Thursday, February 5, 2009

Welcome!

Welcome to Barry's Journey! I must start out by saying that blogs are not my forte, but in an effort at keeping everyone updated, I will do my best to maintain and update this site...as we have a new mantra, "No Secrets!"

Even before creating this site, I have to say THANK YOU! We (the family) sincerely thank everyone for their prayers, meals, time, and overall generosity. We are already overwhelmed by the number of people who have already reached out to help.

Please take a moment to share a fun story, just browse the site, or post your positive thoughts to help everyone get through this. After all, we are celebrating life! I have never known my Dad to turn away from a challenge; and this is just another one of those hills to climb (on his motorcycle), rivers to cross (rowing because the boat won't start), and journeys to begin (like that trip to Canada with 12 people in the camper).

Thanks again for just taking a few moments to think about him!
Glen and the fam

29 comments:

  1. I think I speak for alot of people out there who know Barry, that he's more like a second dad to us or possibly one that we never really had. He's definitely a hoot to be around in any occasion because since I've know him, I've only seen him down maybe once or twice? The guy really knows how to keep a room lit with laughter! I personally feel that attribute is going to help him along this tough fight, along with prayer and God's good grace. Keep praying, keep fighting and keep laughing!
    We all love ya Barry, get well soon and if you need anything from Sarah or me, just call...anytime day or night. We'll be there for you.
    You did a great job on this blog, Glen!

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  2. His laugh...need I say more? Everyone I ever talk to about my dad always says...his laugh is what they think of first! Even after the rough few weeks he's had, the laugh is still going strong. Over the last week we've laughed so hard he's pulled muscles in his side. I don't think anything can stop that contagious laugh and ear to ear smile. He's such an amazing man an example for all of us. Love you dad!

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  3. Barry and Shirley, we know your relationship is based off true faith. We are happy to know that the 2 of you are together through this journey with your faith in the Lord guiding your path. Just know that all of us here at the Home Depot have you both in our thoughts and prayers every minute of the day. Just know you can count on us just like you would your family!!!! WE ARE ALL HERE FOR YOU!!! Shirley, per Alicia, remember to pray to St. Jude. We are so excited that we can communicate with you in this format. Barry, you are a very muched loved by Shirley, as it shows in the conversations she has with us. Please know that we will be with you every step of your journey. Fondly, your friends
    Da Tonya and Alicia

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  4. Yeah, you won't ever forget that laugh. Barry, you always treat everyone equally and never judge. It takes a really good man to live like that.Thanks for always being there and always being willing to help with anything. We got your back Dude. Love you, Brett.

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  5. Thayne & I just want Barry & Shirley to know they are in our thoughts. We don't see them often but whenever we do we always appreciate how comfortable and welcome they make us feel. Thayne & I always comment on Barry's laugh and good sense of humor. He is just a fun guy to be around. They are lucky to have such a big, loving family to be there for them and help them get through this difficult time. Again, our thoughts are with them both. Love, Claudia & Thayne (Brett's Mom & Step-Dad)

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  6. Overwhelming joy, unconditional love. That's the picture of Barry that I see everytime we meet, whether it's at church, the shop, or one of Shannon's get togethers. Even when things are uncertain, he's always got a reasurring response that everything will be okay. I echo Damon's sentiments of faith and positivity. We love you guys and can't wait to see you soon!

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  7. It brings me joy to write this for you guys knowing you've brought a lot of joy in to my families life.I will pray for you and hope that it is ok when you wake up in the morning.Until it does happen I will continue to pray.I also hope it brings a smile on your face when you read this and hope it brings a feeling to your heart saying''it's going to be alright and we'll get through this". Thank you for everything!!!!!and hope to see you again in the future.
    ALIA (Da Tonya's daughter-from Home Depot)

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  8. it's great reading all of the comments on here...can you feel the LOVE? it's great to be able to share in this blog! hanging out with Barry is always a positive experience. the peace that he brings to his surroundings is amazing, no matter where you are. it is that quality, plus that laugh Staci commented about above, that makes Barry the most positive person I know. I hope to reflect some of that energy towards others!

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  9. Shirley and Barry ,our prayers go out to you, anything you need let us know. from your extended family at The Home Depot.

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  10. Shirley and Barry,

    so sorry to hear about this, i had no idea. My preys go out to the both of you. Shirley you're a sweetheart and are always around to help me. If theres anyway i can help or if you just someone to talk with let me know. Im here for you.

