Thursday, October 16, 2008

Messages for Geoff

Please leave Geoff a message through this post. As mentioned above, these messages will be read at his bedside. Although he is currently in a coma, we believe he responds to the healing power of our voices. So if you have a funny story, sappy memory, or just want to leave a few words of encouragement, please send it our way!

94 comments:

Michael Rau said...

I love you bro!

Carol Raymond said...

Dear Geoffrey,
An army of people are sending you prayers, positive thoughts, and energy. We believe in you, and we believe in miracles. Love, Mama

Kyle A said...

All our thoughts, love, and prayers are with you Bro. Miracles happen everyday! Don't give up! I've already had one friend (Jed) come back from brain swelling, why not two!

Unknown said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Geoff. Hang tough.

Keith

Joey said...

Geoff - Really hoping for the best for you, bud. Stay strong! Joey

msasson said...

Hey Geoff, our thoughts and prayers are with you brother. Your extended Sasson/Swenson family in so-cal believes in you and your ability to come out of this. Lots of love and support coming your way. Be strong and we all know you can pull through!!!

-Michael and Mark Sasson

Unknown said...

Come on Geoffrey! Keep fighting. The world needs you.

Unknown said...

Hi Geoff,
Just wanted you to know that everyone (interns, residents, attendings, neurobehavior colleagues, etc.) at UCLA is thinking about you and wishing you all the best. You are in our hearts and prayers,
Becky and Dana

Unknown said...

Geoff!
My thoughts and prayers are with you. We've got another marathon to run!
Warmest Regards,
Doris

carl said...

geoff, i miss you. you know, if you really wanted to go to poquito mas instead of pink taco for burritos last week, you should have just said so; i didn't really care. next time I see you, the choice of dining venue is yours, I promise. I meant what I said at dinner that night when I told you all I really care about is that you find something that makes you happy, that's the only thing any of us want for you. You're too good of a person for anything else to be true, and in our short time as friends, my only regret is that I didn't get a chance to see you more. your easy laugh, your laissez faire attitude, your ability and interest in listening make you a wonderful friend, and will bring you success in whatever career is right for you. I'm angry that I wasn't there for you when you needed someone, but I know you will come back to us and I hope you can forgive me. All my love,
Carl

Jessie said...

hey geoff,another email from LA. I am on my first night of nightfloat and then finally vacation in Hawaii. I wanted to make sure you know I actually enjoyed my 3.5 weeks of geripsych. You were so thoughtful in always thinking of me but you never needed to apologize to any of us for switching things around. We all know you would have done anything for us. We all need a turn at some point of needing our friends to help us out.

We are all completely supportive of you and want you to get better and go do something with your life that will make you happy. You are a great guy--so selfless and thoughtful, so sweet! Get better so you can finally get out of the hospital and find happiness again.

With love,
Jessie

Damon Hamilton said...

Geoff,
When Marco informed me of your condition I wished that there was something more that I could do. Something more tangible than thoughts and prayers. And then came this blog, which is the perfect forum to make thoughts tangible and prayers legible. So thank you Mike for opening this therapeutic-for-all door. Geoff, I wish you the best of blessings and the most speedy of recoveries.
- Damon

Unknown said...

Dear Geoff,
I remember seeing you with a patient once and thinking, "Damn, I wish I was that nice." You have such a gentle, warm manner, and you CARE...and that means something. The world needs you. Fight hard to come back to all of us. I hope you can feel all the caring and prayers sent your way. I look forward to seeing you SMILE that gentle smile...and here's the Sonal coming out...I look forward to seeing that smile SOON.
~Sonal

Colin said...

Geoff,

We've shared so many great memories together, from the annual Vegas trip to the Running of the Bulls, and most recently, hanging out in LA. I was so happy when you moved to LA because I knew I had another good friend nearby.

You're a great person who does amazing things and we need you back!

Colin
Za Za Wah!

Anonymous said...

Poo,

What's up man. This is your old roommate Brad from SF. I just found out about what has happened and am completely amazed something like this would ever happen to you of all people. One thing is for sure, and I hate to sound cheesy, but as said before in a previous post.....Miracles DO happen, as even recently seen within a family member of mine who was told she would probably never walk again. Well, today she has progressed further than she originally thought she would, and similar to you, I know that both of you haven't given up yet. I wish the very best for you and your family during these difficult and uncertain times.........Brad

Mark said...

Hey Cuz,

Seems like just yesterday you and your pops were hanging out in the 'burgh with me. How great it was to see you guys - it made me miss you and your family so much. I wish I lived closer to you and Mikey..

The whole Tucci clan is praying for you..we know you'll make a full recovery - and I know you'll soon be ready to take all my money again in poker.

We're all here for you and your family. We understand.

sending lots of love from the other coast,
-mark

Anonymous said...

Geoffrey,
Your San Diego family has a campaign of prayers going for you--from San Francisco to Costa Rica. You need to get rid of those tubes so you can vote in this election! We're visualizing your smile when you hear the campaign jokes you missed. Hang in there. We believe you are getting better every day. Love, Linda and Hunt.

