this update and ask for your ongoing prayers.

Warmest thanks,
Carol

August 8th Song: "Another Brick in the Wall" - Pink Floyd

2009-08-08T13:12:00.003-04:00

Hello, since school is starting in the next few weeks I thought a good choice for Saturday's song would be Pink Floyd's, Another Brick in the Wall.View at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_bvT-DGcWwBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

August 7th Song: "Cool" by Owen Stefani

2009-08-07T23:01:00.002-04:00

Hello, I hate to brag about my dog Max. But he is now the alarm dog for my needs. Last night he was in the kitchen where the receiver is for the baby monitor and Carol and the aidwere in the garage and could not hear the monitor. I was in my bedroom and called out the name of my aid. Max heard me call her name over the monitor and went out to the garage door and barked at Carroll and the aid.Since the temperature is going to be in the 90s I selected the song Cool by Gwen Stefani. View at:Ihttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KLXVSsT2wQBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

Salem Red Sox Game

2009-08-07T22:57:00.001-04:00

Hello, the Salem Red Sox game for August 5 was canceled because of inclement weather and has been rescheduled for Tuesday, August 18.The tickets you had for the August 5 game are still valid but must be exchanged at the ticket office for tickets to the August 18 game.You may also exchange the August 5 ticket for any other home game this season if you cannot attend the August 18 game.The August 18 game will be ALS night and all activities planned for the fifth will be held on the 18th. If you have any questions please e-mail me.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

August 5th Song: Rolling Stones "Rain Fall Down"

2009-08-07T22:52:00.001-04:00

Hello, tonight was ALS night at the Salem Red Sox game but a severe rainstorm forced the postponement of the game until a later date. So if you have tickets to the game save them and I will let you know when the game has been rescheduled. In keeping with the weather tonight I have selected the Rolling Stones song Rain Fall Down as the song of the day. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzwN1JeDqRcBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

ALS Olympics Invisible Person Event III

2009-08-03T11:42:00.001-04:00

Hello, the ALS Olympics hostage situation was resolved about 4:30 PM today at the local Wal-Mart on Challenger Blvd. The gunman who was holding three Wal-Mart employees and 15 customers hostage was subdued by police thanks to the courageous efforts of one of the hostages. The hostage, whose name is not being released, is a former Wal-Mart employee. Witnesses indicate this gentleman started a one way conversation with the gunman about 1:30 PM. The conversation continued for approximately 3 hours with the hostage rambling on about meaningless trivia and long-lost friends with the gunman basically only answering yes or no to occasional questions from the hostage. About 4:30 PM it was noted that the gunman was collapsed in his wheelchair and snoring. Police were immediately alerted and apprehended the gunman, although he was seen to still be asleep as he was wheeled away into a police vehicle. It appears the gunman was the victim of a common ALS symptom known as daytime sleepiness which was further intensified by his being subjected to the boring and long winded conversation with the hostage.Wal-Mart in appreciation of its former employee's courageous effort, has rewarded the man with a year's supply of its best-selling item, the Oscar Mayer $.99 bologna value pack.As a result of this unfortunate situation the ALS invisible person event has been rescheduled for a future date.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

ALS Olymics Invisible Person Event II

2009-08-03T11:37:00.000-04:00

Hello, the ALS Olympics event the invisible person has been halted this morning at 10:50 AM when one of the contestants pulled a handgun on the customer service department at Wal-Mart. The gunman who was an Olympics participant had a handgun concealed in the arm of his wheelchair. The gunman has been identified as a J. Dellinger who became agitated by the lack of attention by the customer service representatives. At latest report at 12:15 PM the gunman was holding three customer service representatives and 15 Wal-Mart customers as hostages. The gunman has not yet communicated with police authorities on what his demands are. it has been reported that one of the hostages is former President Bill Clinton, who was reported to be seen carrying a black woman's dress for return at the customer service counter when the gunman took control. WDBJ Channel 7 is on the scene with lies reports or you can go to their website at WDBJ7.com. This is the second major disruption to the ALS Olympics since they started last week-the first disruption was the doping scandal involving the nap marathon.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

