Name: Roger
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Michigan
Time: 2000-02-16 02:33:00
Comments: Hi, I am a 32 year old gay man & I just wanted to convey my feelings regarding the wonderful son you were blessed with for a much to short period of time. Although I have been lucky enough to have never been physicaly attacked for being gay, I have had to deal with the ugly face of prejudice. Most of my later school year's were spent having to deal with ignorant people mistreating me simply for being differant. I remember you stated that Bill wanted to be a counselor... in a very big way , he accomplished . I am sure that he helped to enlighten at least one person who otherwise would still be in the dark. For being here for such a short time, he made a big differance. Peace & Love

Name: Paul T
Website:
Referred by: Lycos
From: MA
Time: 2000-02-15 22:38:14
Comments: I have taken the time to read dozens of the responses posted about your story. I have viewed Bill's pictures and taken the time to look at much of what you have included on your page. I have never been moved to write comments about sites that I have visited. But this is an exception that I cannot resist. I'm a 50yr old man who did not reveal my own sexual orientation until I was in my forties because of the very fear that eventually led to Bill's suicide. I tried to live in denial of my sexuality most of my life. I believe that was a mistake. It took a severe emotional toll on me. But having revealed the truth about myself has also taken its toll. Acceptance I once enjoyed has been replaced with silent rejection which cannot be tangibly defined but only felt. This wall of alienation is worse than outright violence because it cannot be pinned down and defeated. The vast majority of gays suffer this hidden hate rather than the open vile treatment that Bill suffered. I salute you for the courage to take a stand and draw a line in the sand and say "we will not tolerate this anymore."

Name: Li
Website: i don't have one
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: New Zealand
Time: 2000-02-14 19:46:17
Comments: I would like to say that i'm really feeling sorry for Bill, i'm not an English speaker originally despite i'm from NZ. I really hope that there are alot of people outthere who would want to hear about Bill's story and one day i hope people would understand and accept us as being ourselves. Thank you

Name: Amy Z.
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: Washington State
Time: 2000-02-14 19:41:34
Comments: Dear Gabi, I just wanted you to know how encouraging it is to read stories about parents being supportive of gay/lesbian/bi people. Being a 19 year old lesbian is not easy, and facing my parents is not something I am looking forward to. since I have just begun to come out to my friends. Thank you for being you, and sharing your story. Know my prayers are with you and your family. Amy

Name: Denise
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Chicago IL
Time: 2000-02-14 06:50:15
Comments: I am presently does a story on gay america and hate crimes for class and I will be using parts of your story

Name: t.c.
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: everywhere
Time: 2000-02-13 17:55:48
Comments: I am sorry for everything you have been through and everything you have'nt been through yet... I'm sorry.

Name: Doreen
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Omaha, NE
Time: 2000-02-12 20:43:44
Comments: I was deeply touched by your son's story. I have a close friend who is a homosexual and he has voiced his pain to me about being gay. He said he would not wish it upon his worst enemy. The pain he feels is real and I am proud of him for being strong. Thanks for sharing your story.

Name: Cassey Parker
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Georgia
Time: 2000-02-12 17:58:15
Comments: Never have I read anything that touched me as much as Bill's story. I have grown up around people with homophobia, and luckly I have been able to formulate my own opinions. I admire your family's courage (especially Bill's). I happened to find this page while researching hate crimes for a college paper. I do not enjoy writing, but this story has given me the conviction to write the best paper of my life. Thank you for sharing your story, and you are not alone in your fight to stop the hatred.

Name: Chris
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: winter park, florida
Time: 2000-02-12 17:30:40
Comments: i wanna tell u that ur son's story is VERY touching being a gay teen myself at only 15 yrs old i know how hard it can be to deal with discrination and i have MANY MANY times thought of suicide but i dont have the guts to but learning about ur sons story also makes me not want to commit suicide cause i too would like to help against the gay bashing and hate against us i am only 15 yrs ols and there r not many people that will listen but the 1s that do i tell about how hard it is and that they should just accept us thanks for reading this and also thanks for telling about ur sons death it must have been hard for you

Name: Amy
Website:
Referred by: AOL
From: Missouri
Time: 2000-02-12 14:57:56
Comments: My heart goes out to you and your family. He may be gone but will be remebered. RAINBOW PRIDE ALWAYS!!

Name: Rymond Wong
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Malaysia
Time: 2000-02-12 05:43:43
Comments: it had been a sad story and reading the story really left me in tears but maybe the departure of your son is god's blessing to end his life in this ugly, miserable and pathetic world. it is just that the way he left was a tragedy. i am now 20 and i like to observe human especially their behavior and reaction. the world has two sides: a nice, beautiful one and an ugly. and what bill had seen is just the latter. but i understand and do believed he is (i use "is") a strong child and i am proud of him myself and just have to let you know you has a beautiful child with you. life is life and sadness is nothing we can avoid. there is no paradise in this world as what we can now see from the movie: The Beach. i hope you will continue to shout out the support for people like your child and i do support you all. may god bless and open the eyes of people of the world.

Name: Jay Redden
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Sacramento, CA
Time: 2000-02-12 02:38:08
Comments: I did not have my first sexual experience until I was 23 years old, and did not come out of the closet until I was 26. Your son's story is exactly what I feared would happen to me. I'm sorry that one so young and brave should fall victim to hate. I hope that his life and his story has helped other gay and bi teens.

