Monday, January 16, 2017

'We're talking more about months than years'

Eventually the results from the biopsy are in and, while they could have been worse, they obviously could have been better. The cancer from my lungs has spead to my left shoulder and, more problematically, to my liver. This precludes any kind of operation taking place, leaving just radio and chemotherapy as options. The doctors are having a meeting tomorrow to decide which is the best was to proceed. I'll probably be returning home in the next couple of days with a couple of simple gadgets that should make like a bit easier when I get back.

I'll then be returning to the hospital once or twice a week for treatment. Initially the authorities were sugggesting giving me three home visits a day, which seems like quite unnecessary. I don't want people I don't know traipsing around my house at all hours of the day and night doing who knows what. And I'll want to be able to relax and live life on my timescale. So eventually we compromised in-so- much as I now get a high stool for the kitchen and a toiler seat raiser as I'm now struggling to lift myself off conventional seats. Other options will then be looked at later.

It took a long time, but thanks to a couple of occupational therapist ladies and a food therapist, the nurses and other staff here eventually noticed that I was was physically wasting away due to a mixture of the poor diet being offered on the menu here and me suffering an almost complete loss of appetite due to said menu. For instance, a side salad consists of two tomato quarters, three slices of cucumber and a few slivers of lettuce. For the past couple of weeks, my daily food intake has been a couple of slices of toast with butter and a small bowl of rice crispies for breakfast, a couple of satsumas for lunch and maybe some more satsumas or nothing for dinner.

Now I'm being given special fruit energy drinks and fortified soups that they say I'll still be able to receive for free when I return. home. Also the occupational therapists and food therapist have said that I should turn the conventional healthy-eating rulebook on it head and eat the complete opposite. Fried meat and eggs. Double strength milk with lashings of cream and butter. Lots and lots of chocolate bars and bags of crisps. They've given me a four page leaflet filled with the most unhealthy foods you can imagine and told me that I should now follow this diet. Mind you, I'll probably then end up dying of a heart atttack. Stay safe and take care of yourselves.

Kev

428 comments:

1 – 200 of 428   Newer›   Newest»
Anonymous said...

Gleep!

I'm glad to hear that they're finally feeding you up, though -- and are also respecting how you want to live and handle things.

Good thoughts and energies heading your way!

Ratz said...

Thanks for the update, though it could be better news, we're all glad you're still with us. They could have provided a walking stick to smack the clowns at O2 with when they finally extract the digit.

My ancient aunt hated home help. When they turned up she'd give instructions from her seat and find some errand for them to do, like get the milk from the front door "I'm 98 you know..." As soon as they'd stepped outside she'd be out of the seat like a whippet and lock them out. It wasn't a huge surprise she went through quite so many of them.

Anonymous said...

Hang in there man-you can do this.

shak said...

Kev, I just want to be clear on what you're saying. Are you saying that your doc told you had months to live? Or was he saying that you have months to go through treatment? I'm confused.

Rachel Green said...

Oh gee.

You have my best regards, sir.

Emma said...

Eat all the fatty foods you can! They're trying to get your weight up so you can withstand treatment!
You will not be able to eat much once chemo starts, so eat eat eat now!

My Mom went through similar issues, and her go to was roast chicken from the shops. And chips.
This was the only thing she could keep down during chemo.

Also, if they offer you drugs, for nausea, for pain, for anything, take them.
Don't be stoic, don't be brave, take the fucking drugs and help!

Good luck mate, eat up!

Anonymous said...

Can we put a face with a name and get a photo of you with a bit of a bio?

Wishing you the best.....

arbroath said...

Months to live, Shak.

Zhoen said...

Oh, Kev,

I really wish I didn't understand. Hey, at least you may eat all the yummy food you can! Eggnog is also useful for putting on weight. Take the home care, and control it. They go into lots of homes, and they really don't want to snoop or traipse, just take care of your needs.

You've touched so many people with your site. You matter. You deserve good care.

Anonymous said...

Good to hear some news from you! I hope you enjoy being back at home and the new unholy diet, oink oink. I continue to pray for you and send you good wishes every day from California. All the best to you Kev!

Toby Scott said...

Your site has given me so much over the years I hope you don't mind if I offer something in return. This site http://help.dyingmatters.org/ is full of advice and information - it's where I work so naturally I'm biased, but I hope you get the practical, emotional and other support you deserve, and if your site helps at all it will be a small echo of all you've done.

Monrezee said...

Wishing you the best.

Anonymous said...

I'm so glad you're getting some support. I keep thinking about you. Sending love and good wishes xx

xoxoxoBruce said...

OK, now you know pretty much where you're at, so you've got a starting point for them to get you better. Yes eat all the bad things(he said with a tinge of jealousy ;o)), and take all the drugs, even the ones that aren't fun. You don't think National Health gives them out for the hell of it, do you? Each one has a purpose, especially during chemo.

But I still wish you weren't such a pig-headed son of a bitch, and would let us help you, make your life more comfortable, and a little less stressful. All I ask in return is the phone numbers of the cute nurses. ;o)

Unknown said...