ALS Olympics - Invisible Person Event

2009-08-03T11:35:00.001-04:00

Hello, the invisible person event will start promptly at 10 AM tomorrow morning. Spectator seating is limited-but a few $10 general admission tickets and five dollar standing room only tickets are still available for the following stores: Wal-Mart, Target, and Sears. please be reminded that in addition to these stores the event will also take place at Kmart, Macy's, Lowe's, Home Depot, and Best Buy. Spectators will not be allowed into the store after the event starts promptly at 10 AM.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.Message Composed With Mac Dictate Software

July 30th Song: "Somebody Told Me" by the Killers

2009-07-31T15:24:00.001-04:00

Hello,Friday's song is by the Killers and is Somebody Told Me, listen for the repetitive line about the boyfriend who looks like his girlfriend. View ad:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gjlNn0mG8Y&feature=relatedalso I think we have our care givers situation taking care of-we now have some great people to provide care from 9 AM to 11 PM.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

July 30th Song: "Into The Ocean" by Blue October

2009-07-29T22:41:00.001-04:00

Hello, Bad news today I got a wireless microphone which lets me dictate with my breathing machin on so I don't get so breathy-this means I can send out much more e-mail and clog up cyberspace with more useless drivel. Today even though it was raining went out in my new conversion van as a trial run. Everything worked fine of course I had to use my own power wheelchair which is not truly fitted to me. As we approached the driveway it was raining cats and dogs and my driver asked "should we go into the garage". I said no lets park out here in the driveway so we can get our bath before we get in the house.Thursday song is Into the Ocean by Blue October. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7Fl2yWalH4Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

July 29th Song: "Shattered" by OAR

2009-07-29T10:44:00.001-04:00

Hello, we had a little problem today because one of our caregivers failed to show up but luckily Barbara of our new caregivers was able to fill in. I'm going out in my new van tomorrow so the song I've selected for Wednesday is Shattered (Turn the Car Around) by OAR.View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_NfBqD_2iIBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

July 27th Song: "Letters from the Sky" by Civil Twilight

2009-07-28T20:26:00.002-04:00

Hello,Monday song was picked by home health aide, Kristin. The song is by Civil Twilight and is entitled Letters from the Sky. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-uREQbFYhJ8&feature=channelplease remember to sell any tickets that you received from me for the August 5 Salem Red Sox game.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

July 26 Song: Viva La Vida - Coldplay

2009-07-28T20:22:00.000-04:00

Hello, Sundays song is by Coldplay and is entitled Viva La Vida. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44xirQ55IgA also congratulations to Mike Morris for finishing third in his age group today at the New York City triathlon among 7500 competitors.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

Nap Marathon Results

2009-07-28T20:20:00.000-04:00

Hello,After disqualification of Six participants for drug use, the final results have been tabulated. The results are as follows:1. A. Contader2. A . Schleck3. L. Armstrong4. B. Wiggins5. F. SchleckDisqualified:L.Leipheimer-Crashed out of bedA. Hitler-Wet his bedJ.Stalin-SleepwalkingG. Bush-Talking in his sleepM. Kelley-Barking in his sleepBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

July 24th Song: "We've Come" by Matchbox 20

2009-07-28T20:08:00.003-04:00

Hello, I have been off the air because I've been watching theTour De France. Now it appears Lance Armstrong will finish third unless he attacks tomorrow and moons Andy Schleck. So the song for tomorrow is How Far We've Come by Matchbox 20. This celebrates the over 2000 miles the race has come.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QB_F11EuBL4&feature=relatedBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

July 22 Song - Dashboard

2009-07-28T19:55:00.002-04:00

Hello, I am celebrating today since I got my new conversion van-my lovely wife and beautiful granddaughter picked it up around noon. George then drove it home. So on Thursday I plan on taking it to the movies. I may even let my friend Don drive it to the drive-in theater in Moneta with me. So the song for Wednesday is my Modest Mouse and is entitled Dashboard. view at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erc40wCxRZoby the way I was off the air Saturday and Sunday since my son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren were here. Jessica is still here and helping me and her grandmother.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

ALS Olympics Rocked by Drug Scandal!