Name: Sylvia
Website: My Wacky Page O' Crazed Stuff
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: St. Louis
Time: 2000-02-11 13:34:50
Comments: this page is amazing, and bill's story is amazing. it has touched me deeply, and i will never forget it. i hope your family finds the solace it seeks.

Name: Unknown
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: England
Time: 2000-02-11 03:58:47
Comments: I don't know what i am. Bill did, and although i never had the privallige to meet him, he obviously had strength and inner conviction..., i admire him for that. I believe that we will overcome this major problem in society. Nothing is impossible and it is people like Bill that have made it so. I will not worry in discovering exactly who i am. I know that what is what is and that love is love. In whatever shape or form. Thank you for the inspiration. xxx

Name: R. Scott Harrison
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Western Pennsylvania
Time: 2000-02-10 17:02:35
Comments: No words are adequate to describe the pain , the loss, the agony which you, Bill and others have experienced and continue to experience. Your account here moves me to tears. Your work is very much needed. Thank you for your courage, faith and hope in putting on-line Bill's story and yours. Every day so many others face the same reality as Bill did --that of being rejected and hated for who they are. I see in Bill's story aspects of my own life and of the lives of so many people who, as sexual minority teenagers, suffer from the depression related to being different and being hated. I am now an adult, involved with PFLAG in Pittsburgh, PA, and it's been almost twenty years since I graduated from high school. Yet the pain of my adolescence is sometimes still very fresh. With the months and years that have passed, hope and healing have come as increasingly I have learned to accept myself and have found the acceptance of others. Still, the pain never goes away completely. Hate scars us all permanently. I'm so sorry Bill never found the hope he needed to survive and thrive. I am so sorry that people hate the way "Michael chapman" does, as seen in his evil, murderous message in your guestbook (dated 01/01/2000). I was angered and grieved to see his hateful response, yet I was also glad to see it right here, in black and white, because it shows the reality of the hate we must fight and transcend. If we persist in our fight, our love will eventually triumph where hate may presently prevail. My thoughts and prayers are with you!

Name: TIM
Website:
Referred by: AOL
From: NEW YORK
Time: 2000-02-09 08:36:32
Comments: THANK YOU FOR SUCH A POWERFUL STATEMENT, THANK YOU FOR LETTING ME CRY, AND THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS WITH EVERYONE. I WAS JUST DOING A LITTLE RESEARCH ON THE SUBJECT FOR A LECTURE I GIVE YEARLY REGARDING TREATING GAY/LESBIAN CLIENTS, AND YOUR STORY TOUCHED A SPIRIT INSIDE OF ME. YOU SEE I WAS ALSO THE VICTIM OF A HATE CRIME IN 1983. I WAS AN ACTIVIST WRITING FOR A GAY/LESBIAN NEWSPAPER IN MADISON WISCONSIN WHERE I WAS BEATEN AND LEFT FOR DEAD. I WAS IN A COMA FOR 2 WEEKS. I HAD BEEN BEATEN OVER THE HEAD WITH A LEAD PIPE, CIGARETTE HOLES BURNED IN MY BACK, AND WHEN I FINALLY CAME OUT OF THE COMA I WEIGHED 87LBS, HAD COMPLETE AMNESIA, AND HAD TO RELEARN HOW TO READ, WRITE, TALK, WALK, AND WHO I EVEN WAS. THE POLICE NEVER FOUND WHO DID IT, AND SINCE I HAD COMPLETE AMNESIA I COULDN'T TELL THEM ANYTHING - THEY SUSPECTED A GROUP OF "SKINHEADS" WHO WERE IN TOWN FROM CHICAGO AND FIGURED THERE WERE 5 GUYS FROM THE 5 CIGARETTE HOLES IN MY BACK WHICH WERE PROBABLY LEFT AS A "SIGNATURE". WHEN I RECENTLY SAW THE MATHEW SHEPARD CASE ON TV IT BROUGHT ALL OF THIS BACK TO ME, BUT SEEING YOUR STORY REINFORCES IT ~ WE ARE IN A TIME WHEN I THINK MOST OF US ARE HORRIFIED AT THESE STORIES, YET THEY KEEP ON HAPPENING, AND IN LARGER NUMBERS THAN ARE EVER REPORTED! THANK YOU AGAIN I WAS DEEPLY TOUCHED BY YOU AND YOUR SON'S SPIRIT!

Name: Jackie Eggimann
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Illinois
Time: 2000-02-08 11:00:25
Comments: The world, these days, are tuff... but with God's help, we will succeed.

Name: Martin I. Lozano
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: El Paso, Texas
Time: 2000-02-08 06:44:03
Comments: I'm very sorry for your loss, I hope you continue to speak about homophobia, I was very scared when I was finally asked by my sister at the age of 28. I also thought of sucide but I couldnt hurt the people that loved me.

Name: Jeremy
Website:
Referred by: Geocities
From: Ilinois
Time: 2000-02-07 19:06:15
Comments: Bill sounds like he is an incredible person and the way his life ended is very tragic--a very moving story. I was even more moved by your infinite support as parents of an openly bisexual son. I am 25 and gay. My parents don't know. I will not be so lucky to have parents as supportive as you two. When (not if) I tell them, I will probably never see them again. Homophobia is like a knife that cuts the deepest wound imaginable. When the homophobes are one's own family that wound will never heal. Thank you for turning your loss into an educational campaign. Good luck.

