Gabi Clayton's Guestbook #39 - From 9/2/02 to 10/18/02
Note: This guestbook reads from the bottom of the page up. -- Gabi


Friday 10/18/2002 4:59:39am
Name: K. Worrall-Clare
E-Mail: kurtcl@hotmail.com
Homepage: na
Homepage URL:
Location: The Republic of South Africa
Comments: Your beautiful son and his tragic story made news this end of the world. This together with the equally sad details of Matthew Sheppard's death had a great many of us, weap with despair. Your loss must be profound, as I can see from your story that you had invested a great deal in your son. Please know that you have reaped an inheritance that cannot be measured, at least not in words. Your son in known in South Africa, and his story is not lost. Together we stand, assured that one day, somehow things will change. Until then, let no man be silent.

God bless and keep you safe.

Thursday 10/17/2002 12:32:49am
Name: Debbie and Lacey
E-Mail:
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: granbury, tx
Comments: Sorry for your loss. We are doing a report for our government class against hate crimes and we have decided to use your story. Your son is an inspiration against hate crimes.

Thursday 10/17/2002 7:34:35am
Name: Louis
E-Mail: garnonline@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: USA
Comments: It's sad story. However, I think his story will teach the others whom will have the same problems or someone parents to understand and more be careful about their children who will have the same problems. I would like to say " thank you to shair this story with others" God bless you.

Tuesday 10/15/2002 5:24:58pm
Name: keith
E-Mail: sexystud4061@aol.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments: I forgot to add my email address. so here it is sexystud4061@aol.com
thank you

Tuesday 10/15/2002 5:20:46pm
Name: Keith
E-Mail:
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: St. Louis MO
Comments: My name is Keith. I will be 17 in a few days and I am gay. I have read the story you have written on your son's life and sit here overwhemled by a feeling of numness. I am not openly gay and all but a close few of my friends know I am. After dealing with serve bouts of depression and suicidal eposiodes in my early teenager years I am afraid of what the future holds. My entire life up until a few years ago I was physical and emotional abused by my father on a regular basis. My mother and sister ( who is 2 years older than me) were to afraid to stop and help me. No they were not abused by my father but helpless none the less. The reasons I was abused I do not know. I do know they most likely did not span from my sexual preference. (Probably because I never told them.) A little over a year ago on October 6, 2001 my father made up his mind to pack up and leave. Leaving my mom, sister, and me to survive on our own. About six months later my sister moved out. Til this day my father has never been held accountable for the years of abuse he put me through. About 2 months after my father left I went to a clinic and told my story. To my defeat I was at the time on drugs. My mother and father used this against me claiming the drugs had made me crazy and I was sent to a hosiptal for 7 months. After being home for a few months now I am truly frightend by what the future holds. I my self have been the target of abuse could not imagine how I would emotional handle abuse because of my sexual perference. After reading your story I for one refuse to give up on life. This world can be a horrible place. And after sufering through my own personal hell I proudly stand up and say, I, Keith, will proudly STAND UP and join you in your fight to stop hate crimes. Your story has effected me in a way I could never express to you. I truly belive you must be a very strong person to share your story with the world after what you have been through. I can say nothing more to you than, thank you. Your story, thoughts, and feelings have given me hope, in knowing my fight to stop hate crimes as well as abuse, is a fight I will not face alone. This in it's self is hope enough to go on. I wish and pray that you have the best of luck in your fight. And know, that one person, can make a difference. Thank You!

Monday 10/14/2002 2:57:43pm
Name: Joe Ball
E-Mail: jkbouncingball@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments: Thank you for sharing Bill's story and the story of your family. You are brave and exemplary in standing up for love and against hate. I am sorry for your loss and our loss, but you are making a positive difference.

I hope one day to also share the message through some medium that communicates to the hearts of many people, gay and straight. Thanks for all your love and efforts.

Monday 10/14/2002 10:58:03am
Name: Siobhan
E-Mail:
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: St. paul MN
Comments: I am really sorry about your son but this website is great to inform people of how terrible and important hate crimes are and how they cannot just be forgotten.