Anonymous said...

Geoff,
Here is one of my favorite poems by Emerson and it made me think of you...
"To laugh often and much, to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children, to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends, to appreciate beauty, to find the best in others, to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch... to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded!"
Geoff, you are already so successful and I can't wait to see how you will continue to make the world a nicer place to live! I'm thinking of you and your family.
Georgi :)

Lashonda said...

"Greff",
What can I say except that I miss you terribly. I miss the times we had here in Durham...weekend brunches at Elmo's, eating 3 different animals for dinner at Jim’s, countless nights cabbing it back from Chapel Hill and watching the first 10 minutes of Harold and Kumar before fast-fowarding to your favorite part with Neil Patrick Harris. Remember when you first moved here and you lived in the projects...and that crackhead who offered to watch your stuff while you were out of town and then stole your DVD player? Any other person would have broken their lease and gotten out of there, but instead you stayed and made friends with your neighbors. Only Geoff Rau could and would do that. It’s easy to see from this board that the Geoff I know is the Geoff everyone else knows. I guess we all are just wishing we’d known you better now. I’m sorry if I failed you as a friend. I would give anything to have you back.

Love you always,
Shonda

Unknown said...

Dear Geoff and family,
I want to send my thoughts and wishes to all of you during this difficult time. I recognized Geoff's name a decade after we graduated from mountain view high school, and knew that we were lucky that he chose to join us at UCLA this past summer. Geoff, I am so very sorry to hear about all you must have gone through in recent times. I send warm wishes for your recovery and am thinking of you and your family.
sonya

Unknown said...

Geoff,

We're thinking about you and sending you our love & positive thoughts.

Love,
Jodie & Mike

jmd said...

Geoff,
Love you brother.
Jesse

Unknown said...

Dear Geoffrey,
We wanted to let you know that we are praying for you here in Costa Rica. Clearly, from reading this blog you have touched many people's lives (including ours) in your life. We pray that you recover quickly from this coma and can continue to do so. Life's greatest quest is happiness and purpose. It isn't easy but you are not alone. We are here for you if we can help. The world is a better place with you in it. Keep fighting and get better soon.
All our love,
Shanthi, Randall, Sami, & Daniel

Michelle said...

Dearest Geoffrey,

We believe in you and we know you will get through this. We are sending you all are love and support! One step at a time will get you through this. We will all be there for you each step of the way. You are in our every thoughts and prayers. We love you so much. Keep fighting!

Love always,
Kris & Michelle & the whole family

Leanne said...

Hey Geoff,

I hope you know how many lives you have touched. There are so many of us who love and care about you. True, my little guy, asked me today why we didn't just go pour some ice cold water on you. He thinks that might wake you up. He also said to make sure we said "Westsiiiiide" when we did it so you'd know it was his idea. Somehow I'm guessing that the cold water won't work, but guess what my friend....I might just try it if you don't wake up and join us again. Stan even said he'd take you back out to the demolition range and won't even make you do any math this time. My other two, Brandon and Kiera, wanted me to send you their love and let you know that they are really praying for you but they don't know what to bribe you with so they came up with this...they'll each give you $10 if you wake up soon. As for me, I know that ice water, demolition, or cash won't just make you jump out of bed soooo I'll throw in some food. Anything you want just name it and I'll cook it for you. Seriously, I hate that you were so down and in such despair and none of us could help. I'd give anything to be able to offer you any amount of comfort necessary for you to feel more at peace within yourself. Please, my friend, wake up and know that we all care so much for you and only want whats going to bring you peace and happiness in this life.
Love you,
Leanne, Stan, Brandon, Kiera, and True

Unknown said...

Geoff,

I was thinking last night about the time we piled into the back of the Prelude, and you drove Mike, Bryce, and me up to Sacramento to go skydiving. A $100 credit card charge and a two-minute instruction video later, we were attached to random instructors and loaded into a plane circling over the airfield. I don't know about you, but my leg shook uncontrollably the entire way up, to the point that the instructor tried to keep it from bouncing.

Most remarkable sensation, at least for me, wasn't stepping out into sheer nothingness or free falling from 13,000 feet to 4,000 in less than 45 seconds--it was the blast of cold air that filled the plane after the pilot finished the initial climb and the backdoor was opened. I can't think of another time when terror and excitement were combined in such healthy proportions.

Anyways, I just wanted to let you know that I have been thinking about the good times we shared with Mike, Pete, Bryce, Jesse and Adam at Berkeley. Plenty more are in store for both of us. Hang tough, man.

Keith

Unknown said...

Geoff - Keep fighting. You have lots of people praying and hoping for you. You can do it. -Stu

Ellen said...

Geoffrey:
I too believe in miracles. Your Mom and I have been life-long friends and we have seen many many good times as well as a few not so good times. I know that she adores you and Michael (and Walt too) and would do anything to have you open your eyes for her. Our prayers are with you. Love to you and your devoted family, Ellen

carolyn said...

hey geoff,

you know where i was last sunday morning? in palo alto at my 5 year reunion. i'd hiked to the top of the Dish and the bay area was just as i'd remembered it. beautiful, beautiful, beautiful. You were always a great listener and always had some of that CA sunshine to share... I have to smile b/c i know that you were one of only a handful of people in durham with whom i could crave In and Out, random SF restaurants and dim sum, and dollar Wednesdays in oakland. i hope to come close to your enthusiasm and ability to make others feel at home. my thoughts have been with you and i'll keep praying for you... hang in there

Kyle A said...