Name: liz
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: mass.
Time: 2000-02-07 12:21:28
Comments: this story is incredible and reminds usof allthe hate and preduduce that all of us still need to overcomeI am compleatly sympathetic to your story and wish to extend my good wishes for the futerethank you for shareing your story

Name: christopher grether
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: california
Time: 2000-02-07 00:17:10
Comments: thank you for turning your personal loss into a pro-active, positive step towards education.

Name: Shannon
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Vermont
Time: 2000-02-06 00:09:06
Comments: I loved your page, it had me in tears. I have several bisexual and gay friends, one who attempted suicide but fortunetly was unsuccessful. You are in my prayers, I am sorry for your loss.

Name: Dustin Axtman
Website:
Referred by: Tripod
From: Helena, Montana/Pensacola, Florida
Time: 2000-02-05 18:29:45
Comments: I am an openly gay student at the University of West Florida. I came upon this article while researching "hate crimes" for a legal studies class. I am currently working on a project which advocates increased legislation with regards to hate crimes. Thank you for sharing your story.

Name: Megan Elizabeth Stortz
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: Luther College, Decorah IA
Time: 2000-02-05 13:18:19
Comments: I have a similar story to share with you- I will email that to you. I want you to know that you have my deepest sympathys for the loss of your son. What you are doing to provide education and awareness in order to stop the hate is truely noble- and a wonderful tribute to your son. Take care of yourselves and know that our thoughts here at Luther are with you- your family is truly an inspiration. With love, Meg Stortz

Name: Stewart Mills
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Regina, Saskatchewan, CANADA
Time: 2000-02-05 13:15:02
Comments: I came upon this site quite by accident. But then, who knows, maybe it wasn't an accident after all. The feelings that washed over me as I read "Bill's Story" were overwhelming. I simply wanted to let you and your family know that there are folk here in Canada who, although we cannot say we "know what you are going through", we want you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you as you try to get on with your lives without this wonderful young man in your midst. Your story and the testimony of the history teacher painted a portrait of a beautiful, sensitive and caring human being. The teacher is right on the mark: Bill will never be forgotten - the legacy of his short but significant life will live on in those lives that touched his either directly or indirectly, ie., in these people in an other place, another country many miles from Olympia. Thank you so much for sharing this deeply moving tribute with the world. If you have a moment some time could you please let us know what hopeful signs are surfacing in your community that will reduce homophobia and its resultant actions. I wonder if the high school has instituted a programme to help young people come to terms with and accept the reality of differing sexual orientations. Again, thank you for sharing this very painful odyssey. Sincerely yours, Bud and Stewart Ramsay-Mills

Name: Benjamin Moore
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: Luther College
Time: 2000-02-05 13:14:07
Comments: I'm a heterosexual student at Luther College and a member of GLBTA. Our top choir, which has several gay members, is going to be picketed tomorrow at the Villiage Presbyterian Church in Topeka, Kansas by Rev. Fred Phelps and his cult. I found your site trying to find info on the hatefull tyrant Fred Phelps. My sympathys for your loss.

Name: April
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Ottawa, ON
Time: 2000-02-04 22:58:20
Comments: After a million people have signed your guest book, you must be used to the words I am about to write: wow. I am stuck somewhere between utter sorrow for Bill and your family and amazement that you have come through this in the way that you have. I am truly stunned. On a side note, while surfing through the story I noticed a photo of Bill's painting inspired by "Hold Back the Dawn". Have you ever thought about marketing it and donating the proceeds to a charity of your choice in Bill's name? I thought it was wonderful and would be interested in a copy if you ever do pick up the idea. Keep up the fight, for hopefully someday homophobia and the pain it causes will be a thing of the past and an unfortunate reminder to future generations of what happens when you allow hate to grow.

Name: Brandon Bradley
Website:
Referred by: Tripod
From: chicago
Time: 2000-02-03 23:39:19
Comments: just wanted to say thank-you for sharing your story. I am also a gay teen thank-you!!!!!!

Name: Christina
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: Pennsylvania
Time: 2000-02-03 12:29:05
Comments: I know that many people in this world are homophobic and you really can not hold that aganist them. That is there personal oponion. But, they DO NOT and SHOULD NOT take it to the extrementy that they do. It is just wrong. People like Bill do not do anything to other people they leave them alone and I feel that people like Bill should get that in return. Hate groups and hate crimes and totally senseless. People should learn how to Grow-UP and act more mautre. High school students, i feel, do most of it just for the attention and the popularity that they will recieve when the news gets around as to what they did. I feel that heterosexual people, like myself, have never read a story such as this one and saw what homosexuals and bisexuals have to go through. You should not have to turn to sucide because of your sexuality. I would like to tell you how sorry I am for your loss and commend you for your feeling throughout this. Maybe if we had more people like you in this country, this country would become more liberal on this issue.

Name: benjamin sTone
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Champaign, IL
Time: 2000-02-03 08:46:15
Comments: I'd love to throw in a really long account of my own trials, struggles, and triumphs under circumstances painfully similar to Bill's. But all I find myself able to do is sit here and cry. Good luck to you Bill, wherever you may be. Though I never knew you, I can now never forget you.

