Update on Bill
For readers and visitors to our web site, who wonder how Bill is doing, here’s what we have learned from friends and former co-workers.
Bill was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (cll) in late June of this year after a routine cholesterol test uncovered abnormally high white blood cell counts in his blood. He researched the disease, had his condition assessed, interviewed a number of physicians (and their subsequent treatment plans) and made the decision to fight. Not only would he have the best doctors and treatment, but he rejected the notion of the disease holding any power over him – going as far to say that c-l-l was spelled in all lower case letters.
His first chemotherapy treatment in August left him pretty spent. The second chemotherapy treatment occurred early September and at first, it went as expected. However, two weeks after the treatment, on Sept. 21; he ran a very high fever that necessitated a trip to the ER. Diagnosed with septic shock and respiratory distress, Bill was given only the slightest chance of survival. The ensuing six weeks have been a roller coaster complete with ups, downs, and hairpin turns.
Details also are not useful and unimportant at this point but overall he has made progress. That progress is neither as fast as his family would like, nor has it been without setbacks. We just need to keep hoping and praying that he continues to improve.
His family is grateful for the outpouring of support from all of Bill’s friends and colleagues over the past weeks. And asks for everyone to please continue to keep him in your thoughts and prayers.
Get-well wishes can be sent to Bill O’Brien, 12508 Lt. Nichols Road, Fairfax, VA 22033
I pray ALMIGHTY for his quick recovery. We need him for a long long time. Aijaz, kingdom of Bahrain
My prayers are for Bill and especially his family. It is not easy to watch the one you love suffer. Hang in there Bill there is more to come.
To Bill and his family,Your run is not yet over may good family days be ahead God Bless Bill
Bill taught Human Factors classes here at Dassault Falcon Jet in Little Rock. It was one of the few classes the technicians did not complain about because Bill made it so interesting. Several employees knew him from his books. I loved working with him - he is truly a remarkable and interesting man. Our prayers and thoughts are with Bill and his family.
Bill is a legend. I corresponded with him extensively before he retired from the FAA, and have benefited immensely from his articles. Bill accomplished the impossible: he taught me to actually love 14 CFR Part 43! Bill’s one of a kind, an irreplaceable treasure, and the conscience and guardian angel of AMTs everywhere. If there’s any justice in this world, he’ll be back with us 100% soon.
–Mike Busch A&P/IA, 2008 National AMT of the Year
Our thoughts and prayers go out to support you Bill. Every AMT in the world has benefitted from your passion for this industry. I wish you strength for the work ahead of you and success in controlling the cll.
May God bless Bill. With always Win. He knows what we look for& we pray he will give! Bill ’s family take care!
Recovery from Bill’s condition depends greatly upon the will and determination of the sufferer. Anyone who knows Bill will know that he stands a greatewr chance than average of fighting it off. My father’s side of my heritage is one-half O’Briens-tough folks!!
If I know you Bill, this setback will only slow you down a slight bit.
Hang in there Buddy, your expertise is very much needed by all of us.
My prayers are with you always.
Roy Downing
My best goes out to Bill during his fight… absolutely fantastic to read so many positive comments about him. Please keep us updated as to his progress.
I agree with Mike Busch, Bill is a treasure, and our conscience and guardian angel. In the past 15 years he’s done more for AMTs than most of the FSDOs combined. There’s only one Bill “Pat Poteen” O’Brien, and may he be with us for a long time.
Bill,
All my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family for a speedy recovery. When I spoke to Marie a few weeks ago, I was too moved with emotions and have not called back out of respect for you and your family.
I just want you to know that you have been such an inspiration and a mentor throughout my career. Since the day I met you, your integrity has surpassed anything I could imagine. You have made such an impact on the aviation industry but your passion and experience is still needed. We have a lot of work to do still.
So my Irish friend, if any one can beat this, I am positive it will be you.
May God bless you and your family and I will get in touch soon.
Your Greek friend,
Bobby
Dear Bill,
Please know that we are praying for you and your family every day. The power of prayer goes a long way. We are so happy to see that you are making progress.
I know that I have only talked to you a few times over the phone but your friendship and support for Bobby has left an important place in our lives. Bobby and I have come across a few bumps in the road this past year and your honesty and integrity was greatly needed and appreciated.
Keep the faith and may God bless you and your family,
Cathy