Dang Bro! You have hella friends! I bet you did not even know that this many people care this much about you. Well now you do! You are just that kind of guy; you meet someone for a few minutes bro and they feel like they have known you a lifetime because you are such a good listener and thoughtful thinker. The world really does need you and more people like you.

Keep up the fight, we all love you and can't wait to kick it with you again. Vanessa and I are gonna come and see you next week so make sure you are looking and feeling your best!

Barb Reedinger said...

Hey Geoff, It seems just like yesterday that you, Mike and mom came to PA and spent time with us here on Muhlenburg Drive. You and Mike & Stacey had a great time in the pool. It was a short visit, but even then we knew you would go on to do great things. When mom said you were going to be a doctor, it was no surprise. You are such a kind and caring person, it was only natural that you would go on to help others. Just by what all of your friends are saying about you is a testament to that. Your mom, Ellen and I have been friends for so many years and have been through good times as well as bad. Each of us has had our turn at a crisis and have survived. Please, please open your eyes for your family. They love and care for you so much and are so very proud of you. I know Mary is there with you as well, and is also praying for you to make a complete recovery. Yes, miracles do happen, we are all living proof and you, too, can be one. Our love and prayers are with you all. Fondly, Barbara, Buzz and Stacey.

Monica said...

Hey Geoff, I just saw all the emails about you for the first time today and just in case you didn't know, the Duke crowd has been sending a flurry of back-and-forth emails saying how much we all love you and how much we want to help. All I can say is I love you and I'm thinking about you constantly. I know I wussed out in Costa Rica, but you still need to teach me how to surf some time and don't think I'm letting you off the hook! Come back to us ok?
-Mon

Unknown said...

dearest geoffery rau,
please listen to our prayers now;
let love fill your soul.
dearest geoffery rau,
your spirit will not allow
light to take control.
dearest geoffery rau,
you have much left to endow;
your wit makes us whole.
dearest geoffery rau,
please let your heart show you how
to fight; beat by beat.

keli said...

Geoff,

I'm glad my mom sent me the address of this blog, because I want to let you know that you're someone I wished I knew how to get to know better in high school. You seemed so uncommonly gentle and thoughtful. It looks like I'm far from the only person who thought so...

I've been trying to piece together what's happened to you, and it sounds like you've been struggling in a way that's all too familiar to me. I sincerely hope things get better for you, in every way.

Keli Robertson

Vi Robertson said...

Geoffrey - We are holding you and your wonderful family in our hearts as you make this journey back to health. We look forward to positive news of your recovery!

Joel Boggan said...

Hey Geoff,

I wanted to send a note since I wasn't able to get one to Kana before her visit. First of all, thanks to your mom for getting back to me Wednesday night. It was so good to hear someone's voice who is there even though Lashonda and Kana have done a wonderful job of keeping us all informed. When Lashonda first called me Monday morning, I was just pulling into the parking garage for my first day in the Duke MICU.

The MICU can be such a frightening place. So many monitors, so many lines, so many different noises, so much that nobody really has or should have any experience with. I was completely in culture shock the first day, and I thought I was semi-prepared for what was going to go on around me. I was just in a daze given the news. But, as the days have gone on, I've seen amazing things happen - the nurses are so fantastic, the families are really able to be involved, and it can be so encouraging to really have everyone on the same page. I know your family is there constantly so someone can always stay on top of things and continue putting out positive thoughts and prayers and pass along notes from all your loved ones.

I think the idea to share others’ thoughts is fantastic - so, I thought I'd share some stories. Geoff has been a wonderful friend and companion to me, as well as a constant source of surprise. Before I came to med school, I wouldn’t have thought anyone would ever drive cross-country with their worldly possessions in tow without a place to live. Turns out, at least one person would do that. Of course, this is the same person who picked the worst apartment complex I’ve seen in Durham as his place of residence. Like Lashonda said, he managed to make friends even there – lots of piñata smashing and sitting on the whatever-you-call-porch-like-things-that-aren’t-really-porches can do that for you.

Geoff is able to instantly become friends with anyone. His neighbors in the Villa, his classmates, his patients, a random lady in my hometown when he came home for Thanksgiving second year. I’ve always admired the welcoming Rau family dynamic – Michael came to Durham first-year and ended up coming along to a conference where we frightened all currently established physicians in North Carolina about the future of their profession and the ‘rents have been back and forth several times. I even managed to interrupt you and your mom’s visit during my quick run up to DC a couple of years ago. Throw in your visit to Guyana here and there and you get a great idea of the closeness that helps so much in difficult times (I wore my Guyanese shirt for three days straight in the MICU this week, by the way, though it’s probably about time I washed it).