Friday 10/11/2002 2:47:31am
Name: sooz
E-Mail: suzi@s00z.com
Homepage: http://www.s00z.com
Homepage URL: http://www.s00z.com
Location: Belfast
Comments: hate crimes against gay/bi/trans catholic protestant coloured or any sort of person is unacceptable.
im not a christian, but i belived that your son is in a better place. it is painful to think that the death of Bill and so many others like him has to happen for people to take notice of the problems in this world.
I'm bisexual, and I have been the victim of sexual abuse and torment for being who I am. Thankfully I have a loving girlfriend to stand by my side and help me through the bad days. The memory of your son will stay alive. I want to do all that I can to change the world and open peoples minds. We're all human and all capable of love. Its time thats what we started doing, standing together as the human race. Breaking the boundaries and welcoming everyone who is an individual with open arms. I do not feel hatred to those who tormented your son, or myself. I only feel pity that they have to live in a world so closed and narrow and they do not know what beauty lies inside each and every one of us. They get stuck on the lables and refuse to accept anyone that little bit different to themselves as a person.

Thursday 10/10/2002 5:12:58pm
Name: Romeo Casanova
E-Mail: romeo_casanova56@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: guelph
Comments: hey wuz up sorry about what happened to your son they should of never did that just because he was gay

Thursday 10/10/2002 12:39:41am
Name: Jennifer Seidel
E-Mail: seidelj@us.ibm.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: New York
Comments: Sitting at my desk in New York, I am having trouble remembering how I stumbled across this web site.

But am glad that I did.

Real, true, unconditional, and never ending love does exist. I am so sorry for you're loss.

Words cannot do justice to the emotions I felt while reading this story.

Thank you for sharing, and behalf of so many others out there, thank you for fighting for what you believe in.

Thursday 10/10/2002 10:41:42am
Name: teesa
E-Mail: chalk619@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments:

Thursday 10/10/2002 7:31:59am
Name: chris
E-Mail: chrisbrayman23@msn.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: south carolina
Comments: I finished reading your son bills story and I just want you to know How very sorry i am that he had to go through so much shit. Im a open gay male 23 year old male. I just wish there was more people in the world like you.

you and yor family will always be in my prayers and bill's story will never be forgoten.

love
chris

Tuesday 10/08/2002 2:45:11pm
Name: Matt
E-Mail: akab26@aol.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Home
Comments: I like it a lot i no ur feelings

Monday 10/07/2002 7:57:32pm
Name: Cody McKinney
E-Mail: themackid@excite.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Nashville, TN
Comments:

Monday 10/07/2002 7:48:55pm
Name: T. Holcomb
E-Mail:
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Georgia
Comments: Your son wasn't "killed" by the *fear* of homosexuality, he COMMITTED suicide, that means *HE* killed HIMSELF. His lack of will, and insecurity with himself is what killed him.

Monday 10/07/2002 2:38:59pm
Name: Layla Rosheen Smethurst
E-Mail: Cream83@Lycos.co.uk
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: WestYorkshire, England
Comments: Reading Bills story my heart ached, my mind blanked, my head spinned and i cried, because I was touched, but mainly because I was connected, connected to the feeling and the pain that everyone of my Gay,Bisexual or Lesbian 'brother and sisters' will one day feel in their lives. The world is a nasty, cruel place, we are living a constant battle..a battle to be free, safe and equal, during this battle many of our strongest and bravest soldiers will fall, but for everyone of our fallen soldiers ten more of us will carry on fighting. We will win and we will rise above homophobia. Gay pride...Love Layla xxx

Sunday 10/06/2002 11:59:11pm
Name: Bemay
E-Mail: bemay78@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments: Bill's story deeply touched my heart...
It is really great to see that you were such understanding parents for him.He is in a wonderful place now & he is safe. Thank you for sharing your story

