Name: Lyn Wingfield
Referred by: Net Search
From: Portsmouth, VA
Time: 2000-10-26 13:23:22
Comments: Your story was very moving. Hang in there, and never give up. God loves you.

Name: Martin Janda
Website: Alliance For Full Acceptance
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Charleston, South Carolina
Time: 2000-10-26 13:00:39
Comments: Dear Gabi, I'm so sorry to read your story about your wonderful son, Bill. As a gay man, I can remember the torment I went through when I was growing up. I just considered the source at the time; they were a bunch of idiots! My partner and I (we've been together over 19 years) are now living in Charleston, SC, where we belong to a group called AFFA (Alliance For Full Acceptance). The primary goal of the group to educate people about the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered community and to help eradicate hate. I am proud to be gay and part of this organization! The AFFA website is www.affa-sc.org. Please visit! Again, you have my deepest sympathies. My best to you and your family.

Name: Shannon Weed
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Iowa
Time: 2000-10-26 06:53:52
Comments: I am deeply sorry for your loss. I would just like to thank you for sharing your story. My thoughts are with you . We will someday stand together to help stop this ignorance that is taking innocent lives. Thank you, Shannon Weed

Name: CINDY COOMER
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: FORT SMITH AR
Time: 2000-10-25 11:37:25
Comments: I JUST READ THE STORY ABOUT BILL. I AM SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. I TOO HAVE HAD TO DEAL WITH A SUICIDE IN MY FAMILY. NOT FOR THE SAME REASONS, BUT A SUICIDE STILL THE SAME. MY BROTHER WAS 33 WHEN HE SHOT HIMSELF IN THE HEAD. NO ONE KNOWS WHY. SO YOU SEE, I DO UNDERSTAND SOME OF WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH. PLEASE, IF YOU NEED SOMEONE TO TALK TO, PLEASE EMAIL ME. CINDY

Name: Kacie
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Las Vegas
Time: 2000-10-23 19:21:43
Comments: I believe you raised a beautiful young man. And although he is no longer here with us phisically. He is here mentally, and spiritually, giving all of us the strenth and courage we need. I think in todays world there is alot of hate. And it should stop. We can not choose who we want to be and what we want to be.... *Smile* I know he is watching over you.

Name: iZa
Website: The Six Squares of the World
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Long Beach, CA
Time: 2000-10-23 11:44:58
Comments: he was a beautiful young man. i didnt want to hear another tragedic story but once i saw that beautiful picture at top of ur page. i couldnt resist and know what did happen to that boy. thank u for teaching us what he went through. im very sorry for your loss of a such a sweet boy. from a lesbian student at Long Beach State Univ. best lucks to all of u.

Name: Ana
Referred by: NewsGroups
From: Raised in Europe living in the USA
Time: 2000-10-22 12:29:43
Comments: I'm really sorry about what happened to your son. None of it was fair. I hope humanity would start acting like humans and not wild beasts. Each time I read a story like this one thousands of memories run through my mind of my uncle who was gay and died of AIDS when I was 14, 10 years ago.Since the moment he has left us I have thought of him daily and I will never understand why people can't accept others because of their sexual orientation. It's none of their business what others do in their sexual life. I try to do my best to make everyone around me to be gay-lesbian-bisexual friendly, talking to them about those who I know and love and have so much fun with. Each day I do a little to put gay-lesbian-bisexual image up on a pedestal, I can't change the world by myself but I'm trying to let the world at least know that I tried, and worked on those who surround me. :-)) Step by step we can get somewhere. Beautiful site Gabi. Please know you and your family are in my thoughts and heart. Take care. Hugs to you.

Name: Mark
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Sonora,California
Time: 2000-10-22 01:46:10
Comments: What i've read breaks my heart...but maybe in a good way (ya know BREAKS my heart OPEN). I was suicidal all the time during HighSchool. I thought I was a freak beyond redemption. Thankfully, I had a teacher who said "you're normal, maybe you'll pass through this"...well, his encouragment has done me well. But his advice was wrong...I never "got passed" being Gay. His desire that I turn out "straight" was not fulfilled. At least I have not gone onto suicide yet (18yrs later). I just want to say 2 words "THANK YOU".