I will always remember careening down Mexican roads with Geoff at the wheel during our trip to Baja. I’ve spent much of the time since really happy he doesn’t own anything more powerful than the old Accord. I remember the eyelid burn he got from falling asleep too close to the fire, playing bumper sea kayaks, and even though I’ll never remember him convincing little Mexican children to smash confetti eggs on my head when I fell asleep at the loudest New Year’s Eve block party you’ll ever see in a town of one hundred people, I have lots of photos to prove it happened.

There are so many others: fried chicken, a banana peel off the side of a friends’ face, the joyous pain of the three-meat plate at Jim’s, the generosity, the attitude. A few others of us here have been able to get you some messages, so I don’t have to tell you how much you are on our minds. We love you, buddy, and our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Joel

Bob M said...

Hey Geoff -

I wanted to give you a "heads-up". I'll be joining your Uncle Bill on Saturday and coming to see you.

I'm sort of guessing that (at least if one is reading your current demeanor) you're thinking, "so what!" Well, Geoff, my boy, I don't see anyone else making you laugh!

We were sort of plotting how we can get Maggie in to see you. She's a little big for a baby carriage. I got it... we'll put a little apron on her and we'll say she's a "service dog."

How about some relevant old Groucho jokes...?

"Room Service? ... Send up a larger room."

"She got her looks from her father... he's a plastic surgeon."
(I guess that's more relevant for your days in LA).

"I'm not feeling very well, I need a doctor immediately... Ring the nearest golf course."

"I've had a perfectly wonderful evening but this wasn't it."

Well, Geoff, I know everyone is probably reading you great literature and inspirational poems. I'm bringing my Mae West collection... a lot of her stuff isn't printable here! ..It's hard to be funny when you have to be clean.

[Please ask me ... why is good sex like good bridge?]

Looking forward to seeing you, Michael, Carol, Walt and Maritza tomorrow.

Bob (Maybe "uncle Bob" one day.)

Anne said...

Dear Geoffrey, dear dear Geoffrey...

Wherever you are floating...

Remember the time many years ago when you made your unexpectedly premature entry into this world.

Then, too, as you curled up in the protective environment of your incubator, you were surrounded by the love and the well wishes of many people. Doctors and nurses and parents and friends provided the support, but you made the choice to thrive, to come home.

When feeding you, we may have watched carefully for signs it was time to briefly pull the bottle away so that you could breathe and turn your face pink again.... but it was you who reached out to be fully in this world, to stick around, to breathe, to laugh, to explore, to learn, to care....

You weigh a lot more than four pounds now.. but look around, dig a bit deeper, it's still there - that inner will to be born again to this world. It's there, waiting to be summoned. Pick it up, reclaim it, rejoin all those who love you.

Love,

Anne

Unknown said...

Geoff,
I can't believe the news. I just saw you a couple of weeks ago, with a smile on your face and that huge dimple at the VA hospital, and you seemed to be doing so well. I was so impressed with your work ethic, and how much you cared about making the right decisions for your patients. I'm incredibly sorry to hear how much you were struggling inside, and wish there was something I could have said to make you feel less anxious, or let you know what a great job you were doing. You are in my thoughts and prayers daily. I hope for your healthy and quick recovery so that you can come back and visit Los Angeles and show us that grin we all miss so much. I have faith that the best will happen for you. Please be strong.

Mika said...

Geoff,
The Red Sox came back from a seven run deficit last night with a stadium full of people cheering them on. You have way over a stadium full who believe in you and whose lives you have touched and will touch. We believe in you. Get better soon.
Love you,
Mikaela and Morgan

P.S. I hope you're not a Tampa Bay fan.

Anonymous said...

Poo Rau!

Rip here. I'm thinking if I speak to you in Chaucer or Milton you may wake up, but then again I remember that without you I wouldn't know who these people were! As and friend and a loved one you have always been so caring and amazing to me! Just don't make any more top ramen in my sink when you wake up ok ?

haha. Buddy, on a serious note...get better soon we all are scared and miss you!

love-Austin Ripmaster

Kahuna Bob said...

I have submitted a prayer for Geoff at the Shrine of St Jude;
http://www.shrineofsaintjude.com/

Also will include special prayers for Geoff in the October Novena from October 22 - October 30, 2008.

Bob

Unknown said...

Geoff,
I was thinking about the beginning of this year... coming in on night float. You were often the first person I saw after a long shift; my first and only interaction with a friend after a long night of work. I just want you to know how much that meant to me then...how much it helped me. You are so easy to be around, and such a kind a compassionate person, we are all lucky to know you. All my love and prayers, Ben Schneider

Anonymous said...

Dear Geoff,

Even though I have known you for a brief period of time, you have touched me during the three weeks we worked together on Neurobehavior Service at the VA. You always had an enthusiastic attitude and an eagerness to learn. You were an active member of the team. You were the first person to check the printer for consultation requests and the first one to offer to see the patients. You have done a great job as demonstrated by your bedside manner and eloquent notes. Besides your professionalism, you were just a nice guy. You were always so thoughtful and considerate: Offering to drive us to UCLA and asking if we needed anything when you went down to get your daily slice of pepperoni pizza. You involved yourself with the Neurobehavior family and brought that delicious chocolate cake to our potluck. We were all so shocked when we heard about what happened. Reading this blog, I realized so many people care for you and you are an important part in their life. Please wake up soon and come see us again.

