PattayaMale Posted July 16, 2009 Posted July 16, 2009 Some may wonder why Allen would want this posted on a public forum. The reason is so that his friends would know, some of whom are not in Pattaya, and understand better as to what is going on with him and his treatment and why you may see us post from time to time about a meet and greet for Allen. A tradition from the past. As Allen's friend, I took him to Bumrungrad Hospital in Bangkok about 6 weeks ago. He was very week and felt he was not progressing a Bangkok-Pattaya hospital. After blood tests were preformed. He was admitted to the hospital for 16 days. At that time his heart, kidney and neurological condition was very poor and we had learned that his prostate cancer had spread to his bone marrow, and he had dementia. He was released and the doctor had told us that no treatment would make him recover. He should be cared for with compassion and medicine to ease any pain and nourishment. He should use the time left to enjoy his life as much as he physically could. Allen told some of his friends that unfortunately, his previous home care had not been as good as it should of been. There were many days Allen had no one to care for him from 2pm until 6am the next morning. Since he could not get up on his own, he would sit in a lazy boy chair (without the means of even going to the bathroom which caused more problems) for 12 hours or more at a time. If during any of those hours Allen would have fallen trying to get up or had a seizure. No one would have known and the consequences could have been fatal. Basically, Allen needed to have someone around 24 hours. No one person could be expected to do this! His friend had a restaurant to run and needed some social time for himself. But 24 hour care was necessary. Allen could no longer be left alone for long, long periods at a time. Allen knew this and finally said something to a few friends. When his friends learned of his needs, one of them in particular, Traveler Jim, helped put a sound plan in place. He found 3 boys to take shifts being with Allen so he would be covered 24 hours a day. All had some medical training, could speak some English and had driver's licenses. It was important to Allen to have males helping him They all traveled with Allen to Bumrungrad in Bangkok to talk to the doctors and have Allen's blood work up. It was the consensus of the doctors that since Allen was terminal he would indeed need some hospice type of treatment and could be monitored at Bangkok Pattaya Hospital as the cancer would progress. Allen is in remarkably good spirits and fully understands his condition. He is still able to get out and about with his "body guards" pushing him through the streets of Pattaya. His appetite is much better since he knows if he soils himself it will be taken care of promptly. Today, he went to Starbucks, then off for a hair cut, and then Traveler Jim took him for a foot massage. (We tired to get him to paint his toe nails red but he said he is too conservative!). Tonight (Thursday) after having a nap he wants to go to Cafe Royal to hear El Duo sing. Some have asked me if Allen needs any financial help. Allen does not need any. He has sufficient funds. I have helped set up a budget and we have located several accounts he was not aware of. We are now also recovering over 200,000 baht from his Blue Cross insurance coverage. His insurance coverage is excellent from the State of California. A PERSONAL NOTE: Many of us that have lived or visited Pattaya have recently lost some really remarkable friends the past few years. Would it not be great if we each could take some time to "raise a glass" with them while they can still appreciate it. Not wait until we stand at the local Wat and see the smoke rise into the sky? Quote
Guest Posted July 17, 2009 Posted July 17, 2009 Thanks. Allen is such a good man and always so kind to all. When I first started going to Pattaya, he gave great advice on many things. Such an amazing man. I hope that his treatments go well and that the community of gay men in LOS step up to the plate. Quote
Bob Posted July 17, 2009 Posted July 17, 2009 Allen is such a good man and always so kind to all. When I first started going to Pattaya, he gave great advice on many things. Such an amazing man. Exactly my comments too. He was very helpful both in person and over the internet to many of us. I wish Allen the best. Quote