Name: AARON BAILEY
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: CANADA
Time: 2000-10-21 11:47:13
Comments: SORRY ABOUT YOUR SON

Name: Louise Matte
Referred by: Net Search
From: Canada (Québec)
Time: 2000-10-21 10:01:20
Comments: Je suis bisexuelle et mon conjoint l'est également nous comprennons se que Bill à pu ressentir même si nous n'avons jamais ressenti tant de haine. Il n'est jamais facile d'être différent. Je fais partie de l'association Bi Unité Montréal et je suis fière d'être bisexuelle, jamais je ne changerai je suis moi et rien d'autre, mon tempérament activiste aidera tout les bill présent et les bill avenir à être eux-même bien dans leur peau et surtout d'être fière d'être se qu'il sont des bisexuels.

Name: jamaal
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Maryland
Time: 2000-10-20 21:37:55
Comments: "Through the window of my mind I live, in the shadows of my life I hide. In the coming of the Dawn I will survive, what daylight brings, hopefully peace of mind.- Jamaal Shelton

Name: Jamaal
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Maryland
Time: 2000-10-20 19:53:34
Comments: This story has given me so much inspiration. Ijust wanted to let you know that ur child did not die in vain,his life and story will provide support for others who desperately need it. Ps. God loves u and Bill

Name: Jose
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: CA
Time: 2000-10-20 15:30:25
Comments: For all boys who are like Bill, please, don't take your life. Life is priceless. Specially yours who face hate and rejection. All of you are the seed of change, but don't make this change alone for yourselves. Ask for help. There is a helper hand waiting for you. God loves you, real humans beings, and I do, too.

Name: Heather
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Albany, NY
Time: 2000-10-19 10:31:59
Comments: I send to you my support and sympathy. I am doing a project in my criminal justice class having to do with hate crimes. That is how I came upon your page. It really disturbs me that kids would do something like this. I am only 19 and farely new to the really world, and I can't believe that society allows this to happen. I am just glad that you being a parent helped and supported him in this that must of eased his pain tremendously.

Name: Mike Driscoll
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Minneapolis, MN
Time: 2000-10-19 06:35:53
Comments: I am sending an e-mail.....

Name: Jon Rene
Referred by: Net Search
From:
Time: 2000-10-18 14:51:24
Comments: I have read 'Bill's Story'with great interest and also sadness. I am a British Police Officer, of an ehtnic background and in my current role as a Community and Race Relations Officer I deal with not only victims of racial abuse(of which I have been one) but also homophobic abuse.I also believe very much in trying to convey the message that any type of abuse is totally unacceptable in our society. My work takes me into schools in order to try and target the youngsters of today so that they can at least help in trying make this world a better place to live in.I am giving training session to staff at my station and will be using 'Bill's Story' to highlight the issue of homophobia and the effect any type of abuse can have on the victim. Regards,Jon

Name: Sianny
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Lincoln, UK
Time: 2000-10-18 08:08:37
Comments: I was so sorry to read your page and to hear about the ignorance and violence your family has suffered. The freaks of nature are the people who think it's okay to gay-bash, and that anyone who doesn't fit the norm is to be ridiculed and tormented until they take their own life. Your son looked beautiful in the photos; what a total bloody waste. I hope you are learning to smile again without him. Take care.

Name: Lynn
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: manchester, england
Time: 2000-10-17 20:03:20
Comments: A friend of mine brought up this web-site after a follow up on a documentary she saw on television, we sat and watched all the young faces, all the fresh beauty that comes with teens, and i saw Bill - i dont pretend to be clever with words and i have never been outwoodly emotional before now, i am just a 20 year old girl browsing the internet with a friend, but when i saw his face, i swear something happened to me that i can't explain, his face is like i could never explain, i feel a creasing pain when i see him and tears will not stop falling when i think of him. i have saved the picture of him were he is standing in the woodland with his back-pack on, and i sit and look at him, i want to know him and feel the things he felt, i'm writing this with eyes welled with tears and i need to tell you that i have never, ever, ever felt this way about a boy a never knew, but something has happened to me that i now know i will never forget Bill clayton. All true love - Lynn

Name: Jon Carsello
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Oxnard, California
Time: 2000-10-17 10:19:00
Comments: I was very moved by this story.

Name: Justin
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Port Huron Michigan
Time: 2000-10-16 22:43:32
Comments: I think that it is a true crime that such things happen in our country. I hate to think that mankind is as brutal and ruthless as they are.

Name: david brown
Website: david brown music
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: nyc, ny
Time: 2000-10-16 09:49:49
Comments: thank you for your page. i had not heard of bill's story. this is the history that needs to be remembered!

