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Post by gramps on Dec 17, 2014 9:20:57 GMT
Hello my friends at 'Report'
I guess it is about time I filled you in with the latest information which our mods already have. On Tuesday of last week I collapsed at home in agony and an ambulance had to be called to take me to hospital. To cut a long story short I underwent a lot of tests and eventually came out of hospital (for now) on Friday. I have secondary Cancer in my liver and have to undergo more tests to find out where the primary is. The bottom line is that this is inoperable and I have just a few months to live. Being kept going with morphine although at times the pain is really intense. I held this message back because my son did not know the situation and I wanted to tell him face to face and not find it on this board by accident. Nothing anybody can do, unfortunately, but I wanted to tell you guys as you are part of my QPR family and I respect you all greatly. I am a bit down at present but determined to make the most of what little time I have left. Not much more to be said other than a big thank you for being my friends.
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Post by Macmoish on Dec 17, 2014 9:25:51 GMT
Gramps
As you can imagine, it's so very hard for people to know exactly what to say.
But for starters: To the degree that us "being here" is of any help or consolation, this board is here for you.
You can post whatever you want
Obviously you have multi-factors to a life, and football is only a small, not particularly significant when looked at really. Much as might obsess re it. But in this one small sphere, your 75+ years of supporting QPR which you documented in your book, will always be part of QPR History..
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Post by Ashdown_Ranger on Dec 17, 2014 10:58:12 GMT
So sad to hear that Gramps - as Mac says, so hard to know what to say.
My mum had a similar prognosis a couple of years ago. She spent her last few months surrounded by a loving and supportive family and with the care and support of her GP, who managed her pain to the extent he was able to keep her out of hospital. If such a thing can be said, it was a lovely way to go.
It comes to us all and I guess all we can ask is that we have passed on not only our genes, but also our care, love and values to our children (if not necessarily our support of QPR...) and live on their thoughts and prayers.
Wishing you and your family strength and courage facing this together.
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Post by alfaranger on Dec 17, 2014 11:04:34 GMT
Hello Gramps, I expect that over the next few hours and days the board will be reading your message and trying to find something to post that will make a difference in some way and I also expect that they will find that pretty hard - I know I have.
I know you will be in everybody's thoughts Gramps and I hope that in some small way that will be a crumb of comfort.
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Post by harr on Dec 17, 2014 11:04:49 GMT
This is so very terrible Gramps . I hope you get the best treatment you deserve and get as much time as possible with your family and friends. Hopefully they have made a mistake and you get longer time . My thoughts and prayers are with you Gramps .
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Post by marshbowles10 on Dec 17, 2014 11:45:46 GMT
What can I say John?
I have never met you but we swopped emails and a few comments when I purchased your book and you are one of the few genuine guys out there.
There are lots of opinions on this board and we all have a different slant on the goings on at Loftus Road. That's what makes football the great game it is I guess.
However I am positive that everyone on this board sends you their best wishes at this time and whoever the great referee in the sky is makes sure there is plenty of extra time.
With great respect.
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Post by froggyranger on Dec 17, 2014 11:50:53 GMT
Gramps my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Surround yourself with family, friends and love.
Be brave and comfort yourself with the thought that you live on in the bodies, hearts and thoughts of all your family.
My best wishes,
Gareth
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Post by blatantfowl on Dec 17, 2014 11:58:14 GMT
Gramps,
You already had my respect. Now you have my thoughts, care and admiration for how stoically you face this news.
Some might think this board is not a real place. That it is just made of of lights, wires and switches.
They are wrong.
It is peopled by a gang with a camaraderie that surpasses the individual elements and makes the collective so much more.
You are part of that and will remain so whatever may be.
My best thoughts for you David
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Post by Jon Doeman on Dec 17, 2014 11:58:47 GMT
Very sorry to read this. I will be thinking of you. You R's!
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Post by wrenboy61 on Dec 17, 2014 13:11:05 GMT
Very sad news Gramps!!!!
I've been looking for any news of you on here this week and I'm saddened to here your prognosis. When you have taken time out from the Report in the past it has been a poorer place your knowledge and humour have always been something I have enjoyed. We have never met but have always felt you were a man of dignity and class and I'm sure if we had met I wouldn't have been disappointed.
So wishing you and your family all the best for the time you have left. COME ON YOU R'ssss
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Post by sharky on Dec 17, 2014 14:03:39 GMT
Gramps the others have already said how sad it is to hear your prognosis.
Although I live on the other side of the world I feel I know you. A truly genuine person who would give his last penny to a stranger if you felt they needed more than you did.
The world will be a poorer place with your passing.
May your remaining time be a time that brings your family closer.
Maybe our boys can bring you some joy in the time you have left (including that illusive away win!) and I'm sure when you leave this world you'll be looking down and willing our beloved Rs onto victory.
COME ON U RRRRRsssssss!!!
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Post by gramps on Dec 17, 2014 14:32:48 GMT
Thank you so much for your support, guys. I sit here reading these wonderful messages with tears in my eyes; I am having a bit of a depression day today but think I am allowed it! Nice to number you amongst my mates.
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kilburnhoop
Dave Sexton
Every Ranger is a danger
Posts: 1,631
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Post by kilburnhoop on Dec 17, 2014 15:04:38 GMT
Gramps, this terrible disease has touched many peoples lives and my own. I know exactly what you are going through. Without stating the obvious spend as much time with the family as you can, even if you don't feel like it!.