Gaybutton Posted July 18, 2009 Posted July 18, 2009 I just returned from several days out of town and did not look at the Internet during my absence. I'm very sorry to come back only to find this news. Allen and I go back a long way. For many years we advised and consulted each other in dealing with the message board issues. Several years ago we even had a "summit meeting" at my home involving myself, Allen, and other message board owners and we came to several agreements regarding issues and operation of the various boards. Allen, David-in Pattaya, and I shared many experiences together and were in constant touch regarding the message boards. Many of you, I'm sure, fondly remember David-in-Pattaya. Allen did more for the gay community in Thailand than most of you will probably ever know. He deserves much better than what he has already gone through and what he is likely to go through. I hope his remaining time will be pleasant for him. He has earned at least that. When his time comes, if there really is such a thing as Heaven, Allen is certain to be there. Quote
Guest Astrrro Posted July 18, 2009 Posted July 18, 2009 Allen is in remarkably good spirits That's the one bright spot in the otherwise sad news. Quote
Guest travelerjim Posted July 20, 2009 Posted July 20, 2009 Dear Friends, Our friend The Gay Pattayan - Allen Briggs - was in severe pain at midnight Sunday night... and taken to BPH by ambulance..and then admitted into the ICU at Bangkok Pattaya Hospital for approx 1:00am early Monday morning July 20th. The Ambulance responce emergency medical team was superb, helpful and professional with ambulance driver, nurse and doctor in the ambulance - all responding to our call for help. He was cared for in his condo then taken to the ER at BPH... where he was treated and placed the ICU overnight. He will be transferred to hospital ward this afternoon. More soon, tj Quote
Guest Posted July 20, 2009 Posted July 20, 2009 Thanks for the update TJ. It is much appreciated. Our thoughts and prayers are with him! Quote
PattayaMale Posted July 20, 2009 Author Posted July 20, 2009 A quick update on GP's condition. Traveler Jim may have more to add. I meet with the doctor and Traveler Jim outside of Allen's room for about 1/2 hour discussing the planned new procedures. There is nothing radically new that we did not know. The pain was caused by a problem urinating. The pain is being relieved until they can determine why he has the pain. Treatment will be elevated a bit. They will introduce hormone therapy again. Also it seems it will be necessary for Allen to be fed with a feeding tube. The reason is that he is refusing to eat now. He has no pain associated with eating. Just a complete lack of appetite. He is at Bangkok Hospital Pattaya. He is in room 15 510 (15th floor). He is allowed visitors. Quote
Guest travelerjim Posted July 22, 2009 Posted July 22, 2009 Dear Friends, Our friend Allen Briggs, The Gay Pattayan, was taken to Bangkok Pattaya Hospital BPH by ambulance Sunday night July 19th. He was in severe pain as explained by Pattaya Male's post. After one night in ICU he was moved to 15th floor room 15510...where he is now. Today, Wednesday July 22nd, Pattaya Male and I met with several doctors at BPH. The prognosis is not good. He is terminal and he is entering his final battle with cancer. For those who may wish to see Allen, please do so during the immediate days ahead. He is sedated to ease the pain from cancer... but at times will respond to his name...he will welcome you... enter the room 15510 quietly and at his bedside call out his name... most times he will respond by opening his eyes to see who is there... and can chat with you a little bit. Please keep Allen in your prayers and thoughts... tj Note: In lieu of flowers for his hospital room, if you wish, please make a donation to the charity group Allen was most instrumental in its founding : in honor of Allen Briggs - at Thais4Life. Thank You. Quote
Gaybutton Posted July 22, 2009 Posted July 22, 2009 This is terribly sad. Allen is such a good guy and has done so much for all of us. It hurts to think of him in pain and dying like this. For his own sake I hope he goes quickly and easily, without having to suffer any further. Can you tell us about arrangements after he passes? Quote
