Friday, 15 February 2008

Shall I compare thee to a 1981 Chevy Day Van?

Let's be honest here - the original idea of this foolish escapade was simply a big lads' jolly, loosely inspired by Ewan McGregor's 'Long Way Down'. However, we are all pretending to be grown-ups now, and what better way to appear grown-up than to raise money for charity - Christie's in Manchester in our case.

For those who don't know, our very good friend Quentin was diagnosed with cancer in October 2006, and wasn't given a great deal of hope at the time. To cut a long story short (see 'Webb-blog' link to the right for the fantastic blog by his wife, Helen), he is now having treatment up at Christie's, and the outlook is nothing short of miraculous. So when Rich, his best man, suggested Christie's as a recipient for our fundraising, we could see no better cause, or one closer to our hearts.

Now, sadly, we have another patient which needs a miracle. A 1981 Chevy Day Van, as donated to the cause by Quent's friend Chris. Much like Quent, it has seen better years, and the diagnosis is not brilliant. Chris (our surgeon in this case) informs us that it hasn't had a good run in a year, the power steering is shot, and it needs complete re-wiring (among many, many other bits and bobs).

However, Chris has given it a once over, and there is some hope. We've rallied the troops and there is a slim chance that we can get it on the trip with us in April. I know Quent really wants this van on the road - and his record with slim chances has been pretty good to date. Watch this space, but don't get over-excited just yet.

2 comments:

Helen said...

Thanks, Ed. I know I have had a stressful week with little sleep (in hospital with Quent), but this post brought a tear to my eye. Beneath the laddish exterior, though art more lovely...

The Chevvy van looks a little too funereal for my liking, but as you say, Quent's positive attitude is bound to see it through. That said, there are days when I wonder if I should sponsor you or just buy you all Interrail passes. ;o)

Richard Patterson said...

Oh ye of little faith Helen.

Frank is promising good things, like not losing all his vital fluids and catching fire on the autobahn...

The Jag will need some careful driving by skilled operatives.... oh well, can't have everything.