Freddie, you and I have been close for 53 years, and to me you're the most beloved and revered person/player I have known through out those 53 years..you are the most loved player from our generation. We talked on Thursday and it was then that you told me that they detected cancer in your lung and asked me not to mention it to no one. I tried calling you today and didn't get an answer, I wanted to talk to you because I feel you must feel alone, and I didn't want you to feel that way. Please try to understand that i'm posting this to show you the love and support that you'll be given through your fight against your toughest opponent ever, and I know for certain that you will feel the love that will help you get through this. I believe that you will survive because I have always looked at you as a survivor and you have too much heart not to.
You have been the "underdog" just about all your life and that never stopped you from succeeding, yes you have succeeded "big time" in everything you have done and I admire you more than you can ever imagine..just wanted you to know that.
Your friend always,
Bill Incardona
I wrote this some time ago when I was having a brush with a serious health problem. There was another fellow I knew who was also in a battle for his life at the same time. I wanted to remind him, to reinforce in him who he is, what he is, what we are. And now, who and what you are Freddy, a warrior. These words are for you. I hope you see them and take them to heart and know they are true.
Words of a Warrior
So, here we are again old foe. I see your resolve hasn't waned.
Once again you have come to take from a spirit you believe you've tamed.
Must I remind you again, at risk of sounding brash, of whom you’re about
to confront.
You seem to have forgotten the battles we’ve fought so I suppose I must be blunt .
Ah, good fortune is mine to have a foe such as you, I’m honored to keep
you at bay
But once again, though mighty you are, when it’s done. It will be my day
Yes, it’s true, you have wounded me many times. But fallen I’ve not and
you know the reason why?
A Warrior I was born, and as a Warrior I have lived, and only a Warrior will cause me to die.
What’s that you say? No, I meant no disrespect. You are very powerful
and not to be taken light
Indeed, it is because of your power that I am strengthened and prepared to fight.
So bring your best to this new field of battle and do what you think you must
But know this old foe. It is I who will be standing, when the winds clear the dust.
John Gardner
Thank you Tom, I realized the dilemma I was confronted with and decided to post the sad news in spite of things. Just had a strong feeling that it was right.Very nice sentiment Dr. Bill. Unabashed regard for your dear friend. It is good to see. My best wishes for Fred's full recovery. I only met him once but he posted a very favorable impression upon me. I wish I had had the pleasure of meeting him years ago.
Good Luck Freddy,
Tom
____________________________________________________Freddie, you and I have been close for 53 years, and to me you're the most beloved and revered person/player I have known through out those 53 years..you are the most loved player from our generation. We talked on Thursday and it was then that you told me that they detected cancer in your lung and asked me not to mention it to no one. I tried calling you today and didn't get an answer, I wanted to talk to you because I feel you must feel alone, and I didn't want you to feel that way. Please try to understand that i'm posting this to show you the love and support that you'll be given through your fight against your toughest opponent ever, and I know for certain that you will feel the love that will help you get through this. I believe that you will survive because I have always looked at you as a survivor and you have too much heart not to.
You have been the "underdog" just about all your life and that never stopped you from succeeding, yes you have succeeded "big time" in everything you have done and I admire you more than you can ever imagine..just wanted you to know that.
Your friend always,
Bill Incardona
"Straight back underneath your nut-sack, Freddie." This should be a hanger for you. All you gotta do is fight like you did against me. Never give up, Freddie.
Your friend always, Keith