Some of you have had the pleasure of meeting and riding with my old friend Buddy Helscel.. Almost three years ago, Buddy was diagnosed with cancer in his face.. There were more than two of them.. The damn things were inoperable because they'd developed toward his brain.. The doctors didn't think much of his chances, at the time.. They commenced treatments on him and he suffered through months of pure hell.. Late last year, progress was being made after him being fried and toasted, blistered and dehydrated... One of his examinations revealed that the cancer was also in his colon.. Damn.. they attacked that area at the same time they were treating the ones in his facial cavities.. During all this, I made a couple of trips to visit him and he of course, came to Texas to see me.. I watched that old and dear friend suffer and fail.. His courage kept him going, he always had that smile and good word.. But.. it was extremely difficult for me to see my old friend losing all the good health that he'd held so dear.. Today.. Buddy called me.. He'd just come out of his doctor's office in the VA hospital in Long Beach.. He was making his way through the parking lot to his pickup.. Soon as I said my "hello".. he said.. "Guess what, pard.. I am cancer free".. I have to admit .. we kinda' cried together, just a little..That is the best news that anyone could have given me.. For those who know him.. he'll be back . For those who haven't had the pleasure, look forward to meeting him.. He's one of a kind.. We've shared the bonds of friendship for thirty years or thereabouts.. He's a Biker of the old school.. One of the best motorcycle handlers, I've ever known.. Buddy Helscel is a friend without equal.. to many.. When we ended our conversation, he told me to look for him in a couple of weeks, he will be here.. Knowing that we'll share some more miles and our friendship for years to come, gives me a lot of pleasure.. Just thought I'd post this and share with you guys.. Many become discouraged over trivial matters in our lives.. Don't let those trivial things get you down.. Life is worth living and you were meant to enjoy it with all the zest possible.. We all share the enjoyment of our motorcycle interests.. That is important.. If we can just make the best of each day that God allows us, then we are fulfilling a purpose.. Your friend in Irving Bill Walker