Saturday 10/05/2002 10:51:51pm
Name: Bob
E-Mail: Bigfreddy3@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments: Dear Mrs. Clayton,
Ive never really posted anything before, but i feel like i should. Earlier today i got in a heated argument with my father over homosexuality in general. It ended with him telling me that homosexuals were nothing, and they were all going to hell, and he hopes they all die. He doesnt know that i am bi-sexual. I feel like im in the middle of your sons story, and im just reliving it. I am soo tired of coping. if i could have one wish, just ONE wish, it would be to be like everyone else. Normal. I know that being bi-sexual is me, but i just hope sometimes that this wasn't. That I wasn't me. Well, I went on the internet to find some info on GLB teen suicide. I was on a website and i saw your sons name. I clicked on it, and i read your story. I wish i could say that it triggered some miracle, and now everything is perfect. But it didnt. Things are still the same, im still Bi. But i just wanted to tell you that if more people were as aware as you are than the world would be such a better place. I can relate to your son soo much, i feel like i know him. I wish i could of known him, but i can't. I am just glad that out of such a tragedy, a blessing like you can come. I needed that. ALL of us "Bill's" needed that...

Saturday 10/05/2002 8:36:32pm
Name: Gina
E-Mail: gina@hardtruth.net
Homepage: The Hard Truth
Homepage URL: http://hardtruth.net
Location: Ohio
Comments: I don't get it. If your hubby is bi-sexual, you possible are?, and your *housemate* is a lesbian and like a second mother to the kids, why would he have been afraid of your reaction?
Gina

Friday 10/04/2002 3:51:00pm
Name: Nhan Thai
E-Mail: nhan_thai@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Seattle, wA
Comments: Dear Mr. and Mrs. Clayton,

My name is Nhan Thai. I'm not sure at which event I met you but I have your card with the website you posted in honoring your son Bill. Revisiting the site, once again I'm deeply touched and thank you for speaking out for all GLBT members and their love ones.

Thursday 10/03/2002 6:25:21pm
Name: Ashley
E-Mail: ashleyann2213@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: NY
Comments: I am lost for words. I have absolutely no clue what you are going through, I have never been part of a hate crime..and i hope i never am. But the world today is so cruel..I'm sure at some point everyone will be part of one or a victim of one. Im sorry, i am really not trying to make light of it...I just dont know what to say. I just wanted to say I am sorry, and that i think you are amazing for having the strength to write this to the world.

Wednesday 10/02/2002 10:58:06am
Name: Jennifer Day
E-Mail: jld414@jwu.edu
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Johnson and Wales Universtiy RI
Comments: I cried reading your story. I am a very strong supproter of gay rights and stopping hate crimes. I my self am not gay but I have many close freinds and family that are. Your strengh is amazing and I wish there were more people like you who speak out and love thier child even if society says they are wrong.

Wednesday 10/02/2002 9:13:23am
Name: Ben Croft
E-Mail: boftysound@lycos.co.uk
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Milton Keynes-England
Comments: Hi there Gabi. Firstly, I would like to say how sorry i am for what happened with your son. I hope you are safe in the knowledge that he can't wait to see you all again, and indeed will in due time. My name is Benjamin Croft and I am a 19 yr old University student currently studying in Birmingham and am doing a project on the importance of encouraging people to be more tolerant towards different cultures and/ or diversity within cultures. As part of the project I am to do a workshop, and would love to use the information on the website reguarding your sons life as part of my work. I hope you do not mind as it is for a good cause and will hopefully open some peoples minds. Take care Ben x

Tuesday 10/01/2002 1:08:58pm
Name: Claudia Gomez
E-Mail: easyworkig@aol.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: El Paso, TX
Comments: Your son is now in heaven with god. And what you are doing is wonderful. Keep up the good work. There are lots of people who need to learn about this.

Monday 09/30/2002 9:21:41am
Name: Amanda Harris
E-Mail: dont have one
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments: I am a bisexual female who could not stop crying during your story. I am probably ten times a better person now than ever. I think I really am able to express myself now. In my town, girls being with other girls is sexy- I am gonna do everything I can to express to people your story and what I've gone through-Rape also. You seem very stong- but if you ever need to talk-I'm here and so is god-Love you always-bi and prode of it.

Monday 09/30/2002 8:08:16am
Name: Jose Antonio DeSantiago
E-Mail: tdesantiago@elp.rr.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: El Paso ,Texas USA
Comments: Sorry about Bill....and Congratulations to you for being so understanding...and let's not forget...How strong you are....Good luck in your task to fight hate and to conquer tolerance...