PattayaMale Posted July 23, 2009 Author Posted July 23, 2009 This is terribly sad. Allen is such a good guy and has done so much for all of us. It hurts to think of him in pain and dying like this. For his own sake I hope he goes quickly and easily, without having to suffer any further. Can you tell us about arrangements after he passes? Here are some preliminary details of what will occur. His cremation will be held at Wat Chai which is next to Center Condo on South Pattaya Road. Jim's friend Oudie is helping with all those arrangements. After the cremation, we will invite everyone to celebrate Allen's life at Panorama. Tim has tentatively agreed to allow us to host it there. We will have drinks and food will be served. Hopefully people attending will prepare to tell us interesting stories about Allen. Remember this is a celebration of his life. Allen actually has provided funds for this through a small insurance policy. Allen always was on top of everything! As to donations: Allen has requested donations be made to ASIAN UNIVERSITY where he worked for 15 years teaching law to Thai and foreign college students. A memorial fund is being set up by the University as Allen requested. (Sorry, we posted Thais for Life prematurely). Exact information will be forth coming. Quote
Guest Geezer Posted July 23, 2009 Posted July 23, 2009 I visited Allen this morning. He was heavily sedated. Nevertheless when someone calls his name he opens his eyes in recognition. I gave him the four newspapers which John Harrington sends every day. Of course Allen is beyond reading them now, but he is warmed by the daily reminder of John’s concern. I told him there were many messages from friends on the boards, and read a few of them to him. When I read catawampus cat's comment about the meet and greets Allen sponsored years ago, he smiled. Pattaya Male was in the room and, with effort, Allen was able to answer a question he posed. There was a lady from the university where he taught. Present twenty-four hours a day is one of three university students Traveler Jim and Odie have arranged to sit with Allen. How wonderful it is for Allen to have such support. If one doesn’t have a car it can be difficult to get to Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, but those who make their way to room 510 on the 15th floor can contribute to a proper send-off. Quote
Guest PattayaPlayers Posted July 23, 2009 Posted July 23, 2009 This absolutely breaks my heart. Allen is such a wonderfully kind man and has done so much to better the gay community here in Pattaya. I am glad that so many are showing such strong support... I am sure it is quite comforting to have many visitors during the final days. Niddy and I will head out tomorrow morning at 9:00 AM for a quick visit and to remind him how loved he is. If anyone would like us to deliver a special message - just PM me and I'd be happy to bring it along. Like everything Allen does, this too he does in style. All our love... Quote
Gaybutton Posted July 23, 2009 Posted July 23, 2009 I just returned from visiting Allen. He recognized me immediately, broke out into a big smile, and said he is so happy and surprised to see me. He still is capable of speaking, but very softly. He has plenty of good care. 3 college students are with him. Traveler Jim was there and so was the Vice President of Asian University. I hope everyone who knows Allen will have a chance to see him. It really does perk him up and it helps to know so many people care. At this point I only hope it is over for him painlessly and quickly. Quote
Bob Posted July 23, 2009 Posted July 23, 2009 I hope everyone who knows Allen will have a chance to see him. It really does perk him up and it helps to know so many people care. I wish I was in Pattaya (or even Thailand) at the moment so I could at least make the effort to go over to the hospital to say hello. Allen might not remember me but, given his kindness in the past, I'm sad that I'm not in a position to try to say hello. Still wishing Allen the very best. Quote
Guest buckeroo2 Posted July 23, 2009 Posted July 23, 2009 In all of these posts I have not seen anything mentioned about Allen's BF, Ken. Is he with Allen at the hospital during this time? Quote
Gaybutton Posted July 24, 2009 Posted July 24, 2009 Allen's BF, Ken. Is he with Allen at the hospital during this time? He came, with two or three other guys, while I was there yesterday evening. I didn't ask how often he is there or how long he stays. Quote
PattayaMale Posted July 26, 2009 Author Posted July 26, 2009 If you visit Allen now, you should find him much more awake. They have stopped the heavy sedation. They have removed, for now, the catheter for urination. It may seem to those that visited earlier as though he is doing better. In talking with the doctor today, he said that he appears that way because he is not sedated. But he has now developed a bacterial infection that is affecting his lungs. He is not strong enough to cough enough. He is still very spunky. The head nurse was doing something that was painful. Allen told her to stop, but she ignored him. So he punched her to get her attention. Allen says she is more respectful now.... Quote
