As many of you know, I have been a member of this fine family since 1999. That was when I was diagnosed with this wonderful disease and began my journey to find out what it was. Within a few searchs I found KA. Back then we weren't at the top of the search engine lists when one typed in AS.
Brian's original site was still available, but did reference visitors to KickAS.org. As previous posts have stated back then we were very small in comparison to todays board. When someone new entered the board they would receive the traditional DakotaDan welcome IM. Even though I have never had the pleasure of meeting Pete in person, I felt an immediate connection, probably due as much to the fact the we both have firefighting backgrounds as well as AS in common. As the word spread we began an unbeleivable growth. Some days I really miss the old board, and the many people that have come and gone through it, and its newer versions. The long conversations with the wudcrvr (Gary) from Texas. Back then he introduced me to internet phone service. Really, then it was little more than voice chat is today except it did actually call their phone. Definately not Vonage..lol
An old critter, that made a breif return a while, back became an instant friend and helped add a little comedic relief to the pressures of AS, yes that elusive cuzz of mine BBJ. Back then it was James in Texas. Last I knew it was James in 'bama. Haven't seen much of him since he sent us pics of his new trike..I suppose we were the charter members of the "REDNECK" KickAS.org. Always trading barbs about "hot suace" and "Salsa", and posting things that left alot of our city family scratching there heads. Thus was the beginnings of BBJ's RoadKill Salsa. Great for 'possum on the half shell, or fresh noodled cooter. Made great chili when mixed with a quart of squirrel tongues, and beans.
It was during this time that our newest doctor entered the board and became an instant hit. Yes strutsy that's you. I believe you were still in high school then or just starting college. And look at her now, and even got hooked up with that Loz fella from over in England. I'm not sure how ol' BBJ would take to his little girl bein' hitched to Loz...just kidding.
There were the now infamous Cristina's Questions...lol She is another of our original KA girls. And I for one would like to see more of her around the board. Gotta love that little California Girl..
My old hunting buddy Lon has made a return to the "house" and there is always a chuckle, if not a good belly laugh, when you read about the exploits of everyones favorite preacher, and KA's spiritual leader.. I mean who could forget the bicycle and the beer truck. Or the many stories of Lon and his quest to help those forgotten and rejected by "normal" folks, while battling his own AS, and balancing it all to keep his spiritual life in order. But, Lon, I'm afraid if that Big Guy gets a look at your old profile pic (Lon in a swim suit) you might have some trouble getting those Pearly Gates to open...Nah, I have to believe that you, my friend, are a shoe in.
If I don't stop this post could go on for days. But there are so many good memories here. And so many people that have become a family, and have seriously helped each other through the very difficult times, and been with us through our highs. I know I have missed many of my friends in this post, and for that I appologize. There are the words of wisdom from the DragonSlayer, the Birthday wishes from Michelle, no offense to "cheerful", but she sent better birthday kisses, keep working on it though, maybe if you sent them after you shave it would help..And yes she is as great in person as she is here, even though that Milt fella follows her around..lol And never to be repeated, the World's Record "Diaper Drop". Steve and the Lady Diane's beautiful moment turned on its ear by the friends of KA..Diapers were delivered to their house from around the world..What a way to welcome home the little angels..lol That one is an original.
We've had parties and get togethers all over the world. And I would really like to get ahold of "The Moles" frequent flyer card. That critter seems to show up everywhere.
But most of all, through good, bad, birth, death, hurting and highs, we have remained if not endured and have become a force in the fight against AS. But most of all we have become a "Family"
Keep Kickin'AS
Chris