Name: Toni
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Houston, Texas
Time: 2000-02-02 21:28:53
Comments: This has to be the most touching story I have ever read. I will do my best towards sending your web site to many people. I am a gay woman that has been a treated with disrespect over the years but also with respect from the ones that really matter. If you should need me for whatever reason please feel free to contact me. Cricket1505@aol.com. Toni

Name: Cassandra Wilson
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: Canada
Time: 2000-02-02 16:46:20
Comments: I heard about Bill's story. It's a really sad one. And i'm extremly sorry about him passing away. As i am a 14 year- old myself, i would know what Bill was goin' through. Even though not as bad things have happened to me. If u need to talk you are most welcomed to e-mail me at the address given above. This was a sad tragic story that happened. Alwayz:- Cassandra:)

Name: B.A. Rutledge
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Time: 2000-02-02 08:47:12
Comments: I came across this site when I was reading the Indigo Girls Bulletin Board. A number of people were commenting on the painful but beautifully written story. I'm honoured to have had the opportunitity to read about Bill and your family and community's efforts to fight homophobia. Thank you for sharing it with all of us. I'm a lesbian who has worked in the field of HIV/AIDS for almost a decade and I know all too well the effects of hate and discrimination. I am so sorry for your loss and the pain that you must have gone through. But it sounds like you've found a way to channel your grief and anger into positive activism - what an amazing tribute to Bill. Keep up the good fight! Peace.

Name: Jeanie Cunningham
Website: The Official JaeCie Website
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Los Angeles
Time: 2000-02-01 17:30:19
Comments: Gabi; As a 43 yr. old woman who was recognized as being gay by her parents when she was 8, I too endured much sorrow throughout my earlier years. The worst persecution came from the church, and it broke my heart to learn that I was to not only endure hell on earth due to my orientation, but I could also expect an eternity of damnation. The eternal damnation thing, thankfully kept me from killing myself. I then went on with my life, and pursuit of music, and pursuit of the eternal creator's take on all of this, and what did Christ REALLY say? Why did God make me this way? Two years ago, after a really rough series of personal setbacks, an inspiration came through me which I resisted up until April of last year. The inspiration came as a variety of songs that needed to be expressed. After wrestling with feelings of unworthiness and fear of condemnation from the Church, I finally broke down and worked on "ComeAsYouAre...To the Father". The album is now finished. It is designed to comfort all who've endured the torture of this orientation issue. If you would like, email me an address where I can mail you a copy--and specify whether you need cd or cassette. Don't worry--it's not for sale! No donations required or requested!! In the meanwhile, I will be sharing Bill's story with others. All the best to you and your family, and may God Bless you! jeanie

Name: John Lay
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Greensboro, NC
Time: 2000-02-01 16:02:41
Comments: You will be in my prayers

Name: Allan
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Saint Paul, MN
Time: 2000-02-01 16:00:16
Comments: I was sent this site from a dear friend of mine. Like Bill, I am gay and went through a lesser degree of verbal and physical assaults throughout high school and forward. It never ceases with age. Hate comes in all ages, faces, religions and/or genders. Physical and verbal assaults do happen and they do happen in daylight and sometimes even in public places. People cannot stand by and wait for someone else to help someone in trouble. You're there for a reason, and you just might be the person intended by some other mysterious force to be there who's supposed to help. Whether by an act of God, nature or whatever your beliefs are, there are people just like everybody else that is gay, straight, bisexual, transexual, of a different race, religion or whatever that may need your help. Don't just sit there, step forward for what you know is right. Don't let hate go on! For those who support, encourage and act out, your efforts are not unnoticed.

Name: sally tucker
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: ballarat / australia
Time: 2000-02-01 14:55:59
Comments: another sad story in our world of homophobics and ignorant arseholes. hope you are coping and helping others. the world is a hard place to change.

Name: Robert Porter
Website:
Referred by: Clicked on our Banner Advertisement
From: Denver, NC
Time: 2000-02-01 10:20:06
Comments: This story touched me in a way that no other story has. I am 16 and have been through the treatments and the support groups and attempted suicide but failed. I was raped at the age of 13 by the man I had known as my father. This story has made me realize that not telling anyone may have led me to death but now I can face my emotions and tell someone. Reading this made me realize that what Bill went through was so courageous and took so much heart that I should not kill myself but use what time I have on Earth to help in the fight against needless violent acts against gay people. Thank you for this story.

Name: Indigo Kinley
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: California/Texas
Time: 2000-01-31 23:13:38
Comments: WOW!! Your son's story has touched me in just a profound and moving way - I can't explain it! I have thought about suicide so many times and been so depressed through stages of my life. I have forwarded this story on to everyone I know. I realize now that the only thing that matters is the people we love and the people we have yet to love. Know that Bill's story will live on and continue to give people hope and inspire people to cause change as long as I live. God is touching so many through you - THANK YOU, THANK YOU. My soul is forever opening, healing, and crying - and loving now!

Name: Karl E. Cocke
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Tulsa, OK
Time: 2000-01-31 14:52:36
Comments: Thank you for sharing. I hope that your loss may help others see the need to act NOW to stop the hatred. God bless you.