I have to admit that if shak hadn't asked, I would have thought you meant the length of treatment. I'm taking comfort from the fact that you said "it could have been worse". From that, I take that you are going to fight like a son-of-a-moose, follow the instructions of the doctor and get better!
If you took all the good wishes of those who care - all around the world - you would certainly have enough strength to beat anything! Please do soak up all the concern and support we are sending and use it to beat this!!

BigBaldwin said...

After enjoying your blog for years and missing you in your absence, I am unable to resist adding my message. I was in hospital about a year ago for a 4 months stay, and I also lost my appetite. Nobody did anything about it until a nurse suggested a med to me that I started upon my return. Here in the US, they call it Midodrine. It may have another name in your region. It is high blood pressure med but also dramatically increases the appetite. Look it up on Wikipedia.https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midodrine I took 10mg 3 times a day, and by bedtime I was desperate for some Capt Crunch for the first time since childhood. Do go for a better variety than that, however.
(What;s a satsuma?)

Hught said...

Kev, I want you to not worry about anything and I hope you get some of the joy you have given the rest of us over the years.

Hugh

fred said...

It's heart-wrenching to hear this news about your health. So sorry you're having to go through this. It sounds like you've got a good care team on your side now.

Do everything you can to put on pounds and build yourself up. Take all the help you can get. When my mom was sick , my dad resisted having helpers in for the same reason you stated (didn't want strangers poking around his house either). When things got really bad and he was ready to give up he finally accepted help and everyone who came from agencies was kind and professional and wonderful and he said afterward he wished he'd not been so stubborn and gotten help sooner.

You've given so much joy to all your readers from all over the planet. I hope you can feel the positive thoughts and energy beaming your way from all of us now. PLEASE let us know how we might help?

davelog said...

Kev,

I'm sorry to hear your prognosis, but it's good for you to know what's in store.

I'm going to tell you something that people will most likely condemn, but I don't care because I've watched too many loved ones be taken by cancer: quality of life is far more important than quantity. I don't know what the laws are in your land, or what your religious beliefs entail and allow, but there is no shame in cheating cancer of its goal and taking an early exit.

Fight death as long as you care to, but it always wins in the end, and sometimes the best you can do is meet it on your own terms. You have touched so many lives here online and I'm sure in the meatspace, but never lose sight of the fact that you live for you. Do it until it suits you no further, and then move on.

I wish you strength and happiness, and thank you again for all the joy you've brought us in the past.

xoxoxoBruce said...

"Months to live, Shak."

Yeah, yeah, my DR friend says they always lowball so relatives won't beat them up if it goes bad.
They gave my pharmacist's wife 6 months with stage 4 breast cancer, and she made 6 more years. My mother was told it looked bad at 65, and she lived to 95. So don't buy that doom and gloom, they're guessing and covering their butts. Fight, man, fight it all the way.

Barbwire said...

My ex husband was told in June of 2015 that he had 6 months tops, with liver cancer that had spread to his spine. He's still around, and getting around better than he has in months. He's gained weight back, after looking skeletal for a while. So there's hope.
Eat all the stuff they tell you to eat, and for heaven's sake, accept the home help. You were nearly starving not so long ago, and we can' stand the thought of that. You know we're all here for you. You've brought us so many interesting things, and written about them brilliantly.
We're here to help if we can--you have only to say the word.
Barbara in SoCal

rhea delisle said...

Wishing you strength, thank You.

Unknown said...

Thanks for keeping us in the know. I've been thinking about you and hoping for the best, and I still am. At least you can eat whatever you want, that's one worry taken care of. Please keep your strength up so you can do as you like, as much as possible.

K from MN

Unknown said...

Hi, from Michigan USA. Eat anything you want and as much as you want!!
Sleep,watch movies,tv,computer!.
Take care,
N.H.

Anonymous said...

Best best wishes.
Take care.
From LGR, Nevada, USA

Stephen said...

Hey, it beats being dead all of a sudden.

Dani said...

Huge hug from Barcelona, Spain

Be strong.

Troy
nopuedocreer.com

mjwoogums said...

I've always loved ready your website and seeing what is happening around the world.

Sorry to hear that your cancer has spread, take this time to take care of yourself.

Best wishes

Matthew said...

I discovered your blog about 2005 and have probably read every post since then. Like everyone else I was gobsmacked by your news in December. This just couldn't be. I was afraid to look at the comments to your 'We're talking more about months than years' post. Damn. I am so sorry this shit has happened to you.
I don't know what your family life is like at home, but you have one helluva family out here on this side of the wire. We cannot do a lot from our little corners of the globe, but if you ever want to talk about something other than the elephant in the room I would be glad to join in. In any case keep posting anything that interests you. You can have all the visitors you could ask for without a single one crossing your threshold.
Anyway, greetings from Abu Dhabi
Matthew

Elena said...