Name: Joan Lansberry
Website: Out On A Limb
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Arizona
Time: 2000-10-16 09:06:08
Comments: I found your page linked from an online journal I read, Funny The World

I hardly know what to say. Such a horrible trajedy, and you are dealing with it as best you can. May your page reach many. May it help to know that others are thinking of you. Hatred is a vile, evil thing, born of fear unembraced. May your page help those who might be hurting. Your poor son, who quit life, because he was 'tired of coping', had he only known, THE STRUGGLE DOES GET EASIER. We DO get stronger as the years go by. If only he had known that.

To anyone out there who is struggling, know it does get easier with time. Hang in there.

Love,
Joan

Name: Stephen W Hollinger
Referred by: AOL
From: Fort Lauderdale FLA
Time: 2000-10-16 06:50:32
Comments: just a concerned ctizen who was quite touched by this story

Name: tomas ruiz
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: olympia, wa.
Time: 2000-10-15 05:27:39
Comments: After reading Bill's Story, my heart goes out to you. I too have a son only 19 now. Zeb. Thank you for sharing with us your your love and your loss.

Name: Karen
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Sequim, WA
Time: 2000-10-14 22:31:36
Comments: I'm speakless as I read your story. My heart pours out to you and I hope that the hate in this country will someday stop. I'm a 17 year old female student in high school, washington in fact. I have a couple of friends that are bisexual, both males in fact. I'm glad the small town I live in doesn't act the way the much larger ones do, such as Olympia. Everyone treats them as equals and enjoys their friendship. In fact, you couldn't have asked for better friends. I feel as if something should have been said about your son's situation. I get the news, I even have family that lives in Olympia and I didn't realize this sort of action was taking place. Maybe it's not an importance to some...but it should be. Hate crimes are ripping this country apart and I'm sad to see it enter our state. You have my love and support fighting this issue, it may take many years to overcome but in the end it will be worth it. Didn't we learn in U.S. history class some where down the line that "All Men Are Created Equal"? Whatever happened to that? People need to open up their eyes and not be afraid of whats different or new to them. Learn to except people not matter what their differences are. I hope more are educated and the news is spread. It makes me happy to see webpages like http://www.youthresource.com/ are out there fighting and supporting todays youth. Me included, I understand my friends a little more and support them that much further. I wish the best for everyone in the future, and hope they find themselves, where ever that may be.

Name: Udi Davidovich
Referred by: NewsGroups
From: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Time: 2000-10-14 01:32:46
Comments: In support of your struggle!

Name: Maurice Parker
Referred by: NewsGroups
From: Toronto, Canada
Time: 2000-10-13 23:56:17
Comments: I had to comment, but it is so hard to find any words. I am so very sorry.

Name: Rachel
Referred by: NewsGroups
From: ohio
Time: 2000-10-13 11:19:57
Comments: As a lesbian college student (I'm 19), this story has moved me incredibly. Bill's story is a tragedy, and he was very lucky to have caring, loving people in his life while it lasted. Many of us cannot even tell our families for fear of hate from our own blood relations. This is ridiculous. 30% of teen suicides are from gay, bi, or sexually confused kids--yet only 10% of teenagers are a sexual minority. This has got to stop--thanks for helping us!

Name: Mara Cain
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Texas
Time: 2000-10-13 06:49:31
Comments: I will join in your efforts to stamp out hate

Name: Richard M. Okarski, Jr.
Website: My Faith & Beliefs
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Washington
Time: 2000-10-13 01:06:38
Comments: Dear Gabi, Your son's story is very moving and it made me cry. Thank you for writing it and making it available for everyone to read and learn from. I myself am gay and have experienced harassment and abuse for it by people. I too was once highly suicidal, so I can appreciate how your son felt just before his death. Sometimes, I feel like I could just suffocate. I am not a pagan, but I used to be. I respect the choice that your son made regarding his beliefs. I am a Roman Catholic now, and I am striving inside my Church, to open the eyes of the hierarchy. I hope to help educate them and I constantly pray that they will come to see that their teachings need to be changed and can be changed since they are not Dogma. Hate and persecution must be silenced. May your son be at peace. Bright Blessings to you. Love, ~Rick Okarski, age 23