    Love,
    Alex Campos

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  11. My Prayers are with you and your family.Barry,I met you once when I went with your Aunty Theresa and Uncle Johnny Jackson to visit your parents.You took some days off so we could all visit.That was a great time.The next time we visited you came to Portage with your new wife Shirley and again we had a great visit.Life is short and I am glad I met you in mine.Take care Barry and again my prayers are with you.
    Gloria Nagy from Winnipeg,Manitoba,Canada

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  12. Hi Barry and Shirley,
    This blog is a nice way for everyone to keep up to date with what is going on. Reading this anyone can see you are a lucky man, Barry to have such a wonderfull family and friends. I am sure you already know that. I wish you luck and will think positive thoughts for wednesdays visit to the dr. Take care.
    Cassie Haskins

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  13. Hi Barry,
    I don't know if you'll remember me, my name is Rusty and I went to school with Heather, i first met you in 1985 when heather and i were in our jr. year and i've been around on and off since then, although it's been about 6 yrs. since I've been down to the bay area.Anyway you have always been very kind and friendly to me and I just want you to know I am sending all sorts of positive loving thoughts to you and your family not only for your drs. appt tomorrow but for all days. your a wonderful family and very lucky to have each other, and I'm just glad to know you.

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  14. Barry,
    We are so sorry to hear about the cancer.
    You have always been so nice and welcoming to us and we have always appreciated that. We just want you to know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Stay positive and fight the good fight!!!! Please let us know if we can do anything to help. You are truly blessed to have so much love surrounding you!!!

    Love, Josh and Kelly McMillan

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  15. I will always remember his smile and the way he always had open arms to give a hug.... he is a wonderful man full of sooo much love... and takes in us "strays" who just need a dad to talk to.... all my love to all of you, mom, dad, and all the kids you are like a 2nd family to me... an what ever the need is I will be there.... no matter what time it... is.................. I LOVE YOU ALL.. Emily

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  16. Barry: just checking in for the first time. More to follow.

    Hang in there, guy, you've got a lot of support behind you, mine included (although I'm not entirely sure whether my support is a help or a hinderance).

    I love the slideshow -- were you really that young once? Were any of us that young?

    I'll be thinking about you.

    Ed Simone

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  17. Shirley and Barry,
    This is a "get well" message from Richard "The King", but like you always say Shirley, there's only one "KING", and I'm sure he will look after you and Barry, my prayers will be with you.....

    Your friend,
    Richard....Home Depot...

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  18. Shirley and Barry- Just wanted to let you guys know you have been in our thoughts. Everyone here is cheering for you. We miss you Shirley!!! Da Tonya and Alicia

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  19. Berry,
    My prayers are with you and I hope you and your family can be together. God Bless You and your family.
    May God Be With You
    Anita Rodriguez at Home Depot

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  20. Shirley & Barry...
    I can only say that our thoughts and prayers go out to you.

    Frank & Neale

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  21. I met Barry through his wife with whom i work. Barry always seemed like a family man to me. I only saw him at the christmas parties. But I never failed to see how he smiled and enjoyed putting a love arm around Shirley. One can see from a distance that he has touched a lot of lives. I wish him & his Family the best. May you all share your time together in love and some happiness.

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  22. Although I have never met Barry, I do know Shirley & know what a loving, caring & woderful person that she is. My heart completely goes out to both of you & I will keep you in my thoughs & prayers.

    Love,
    Michelle(Home Depot)

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  23. Barry, I've never met you before, but from what Brian Y. has told me about you and what you and Shirley are going through, I felt utterly compelled to send this message of hope to you. You, Shirley and your family will be in my thoughts and I will do my best to send the positive vibration your way. Peace and love - Chris Polito, Denver CO.

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  24. Barry,
    It's 12:45 A.M. on Friday and I'm thinking of you and all the years we have been friends. Although we haven't seen each other as often as we used to, we have always managed to keep in touch and get together throughout the years.
    These past couple of weeks I've been thinking more about the good times we have had over the years. We've been friends since junior high and have grown up together. We've raised our families and have gone though marriages and divorces together.
    I've always considered you to be one of my oldest and closest friends and always took comfort in knowing that if ever I was going to need something or really had to count on a friend to be there you were the guy I could call.
    I've enjoyed our friendship and pray it continues for years to come. I will always cherish the memories of the good times and conversations we have shared over the years. You've got a great family and friend support system that will help you during this difficult time. If you need anything don't hesitate to call. Your old pal, but not as old as you, Jim :}

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  25. Barry and Shirley-you have both been in my thoughts quite a bit. Shirley, we miss you here at work!!!! Just wanted to say hello. Take care, Da Tonya (Home Depot)

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  26. as sure as the as and the giants go to spring training every year. it just means everything will be fine. have a great day barry

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  27. Barry-everything sounds like it is going well. Let Shirley know that we miss her and think about her often. It was nice to see her. For you Barry, just keep thinking positive thoughts and know you have a large support team behind you. Talk to you soon!!! Da Tonya
    Home Depot

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  28. Shirley-sorry I missed you last week, you both have been on my mind. After reading the blog it sounds like things are going well. Barry- keep your spirits up and STAY STRONG!!! See ya soon. Da Tonya-Home Depot

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  29. Hey guys, you are still in our thoughts and prayers. Shirley, we miss you laughter here in the office. Just remember to "keep on keeping on".
    Your friends here @ Home Depot
    ALICIA & DATONYA

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