There are some things that you think people are too young to have to deal with. A 39-year-old athletic man who loved nature, adventure and - most of all - his new wife, should not have to fight a super-strong disease that caused him unbearable pain. A 35-year-old should not have to watch as her new husband uses every ounce of his being to fight this disease, even as it took over and destroyed his body while he stuck to his mantra: "sink or swim." And worse, one of them should not lose their life and one of them should not be left without him.
The only fortunate thing was that, before Bill got cancer and died way too early, he and Jessica found each other. Their romance and marriage were far too short, but that in no way reflected the depth of their love for each other.
We only got to meet Bill twice. The first time was in August 2007 when we stayed with them on our San Diego trip. The second time was at their wedding in June. The night we stayed with them, we got to know him a little bit, and it was clear he was interesting, talented and very in love with Jessica. They had recently got engaged and were in the process of making a home together. Their spark and excitement for new love and a new life was unmistakable, and we count ourselves among the lucky to have had the chance to bear witness to it.
By the time the wedding had come around, Bill had had his diagnosis for about two months. Despite the uncertain future, and the immense pain, they stood before friends and family for a touching, personal ceremony marking the eternal tie of their hearts and minds.
Everybody had hope. But it wasn't enough. Nothing was enough. We are truly, truly sad that the world lost one of the good ones to such a stupid disease. Jessica is strong, but undoubtedly in deep pain. Last week, on a rainy Sunday at sunset, Bill's friends and family gathered for a celebration of his life at a park in Encinitas. It was beautiful and simple and we were glad to have taken part and toasted to Bill.
RIP Bill. Your friends, family and Jessica will always love you.
Jeff Simon:
Gayle Simon:
Bill's Dad, Sister and Mother:
Bill and Jess, August 2007:
We've made a donation to Lance Armstrong's Foundation LIVESTRONG in Bill's memory. Maybe you will too by clicking here.
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