Po

Unknown said...

Geoff,

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We believe !!

Chuck, Gloria and Benjamin

Unknown said...

Dear Geoff,

Although I don't think I ever met you, I am one of your parents neighbors in Blue Lake Sq. I only heard about your unfortunate accident, this afternoon, and can't tell you how I feel about this. I am devastated for you and for you parents, but I have great hope that you will recover. My son, who is now 42 years old (today) had a fractured skull when he was 3 years. He fell out of a window and was declared "brain dead." After a 10 hour surgery, my son opened up his eyes 2 days later, and told me in his own words how he fell out of the window. By then, his father and I knew that he was OK. You will come out of it too! Soon you will open up your eyes, hear your parents voices and your recovery will start.

All my best wishes and prayers for you especially, but also for your parents.

When you are up and about again, I would like to come and visit you or help you walk or whatever it takes for a speedy recovery.

Francoise Verhoeven

Unknown said...

Dear Geoff,

I am so sorry to hear about your very difficult current challenge. Words can not adequately convey my mixed feelings of sadness, sympathy for you and your dear parents and yet confidence in your recovery. We don't know each other very well but through your parents I feel I am close to you. Our family will pray for your quick recovery and great patience for your parents. I'd like to offer the following healing prayer to be recited at your bedside:
=================================
O God, my God! I beg of Thee by the ocean of Thy healing, and by the splendors of the Daystar of Thy grace, and by Thy Name through which Thou didst subdue Thy servants, and by the pervasive power of Thy most exalted Word and the potency of Thy most august Pen, and by Thy mercy that hath preceded the creation of all who are in heaven and on earth, to purge me with the waters of Thy bounty from every affliction and disorder, and from all weakness and feebleness.
Thou seest, O my Lord, Thy suppliant waiting at the door of Thy bounty, and him who hath set his hopes on Thee clinging to the cord of Thy generosity. Deny him not, I beseech Thee, the things he seeketh from the ocean of Thy grace and the Daystar of Thy loving-kindness.
Powerful art Thou to do what pleaseth Thee. There is none other God save Thee, the Ever-Forgiving, the Most Generous.
-- Bahai writings
===================================
Omid Milani on behalf of the Milani family (1124 blue lake square)

robert weinstock said...

Geoff,
I hope you realize now how many people care about you from all these comments and how unimportant whatever got you to get into this mess really was. I really enjoyed teaching you on the PICU and you did such an outstanding job. I came to really like you and missed you when you left. I wish I kept in touch.

I really hope you get through this and that I will have a chance to see you and tell you how good you are since you seem to have lost sight of that and lost perspective on things. You truly did such a wonderful job with patients especially for a beginning intern. The important thing now though is that you get well and do whatever you want to do or take a break too if you need one. The details are unimportant.

You could be an outstanding doctor and psychiatrist since you demonstrated that already in the short time I knew you if you decide to do that. It seems that somehow you did not know that. However, I am sure you can do well with other things too should you so decide and those who care about you (and there seem to be many) still will care regardless. I hope I can help and can tell you this in person.

Keep fighting for yourself as you did for patients, and give yourself a break and accept that you are only human.
Bob Weinstock

Unknown said...

Geoff,
I’ve been putting off saying anything for a while because I’ve kept hoping you’ll be awake by now, and because I selfishly want to avoid thinking that you are not still carrying about your merry way in LA. I have so many fond memories of you I don’t know where to begin. You have always been a great friend, even when you climbed the balcony of my apartment to get Mike Rhodes’ keys, or tricked me (numerous times, incredibly) into drinking your ridiculous 151 shots, or secretly gave Bruno cigarettes when I wasn’t looking. I always smile when I think of you—you were one of the main reasons I enjoyed med school as much as I did. You can always make everyone around you laugh, and you have an incredible ability to be there for your friends when they need you the most. I truly miss you, and I know you will get better—please do it soon.
With all my love,
Bika

Leanne said...

Hey Geoff,

So, I warned you that if you didn't wake up soon, I'd come splash some ice water in your face as True suggested. Well, I'm coming out to see you. It'd be a lot more fun to spend my first time in CA talking to a friend than watching him sleep so wake up....ok? I should be there sometime late Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. Its time to be done catching up on sleep and to start joining the rest of us again. See you soon.

Love, Leanne

Graeme said...

Dear Geoff, Michael, Carol and Walt,

May all of our love and prayers be with you all at this time. To Geoff, we pray that your inner strength will guide you back to those who love you. We are all here for you in spirit, and you are in our hearts.

Love and prayers,
The Mallace Family

Unknown said...