Hey Arbroath, I'm glad you're alright for now. I imagine traveling to and fro stores would still be difficult for you hence do consider how to get your daily necessities before you head home. For example, could you buy toiletries online and get them delivered? Do you need supporting bars or non-slip mats in your shower and loo?

Chocolates are fine in small quantity. Eating loads would not be a good idea because that might cause indigestion and they are hard to wipe off after a number 2.

I wish you all the best.

Anonymous said...

You are in the thoughts and prayers of many of your readers.

Prox said...

All the best bub!

Anonymous said...

Kev...can't imagine what you are going through. I'm a survivor three times over,still can't imagine. Eat all the crisps you desire! It's been nothing but a pleasure to wake up every morning and read your wonderful collection of the best of the news. Your hard work has made so many lives more bearable through laughter and astonishment of our daily world happenings. And all the adorable animal photos. Much love and massive healing vibes from my house to yours. Appleton, Wisconsin, USA.

Nell said...

That must have been hard for you to write, being the private and independent person you are. Stay strong, do what you need to do and remember that we're all rooting for you x

diana said...

Is there a post box were one could send you some chocolate or a biscuit or three?
Take good care of yourself there are many out here in cyber land who care about you Kev.

annemarie said...

They say live each day like its your last.
Spend your time living life as full as you can manage , eat all the delicious foods, take all the help that you can get.
None of us know you other than your name,but theres a lot of people following and rooting for you.
I'm a pagan and I shall light a candle for you.
All the best
Annemarie

Kevin said...

May your days be filled with moments of infinite joy and wisdom.

Daniel said...

I've been a follower of your blog for years. The articles you shared kept me entertained on my daily commute. Thank you!

Stay strong and positive, mate!

James said...

Take things a day at a time, Kev. I have always enjoyed reading your blog, it has been in my top 3 favourites. Best wishes from Perth, Australia.

Cari in Basildon said...

Hey Kev,

It sounds like you should be getting a daily breakfast box on prescription. Hopefully, when you have built yourself up physically, you will the treatment will work better than expected.
And don't forget - your friends from all over the world are waiting for the word to put on our capes and fly into action, just for you.

Big hugs from Cari x

Will-L said...

Kev, I'm really saddened to hear the latest update but you are correct, it could be worse. At least you'll be able to go back home and the free 'healthy' food is a plus.

Thank you for creating this blog, I accidentally stumbled upon it whilst searching for news on my home County of Staffordshire; it was an a article about a trash can in Stoke on Trent being installed 7ft high. I have been reading your blog everyday since.

You mentioned that it gets difficult for you going out, especially shopping & carrying things home. Are you willing to accept donations? I am willing to pay for your shopping & have them be delivered to your home on a regular basis.

I wish you all the best and hope you stay strong - we're all definitely rooting for you.

Jane said...

Kev, I'm so glad you were able to add an update. Sounds like you've been going through so much crap. But now there is hope, and food, and good ideas for living. Would like to send you a big basket of cheer from New Jersey, USA but would have no idea where to send it. I hope to hear you continuing to make improvements. You in for some times but you have certainly been through some already so I have great hopes for you. Keep smilin', sunshine! Be well and be happy

Anonymous said...

You need to get some weed man! Cannabis is excellent for nausea and appetite. Also good for stress relief. Heck use it and I don't even have cancer.
Houstoned Katrina

Anonymous said...

*sigh*
This makes me so sad.
You are a bright star, Kev- long may you shine.

Anonymous said...

Kev - Sounds like your new diet is the opposite of my New Year's resolution diet. I'm sorry to hear about the results and hope that you'll do everything in your power to pull through this. I understand not wanting to have "strangers" roaming around your house - but sometimes, whether it's a plumber, or an electrician, (or even some health related therapist), you just need to accept that they're there to make things better. Keep in mind that you still are the ruler of your roost - If they're doing something you don't agree with, you have every right to enforce the rules of your domain.

Have an extra piece of chocolate for me -- I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers. - J

Anonymous said...

I've been a periodic visitor to your site over the past couple of years and was shocked and saddened to see your most recent posts. I just wanted to reach out and wish you the best and thank you for the amusement and cheer your site has brought. Please know that you've been able to connect with real people out there in the amorphous depths of the interwebs, and you've done it by spreading good cheeky fun. All the best to you from Canada. -Mel

Amy said...

Thank you for letting us know. I'm angry for you. This just isn't right.

Please consider giving us a mailing address. I'm sure many of us would like to send food and/our cash.

Sharyn said...

Thinking of you Kev!

I'm glad you're getting to go home and do things a on your terms. I hope the new diet works and you start getting your appetite back a little.

Vietvet said...

As so many of the others have commented, a good positive mental attitude can be one of the best medicines available. From personal experience, I can tell you that once you start the chemo, you will lose a lot of your sense of taste, and things that used to taste really good won't have the same flavor, or much at all. So eat while you can, and keep eating even if you don't enjoy it as you did before. The more weight you can put on, the better your body will be able to fight back. And the one thing that will still taste pretty good is ice cream. Eat lots of it whenever you can.