Guest bobberwi Posted July 27, 2009 Posted July 27, 2009 Dear Jim, OMG...this is the first I have heard of such truly sad news about our dear dear friend and comrade Allen. I so enjoyed connecting with him this past January ...and now to learn of his terminal condition has me sad beyond words. If it were possible for me to be of any assistance or care... what ever I can provide is yours! PLEASE...tell Allen that he is ever in my thoughts and vivid memeories of the paths we have traveled together. I so love that dear compassionate and generous man!!! Please tell Ken that you all are in my thoughts and if my arms could traverse the "big blue"...a loving hug to all. Please do keep me informed, Jim...I am a bit too sad and teary right now to make much sense. With loving affection I remain, Bob(ber) Michaels Madison, WI USA bobberwi53704@yahoo.com Quote
Guest buckeroo2 Posted July 28, 2009 Posted July 28, 2009 If you visit Allen now, you should find him much more awake. They have stopped the heavy sedation. They have removed, for now, the catheter for urination. It may seem to those that visited earlier as though he is doing better. In talking with the doctor today, he said that he appears that way because he is not sedated. But he has now developed a bacterial infection that is affecting his lungs. He is not strong enough to cough enough. He is still very spunky. The head nurse was doing something that was painful. Allen told her to stop, but she ignored him. So he punched her to get her attention. Allen says she is more respectful now.... How long will Allen be in the hospital? I want to make arrangements to go and see him later this week and I just want to be sure that he will still be there. Are there any plans for him to return to his condo if and when this latest incident is remedied? Quote
Guest travelerjim Posted July 28, 2009 Posted July 28, 2009 How long will Allen be in the hospital? I want to make arrangements to go and see him later this week and I just to be sure he will still be there. Are there any plans for him to return to his condo if and when this latest incident is remedied? Thank you buckeroo2 and friends... for your caring concerns for our friend Allen. Pattaya Male and I met with doctors this day - Tuesday morning July 28th - at Bangkok Pattaya Hospital (BPH)...seeking to assess Allen's condition. The prognosis remains the same, as his cancer condition is in Stage 4 and terminal. He is receiving 24 hour care by both the hospital staff at BPH and the 3 Thais who are caring for him at all times... and who have seen to it that his care needs are addressed promptly. For those many friends of Allen's in Pattaya and Bangkok ...as well the many students of Asian University who have visited "Ajarn Allen" (he was their beloved Professor of Law - Dr. Allen Briggs, J.D. - and their MBA Advisor) ....indeed your visits brighten his day during the moments spent with you and brings much joy and happiness to him. He is still at Bangkok Pattaya Hospital - 15th floor, room 15-510. Afternoon and early evenings are the best times to visit Allen. As you enter his room, either Ood, Pae or Mean will greet you. Step close to Allen's bedside and call out his name...most always - his eyes will pop wide open and he will be happy to see and chat with you. He is having physical therapy sessions each day - the male Thai therapist brings a smile to Allen - along with therapy - each day as the therapist is a most handsome Thai! Such is Allen's good luck :-) Allen is also eating some food - little bit at a time - with liquid and soup....enriched with supplements. He also is sitting up a little bit each day and exercising with the male therapist... pain therapy is ongoing...his nights and early morning hours are usually difficult hours for him...as he calls out to one of his 3 caretakers, Ood, Pae or Mean, many times seeking assurance that they are there for him...and asking for comfort help. As to the question whether Allen will return to his condo - that question is being reviewed to see how we can coordinate the needed 24 hour medical support and care he will need with his condo environment. More later...as more is known. For this week for sure, Allen will remain at BPH hospital... and possibly will be there in the weeks ahead too. Our sole concern has been and is now for Allen's care and well-being. I am proud of the care he is receiving by all who have come.. "to help him"...at his request ...in his time of special need. Thank You All! tj ps... May I add the fact that Allen has excellent health insurance and does NOT NEED any financial assistance or donations of money. He has adequate funds on hand to pay any and all costs related to his medical care and final hospital and other bills; he also has life insurance which will pay for his funeral expenses...as per Allen's written wishes. Quote