Sunday 09/29/2002 9:29:41pm
Name: Dean
E-Mail: iwannakissya@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: austraila
Comments: i am gay and i love cock, and i fuck all my gay mates

i love orgies

Sunday 09/29/2002 6:23:19am
Name: David
E-Mail: DMLuikens69@aol.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Valley, Nebraska
Comments: I am so sorry to hear about Bill. I live in a very small town but there are still a lot of homophobic people here. I read Bill's story because I am doing a Junior Project on Hate Crimes and I want people to know that hate crimes don't only hurt the people they are inflicted on but they also hurt their families because things could end up in tragedy like Bill. Thank you for the sincere story.
David

Saturday 09/28/2002 11:04:30pm
Name: Suzie
E-Mail: lipie@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Calgary Canada
Comments: Bill was the most beautiful boy I've seen. Its such a heartbreak to hear gays, and lesbians (like me) are dying because of rejection. I'm so sorry because of your great misfurtune. I hope that he's made a huge impac of peoples lives. I hope some day, this bullshit will stop.

Saturday 09/28/2002 5:57:12am
Name: Carrie
E-Mail:
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Fort Wayne, IN
Comments:

Friday 09/27/2002 9:25:37pm
Name: Caleb
E-Mail: MadisonGold@webtv.net
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Illinois
Comments:
Thank you for sharing your story. I have a younger, 17 year old brother who is gay, and I would do ANYTHING for him. Reading your story made me realize what my brother may be going through. Hating another person to the extent of extreme violence just blows my mind; I can't even comprehend it. Thank you for taking a stand so that we, as a nation, can move forward, striving for tolerance. I'm very sorry for your loss.

Thursday 09/26/2002 3:11:35pm
Name: Thom Hoffman
E-Mail: thomathome1@aol.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Indinapolis In.
Comments: My brother sent me your site. I feel for you. Both my brother and I are gay and he more than myself sufferd the harrasment.I feel and support your quests in life.

Thursday 09/26/2002 1:58:40pm
Name: Brittany hAUSMAN
E-Mail: Bubblebunny07@aol.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: ohio
Comments:

Wednesday 09/25/2002 6:35:56pm
Name: Craig Ledbetter
E-Mail: redrocks@sui.edu
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments: I am a freshman at Southern Illinois University. Although I am not homosexual, I am writing a paper on the issue of sentencing of those commiting hate crimes. I personally do not believe that those commiting hate crimes should recieve a more harsh punishment than someone who commits a crime with a different motive, but if you read this, i would like you to email me your thoughts. Do you think someone who murders on the grounds of a 'hate crime' should recieve a more harsh punishment than, perhaps, someone who kills in a drunk driving accident. with your personal reference to the subject, your thought would be greatly appreciated as well as respected. Thank you for your compelling and touching story, your son seemed like a fine young man. Thank you.

Sincerly and God Bless,
Craig Ledbetter

Wednesday 09/25/2002 4:45:11pm
Name: cherrita
E-Mail:
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments:

Wednesday 09/25/2002 4:04:10pm
Name: Robert A. Hoffman
E-Mail: mixedmedia0@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL: http://geocities.com/rah4art/GLinde.html
Location: Fort Wayne,Indiana
Comments: I just happened across your site, I was just like Bill harassed and abused to the point of depression and suicidal ideas. My mother, grandmother and brother were a good support.
I was brought to tears in reading how Bill was tormented and taken back to my youth and wished I would have been as strong as he was, My prayers go out to you and your family and I will never forget this story and Bill's strenght.
PEACE AND LOVE ALWAYS
ROBERT

Wednesday 09/25/2002 10:34:08am
Name: Ryan `
E-Mail: RyanBillion@doityourself.com
Homepage: not acceciable without password
Homepage URL:
Location: SLC, Utah
Comments: Hi this is Ryan the one Mike talked about earlier. Im 16 and live in SLC, Utah. Its very hard to live among many people such as Mormons who do not accept homesexuals or bisexuals. Im a homesexual and it is very hard. Having someone like Mike and Kirk have helped me so much. I don't know how I can repay them. Im very gald to have them in my life. I'm looking forward to seeing them. Supporting each other is what we need to do. I have tried commiting sucid. Coming out and haveing friends I can rely on is very special to me. We must support our selfs so that we won't do anything rash. People do not need to die or commit sucid for this. Im planning to start a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) at my school I hope it works out. My symapthy to the familys of anyone that has died in their lives becuase they weren't social acceptiable. I hope one day that we all can live in peace. But as for now support is all we can give.
And Mike I Love You