Name: Erik Insolent
Website: Eviscerated Christ Political Punk Rock
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Connecticut
Time: 2000-01-29 19:31:24
Comments: Looking things up on yahoo about hate crimes for inspiration to right a song, I came across this site.This is a truly sad story, and hatred should not be tolerated. I am not gay, or of an ethnicity, so i don't usually come across people condeming my race or sexuality. But i just want all these people to think about what it would be like if the tables were turned, and they were the minority. Hate Crimes are a cancer on American History. IT's occurences are silenced by the people in the public who fear, or agree with the sick motives of the commiter of the hate crime, and even police, and government officials, who think it is their "Duty" to carry their personal Vendetta's into a job where public service is supposed to be carried out. Thank you for this site. I am inspired to write now, and we will dedicate it to this poor kid every show that we do

Name: Michael Lynn
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Paducah, KY
Time: 2000-01-29 16:31:08
Comments: I spotted the link to your page with Bill's story on a page for the Matthew Shepard Youth Foundation. The brief description below his picture made me want to know more. I am so thankful to have been able to read his story although the outcome was so tragic. Through my reading of his story, the two of you (mother and son) have touched me deeply. I was closeted for many years. Since coming out, I have seen that remaining hidden allows everyone else's fear and hatred to grow. Their stereotypes are the only pictures of gay,lesbian, and transgendered that they know unless we give them other images. I feel that my coming out forced many that I encounter daily to re-evaluate their preconceived notions. Reading Bill's story gives me just a little more courage to continually live my life openly, in the hope that others will one day see that we are not to be feared......only accepted.

Name: Chris C
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Australia
Time: 2000-01-29 04:43:36
Comments: Bill's story is such a sad one, yet I managed to find inspiration in it. Bill seemed to be a very proud and strong individual-this is what i will remember about him from reading your story. I wish you happiness for the future which you truly deserve being such loving parents. Your story is amazing and I am sure I will remember it... blessed be

Name: Brian H. Hastings
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: San Diego, CA
Time: 2000-01-29 00:22:25
Comments: You are a very loving and courageous person!

Name: Preston Ince
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: san jose, california
Time: 2000-01-28 11:44:59
Comments: This is a very touching story, luckilly I have not had to go through this pain as a gay male groing up. But I most definately know what he was going through in his social life. I am glad you were able to put this site up for all to read, and to lear from. Thanks Preston Ince

Name: Candis Alexander
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Chicago
Time: 2000-01-26 11:33:53
Comments: Very interesting because I'm doing a research paper on hate crimes. It also hit home because I'm a lesbian. I have never experienced hate crimes where I live, however I will be going to college soon, and I'm not sure my new environment will be as excepting as my current friends. Hopefully I will not encounter the hate, but after reading about your son I would do my best to fight for my rights and others like me. Take care

Name: paul
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: South Australia Australia
Time: 2000-01-26 10:20:34
Comments: well i am gay but i havent told anybody because i am afraid this might happen to me or worse but i don't even know how to tell my parents because they might disown me any way thanks paul

Name: Leroy
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Kentucky
Time: 2000-01-26 04:36:53
Comments: I just wanted to say Hi. I am sorry that they would not take your son's donation. He will be rememberd.

Name: Isaac
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Brisbane City, Australia
Time: 2000-01-26 03:57:52
Comments: Having grown up in Brisbane, I have never been forced to experience the prejudice faced by gays and lesbians in America. I know now how lucky I am. I do hold the highest respect for the Clayton Family. Your strength, courage, dignity and love is an example that the whole world should learn from. Finally, I have never met God so I am no expert on religion or such matters. However, I do have faith that no person with a good heart would be forsaken. May Bill find in death the peace he did not find in life.

Name: Tom Cox
Website:
Referred by: AOL
From: Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Time: 2000-01-25 21:17:14
Comments: I found your letter on Gayzoo.com. I am sure it will help a lot of youth who find it difficult to see any light at the end of the "Tunnel."

Name: John
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Vici, OK
Time: 2000-01-25 09:03:02
Comments: This was a very sad and touching story wich i am very sad to here.

Name: Valerie
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Colorado
Time: 2000-01-24 20:20:57
Comments: Gabi, Tonight I heard about your son, Bill, on the radio show This Way Out. My eyes filled for the second time this evening when I read this webpage. I'm sorry for your loss and thank you for your living memorial of education and action.

Name: brian w davis
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: oklahoma
Time: 2000-01-24 07:17:20
Comments: people just make me sad,,,i think you should live a positive life and just be happy.....happiness is the hardest thing in life to acheive. i am 31 years old and ive been out for 8 years and ive endured alot from homophobic people ,,,,,i know what he went through....but ive dealt with it and now im great...the only regret i have is my mother she's ashamed of me and barely talks to me ,,,,but this is not my choice in life i just wanna be happy....i believe god doesnt put anthing on you you cant handle ...maybe the death was so you could help all the other teens that need help.....i think your a great person for doing all this and you have all my love ....bri

Name: Deanna
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Texas
Time: 2000-01-23 09:00:00
Comments: Dear Gabi and Family , I am extremely sorry for your loss ... It is terrible how the world has turned out man against man and over sexuality ... You know those people who worry about what people do behind closed doors need to get a life ,, I am a heterosexual but I do have a best friend that is gay and he is the best friend that I have ever had and would hate that anything like that would happen to him .... I also am a mother of one and it scares me to death to think that I brought someone into this world of hate .... Your story is excellent and has opened my eyes to this cruel world and the cautions we should take .... You and your family are in my prayers and I know that I will help with the fight against hate crimes !!