Name: James Staley
Website: Excel Communications-jim Staley
Referred by: NewsGroups
From: Michigan
Time: 2000-10-12 20:24:17
Comments: It is a difficult life when you have problem because of sexuality. It has been some thing that I can relate to for all of my life, I am now 44 years old. I feel for you very much, because I know what it is like to have problems, I have had and still have problems because of people thinking, oh, I must be gay because I had not had a wife and I do not have any children and I used to live with another man, that was the thing that had people wonder, is he or is he not gay??? There are always people in the world that hate, let me share a little example of hate with you and what can even happen when you go to a Court here in Michigan when they find out that it is about a gay couple problem and when the money is gone for legal fees there is no more help. At a young age, I met a man that I had a relationship with for 16 years and we had lived at 4 different places together, because of the age difference, he was 16 years older than me, I did not have alot of problems because most people always was thinking he was my father, because I was so much younger and he look alot older than me. During the 16 years, I had alot of abuse from this man, emotional and sexual and and it did not help that he had a real bad problem with being drunk every nite. I just was thinking that I had a investment with the home that I thought we own together. Later, I found out that what I signed at the house closing was not papers for me to be a co-owner like I was told for all the many years. Jim, the person that I was with was a very difficult and controling person and after, I gav him a 50th birthday party at our home with about 100 guest, the thanks that I got was he moved a married man into the home that nite and he was one of the mininster from the church that we were very active with, the first presbyterian church in ann arbor. A few months later, Jim said he did not think I was nice enough to his new lover that he moved in to the home and pushed me down a flight of stairs and sat on my chest and tried to kill me with his bare hands. I did leave the home and the situation that nite and with the help of my family I moved out and got my own home. After three years trying to get my things of value, money from a joint bank account, and the money from the home that I did help buy I did find a wonderful lawyer and to help me and I went to court and I did loose everything. I did not get any thing of value from the home and also no money and he still is in the home and I do not know who with, I do think it is with another young man, I just do not know for sure. When I went to court, he said I was just a rented and that was all to him, so there is hate even in a relationship, when it is gay or what ever. I had a jury trial and the jury was walking near me down the street and they said they were glad that the fagot young one did not get anything for the court case. It is a little long story, I just wanted to share with you that it very very difficult to go throught life and to think that some thing like this could happen to me and to others. it does and the depression does not go away and it it difficult to be in public and to have a job with the public for me, I now have a job away from people, face to face, I just do not think I will ever be the same after going through some thing like this. Please be kind to people that are different because of sexuality or of a different type of life style, because the out come of the treatment could cause damage for the rest of the persons life, it has mine. In the end the only people that really care have been my parents and to this day I have not talked to them about the relationship and about being Gay, I am sure that they know and it has just been better not talking about it ??

Name: Mark Bruce
Website: Artdecade
Referred by: From a Friend
From: UK
Time: 2000-10-12 15:46:11
Comments: I found this website from a link at www.hatecrime.orq I was the victim of sexual abuse at a young age and still now at the age of 26 I'm trying to cope with it all. I was very deeply moved by the story of Bill and what he went through. It's such a waste of a good life too. Much love and peace Mark x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x-x

Name: Kathy D. Lessa
Website: Kathy's Korner
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Dallas, TX
Time: 2000-10-12 14:38:30
Comments: Thanks for sharing your story. I'm sitting here crying at work now. I'm so sorry for your family's loss. I write this to you after having JUST received an emailed "joke" from one of my parents' friends that includes some gratuitous gay bashing. They just don't get it... they just don't get who it is that they are hurting, the real cost of that level of hate. Thanks for doing your part. I'm glad Bill had such a wonderful family during his short time on this earth.

Name: Tom Adams
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Manassas, VA
Time: 2000-10-11 09:42:26
Comments: The story of Bill has really touched my heart. As an older gay white male, I can feel the pain that he and his family and friends have had to endure. Being a teenager in todays world is hard enough, but add the fact that you are finding out that you gay or bi is more than most can face. We as adults, gay or straight must extend our hands and heart to these young people to let them know that we understand and love them. Help support local gay/bi/lesbian youth organizations. Remember, to stop the injustice that a lot of us have had to endure over the years, begins with one person, "ME". God bless you all. Tom

Name: glenda conway
Referred by: From a Friend
From: montevallo.al
Time: 2000-10-10 21:31:36
Comments: I really appreciate your talk in Montevallo. I wish more people would have not been afraid to have come out to hear ' you. For the first time, I imagined that prejudice against homosexuals might be defeated through logic and emotion. Please keep talking to groups as much as you can, even if the attendance seems small. There are people who are listening, and who are talking to others. Thank you for coming. Thank you for being able to share your experience. Glenda

Name: Clearain83
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Colorado Springs, Colorado
Time: 2000-10-10 16:56:36
Comments: I am 17 years old also a bisexual. I am writing an article for my school webzine on teen suicide. I feel your loss. A good friend of mine killed herself the day I got my driver's license. I have also tryed to kill myself numerous times. I hope people's stories like Bill's will prevent even one person from choosing suicide.