Wednesday 09/25/2002 9:17:34am
Name: Jared Orr
E-Mail: ethan10@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Houston, Texas
Comments:

Wednesday 09/25/2002 2:27:41am
Name: AnnaMarie Cepeda
E-Mail: chicka88us@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Guam, USA
Comments:

Tuesday 09/24/2002 6:01:21pm
Name: Kristiana
E-Mail: thatonechickk@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: New York
Comments: I found the link to your site in Rochester's Democrat and Chronicle and I am so glad that I did. As a bisexual teenaged girl, I of course can relate to some of the things your son went through. I just want you to know that while he is gone, his memory and every idiom he stood for is still alive. Over the past year my friends and I have worked to reduce homophobia within our school, and it really has worked. Our principal made an announcement on the loudspeaker one day telling the student body that the words 'gay,' 'faggot,' 'dyke,' or any variation of the words was absolutely innapropriate when used in a derogatory fashion. That day, I did not hear any homophobia in the halls, and to this day it is at a very bare minimum.

Basically, I want to thank you for sharing your wonderful story with the rest of the world. Hopefully one day everyone will see what horrifying similarities these anti-gay hate crimes bear to the days of the Nuremburg.

Tuesday 09/24/2002 3:59:42pm
Name: Sarah
E-Mail: precious18@lycos.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments: Just wanted to say I know it is not easy getting picked on for being diffrent, I was born with no left arm past the elbow and I am sure he went through all the things I have and will go though and it is not easy. Some are stronger than others. Even though I never knew him I will think of him and know of what he has been though and can say I REALLY KNOW WHAT HE FELT. I hope and pray that people come to grips that it is time togrow up and be adults and realize no one will ever be perfect.

Tuesday 09/24/2002 1:38:42pm
Name: Anina
E-Mail:
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Franklinville N.J
Comments: I cried when I read your sons story. I know that in this world there is hatred against not only what race you are, but what sex you are as well. I am 14 years old and i have many bisexual friends.However I love them unconditionally. I just want to say that your homeoage for Billy is very nice. I know that he would have loved it to. Even though I didn't know Billy I decided to read his story. People need to except people for who they are, and not what they want to be.

Tuesday 09/24/2002 5:48:58am
Name: Teresa Wilson
E-Mail: wilsonmspooh@aol.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Cincinntia,Ohio
Comments: I CRIED WHEN I READ THE STORY OF YOUR SONS STRUGGLE WITH OUR SOCIETY TODAY AND I'M TRUELY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.I HOPE PEOPLE READ HIS STORY AND REALIZE THAT THE HATE NEEDS TO STOP!!!

Monday 09/23/2002 3:27:43pm
Name: Jennifer
E-Mail: mistic_writer@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Upstate New York
Comments: I am lesbian mom of four with a transgender partner. I am also a student at Fingerlakes community college in canadagua, NY studying sociology. I happened upon your sight as I was looking for infromation on gay hate crimes. I am very sorry for your lose. I have never been afraid of being out nor will I allow someone to scare me into the "closet". I hope you find a place of peace within the horror of our nation and the hatered for the unknown.

Monday 09/23/2002 9:08:19am
Name: Michael Billion
E-Mail: milesanda@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments: What a wonderful tribute to Bill. I was one of those students back in 1980. I was very fortunate that I held on until I was able to tell my family about me being gay when I was 26 in the summer of 1990. I was shocked that they were very supportive. I was also very relieved. My brother who was about to serve in the Persian gulf told me that he loved me. My 3 sisters alike. With that assurance grew confidence in my daily life! I had an exceptionally wonderful "coming out"! Totally unusual from other stories I've heard. 3 months later, I met my "Husband" Kirk. We will be celebrating 12 years together on Sept. 30, 2002. I would like you to know, I too share your grief reading this. I work in an automotive arena where issues of this topic are not shared with others. Alas, I am very lucky to have many gay/lesbian/straight friends to share my life's experiences with.