Hang in there, buddy - you've got a lot of wonderful people pulling for you. Never give up. And keep us posted on your progress when you are able.

Cheers,
Ed

:)

Ocker said...

Stay strong friend!

handyman said...

Good luck Kev. Thinking of you. Al

vincentdidier said...

Bon Courage de France ! Didier

wietop said...

Sorry to hear you have a tough road ahead, but I'm wishing you strength, resolve and peace. We will all be here for you if you need us. Praying for your recovery.

Anonymous said...

It's a bad beat for sure. Hope you find peace and tranquility. I always enjoyed your site, so take it with you that you always gave a good smile to a complete stranger.

dil8 said...

Just wanted to say how much I have enjoyed this site over the years - have often turned to it at stressful times for light relief. I'm very sorry this is happening to you and I hope you have lots of support around. As others have said better above, you've brought a lot of good cheer and deserve many thanks and much love.

Unknown said...

Sending positive thoughts in your direction!

Els said...

Hi Kev, I'm so sorry you've been dealt such a bum hand recently... your blog and lively discussions have entertained me for years, and it pains me that it feels like there's little we can do to help.

Please consider sharing an address so that we can send you care packages of snacks and amusing things. Or if not a physical address, perhaps an email address? So we can send you photos of interesting things we see on our wanderings. Or ridiculous jokes! Tacky postcards! Pictures of pets! Or even photos of ourselves reading your blog - so you can see the number of smiles you've given us over the years.

Wishing you all the best from the west country! Will be raising a pint of cider to you tonight :)

Anonymous said...

I hate this news, so much, and wish I could have come to your blog to see better news. But just as you've diligently kept this blog full of the craziest stuff ever, I've all the confidence that you'll diligently take care of your self now. We all want to see more "are we there yet" posts, you know. KaraBoo in Ohio

Joanne Casey said...

Good luck with the treatment, Kev. Keeping you in my thoughts

Anonymous said...

Sorry to say that Kev has died. I was called in Canada today, he was my cousin. Why he didn't call me for help I will never know, as we did stay in touch by email a couple times a year. If any of you know anything more, please email me at djcole@pei.sympatico.ca. Janice

diana said...

Oh no. So very sad. As I did not know Kev in real time I felt as if I did.
His memory will be a blessing to me.

Unknown said...

Thanks for all the laughs over the years. Your humor will be sorely missed.

davelog said...

RIP Kevin. You will be remembered.

Els said...

Thank you for everything Kev... we'll miss you.
Els x

Anonymous said...

I'm sorry to hear he passed away. I thought he had more time although he did sound terribly ill. Regarding his cousin, why are you asking us for information? Aren't you going to lay him to rest? I hope YOU are the one that will inform us on his passing. RIP Kev.

DeSelby said...

Sorry to hear this news. Thought he had more time. Condolences to his family. He sounded defiant and stubbornly independent to the last so it's understandable he didn't reach out to distant family member. Thanks for the years of pleasure. RIP.

Emma said...

Not sure if anyone will read this, but I'll be sending flowers to the funeral, if anyone wants to add their name to the card I'm happy to do so.

You can get me at missphancypantsATgmailDOTcom

And please, no more lashing out at Kev's cousin, this is just as shocking to her as it is to us, moreso, we knew he'd been ill.

Anonymous said...

A sense of humor always helps, you got this. Stay strong, brother.

Anonymous said...

And we now hear the news we have been dreading from recent posts.

This is quite a cadre of people brought together virtually by our now departed host.

I have learned from your posts that we are from all over the world—that conclusion based on those who identify where they are from. We tune in to see the latest from Nothing to do with Abroath. I see some of our group tunes in late in the day as an anodyne to the day’s slings and arrows, I wager. Some of us (like me) tuned in early with the first cup or two in the morning as we steel ourselves for those slings and those arrows, perhaps. And we found respite. Whimsey. Curiosities involving this or that. Odd people doing odd things. I knew that if there were baby goats dancing anywhere in the world, I would find them here. I found I like baby goats dancing. Who knew before I found this site?

I have started going back in the archives to recreate the morning routine. A day will come when the service provider will not get his bill paid and that will be that. Does anyone know what company maintains the server? I would contribute to keep the server running. It won’t last forever, of course. If you go back to the beginning in 2005, you will see that link rot has affected the early posts.

Who is Kev? I never knew his name until that shocking post but I see many of you did. Tell me about this man. What a gift he had to unite so many people from so many places and from your notes, you—like I—would have done what we could to help him.

Godspeed, Kev.

Bob (Duluth, Georgia, USA)

Anonymous said...

I've not been on your site for a while. I am so sorry that you are having such a bad time of things. Keep yer chin up mate. There's loads of people rooting for ya...
Bill

Miss Cellania said...

Bob, Google runs blogspot, the server here, at no cost to the blogger. Unless someone hacks the account, this blog might stay up for years. A blogger friend of mine died in 2009, and his blog is still up. Sadly, the comments are now full of spam.

fred said...