Please keep posting.
All the best, come on u rrrrrrrrrrrrrrrssssssssss.
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Post by londonranger on Dec 17, 2014 17:25:23 GMT
Nothing I can say, that hasn't already been said Gramps. Keep up your predictions, which are always near perfect. Thinking of you and your family. You have touched me deeply with your posts and your book.
London Ranger.
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Post by stylecouncillor on Dec 17, 2014 17:39:54 GMT
Sorry to read this Gramps, And not being deeply religious its hard to know what words of comfort to offer. My readings of your posts lead me to believe you are closely associated to the church so in the words of the late Dave Allen may your God go with you.
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Post by RoryTheRanger on Dec 17, 2014 17:41:34 GMT
I was told this horrible news a few days ago and still hasn't properly settled in. John knows if there's anything he needs I'll be more than glad to help out as I am quite local to him.
Having met you on a number of occasions and been stuck in a car with you on the way back from several unfortunate QPR results I can safely say you are one of the kindest human beings I've met and a very called member of this messageboard. Really there are no words for all of this.
I know I, as well as many others, will treasure their copy of 'The Old Days' and think of you mate.
I really really hope the club will do something special for you, you deserve it after all the years you've put into supporting our great club.
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Post by terryb on Dec 17, 2014 17:43:59 GMT
So sorry to read this gramps.
As with all others, my thoughts & best wishes are with you, but this feels so inadequate.
I'm sure that you will have the uncondicional support of your family, friends & your church. You will also have the full support of every member of this board. Not that we can do much, but if you want to scream & shout at anyone, I'm sure we will all be available. Better us than taking it out on your family!
Thank you for your book. An everlasting reminder for us all of the one & only John Clifford.
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Post by Hogan on Dec 17, 2014 17:45:06 GMT
John, there are no words I can say which haven't already been said, this is terrible news and I can only wish you all the best in your fight against this. Spend lots of time with your family and friends and surround yourself with love.
I am sure we, your QPR family here are all in prayer for your health. All the very best Gramps.
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Post by Marc on Dec 17, 2014 17:58:36 GMT
John, like others, I struggle to find words. All I can say is that my thoughts are with you and your family. May you fill your days with as much pleasure as possible.
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Post by Roller on Dec 17, 2014 18:13:12 GMT
Gramps
These messages show how everyone on this forum respects and values you: you the poster, you the author adding to the world of QPR literature, you the fantastic fundraiser for the Tiger Cubs, but above all, you the human being.
I haven’t know you anything like as long as some on here, but it is abundantly clear that your kindness, charm and humanity have enriched the lives of all that you have come in contact with.
God Bless You.
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Post by Ashdown_Ranger on Dec 17, 2014 18:37:30 GMT
Although I'm a relative newcomer to QPR Report, it's clear Gramps commands immense affection and respect - a fan who truly makes a difference. I'm sure most here know Gramps has written a book on QPR ('The Old Days'), the proceeds of which go to QPR In The Community Trust. The book can be bought on Amazon at goo.gl/3JgR22Gramps presented a cheque for £1,500 to Andy Evans, which went down well with QPR fans - who duly showed their appreciation... Direct link: ashdownranger.co.uk/gramps-making-a-difference.html
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Post by portlandranger on Dec 17, 2014 19:23:39 GMT
Hello John At a time like this I am lost for words, I am so very very sorry to hear your diagnosis, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family, please make the best of what time you have left, this board - the football club and the world will be a poorer place without you and John I will always treasure your book. God bless you Mike
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Post by gramps on Dec 17, 2014 19:42:57 GMT
Not sure it happened quite that way, Ashdown, but a nice bit of photoshopping. Thank you.
Sent from my HTC One X using proboards
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Post by eusebio13 on Dec 17, 2014 21:29:40 GMT
Dear Gramps I heard this news on Sunday and I was truly lost for words at this terrible news. My thoughts and prays are with you and your family and I am so proud to be part of your Rangers family
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simonr
Ian Holloway
Posts: 377
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Post by simonr on Dec 18, 2014 6:58:56 GMT
Gramps, like everyone else, I am so sorry to read the news in your post. I hope you can take some comfort in knowing that we are all thinking of you.
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Post by steveb66 on Dec 18, 2014 11:33:17 GMT
John,
I would like to add my voice and say I am sorry to read your post.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
God Bless.
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Post by canadaranger on Dec 18, 2014 13:30:56 GMT
John:
So sorry to hear your news. Fight it! Call me any time.
My trip across was cancelled, so I won't get chance to drop by before Christmas. I hope to be across early in the New Year and that your health and spirits will be holding. Let me know by e-mail if there is anything else I can do re your book. Hoping that every copy sold helped put a smile on a child's face through QPR in the Community Trust. Your dedication and your recollections mean you are part of QPR history.
Thinking of you.
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Post by Lonegunmen on Dec 18, 2014 23:49:01 GMT
Well, reading this thread just F***ed up my day. I'll be in touch John.
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Post by gramps on Dec 19, 2014 9:29:38 GMT
Sorry.
Sent from my HTC One X using proboards
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Post by Zamoraaaah on Dec 19, 2014 14:29:06 GMT
Oh Gramps. I just don't know what to say. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Z
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