2009-07-28T19:47:00.002-04:00

Hello, The ALS Olympics was disrupted today with the report of a widespread drug doping operation that occurred during the nap marathon. Six of the nap marathon contestants were found to have the drug Ambien CR in their urine samples. So far only six contestants have tested positive, but the head of the ALS Olympic committee indicated that a number of test on other contestants were underway but had not yet been concluded. It is ALS Olympic policy that contestants exhibiting a positive drug test be suspended for a minimum of two years from competition. Unfortunately this scandal comes on the heels of a another controversy from the last Olympics, when a contestant was found not to have ALS but only a minor muscle disorder. As a result of the drug scandal the results for the nap marathon are under further review.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

July 21st Song: Dream Catch Me

2009-07-21T03:37:00.001-04:00

Hello, well I am getting my new conversion van tomorrow. I had a good visit with the doctor today, when I went in his office my blood pressure was 150 but at the end of the visit it at going down two 110.The results for Saturday's ALS Olympics nap marathon are still being tallied. One of the judges, Don, fell asleep during the event and were having to reconstruct the contestants a time using a stop motion video. Look for the results by tomorrow evening.Tuesday song is a Dream Catch Me by Newton Faulkner. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KiISAo-k74sBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

July 16th Song Runaway Train

2009-07-16T14:48:00.002-04:00

Hello, enjoyed my visit last night with Tim and, would like to see more people come by and watch a movie or run my trains. So the song for today is by Soul Asylum and is Runaway Train.View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NNre5neZ6QIBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

June 15th Song: It's Not Over

2009-07-16T12:58:00.003-04:00

Hello,
my e-mail today is late because was watching the finish of the Tour de France. Yesterday I visited the veterans administration hospital to see a lung Dr. I must have scared her with my shortness of breath because she wanted to check me in to the hospital. She said I would have to undergo a blood gas test if I wanted to avoid an overnight stay. The blood gas test is very painful because they have to take blood from an artery not a vein. But the respiratory technician was excellent and it didn't hurt any worse than a normal vain type blood sample. About five minutes after completing the test the technician said my results were excellent-my blood gases or normal and my blood I should level was 96% the average is around 95%. So I got to go home but I think it's just a matter that disease causes me to appear breathless because my diaphragm does not work involuntarily. My other doctor said my years of physical conditioning was helping to keep my blood gases at a normal level.
The song for Wednesday is It's Not Over by Daughtry. View at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6s8C2DvfGo
Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.=

July 14 Song - Numb by Linkin Park

2009-07-14T13:49:00.004-04:00

Hello,Tuesday's Song Is Numb by Linkin Park. Sorry That's All I Have For Today-I Am Busy Getting Ready For the ALS Olympics. View At:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQCE2iK6tG4Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