RIP Kevin :-(

Marco McClean said...

I have a written-word radio show on two /very/ small-market stations in Northern California. I've been keeping my listeners apprised of your continuing story. My friend Mitch is a cancer survivor; he told me the main thing that made the medical treatment adventure tolerable was plain old weed-- cannabis. He'd sit on the bench outside the Veterans Administration hospital and smoke and talk with his fellows also in treatment. Among other benefits, it makes you hungry. I'm pretty sure it doesn't interfere with the action of the drugs you'll be getting (ask your doctor about this). Thanks to the doctors and modern medicine (and weed) Mitch regained his health and he's old now and still doing well. Please consider it.

I'm looking forward to when you're better and back at work on Nothing To Do With Arbroath.

Frauenfelder said...

I haven't visited your site for a while and I just now read these recent posts. I'm so sorry to hear about this. Your blog has brought me a great deal of joy for many years. Thank you so much. I wish you all the best. - Mark (boing boing)

Frauenfelder said...

I just read in the comments that Kev passed away. How terribly sad.

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Anonymous said...

Some details about the funeral from his cousin for anybody that wishes to pay their respects...

'Funeral will be at Markeaton Crematorium, Derby, UK on Feb 13th at 2.20 p.m. The funeral home is
Attn: Carol Hardwick, Cooperative Funeral Care, Birchover Way, Unit 4A Park Farm Centre, Allestree, Derby. UK. DE22 2QN.

The Death Notice has not yet been published, however my understanding is that it is donations to the Cancer Society.'

Anonymous said...


Could this be the Death Notice?

http://www.family-announcements.co.uk/derby/view/4272552/gray

Anyway, I feel terribly sad, I used to check his posts everyday.

Best regards from Spain.

Minnesotastan said...

Anonymous, that death notice certainly seems to be consistent in terms of date and place. I tried searching Google and Google Images today for "Kevin Norman Gray" and "Kevin Gray" combined with various other search terms, and found some possible images of middle-aged men, but nothing definitive. For a man who gave so much of his life to the internet, he seems to have maintained a very light footprint regarding himself.

Anonymous said...

Miss Cellania,

Ooooohhh! We can but hope about Google. Good news, everyone!

I have decided to continue my routine of starting the day with Nothing to do with Arbroath and coffee but I will just start earlier in time. I went back to the beginning and no joy. 2005? I thought and I have, then 11 years or so? Reverie: 2027? Nope. With 2005 we have link rot. Not much works. So, somewhen nearer.

Since 2005 he has done this? Kevin Norman Gray, is it? What a remarkable body of work. From all over the world we have checked in with varying degrees of regularity to see what Kevin has found that interests him.

This deeply grim moment reminds me of a sentance in the last page of The Great Gatsby:

"...Probably it was some final guest who had been away at the ends of the earth and didn’t know that the party was over...."

The Internet never forgets so we have some time. Pace Fitzgerald. But: the party is over.

He certainly deserves to rest in peace for the joy, entertainment, curiosities, animal cuteness, [I am big on the baby goats], bizarre crime, odd crime, deadly creatures in Australia, odd...well, much odd, he has presented to us.

Rest in Peace, Kevin Norman Gray.

Bob

Anonymous said...

Prayers for you from CA. Loved reading your blog. Never let anyone give you a time frame for life! I've met many who've proved their doctors wrong. In the meantime enjoy eating whatever you want.
God Bless!

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Anonymous said...

I am so, so, so sad to hear that Kev has passed away. You gave me a bright spot every day and I am so grateful. Rest in peace.

James said...

Rest in Peace, Kevin.
I have a tear in my eye reading this.
You were a Blogger extraordinaire.
Thankyou
James from Australia. (home of the Quokka)

Cynthia said...

Rest in Peace, Kevin.
Your daily posts were a highlight to my day (sometimes the ONLY highlight).
You are already missed.
Cynthia from California

Cari in Basildon said...

I'm so sad that we've all lost a friend.
If you would like to leave some sentiment, here's the place -

http://www.family-announcements.co.uk/derby/view/4272552/gray

TheHurt said...

Rest in Peace Kev. I hope you know how much love and happiness you brought to this world. You will be sorely missed. X

Kevin said...

There is no death.... People die only when we forget them ― Isabel Allende.

Rest In Peace Kevin

Unknown said...

My thanks to the person who filled my life with so much laughter.
Sorely missed, never forgotten

Kelly from Palmdale, California

Barbwire said...

Thanks for the suggestion of revisiting the old posts! I feel as if I have lost a dear friend.

Dave said...

Godspeed and RIP, Kevin.

Joanne Casey said...

I keep coming back in hope that it's a misunderstanding but unfortunately it seems to be true.

So sad to hear this news. Kev seemed like such a kind man and I'd like to thank him for his years of hard work on the blog.

Sadly missed,
J

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PBurns said...

We never met, and I never wrote, but I was a HUGE fan of this blog, and by extension, you. Sail on sailor, you did good and were loved by people you never knew. Thanks for all you did with humor, curiosity. knowledge and a hell of a lot of effort.