Name: Jessica Whitehurst
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Spokane, WA
Time: 2000-01-22 18:29:49
Comments: I had not heard the story about your son. I am 17 now, and I have been openly bisexual for the past three years. I know the pain and fear that Bill went through. I also know the pain and suffering that you went through and still are handling is shared by many people. I was researching sexual preference discrimination for an English report, when your son's story poped up. I started reading, and as I did I began to cry. I have been is the same situation myself as well as for my friends. I had a friend who dropped out of my high school because of all the hate. I thank you for your son and your openness. Knowing that there are so many people openning their eyes to what's going on is a God send. Because of his story, Bill will live on with me for the rest of my life. Blessed are those who are open to ideas. Sincerely, Jessica Whitehurst

Name: Michael Payton
Website: GAY RIGHTS
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: westminster,Colorado,80036
Time: 2000-01-22 15:18:05
Comments: As as gay youth at the age of 16. It is hard to deal with the pain that a person can go throught with me my mother is not soupportive of me at all Bill was lucky to have soupport from his community and freinds. It is a very sad thing the lions eye did to you . It is about time that the world around us notice that it is time to put a stop to these hate crimes and now if you need anything at all as in support or any type of donations please let me know . Im a very much involved Gay Rights Activist and want to souipport you and you community sincerly in my prays C/lt./col.MIchael don payton Gay pride all the way

Name: Alfonso Miranda
Website:
Referred by: Tripod
From: Spain
Time: 2000-01-22 12:49:15
Comments: Dear Gabi, Thank you for sharing Bills's story. I hope that it will help many people realise there is a person behind someone they consider different, and they will learn to respect and perhaps love others instead of hurting them. It just shows that ignorance can kill. All the best with your campaign. My thougts and prayers are with you and your family.

Name: John Ridgeway
Website:
Referred by: Net Search
From: Texas
Time: 2000-01-22 07:59:12
Comments: Thank you for letting us know about your son. What happened to him is happening to far too many young people. You would think that we as a supposedly educated country would be above this behavior. I as a gay man am far too familiar with this. I have been witness to attacks on people walking down the street and am also a survivor of one such attack.

Name: Tambra Galid
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Oklahoma City, Ok USA
Time: 2000-01-21 21:14:44
Comments: Thank you for sharing Bill's story. I am sorry for your loss. I hope this ignorance and "new" wave of hate will cease. Your web site puts a human face to these hate crimes. I am sorry that Matthew Shepard and all the others that have suffered this abuse have been joined by your son.

Name: Erica N. Wolicki
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Escondido, CA
Time: 2000-01-20 11:26:27
Comments: Being an English major, you'd think I'd know the perfect thing to say after reading such a poetic and heartful essay. Yet, I am overcome with tears, sorrow, and hope to the point where there are no words to write or things to say in response to the ever-so prevalent love that you feel for Bill. My only wish, after reading this, is that I could have met him. You two are so fortunate to have bore him---a flame put out far before his time. Thank you for sharing...

Name: BRENDA
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: CONNECTICUT
Time: 2000-01-19 19:31:50
Comments: I cried and cried and cried some more. Hopefully Bill is at peace in a place much greater than ours where there are no judgementals, no predjudice, and most of all no hate. Perhaps his spirit watches over us all to make us become more understanding to change and differences and he will help guide us to a more loving world. Brenda.

Name: Delia Stewart
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: St. Joe Arkansas
Time: 2000-01-19 15:47:56
Comments: I was really impressed by your story. I'm doing a research paper on hate crimes towards homosexuals. I am really sorry for your loss. I would just like to tell you that your son sounds like a real gentle man. I wish everyone could be generous towards homosexuals as some are. Sincerely Delia

Name: Tony
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Virginia
Time: 2000-01-18 22:55:17
Comments: I would like to begin by saying that this moved me a great deal. I sometimes think I'm bi, but I'm pretty much heterosexual, I'm just "curious." However, one of my closest friends is gay. He has told me that I am the only one that will listen to him and try to help him. However, it is not easy. He wants to try to be "straight," but he is not trying hard. He calls me frequently to talk about guys and sexual things and I don't know how to handle it. It's hard for me to talk to him. I'm afraid I may say something wrong that might hurt his feelings or something. I am also worried that he (who was 15 at the time) commited sexual acts in the restroom of our school, and that is illegal in the state of VA, he may get into trouble, or the guy whom he did it with will say something to the wrong person. He desperately wants a boyfriend, but I try to tell him he shouldn't right now, because the riticule at school is getting worse, and if someone found out, something like happened to your son could be a result. If you could help me to help my friend, I would so greatly appreciate it. I know it has been quite some time, but I am very sorry for your loss, and may you keep working to eliminate the hatred in the world. You are the kind of people God meant us all to be. May God Bless.

Name: Another Openly Gay Teenager
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: North Carolina
Time: 2000-01-18 17:07:24
Comments: The story of your son truly had a profound effect on me. Bill's story exposes the hate and bigotry that exists in today's society. Unfortunately, many people refuse to believe it. I hope that your courage to fight homophobia and heterosexism continues. Although years late, I would like to express my sympathies. God bless.