Geoff! Hey man, remember when we met up for the first time for lunch at Chai's shortly after Match Day in Durham? I was so happy to meet one of my classmates so early on so we could chat about what it would be like to live in LA. I was glad to keep in contact with you over the summer to talk about the whole transition and what to expect. It helped to know that I had a friend to count on from back home in NC with all the uncertainty that lay ahead. So I'll be praying for you to get better soon so we can watch some ACC Basketball and I can hate on Duke while you hate on Carolina. =) All of the interns, including myself, miss you dearly. Get well, Geoff!

Your co-intern,
Melanie Asbury

Elisa said...

Hi Geoff~
Let's just hope that Glenn the nurse doesn't slip any Widow Sauce in your drip. Then again, you were only one in that house that could handle it.

Wake up, k and come back to your family and friends. We're all waiting for you and I just moved back to San Jose so maybe I'll sack up and finally learn to surf. I'll be needing you to be my surf coach, thanks! Sending you my healing thoughts and energy. Elisa

romi said...

WAKE UP!!!!!

John Doordan said...

Hey Geoff ---

Ryan told me a bit about your past week and I would say it's time you deserve abetter week!

Hang in there but get a move on too -- don't take it too easy for too long as you need to get back to yourself --- there's people waiting for you.

Your choice of holidays to take reminds me of some much earlier Halloween nights in dear old Mtn View not too far away from you right now. Seems a certain scout pack would have some wild times on those steets outside your current bedroom. I do remember those and must say there's easier ways for you to relive those days should you really want to ---

Tell your princessly mom a special hello and the princely Walt and bro Mike the same. We're certainly thinking about you and thinking you need to get a move on and get back to the real Geoff world --- people are missing you sending good love and est wishes which they want followed soonest with good fortune.

So, take real care there ---
John & Tracie Doordan

John Doordan said...

That's BEST WISHES --- you're too young to recall the other ----

JD

Katy Krantz said...

Dearest Geoff, Carol, Walt and Michael,

You all have been so close in my heart this past week. I am sending all of you fierce amounts of love and support. You are an amazing and strong family- a big hug to you all.

All my love,
Katy

Unknown said...

Geoff,

Just some more love and prayers from North Carolina...from me! I'm praying you and your family feel God's peace through this tough time, and that you'll make a truly miraculous recovery! Much love, Meghan.

Ginni said...

Hi Geoff!
I have only been trying for five days to "sign" up so I could send a comment! What really shocks me is Steve figured it out and I am so much smarter on the computer than he is!!! Oh well what counts is we are finally Google Bloggers!I want you to know that Steve and I have not stopped thinking about you since we heard. We are so positive that you have the strength to overcome this. We have always been so proud of you! Both Steve and I have bragged about you like you were our son! We fondly remember the days on the soccer field when your dad would shout "go bugman"!
So as I enter the Blogmania world you will hear more from me. And you will be required to laugh at my jokes!
We love you Geoff!
Princess Ginni and Steve

Anonymous said...

Hi Geoff,
I just wanted to let you know that Gloria cleaned your room, so when you come back you will have fresh crisp sheets to sleep on and a clutter free desk where you can work. I miss you and I love you. You are such a sweet spirit and I know you are surrounded with so much love right now because I've met your family and they are wonderful. I am praying for you everyday and hope for your recovery really soon.
Love,
Staci

Michelle said...

Geoffrey,

I was praying for you all last night. I talked to one of my doctors and they told me that by putting a familiar scent by your nose, that may help you wake up. A smell that you love, like maybe coffee or a perfume. My doctor said that this worked many times in coma patients. I think it can work for you! We all love you so much and are still praying for you and the family. You can do it!

Love always,
Michelle

Unknown said...

Dear Geoff,

I am sending you, the open, intelligent, put-together, sharing, caring, role model of a big brother from the kindest, warmest family I know, the biggest hug of support that can be sent over the internet! I am thinking of you and sending positive thoughts your way.

Nathalie

Mike Glass said...

Geoff: I'm a friend of your Dad's from his HP days, yeah many decades ago. Also, my wife, Kathy, has met your Mom thru the education field. Both of your parents are really cool...and now your Dad thinks he is even cooler w/ his Honda S2000 sports car!

Your Dad always talks so highly of you when we get together fo lunch every few mths (oh, please tell your Dad it is his turn to pick up the next lunch tab).

Please don't give up. Very much looking forward to meeting you in person. Our prayers are with you.

Laura said...

Dear Geoff,
I am sending you hope and prayers from Seattle. You have touched so many peoples' lives as I hope you know from all of the messages of love, hope and prayers that you have received over the past week.

I thought I would remind you of some of our fun times from med school. I think Joel mentioned our trip to Baja, but he forgot to mention a few things. Remember when we crashed the neighborhood New Year's Party with the 100 torwnies. I quickly became the Pied Piper and danced with all of the children in circles until they finally started running away from me. I think my crowning moment was the picture with me laying on top of two little girls when they pulled me over :). How about our hunt for Mexican Margaritas that ended up with Lemon gatorade and Tequilla. Joel's unquenchable desire for fish tacos.
Also, our trip to Costa Rica was amazing. Ziplining, surfing, rescuing Preteesh and then Blumm the next day.