Patrick Burns
www.terrierman.com

Jane said...

Just read (on MissCellania blog) that Kev has passed away. May you rest in peace, Kev. Sorry for the pain you had to suffer from your illness and the frustrations you suffered. Thank you for your blog. I visited your site daily and was always entertained. I hope you know how many folks appreciated what you did and really enjoyed your postings. You will be missed.

To Kev's family and loved ones. I am sorry for your loss. I hope you can take comfort in knowing that people really cared.

Best regards

Monrezee said...

Rest in peace Kev. You done good.

drgeo said...

RIP Kev, thanks for your blog posts! You will be missed here in Texas.
George Leddick, from Private Jokes

Anonymous said...

Hang in there KEV!

FurryBootsCityBoy said...

RIP Kev. Saddened by this news. "Arbroath" lifted my spirits so many times over the years.

Anonymous said...

I just spent a most enjoyable hour having used Google Advanced search to find as many instances I could on this blog of Kev's "Are we nearly there yet" entries, reading the comments and enjoying the wacky array of pictures. Is it odd that I come to tears over a man I never met who made me smile so very much over the years? I know I commented several times with my appreciation of his work, but I fear it probably wasn't adequate. RIP, Kev, I hope you knew what you meant to so many people. KaraBoo in Ohio

Lynsey said...

So very sorry to read of Kevin's passing. I've been reading Arbroath for ever and I will miss it and Kevin's wicked sense of humor. RIP and thanks for all the great reads.

mdrosen said...

I just want to thank you for all the work that you've put into your blog - I've really enjoyed it. You have to try to do anything, and everything, that makes you happy right now. Reconnect with anyone that you've lost touch with, eat good food, do what you can, make every moment count. I wish you all the best, every moment of happiness you can achieve, during the time that you have left. Please have fun, take care, and be happy. Thank you.

Anonymous said...

Oh poos and wees! sorry to hear that prognosis. Good luck with your fight!!

shak said...

Just want you to know that I'm thinking of you and am sending you light and love.

Cari in Basildon said...

Here's a link I'm sure Kev would have posted this morning.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4183326/Controlled-explosion-vehicle-outside-UK-police-station.html

Damn, I'm going to miss that guy.

I was sent here by a link in the Telegraph for 'Lolcats' (http://icanhas.cheezburger.com/lolcats)
How did YOU find this blog? The list of links to other blogs on the right of the 'Arbroath' page led to a few favourite links and internet friends.
I'll keep coming back as long as others do too.

Anonymous said...

I found Arbroath about 8-9 years ago because of Tribe.net. , which is basically extinct now. Somebody mentioned everlasting blort, which led me to Arbroath, Miss Cellania, Kuriositas... So many great places. I bookmarked Arbroath as my favorite and I go to those sites from there.

Continue to do so, and still seriously bummed.

Anonymous said...

Oh, Kevin- I hope you knew how dearly loved you were by people from all over the world. Sad to hear of your passing, and hope to meet you in the afterlife.

Anonymous said...

Reposted from below :-

Anonymous said...
Sorry to say that Kev has died. I was called in Canada today, he was my cousin. Why he didn't call me for help I will never know, as we did stay in touch by email a couple times a year. If any of you know anything more, please email me at djcole@pei.sympatico.ca. Janice

3:01 am

jennw said...

I am so saddened to hear this news. Kev's Arbroath always brought a smile to my day. I'll miss all the ridiculous news he used to bring us. I hope the end was easy and painless for him. Farewell and good travels.

Anonymous said...

Be at peace Kev. You'll be remembered. - JAE

Miss Liss said...

Very sad news. I have been without internet myself for a little while, and came back to find this sad news resolved before I had a chance to offer my supportive wishes. Kev had a superb ability to find the most hilarious and relevant images for odd headlines. He will be missed.

Miss Liss, Sydney Australia

Ocker said...

Kev,

All the best with the radio and chemo. But when the time comes, go out happy mate. Happy in the knowledge that you've been an awesome one-man force of oddities and funniness that's brought countless joy and smiles to your friends from the world over.

It really would be great if you could give us a mailbox addy to send you a bikkies and the likes.

Keep well mate.

Ouroboros said...

RIP Kev. I enjoyed your website for years and find myself so sad even though I never met you.

Grant Michael McKenna said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Grant Michael McKenna said...

The memory of you will be a blessing to all who knew you, as your blog was to us.

Rest in peace Kev, and thanks for the laughs.

fwog said...

Even though I never met you, it truly feels like I have lost a friend. I have visited your blog pretty much daily for over 10 years (Geez. Since I started high school!). I feel like this has been such an part of my growing up. Thank you for all the years of adorable animals, amusing and light heartening stories, funny news pieces and quirky oddities.

May you rest in peace.

Jac

Malcolm L. said...