July 12 Song - Triathlon Update

2009-07-14T13:40:00.001-04:00

Hello, the trip to the scenic mountain triathlon was fairly uneventful. We left the house at 6 AM and did have a little problem with the connection to my breathing machine which we had to stop and fix. On the way to the triathlon, my driver only got confused three or four times as to where we were going. We got to the triathlon about 9 AM and the race started at 10 AAM. My good friends Jeff Armstrong and Donna Williams did the race in my honor. Jeremy the director of the race was great and introduced me to the participants and told them the race was in my honor. I talked for about four minutes about ALS and living each day to its fullest. The weather was overcast and rainy but I managed to stay for most of the swim before it started to rain really hard. We couldn't leave for the visitor center where the transition area for the bike to run was until the last swimmer left the transition area on their bike Well the last swimmer came out of the water at about 1030 but it took him almost 20 minutes to get onto his bike. I have never seen anyone in transition not only to tie his shoes put a not in them. He then couldn't get on his bike without assistance and someone to put his feet in the toe clips. So one we finally got out of the road there were about 30 cars in front of us behind the last bicycle. Now you are allowed to pass the cyclist on the road for some reason a little old lady would not pass them it took us an hour and 30 minutes to go 15 miles which is where the finish line was and the barbecue. By the time we got there we had missed the finish of most of the field including Jeff and Donna. Donna finished second overall in the female division while Jeff just missed out in placing in his highly competitive age group. But we had an excellent lunch and were joined by my good friend Ed who would come over from Durban on his sport bike. I was getting pretty tired so we had to leave before the awards ceremony-unfortunately on the way home the battery on my breathing machine ran out so I had to use oxygen for the remainder of the trip. We did stop in West Virginia for some gas and while there got to see some local color three West Virginia natives and their four dogs pulled in to the gas station in an old truck. They look like they just come from making some moonshine and were getting ready to party. We got back to Roanoke about 430 and I immediately crashed into bed and didn't move until 7 AM this morning. Special thanks to the Richwood, West Virginia Chamber of Commerce for a great race.The song for Monday is by Bruce Springsteen in titled Radio Nowhere sense I kept on losing my XM radio channels in West Virginia. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XmLt6kcZ72Qalso special recognition to Mike Morris for winning a slot in the national triathlon championship in Florida in November based on his race result in a half Ironman in Rhode Island this weekend.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Lake Norman Triathlon, Cornelius, North Carolina, August 22.

Sunday Song: Take Me Home, Country Roads

2009-07-12T06:58:00.004-04:00

Hello, George, Jeff, Donna, and I are on our way early Sunday morning to the Scenic Mountain Triathlon near Ricuwood, West Virginia. This is a great little triathlon that has been going on for 24 years. They have an especially good barbecue at the finish and the triathlon itself is completely within the national forest but the bike and run are on hard surface roads. There are some interesting spectators in the past. In 2004 a contingent of Hells Angels was taking a tour through that part of West Virginia and stopped to watch the infamous 9% climb on Route 39. One of the Hells Angels was offering free tows up the mountain to bicyclists. The following year the rainbow coalition was camped out along the run course which is through the cranberry glades a nature area. There were approximately 200 rainbow coalition people watching the race of which at least 75 were in the buff-the only race I've ever been to where the spectators had less clothes on than the participants. The forest service had set up a temporary jail at the cranberry glades visitor center for the rainbow coalition people who violated forest regulations. Furthermore the town of Richwood shut its doors while the rainbow coalition was there because of all the shoplifting. But the quarter carwash in town did a big business with the rainbow coalition people taking showers at the quarter carwash.So the song for Sunday is the West Virginia national anthem by John Denver entitled Take Me Home Country Roads. View at:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-eaaR1Ay5P0&feature=relatedBest regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.Twitter At: FRE2TRINext ALS Event: Scenic Mountain Triathlon, Richwood, West Virginia,
John Denver: Take Me Home, Country Roads

Wild Party at Sam M.'s

2009-07-12T06:48:00.004-04:00

Hello, last night I went to a great party at Sam M's house not any relation to my neighbor Sam. The party started at 630 but we even get their until seven because my wife's potato dish was still in the oven and we had to take a detour around Jefferson Street while they demolished the old flour mill. When we got there a couple of large males came out to assist me and getting me out of the car. But LaToya my home health aide surprised them because she weighs only about 120 pounds and dead lifted my hundred and 50 pounds right out of the car into my wheelchair while the males watched in amazement. so my wife and I went into the party and proceeded to start to enjoy the hors d'oeuvres. My good friend Ron then started to force-feed me some of his great homemade wine. To force feed me he had a large flexible straw from a glass into my throat and kept on pouring more and more wine into the glass. We then sat down to an excellent dinner of course Latoya had to feed me my hand to mouth. The wine had not hit me yet. We then after dinner went back out to the porch and that's when the wine took over. You know the term falling down drunk, but that's hard to do in a wheelchair so let's just say I was sliding down drunk in a wheelchair. So I to ramble on and discuss movies with my friends Wil and Bob. Now you have to realize that Wil and Bob are workaholics so they don't get much exposure to entertainment. That led to a discussion of movies and they admitted the last movies they had seen were in black and white. In order to help them understand the real world, I suggested they come over and visit me and I would bring them up to date on the latest movie releases.Now it's getting close to my bedtime so I have to leave but Bob offers me some lemon squares for dessert-I eat one and take six or seven more home with me four a late-night snack. Again my aid impresses the group by dead lifting me into the car. We drive home and for some reason my wife wants to turn left when I say turn right but we get it home alright. I get home and realize it's too late to eat the lemon squares because of the pill I have to take. I go to bed and dream of a lemon squares all night. I wake up at seven and ask my wife to get me a lemon square and a Coke for breakfast. I enjoy it and then go back to sleep in till my real breakfast at 9 AM. So ALS does give you some strange eating habits.Best regards,DickStrength and HonorWhat We Do In This Life

