For the last 33-plus years I have pushed to save island farmland, while making my entire living farming. This did not leave much time for socializing and I hoped you would forgive me for not following up on many invites and potential friendships.

Suddenly I have been faced with the removal of a brain tumor. Its removal has shut down production of most hormones, and I am so weak I seldom leave my home.

What is thrilling is the number of folks who have told me I am in their prayer circles. The cards and the flowers that have poured in are wonderful.

I am too weak to answer the cards individually. Recovery is five months to a year. So I am taking this opportunity to say how wonderful it is to live in a community that cares.

This illness has been a learning opportunity. Never having been this sick before, I realize how little I appreciated the impact of illness on people I know and knew.

I think of my friend Ralph Eels who never complained while dying of brain cancer. I tried to help him by driving him to Seattle for treatments, but he did not allow his illness to make him angry or bitter.

He continued working almost to his last day. When I feel overwhelmed I just remind myself of his courage.

Other friends of mine are dealing with other forms of cancer and it is only now that I understand the challenge of living with disease.

This is a wonderful, caring island. It is nice to be chosen the business couple of the year. But it also nice to be remembered by so many caring islanders. Thank you all! I will get better!

Gerard Bentryn

Day Road