It's ironic that I only find your blog now from a link on http://presurfer.blogspot.com/ On the very day Gerrard announces similar news to yours! The two of you sound so alike in that both of you live alone, communicating with others via the internet rather than personal relationships. Both of you will continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.

Twyloii said...

I've been checking for an update daily, reluctant to got to the comments. If you have passed I'm very sorry. Your blog has been a daily go to for me for a good few years. Thoughts and stuff, nothing to do with emotion. Best Wishes wherever you've gone.

Andrew. x

Twyloii said...

If anyone archives Kev's body of work please post a link here as I'm unsure how Blogger deal with this kind of thing, you know, payment and stuff or is it free? It's a priceless and important blog. I don't know. Well done, Kev. Will miss NTWA

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Your site has given me so much over the years I hope you don't mind if I offer something in return. This site is full of advice and information - it's where I work so naturally I'm biased, but I hope you get the practical, emotional and other support you deserve, and if your site helps at all it will be a small echo of all you've done. <a href="http://a

Nell said...

Kev's funeral took place earlier this week. I guess some recent comments are from people who hadn't realised that he had died. There are some lovely comments on the funeral announcement webpage. http://www.family-announcements.co.uk/derby/view/4272552/gray
Can I also echo a previous comment: if anyone knows how to archive or preserve Kev's work would they please post here.

Anonymous said...

Kev, I know yu are watching us all and know that you touched many lifes and made the earth a bit better for being here, my prayers to you, please say hi to my friends who are there with you...best, william

ooonaughtykitty said...

Very sad to hear of Kevin's passing. I absolutely loved his blog, and will certainly miss his fun perspective.
RIP, Kev. Your spirit still lives in all of the people you touched. Thank you.

Pirx The Pilot said...

A silent respectful bow

Vietvet said...


Here's another popular blog that has paid tribute to Kevin:

http://iotwreport.com/nothing-to-do-with-arbroath/

RIP, Kev – you will be missed.

Anonymous said...

RIP
Thank you for everything you did.
You made my site a better site.
BFH

Simons Mith said...

_Archiving:_

Archive.org has automatically captured Arbroath at various points over the last four years. See http://web.archive.org/web/*/http://arbroath.blogspot.co.uk/

I don't know how comprehensive those snapshots are, or if there's some way to tell them, today's version is a final version.

There is also a free command-line tool called wget ( https://www.gnu.org/software/wget/ ) which can be used to download entire web sites and store them locally. You need a little bit of technical skill to use it, but there are bound to be people local to you who are happy to help.

Annemarie said...

im so saddened to hear that Kevin has passed away.
Thank you to his cousin for informing us.
Although we never met we had been exchanging emails over the last few years and he seemed like a thoroughly nice chap.
R.I.P you will be missed

Allen King said...

For many years I would open this blog first thing when I sat down at my desk at the office> So much better than the news sites for a way to begin the day. Almost two years ago I had to quit for health reasons but still returned sometimes to keep up.

Thanks for the years of cheer!

Allen King Nashville TN and Louisville KY USA

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Anonymous said...

Though I only knew Kevin through this website
I really really miss him.

Anonymous said...

Any company that spams this thread is ghoulish. I wouldn't buy a glass of water from you, Sam Stayer, if I was on fire. Do kindly piss off.

Shak said...

I miss you, Kev. It feels like something is missing every day and it is your blog. Just wanted you to know that.

Ratz said...

Something I think Arbroath would have posted: http://i.imgur.com/LJKPTiY.gifv firefighter walks out with rescued piglets.

Rachel said...

Just jumping in to say hi and hope you're feeling okay.

Anonymous said...

I am so sad for this. Kev, you brought me so many smiles in so many dark times. Thank you for the sunny side.

Miss Pause Café said...

I am so sad, I've been reading his writings for more than 10 years. I will always remember the day I discovered his "one of a kind" blog. Such a caustic sens of humour he had. I was happy every month to see that the blog was still on over the years, until then.
Thank you Kevin, whenever you are. :'(

A little frenchie from Paris who will miss tremendously this really unique sense of humour which had no boundaries.

Unknown said...

Ahh, god.... His writings helped me through some sad times...

Dry wit does not even begin to encompass it.

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Anonymous said...

Nope, we can't let this end with a spam post.
Rest in peace, Kev.

kdub_nyc said...

Oh, this is so sad... I hadn't visited the site for a while after the December announcement and I wish I'd had one last chance to thank Kev for his blog. Just finding out today that it's too late. I feel like I've lost a friend even though we never met.

Ratz said...

I think Kev would have posted this: http://articles.dailypress.com/1993-04-07/news/9304070163_1_alfred-e-acree-shoes-four-minute-chase Drug dealer caught running from police in woods, due to his light-up shoes.

Amy said...

I still can't believe he's gone.

Anonymous said...

RIP Kevin. You will be missed.

tony m said...

It's so ironic that Kev and Gerard from The Presurfer both died around the same time in similar circumstances.R.I.P. Two very well respected gentlemen.

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Tunapaw said...

Missing you although you are already gone... You are awesome and I will miss you.