Please come back to us buddy. You have so many more adventures to have and so many more stories to share.

joe pierre said...

geoff

so strange to think that just a few weeks ago, i saw you in the hall and you said hello with a cheery smile. if i'd have known, i would have gladly insisted that you ditch work and let me buy you a beer. or whatever it might have taken.

if only you could see that you could do great things -- in medicine, or whatever other path you might choose, or even just by gracing your family and friends with your smile again. and that all it would take would be to come back to us.

take it easy and if you can, come on back.

Mishi said...

Hey old friend!

It's been way way too long and I think there really is no excuse for us to have lost touch over the years! Looking back, through the tough times of high school, I'll never ever forget what an incredible and true friend you were to me when I needed someone to talk to. I remember we could always walk across the street to your house or even mine during lunch to just watch ridiculous MTV videos (way back when they actually showed videos, hahah), play video games or just shoot the breeze...that was such a rare relief that I never truly appreciated till after it was gone. I heard about all your amazing accomplishments since then and even the occasional run in with my sister at Cal! Too bad I'm way out here in NY and we haven't had a chance to grab a beer and truly reminisce properly....just yet that is. I'm confidant that we will be able to sooner than later. I believe in you Geoff and am lucky to have had you as such a generous friend in high school. Now hurry up and wake up so we can laugh about those days! It's high time we hung out... See you soon buddy.

Mishi

Anonymous said...

Geoff,
Hey there! Our entire family has been talking and sending you all our love and energy. Hunt tried to log on before he left for Guatemala but had a lot of difficulty because of an old account he must have had at one time. Go figure, but he's on your wavelength even from Guate! We are checking in daily and want you to know we're sending positive hopes to you, Mike, Carol and Walt. Love, Linda.

Anonymous said...

p.s. How do you like my Nacho Libre Halloween costume?

Ruthie said...

Dear Geoff:

Although we have never met, we know your parents and brother. We find them to be hopeful, energetic and optimistic. Hopefully, their love, and the love of family and friends, will give you what you need to come back to them.

We hope to someday meet you in person!

Steve and Ruth Anderson

Colleen Stack N'diaye said...

Geoff,

You can do this. You are so brilliant and so strong and SO LOVED. You are in our thoughts and prayers every minute of every day.

Love,
Colleen

Anonymous said...

Just checkin' in on you homie. Glad to hear you are progressing. You can do it!!..........Brad

Elizabeth said...

Geoff--much love and prayers from NC. Mike and I miss having you here in Durham. You're an incredibly genuine person and it is evident from all these posts that you mean a great deal to a number of people. I have to thank you for always being a good listener to me while we were up at CRTP, it was a tough year for me. You've always been one of the most fun people I know to hang out with. Wake up soon and come visit!
Liz and Mike Malinzak

Zhe Zhang said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Zhe Zhang said...

Hello Geoff,
This is Zhe, your ex-roommate in LA. I just find this out, and you'll have all my prayers!!
Remember that you said we'll hang out after your vacation. I am still counting on it. Don't disappoint me!!

Zhe

Ginni said...

Dear Geoff,
Hey, you have the entire state of Arizona sending good wishes your way! This includes the coyotes and scorpions!
Geoff, we think of you daily and have the vision of strength and vitality. So rock and roll buddy cuz that is what we need to see!
Lots of love and very positive vibes coming your way!
Princess Ginni And Steve

ScottyBell said...

Geoff-

Stephy and I keep you in our hearts! We love you and believe in you!

But I have to say, this is the crappiest way of getting out from working at the VA that I have ever heard! =)

Joking aside my friend, I will be checking in often on you... and just a heads up - I expect progress!

You have our love!

Anonymous said...

Hi Geoff,

It is Staci again. Elmer and Mabel wanted me to tell you they miss you. Elmer especially misses taking a nap on your back while you rest face down on your bed. And Mabel mostly misses how you give her more food than you are supposed to when I am on vacation and you are left in charge.

They want you to come back and snuggle with them. They love you as do I.

bullshitcaller said...

Geoff,
You've got a huge system of support that's pulling for you right now. I hope you can sense it, and I hope that you'll be able to make a full recovery. I miss you bro.
Jason

roz palladino said...

Dear Geoffrey, We have not seen you since our last visit to CA when your wonderful grandmother, our Aunt Sis, was there. We know she is continually watching over you and our prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. We love you all and are waiting for you to awake with a wonderful smile on your face. Love from your cousins,Roz and Tony Palladino in Pennsylvania.

Unknown said...

Hey Geoff, I'm getting married! Can you believe it. Tomorrow we are having our engagement party out here in Brooklyn. I know you Marco, Gene, Rip etc didn't think this day would come...Haaaa...well it really is happening. You have to see it to believe it. Once you start to feel better you have to come out and spend some time with us. I think you will really like Tricia (fiancé).
Your buddy - Kendall
P.S. don't think I forgot about my jacket that Gene ruined. Lol

Unknown said...

Keep fighting Geoffrey! We know you are strong. We know you can do it.

Anonymous said...