You have opened another chapter in my life. THANK YOU!!! :o)

I've always wanted to help someone in need and I recently have. I met a 16 yr old male on-line who was having trouble dealing with being gay. I understand that this is a touchy subject to other families who may NOT understand, especially recieving support frona total stranger. Many families would find it to be somewhat a pediphilic stalker. I AM NOT! He was very self destructive too. He was physically, mentally, and sexually abused by age 9. He wants to change his name to Ryan. Ryan needs counseling to deal with issues that occurred as a child. BUT, he has come out to his friends and to his family. He is from a broken home. His father and stepmom are having serious denial issues. He also lacks the physical contact(hugs) and mental love from his family. Ryan has become much, much more confident in everything he does since becoming truthful to himself. I am very proud of him and We love him too. Until he is 18 we can only support him over the phone.
I expect that when he completes his high school education he will move into our home and continue his college career in Psychology. And there, he will have a loving and nurturing home to become a grown mature adult. Again Thank you for allowing me to have an opportunity to share my life to a wonderful family as yours. -Michael

Friday 09/20/2002 1:00:19am
Name: kelsey
E-Mail: klsy23@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Houston
Comments: it touch me in so many ways

Thursday 09/19/2002 8:55:01am
Name: Patrick Cardwell
E-Mail: plcard@cox.net
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Pensacola, FL
Comments: My heart goes out to you and so many other PFLAG families and of course the people who suffer the most that gay, lesbian, or bi-sexuals who live through life.

I am 53 at this time, but there was I time I was only going to be 20 and no more. That's a long story of trying live my life to satisfy those around me instead of what made me happy.

No one will really know what all was going on through your son's mind at the time he took his actions, But I can almost bet you, it was anguishing, expecially if you, your family, and friends showed support and love. But in his mind, it was the right thing to do.

God didn't make any junk, or that's what I was told, well maybe just one, Jerry Falwell, but hey ...

Bless you all in your sorrow, but just remember, you have the memories of a life time, as short as it was. NOBODY, NO ONE can ever take those away from you. They are your memories until you die then you pass them on to another to be passed on and passed on.

What needs to be done. You have asked the Gay community to stop the bashings. I'm not too sure what else we can do. We travel in groups, and follow the police suggestions of protection. Yet sadly, it continues. It is now time for you and others who perhaps are closeted straight people who understand we are human beings. God blessed us to be a little bit different than the rest for some reason. YOU must take the stand at the hate group rallies, such as the Jerry Falwall's and others. If you want to find other haters hiding behind the cross, just do a search and you will be surprise what and who you will come up as hate mongers described as think tanks, Just search "queers fags hate" You will get an education.

Again, take care and remember your memories. There just had to be some good ones in there some place.

Love to you and your family,

Patrick Cardwell

Monday 09/16/2002 3:53:08pm
Name: Trevor
E-Mail:
Homepage: All about Trevor & Donnie
Homepage URL: http://trevc.tripod.com
Location: FL
Comments: Very interesting webpage...Sorry to hear about your loss....Thank you for sharing your story.

Monday 09/16/2002 8:05:48am
Name: Dan Wright
E-Mail: dukat5116green@iowatelecom.net
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Southeast Iowa
Comments: i read the story and i was touched by it. i knew that there was sucidal gay/bi/trans teens out there but when i read the story it was more of a personal feeling that i could relate to because there was also some discrimination and possible threats towards me. i just hope that one day people would open up and understand that were are what we are.

Sunday 09/15/2002 1:53:35am
Name: Luming
E-Mail:
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Taiwan
Comments: I am not gay but that doesn't mean that I am against it. We are all different: race, color, culture, sexual orientation. But I do believe that there is no standard for being a human being except being kind, understanding and forgiving. Those who commit hate crimes do it mostly out of blind fear, for not understanding or believing lies told by other haters. Having a gay friend won't make one gay. Acceptance, though, will make you a better person.
Your son is in a better place now for there is only one heaven for those who love unconditionly.