Dalaruan said...

R.I.P. Kev. Miss your fine wit.

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Greg SayOMG said...

So Sad. Your work was an inspiration and our way to start the day with a smile. Thank you Kev for everything. RIP :(

Twyloii said...

I keep passing by, Kev.
Nothing To Do With Death or Anything x

Rutt said...

Kev,

I still check several times a week.....

Your whimsical postings are sorely missed.

Hope all is well.

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Unknown said...

It's June. I miss your postings and your humour. Thanks.

Unknown said...

I was so sorry to hear of your illness! I hope you're on the mend and will update us all on your progress soon.

Samantha

Anonymous said...

I used to read this blog religiously for years. I fell away for a while but came back today at random to spend some time. I'm so sorry to learn of your news but commend your bravery and send you the warmest wishes for comfort during your treatment. Sending love from California.

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Mike Starring said...

I am devastated. Period. What a loss.


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Buttdimple said...

Miss you, Arborath. <3

Anonymous said...

Sigh...

Emma said...

I can't bring myself to delete this link from my bookmark bar.
Almost every day I almost click on it.
We miss you Kev, I hope in the end you felt less lonely than you had been feeling.

And someone kill all those spammers, seriously!

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Anonymous said...

10-1-2017 site is still up God bless you Kevin...will be seeing you soon....love, bill

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Anonymous said...

Hey! Writing from Spain. A lot of time since I came here and now I see Kevin passed away. Just wanted to say that he made me laugh in some shitty times, and that's one of the greatest things you can do for another human being. Thank you, wherever you are. THANK YOU.

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Anonymous said...

November 27, 2017, I, too, like others have said, am unable to delete this bookmark which I have used for years on a near daily basis. Kev's blog was a source of just the right amount of respite from the world. You will be missed by thousands and thousands of us Kev. May you indeed rest in peace, free from the suffering you had to endure at the last.

I hope that somehow your blog will be maintained ad infinitum for the benefit and enrichment of future netizens seeking the odd and informative, sweet and enlightening.

http://www.family-announcements.co.uk/derby/view/4272552/gray

--A.

(P.S. Are there cheap human spammers out there posting the bogus comments paid to defeat the Recaptcha? Wow....)

Unknown said...

22 December 2017 - Taking time off from the insanity that is my life to remember old friends, even the ones I never met. I'm glad you're still here, from a certain point of view. Happy Christmas to anyone who's passing.

Pawned said...

I hope things get better for you. Going through cancer is a difficult process so I past the time blogging like you do. My blog is about pawn shops, an old business I ran in the early years. If you want, you can check out my recent post on what pawn shops like to buy . You'd be surprised at the things you can pawn for quick cash.

Joanne Casey said...

Thinking of Kev and others who have passed and their families at this sad time of year

Anonymous said...

Like many others can't delete this bookmark. Thinking of Kev and all the folks we miss at this time of the year. Much love

Anonymous said...

Christmas Day 2017 I still come here although I know there will be no more posts. I read this blog for years and it was always a highlight of my day. Kev made the time to make so many people happy with no reward for himself apart from the knowledge that people all over the world were made happier by his efforts. I never met him but he made a difference for the better in my life. We're all sadder because he isn't here but I hope Kev, wherever he is, is happy.

Anonymous said...

It's nearly the new year and like the last poster, I still come here randomly as NTDWA is still high up on my bookmarks. Miss you Kev! Hope you're having a good time in your next life my friend.

Stephen said...

Still miss you, bud.

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Dumpsterkitty said...

For some reason I felt the need to come here today and I see it's been a year since that last post. I guess you're still hanging around Kev :)

Emma said...

I can't believe its been a year.
I still go to click on the link at least once a week.
You're missed Kev.

<3

Prox said...

Hey bub.

I keep this link on my bookmarks to remind me that we can matter to other people after we are gone.

Good work Kev.

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nickyskye said...

My loving wishes to you dear Kev. Toilet arms help in getting up: https://www.amazon.com/Medline-Toilet-Installation-Adjustable-Bathroom/dp/B000BJBH48/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1531098106&sr=8-3&keywords=toilet+arms

If your bathtub is next to the toilet, this type of grab bar can help too. https://www.amazon.com/Drive-Medical-Steel-Clamp-White/dp/B002VWJYX4/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1531098187&sr=1-1&keywords=bathtub+grab+bar

You can put a cheap steel frame under your mattress to elevate it and that will help you stand up out of bed: https://www.amazon.com/Spring-Mattress-Foundation-Strong-Structure/dp/B074TF91H2/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1531098323&sr=8-7&keywords=8"+mattress+steel+frame

Wish I were there to help you. As a person dealing with 3 types of late stage cancer I can relate to your situation. Tender wishes for your well being and peace of mind.

Anonymous said...

Any update? How are you?

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Pedro said...

Miss you mate.

Anonymous said...

17/08/2018

Thanks for being part of early internet fun and history Kev. If you're still with us, keep well.

All the best,

Gandalf.

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