Saturday's Song - July 11th

2009-07-11T05:59:00.004-04:00

Time to slowdown things a bit with Saturday's song from Eric Clapton and Paul McCartney entitled "While My Guitar Gently Weeps"

Invisible Man

2009-07-11T05:25:00.004-04:00

Hello,
I find it both a frustrating and interesting almost every time I go
out I have unique experiences. Today I first went to the mobility
dealer in Salem to order my conversion van. My wife and I had all the
paperwork from the VA but the VA official had signed the letter but
not the form required to actually pay for the vehicle. So now we have
to go back to the VA on Monday to get the forms signed and then back
to the dealer to order the van. But the van is reserved for us at the
manufacturer and it should only take a week to get it once we get the
paperwork straightened out.
So next my attendant driver (who will not be named to protect his
credibility) proceeded to Best Buy to purchase a new larger TV for my
bedroom is so I can better use the computer with a larger screen. So
we are going into the parking lot at the mall and a driver says
should we park in these handicap spots-the handicap spot is talking
about is a good 100 yards from the Best Buy store in front of a
target store. I suggested we might want park a little closer and I
said if you go down to Best Buy you might find a better spot, of
course you know we did find a spot right in front of Best Buy. Next
we go into Best Buy and it appears that every time I go in the store
I become the invisible Man. Meaning that clerks and customers do not
acknowledge my existence. We go back to the TV section and no clerks
are to be found, but we do find a person who's not a clerk going back
into the stock room and she says she will call somebody. So we wait,
wait, wait, wait and still no salesperson appears in the TV section
which takes up a good one third of the store. We then start to leave
the TV department and the two clerks with name tags and Best Buy
shirts in the next apartment. I asked my attendant to see if they can
help us and he says, "do they work here?". I say no they are actually
Wal-Mart employees wearing Best Buy shirts were trying to hijack
customers from Best Buy to go to Wal-Mart. Of course neither one of
these clerks can help us since all they are assigned somewhere else.
We continue to wander around the fringes of the TV department and the
attendant sees a woman with Obama T-shirt. He says to her that he
stop wearing his presidential T-shirt because of some disagreement
with the president's policies. So I now can see a lengthy political
discussion while I'm trying to buy a TV set. so I say shut up and let
shop.
We finally find a clerk and gave him to ring up the TV set. But now
it won't accept my credit card for Best Buy so we have to go to the
front of the store to get it straightened out. once we get there we
find out we had to fill out a new credit application. Since I can't
write the attendant I asked to fill out the form for me. But he
doesn't have its glasses with him so I have to read the form to him
and point out where to print the information. Once we complete a form
we find out we need my drivers license which I've never carry since I
can't drive. So I call home and get my license number from a wife. We
then submit the application but their computer system only except it.
Finally after three tries we get to the purchase completed. I then a
small item and take it to check out and try to a conversation with
the cashier well but he doesn't respond since he I guess doesn't like
talking to people in wheelchairs or their invisible to him.
When we get home and have a telephone call from the Best Buy
department a trying to see why I was making a purchase on my old
credit card-I guess they thought it was a fraudulent purchase. But
now I have two Best Buy credit cards one old one and one new one. So
that's my story for today.
Best regards,
Dick
Strength and Honor
What We Do In This Life Echoes Through Eternity!
Website: http://web.alsa.org/goto/richardkelley.