Saturday 09/14/2002 3:24:32am
Name: Graham
E-Mail: starmateoz@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location:
Comments: Your son's story is amazing and inspiring. I live each day with the burden of being gay, a burden that doesn't come with choice but something that is inevitable. Suffering from depression and suicide, even to this day(17y/o), I can relate to your son's feelings, but the fact that I'm still in the closet, relieves me from all the abuse and prejudice that comming out will entail. Best of luck everything you do, I will remember Bill's story from here on end, thanks for sharing your amazing story

Friday 09/13/2002 4:12:00pm
Name: Eddie
E-Mail: lickyboy3000@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Dallas
Comments: I'm really sorry. I have been living Bill's nightmare since I was a kid. I have been verbally abused only, and I can't talk to my Mom anymore. I have tried suicide several times and have been in the hospital twice. It's not fair, how many people commit suicide and we dont even know the reason is because of their orientation ? I shed tears for Bill, for everyone scared. I am surprised I have made it to 30.

Friday 09/13/2002 3:17:29pm
Name: Vincent Hollister
E-Mail: Queerboy8@netscape.net
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Houston Tx
Comments: I am so sorry to hear about your son. He sounds like a wonderful person. I am gay(30). Fortunatly I never had to go through what he went through. I have dealted with People calling me queer,fag and so on. But you have to remember he is in a better place. You will always be in my prayers.

Friday 09/13/2002 10:15:08am
Name: Ashley Randall
E-Mail:
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Location: Kaneland high
Comments: i was very touched by the story that you wrote and am very sorry for what happened. and i hope nothing like that happens to me.

Thursday 09/12/2002 2:53:52pm
Name: Scott
E-Mail: scotty314u@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Canada
Comments: A very powerful and moving story, as an openly gay man, regrettably I can relate to alot of this story. It was not easy growing up - learning to understand yourself, and finally coming to learn and like who and what I am. I found tears in my eyes as I read the quote about - "this just is". I didn't make a conscious decision, this is just the way I am. It wasn't easy - and thankfully with the love and support of family and friends, I am here today (34). I was where Bill was - many times. one of my favorite quotes might be appropriate - it always picks me up a little when the blues still get to me.

"There are gods and there are monsters, but most of us are ordinary mortals caught up in events too turbulent for any of us. Perhaps when the dust settles, all we will be left with is the ashes of something once beautiful".

Thank you again for sharing your story - and I am sorry for your loss.

Thursday 09/12/2002 7:49:28am
Name: Tasha Cline
E-Mail: candysweet04@hotmail.com
Homepage:
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Comments: I feel very deeply for you. I read this story and was able to relate to it my self. I knew a person killed in a hate crime. I will pray for you.

Wednesday 09/11/2002 1:01:15pm
Name:
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Comments: I am sorry your son committed suicide and the loss you feel for you helped create him. However, he got what was coming to him.

Wednesday 09/11/2002 11:59:43am
Name: Wes
E-Mail: Wes916@aol.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Dallas TX
Comments: I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for sharing your son's story. It was very moving and powerful! I am 24 and know how hard it can be growing up gay and coping with other people's prejudice. It is so sad that you lost your son but I believe you are helping many people by sharing his story. Thank you again!

Wednesday 09/11/2002 10:07:20am
Name: Alane Tarmina
E-Mail: atarmina@postmark.net
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Fresno, California
Comments: I understand your anger at the Lion's Clubs rejection. They make it appear that, somehow, the person is at fault for the rejection and are unable to bring humanity into a process that should be totally human.

Wednesday 09/11/2002 9:40:19am
Name: Robin Woods
E-Mail: robinofthewoods@hotmail.com
Homepage:
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Location:
Comments: Very sad and powerful story. I am very sorry for your loss and wish I had the power to make human beings just LOVE! I will continue praying until people open their hearts. God bless!

Wednesday 09/11/2002 2:15:20am
Name: Ryan Gerry
E-Mail: bowlingcaptain@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Aberdeen SD, 57401
Comments: I just want to let you know that as a gay youth today i was very touched by "Bill's story". And i send my deepest of appologies and condolences to the family and friends of Bill.