Dearest Geoffrey,
You don't know me but I feel that I know you. You see my sons' Ryan and Kevin had the privledge of your mother's gentle teaching guidance through Springer, Blach and remained a positive mentor during their years at MVHS. So, I have heard many heartwarming Geoffrey and Michael stories over the past 16 years and know that you are the light of her life. Through this blog I can see that you are a caring and compassionate young man just like your Mom. Please know that our family is praying for your health and strength to return. Your life is a miracle and your progress to date is just that. We are holding you and your family in our hearts and prayers plus God is holding you in his strong hands. We believe in miracles and look forward to meeting you soon!!
Debbie, Tom, Ryan & Kevin Ford

Ginni said...

Hi Geoff,
We continue to be vigiliant with positive thoughts here in AZ! Friends and colleagues who I have shared your story with are also lighting candles and keeping you in their thoughts and prayers. You are such an incredible person, we know your recovery will be another amazing accomplishment.
We are with you in thought and spirit!
Love,
Princess Ginni and Steve!

John Doordan said...

Hey Geoff ---

More love and good wishes from Santa Barbara --- we are following the progress and can "see" it unfolding.

Keep gaining ground in body while you move to a new location this week, and then add mind and spirit to the mix as you recover fully.

We're pulling for you and will add whatever you need --- just say it and we'll help make it happen!

Tell your whole family we're thinking of them too. Good thoughts.

John & Tracie

Anonymous said...

Geoff,

I remember when Tom told me what happened a few weeks ago my mind just refused to believe what he told me. I thought, why is he telling me this happened to Geoff when there is no way that this could happen to Geoff?

For someone I've only spent a few hours with, you must be pretty awesome because I am left thinking that it is so weird that I would so clearly miss you when I didn't even know that much about you. But I guess the important things about you are pretty readily apparent -- that you are this amazingly warm, welcoming person that pretty much everyone likes and likes knowing. Come back to all of us soon, it's not the same without you. Rachel

Unknown said...

Hi Geoffrey,

I don't think you know me, but your mom was my 1st grade teacher at Springer waaaay back in the day. I remember being super scared of school, and my mom took me to meet my teacher before classes started. And there were you and Michael, drawing on the chalkboard...demon faces, with each others' names written underneath. I guess that's what you call brotherly love.

Anyway, it made me feel so much better about school, just because that classroom seemed like maybe not such a scary place. Just one of those little memories, and one small way you've touched someone else's life -- in this case, mine.

Thinking of you and your family. Keep fighting to get through this, and come out smiling and drawing faces on the other side.

-Kei

Joel Boggan said...

Hey man, sounds like you're making progress! I just bought a ticket to come out and check in on you at the rehab center. I'll see you Nov. 8th - keep getting healthier!

Joel

Shelly Xing said...

Dear Geoff, everyone on Neurobehavior likes you and misses you, like Po commented a few days ago. Dr. Mendez said you did a great job. By the way, I love the chocolate cake you got. When you start eating again, I will get you samosas; I know how much you liked them during our potluck.

Shelly

candice b williams said...

Dear Geoff,
I really don't know where to begin, except for to say that our time spent a few months ago eating lunch, laughing and talking about CRTP, and complaining about the VA means so much to me. I want to say thank you for encouraging me and hearing me out. Although we didn't hang out all the time, I always considered you a fun person to be around. My thoughts and prayers are with you. After this is over, and you are all recovered, never forget all of the letters and words you received from the many people who know you, love you, care about you and admire you. You are strong, you are capable and competent, and you will overcome this challenge. Next time we have lunch we are going to a fancy place (not the VA) :)...on me.

Papya said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Papya said...

Geoff,
Cooper told me what happened two days ago, and since then you are all we've been thinking about. When Cooper brought me to second look weekend 4 years ago, no one would talk to me. People would find out I wasn't a med student and that I was just "Cooper's wife" and they literally stopped talking to me. I didn't want Cooper to come here--because I thought all Duke med students would be like that----cold and impersonal. To my surprise, we both met you--and you were completely the opposite....You defied what seems to be the rule at Duke. You are proof that not only can a physician be incredibly intelligent, but he can be equally as compassionate and caring. People have a lot to learn from you Geoff, come back to us. You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers,
Papya and Cooper Wriston

Ginni said...

Hi Geoff,
The photo of you on the blog with the tigers is amazing. I'd love to know more about that adventure! I rode a horse (he was probably 100 years old) when I was in Argentina this past summer and I was so scared I kept telling him in Spanish and English that he could do whatever he wanted so long as he got me home safely. I'm kinda thinking that does not compare to petting massive tigers.
Steve, Matt and Jono and I continue to keep you and your family in our thoughts.
Love you!
Princess Ginni and family!

Ruth said...

Dear Geoffrey and family. Here is a link to the miracle story of Molly. You are also creating a miracle! I believe!

http://www.mollyhale.com/story.htm

I look foward to hearing about your FULL recovery!

Ruth Beauchamp

Anonymous said...

Long time no see -- my family and I are pulling for you, Geoff. And our thoughts go out to you and your family at this difficult time... hang tough.

-Ryan Damm