Name: Tim
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From:
Time: 2000-01-17 16:07:51
Comments: What an incredibly moving story if its any comfort you can be proud of creating and nuturing such a wonderful soul regards Tim

Name: Gary
Website:
Referred by: AOL
From:
Time: 2000-01-16 20:59:22
Comments: What a tribute to a wonderful son! Im sorry for your loss!It is beyond comprehension the suffering you had to endure, both during your sons life and after! My heart bleeds! Im an openly gay man.I have been for years.And too many times in my life, I have felt the hate that can be foisted upon us, simply because we are GAY! No other reason! We have done nothing wrong .........Just gay! How sad! But I have learned one thing! IT is not my IGNORANCE.........and I tried to understand and forgive.Sometimes it not easy! With all my respect, Gary

Name: Frank
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: New York
Time: 2000-01-16 19:52:36
Comments: Bill's Story touched my heart. It continues to give meaning and purpose to his life. Bill touches the lives of everyone who follows his story. I will take his story a step further and share it with my students. I teach a course that includes understanding diversity. Bill's spirit will now enter a college classroom. He will evoke emotions, thought and discussion. I am sure he will change hearts. His young life teaches us all a powerful lesson. Among the other wonderful gifts he posessed, he now offeres us the gift of teacher. I will remember him, I am grateful to him and I will never froget him. Peace and acceptance to all who continue to touch his spirit.

Name: Danny D. Duke
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: New Orleans
Time: 2000-01-16 16:18:01
Comments: Thank you for sharing not only the hate that ended your son's life...but also the wonder and beauty that defined his life. You demonstrated what all people should understand; that being Gay or Bisexual is just a small part of who we all are. Thank you.

Name: Matt
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From:
Time: 2000-01-16 15:51:06
Comments: I am not gay Nore do i know anyone who is but i am just a every day guy i guess and i dont like to see a hate crime or the out come of one And i thank you for making this page Bacuae you made me think twice about killing myself And I would like to say i am sorry to hear about what has happen to your son i know he must have been upset and couldnt see that he had a loving famliy and freinds Sorry for your lose

Name: Denielle Roberts
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Maine
Time: 2000-01-15 10:30:08
Comments: I just wanted to make a quick comment, your story, no actually your son is a true angel, and i know he must look over his loving family with care from the safe confines of heaven, anyways, the reason i read your story is because i am writing an essay for my high school senior english class, on "Anything is Possible, in the year 2000" My paper is on hate-crimes becoming a thing of the 20th century, thank you for sharing your story it gave me a wonderful outlook on hate crimes for my assignment, Good luck in the future, and as my paper states and as your husband said that he wanted to do somwthing in memory of your son, Bill. Anything is possible in the year 2000! so reach for your dreams because i truly believe that hate crimes and ignorance can be demolished in the new century!

Name: Dean
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Australia
Time: 2000-01-15 09:18:38
Comments: Dear Gaby and family, No words can convey my deepest sympathies and the emotions I am currently feeling for both your son, yourself and your family. I am 19, and this has touched my heart like no other. I am so speechless, totally lost for words. However, I do know one thing.......With all the beauty your son holds and the passion that lives within him, may his soul rest with a thousand angels, and may he continue to reach for his dreams, with his own little pair of wings... God Bless..... Dean xxxxxxx

Name: greg
Website:
Referred by: AOL
From: spokane, wa
Time: 2000-01-15 02:41:00
Comments: i am a 17 year old gay male. i recently dropped out of high school due, in part, to the fact that i was harrassed about my sexual identity on a daily basis.i am very sorry that you lost your son. as i was reading "bill's story" i imagined myself being in the same situation.i live in fear every day of my life.and maybe my fear is not justified, but so much hate exists that it is sometimes overwhelming.i believe that, deep down, everyone is good...but hate breeds, and something needs to change.

Name: Kevin
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From:
Time: 2000-01-14 18:29:09
Comments: I recently came out at my school and told them I was gay. I recieve numerous amounts of hate everday I go there. I am in so much pain. This story moved me so much that I would like your permission to use an excerpt from it for my school Literary magazine..After all, I need some support to stop the iggnorance, and I feel like this story would help me. Please email me. I will also change names if you want me to. Thank you.

Name: Vic
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: London
Time: 2000-01-14 17:39:47
Comments: Dear Gabi i am so sorry for what happend to you and the pain you had to go through and i wanted to thank you for making such a difference in the world and making it easier for people like me to come out and feal safe. Im 15 and i told some of the people i care about that im gay and im not worried about anything becouse i know they will support me whatever so i want to thank you for changing peoples mind about homosexuality and giving people an easier way. i think the fact that what you and bill believed in is helping people today makes it that little bit easier to cope with. with love vic

Name: Eli Oliver
Website:
Referred by: Signing another Guestbook
From: Orillia On Canada
Time: 2000-01-13 17:52:04
Comments: I am so sad for you loss - as a mother, as a part of the community - go in peace - much love and light eli

Name: elissa pralicz
Website:
Referred by: AngelFire
From: maine
Time: 2000-01-13 06:27:08
Comments: i just wanted to say last week my godfather killed himself and i wanted him to know i miss him

Name: monica
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Indiana
Time: 2000-01-12 16:18:50
Comments: I came over your site as I am working on a school project about minority hate crimes. I am really sorry about what has happened to your family, it makes me sick to think that we live in such a society like ours, where awful crimes can be commited. The things that don't kill us will only make us stronger. Your family and Bill are in my prayers.