PattayaMale Posted July 28, 2009 Author Posted July 28, 2009 Allen called me from his cell phone last night and said he wanted to go home. I went to talk with him and explained that this may not be possible yet. He can not stand even with assistance. When we got him into a chair, he was not able to sit for long. He is not eating anything by mouth. I told him he must get stronger if he was to go to his condo. Last night he had a group of his students from Asian University visit him. He was thrilled to see them. He even sang a song with them. Today when I got to the hospital, I was amazed!! Allen had taken some food by mouth, he had been able to walk a few steps with assistance and sat in a chair much longer than yesterday. All good news. Traveler Jim and I talked with one of his doctors this afternoon. To our pleasant surprise, the doctor said that if he continues this progress, he could go to his condo. The nurses would teach his 3 "bodyguards" how to insert a feeding tube, mix the formula, and administer pain medication. Even though was good news for us, the doctor warned that with cancer, you just never know. Six days ago they were predicting that he might pass any day. Now it seems he may get care in his condo soon. He is still in room 15 510 at Bangkok Pattaya Hospital. He will be happy to see visitors. Quote
Guest travelerjim Posted July 29, 2009 Posted July 29, 2009 Dear friends, My apology if any of you feel I have not served Allen's interests well with my update postings. For the record, Allen has Blue Cross Worldwide- from his retirement... not my policy. Allen has excellent coverage and I am pleased to be able to help him with his health insurance claims processing and other insurance and medical care related matters...at his request. My point in posting the financial info... ONLY was to let his friends know... and YES, I do have a very good reason. Allen can and will pay for his medical care and final bills ... and that he has taken care of his bf - before, now and in the future... with Allen's good prior planning. (enough said!). I will now defer to fellow poster Pattaya Male for any future postings .. about Allen's condition...as he may see appropriate. tj Quote
PattayaMale Posted July 30, 2009 Author Posted July 30, 2009 What gives any of us strength to carry on when the odds are so much against us? I'm not sure any of us know, but there seems to be something that is now pushing Allen. In my opinion it is the wonderful students he has taught at Asian University. Students have been coming by each day singing to him, bring cards and asking for his advice. In just 3 days Allen has gone from bed-ridden to sage. Those that visited him last week would be amazed at how well he was tonight. He was actually sitting up giving a lecture to the students as to what makes a good lawyer! Fantastic!! His dinner was brought in and he feed himself. The students applauded after every bite. It was wonderful to see. Tomorrow 7/31 Toi will perform at 3pm in Allen's room as I posted in a separate post Quote
Guest bobberwi Posted July 31, 2009 Posted July 31, 2009 What gives any of us strength to carry on when the odds are so much against us? I'm not sure any of us know, but there seems to be something that is now pushing Allen. In my opinion it is the wonderful students he has taught at Asian University. Students have been coming by each day singing to him, bring cards and asking for his advice. In just 3 days Allen has gone from bed-ridden to sage. Those that visited him last week would be amazed at how well he was tonight. He was actually sitting up giving a lecture to the students as to what makes a good lawyer! Fantastic!! His dinner was brought in and he feed himself. The students applauded after every bite. It was wonderful to see. Tomorrow 7/31 Toi will perform at 3pm in Allen's room as I posted in a separate post Dear Pattayamale, I am still reeling from first hearing of the unspeakably sad prognosis for my dear dear friend Allen. He and i have travel so many paths and shared so many hreart rendering experiences. If opportunity presents itself, would you please tell him (and Ken) that they are in my thoughts constantly. I love them both so much and feel so totally helpless here in Madison, WI. My most sincere appreciation to all there who are helping to make Allen's time as positive and humanly caring as possible. My very best hopes and wishes are with ypu all...and especially to Allen and Ken. Most sincerely, Bob(ber) Michaels Madison, WI bobberwi53704@yahoo.com Quote