Tuesday 09/10/2002 10:19:50pm
Name: murdoc
E-Mail: bbmurdoc2001@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: ohio
Comments: your story really moved me it brought a tear to my eyes i am not gay but i think that gays and other people should have the same rights as other people do so please hang in there please e-mail me me back so we can talk i had a friend who was murder because he was gay but the guy got away with mansluder and was sentence to twenty five years and prison so we can talk well e-mail me back. love always murdoc.

Monday 09/09/2002 8:38:34pm
Name: David Mitchell
E-Mail: NwlkCTGayboi@aol.com
Homepage: My Gay Page
Homepage URL: http://www.dlm20.8k.com
Location: Norwalk, CT USA
Comments: Nice site I am sorry to hear about the way the hate Crimes affected your son.

Monday 09/09/2002 10:25:42am
Name: Ricky
E-Mail: Doskey2002@hotmail.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Ohio
Comments: This story really touched me, because I went through similar things. I'm 17 m bisexual and open in a small redneck town in Ohio. This story shows that people are vile and hanieous. Thanks for sharing your story it really touched me.

Sunday 09/08/2002 5:47:54am
Name: Bob K.
E-Mail:
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Location: Chicago
Comments: Your site and the story of your son are very moving and you should be proud of the work you have done against bigotry and hatred.

I stumbled on this site ironically because I was doing a Google search for the John W. Gardner quote that you included in your quote collection; I read this quote at my high school graduation in a speech, 20 years ago.

In the years that followed that speech, I too struggled with my sexual identity. I came out as a gay man, became active in PFLAG, and luckilly got the strong support of family and friends.

Thanks for your work and efforts.

Sunday 09/08/2002 3:05:47am
Name: USMC PFC Brummitt, Michael
E-Mail:
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Location:
Comments:

Saturday 09/07/2002 2:53:49pm
Name: Gavin
E-Mail: gavinrewald@bigpond.com
Homepage:
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Location:
Comments: Hi thanks for sharing this story. From an Aussie guy.

Wednesday 09/04/2002 10:43:33pm
Name: Jasmine Kakelaka
E-Mail: black_shiny_star@yahoo.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Waimanalo,Hawaii
Comments: I just wanted to say i'm sorry about your son.

Wednesday 09/04/2002 6:47:41am
Name: Gerard Haynes
E-Mail: gerhay@ananzi.co.za
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: South Africa
Comments: If only we could get an answer to the question: WHY?, then perhaps we will be able to live in harmony with each other. WHY, do people want to hurt others? WHY, are people so intollerant? WHY, do some men think it is a macho thing to do, to attack gay people?

Monday 09/02/2002 9:04:59pm
Name: Joe Brown
E-Mail: joejoejoejoejoejoejoe@msn.com
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Omak, WA
Comments: Unfortunetly the worst of things happen to the nicest of people....

Monday 09/02/2002 3:23:02pm
Name: Rick Tibben
E-Mail: tibbmopar@pronet.net
Homepage:
Homepage URL:
Location: Nipomo, CA
Comments: Keep up the good work. I work with Pflag in the San Luis Obispo area in California. I also volunteer in the local schools and recreation center. I DO NOT allow any kid to harrass another AND I do not allow them to use anti-gay words (very popular) against another even if they are not trying to be derogatory. And I explain why it is hateful and hurtful. I also work with our local Mentor Alliance group and Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Our kids are our most important asset. We need to get them all through school safely in an atmosphere in which all can learn. If my local school district shirks there duty, I will be there.

Monday 09/02/2002 12:46:26am
Name: lew
E-Mail: lewdogfla@aol.com
Homepage:
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Location:
Comments: i signed this because i made it thru my teen years intact , i had many similar trials.
i'm sorry for your lost son
thank you for sharing ,,,
i hope that it will help some one..

Monday 09/02/2002 7:16:25am
Name: Gabi Clayton
E-Mail:
Homepage: the index page & more about Bill
Homepage URL: http://www.youth-guard.org/gabi/respondex.html
Location: Olympia, WA
Comments: This new guestbook was started on 9/2/02. Links to pages with all the past responses to Bill's story are on the page link above. Thank you so much for signing my guestbook.
Love, Gabi

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