Name: AH JET
Website: msn
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: malaysia
Time: 2000-01-12 09:50:57
Comments: I JUST WANT TO SAY THAT " LOVE OTHERS IS LIKE LOVE YOURSELF & HATE OTHERS MEANS YOU HAVE GIVE UP YOURSELF "

Name: Craig
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: South Africa
Time: 2000-01-11 21:57:49
Comments: A very touching storey of a courageous younglife in a world of intolerence and prejudice. Sincerest condolences.

Name: Sandi
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Illinois
Time: 2000-01-11 21:45:10
Comments: Gabi, I would be lying to say that I know how you feel.. I can only imagine and I tightly close my eyes and make that thought go away. My brother was beaten to death, with a baseball bat, by his step-son. I do understand the anger, the desire to judge, and the hate that the survivors have to deal with. I read this story with the mind of a Christian that believes that gay and lesbian sexual encounters are a sin. This does not mean that I or any other person have the right to judge, or torment someone else. In fact, coming from the christian point, the same book that said a man can not lay with a man.. said those without sin can be the first to throw a stone.. Every day for two years, I prayed for God to be the one to help me not judge..I mean really prayed..one day I woke up,the hate was just gone..Don't be like those that tipped your son's hand to take his life. Not every one who believes something different, will judge or hurt the other person. Do keep your head up..and keep the story here for others to read.

Name: Rob Bennett
Website:
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Trenton, Ontario, Canada
Time: 2000-01-11 16:48:27
Comments: What a touching story. I'm so glad I had the chance to read this. This story needs to be shared by many!

Name: angela
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: nebraska
Time: 2000-01-11 08:47:34
Comments: thank you for sharing this story with the world.... i am finding gay right's research for a project... this was very helpful...

Name: Richard Mesick
Website: Richie's Home Page
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Hanover, Pennsylvania
Time: 2000-01-10 22:40:49
Comments: That is a remarkable story. If those who commit those hate crimes would just look at what they cause and understand that homosexuals are people too and then and only then can we win this battle. Open your heart and mind and understand that we too are people.

Name: Susan
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: PA
Time: 2000-01-10 22:19:46
Comments: Gabi and Family, I am deeply moved by your tribute to your son Bill. It is obvious that Bill was an amazing young man. Being bisexual myself, I know how hard it is to be different and looked down upon. I can only hope, I think you do too, that Bill has found a wonderful place to be himself and not be scared anymore. A place where he can be loved by all and be celebrated. All my love, Susan

Name: Thomas Croce
Website:
Referred by: Lycos
From: Marco Island, FL
Time: 2000-01-10 19:22:30
Comments: I'm so sorry for your loss. I am a high school teacher and we are working to institute an anti discrimination policy to include sexual orientation. We are meeting "religious" opposition. Thank you for sharing your story. These are the reasons this policy is so important. God bless you. And God bless Billy.

Name: caroline mcguire
Website:
Referred by: Tripod
From: Bucks, England.
Time: 2000-01-09 13:50:15
Comments: This dedication to your son tells out right what so many people are going through and are scared to say anything about. I send my deepest condolences and know that your son will be in a better place now and that his memory will live on.Caroline McGuire 17 yrs old UK

Name: Jay Reedy
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Columbus, Ohio
Time: 2000-01-09 07:38:35
Comments: God bless you. I am gay. I came out to my parents and friends at 15. I went thru alot of what your son went thru. I was assaulted verbally and physically by my peers. My parent and close friends were the only ones who I could turn to. I, like your son, became suicidal. I was eventially sent to a suicide prevention lock-up. There I was lucky and blessed with a wonderful staff and new friends who helped me discover myself again and who stood by me and helped me stand up and fight the abuse and assault.My parents have always stood by my lifestyle. My mother has always said to me...."God made you gay for a reason". I want to say you are wonderful parent for accepting and supporting your son. It is terrible and out and out sad that the hate in this world is so strong against a person's sexual preference and personal happiness that it can drive a person to ending their life. Again God bless you and your son is now in my heart and mind always....thank you for sharing your story. Jay Reedy

Name: Craig
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Australia
Time: 2000-01-09 06:17:01
Comments: So very sad to read the story of this young guy.... so many questions, why, what for and all the things you must have thought to yourself since..... I take my hat off to you and your family.... and wish mine were as understanding. Best wishes for the future. CM

Name: donna poole
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: tennessee
Time: 2000-01-08 20:04:39
Comments: God speed.I have a sister who struggles with her sexuality and I just hope she knows she's loved as much as your boy.Why do people worry about such things anyway?If we all loved unconditionally , the world would be a better place.You are blessed to have had this love in your life.Hold your head high!

Name: Gabi
Website: an index page to past guestbook pages, responses, and more...
Referred by: Tripod
From: Olympia, Washington
Time: 2000-01-08 11:02:50
Comments: This new guestbook was started on 1/8/00. Links to pages with past responses to Bill's story are on the index page. Thank you so much for signing my guestbook. Love, Gabi