Name: christopher harris
Referred by: From a Friend
From: st.neots cambs england
Time: 2000-10-10 14:09:34
Comments: i found your site by a link from tony whites site, you are the most loveliest people I have heard about in along time It seems such a great pity that you had to loose something so great to you to take the action you have in producing this web site ,thank you very much for your support on or crusade to fight the ignorance

Name: Angela Bell
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Waycross, GA
Time: 2000-10-09 20:55:19
Comments: I am gay. I am "out" at work and around friends. But my parents do not know. I guess I'm just waiting for the right time to tell them. I think my mom would be ok, but my father would probably hate me for it. There is really only one way to find out and that is to tell them.

Name: Jennifer McMillian
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Alabama
Time: 2000-10-09 20:51:12
Comments: You never know what a person is hiding inside or dealing with. My mother always told me don't ever judge a person on who they are or what you think they should be. Reading this article touched me. I will never understand how a person can hate someone simply because their not percieved to be normal. It is so easy to say just ignore it turn the other cheek but that is just it to many people ignore it and we all know by doing that the problem doesn't go away. Which leads to bigger problems. I trully hope that Bills story inspires many other teenagers who have to go through this. Realize that you are not alone and that God loves you and even when others treat you wrong and turn their backs on you he loves you no matter who you are and through all that darkness their is still light.Jennifer

Name: Heather Driscoll
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From:
Time: 2000-10-09 14:58:46
Comments: Keep up the good work! It would be wonderful if more parents could be as open-minded, loving, and supportive as I gather you are.

Name: Tanya Bridges
Referred by: Net Search
From: Monroe,GA
Time: 2000-10-09 09:35:25
Comments: loved it

Name: carolyn cosma
Referred by: Net Search
From: massachusetts, usa
Time: 2000-10-08 18:40:14
Comments: i would just like to thank you for being so understanding of your son and for dedicating your life to his memory. i too have been the victim of hate-crimes, not only from strangers, but also from my family. in the 10th grade my family threw me out on the street because my mother read my journal and found out i was a lesbian. now 22 and a senior in college, i have fought without the help of my family. thank you for being an aly, standing up for civil rights, and making a difference. thank you! carolyn

Name: MANDY FOSSEY
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: GUERNSEY CHANNEL ISLANDS
Time: 2000-10-08 10:40:06
Comments: YOUR LOSS SADDNESS ME, YOU SEEM TO BE WONDERFUL PEOPLE AND YOU HAD A WONDERFUL SON. MY THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU

Name: Robert McWhirter
Referred by: Net Search
From: Australia
Time: 2000-10-08 07:23:24
Comments: Hi there. My name is Robert McWhirter and I am a gay 17y/o from Australia. I do not claim to feel the pain that Bill's mother and father must have gone through even though I have experienced family death. For Bill's parents: I do sympatise with your situation and I do believe that you loved your son Very Much. For Bill, (because I know he will somehow read this): You are very brave to have come out to your family and friends!! You should not have had to suffer the pains of life to the extremities that you did. I wish you well on your journey from where ever you are now. I read Bill's story and I shed a tear for I know the hate expressed towards him. I thankyou all (family and friends) for sharing Bill's story with myself and the rest of the world --> equality WILL COME, maybe not tomorrow, but just hope!

Name: Michael
Referred by: Net Search
From: San Antonio, Tx
Time: 2000-10-07 21:18:30
Comments: I am doing a report on gay and bisexual social anxiety and coming out, being gay myself I understand the fear of coming out and dealing with the ignorance of our society head on. I commend your son for his bravery at such a young age, and to your family for beign by his side and giving him not less love but more love for who he is. He may not be with you physically, but he is always there for you.

Name: Sam
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: California
Time: 2000-10-04 19:54:52
Comments: Your son should've known people would hate him... he didn't think about all the people he'd hurt when he killed himself.

Name: Stephanie Dorsey
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Austin, Tx but go to college in College Station Texas A&M
Time: 2000-10-03 18:49:30
Comments: Your web page was very touching and awesome at the same time. I am doing a paper on hate crime I am also bi-sexual and know what it is like.

Name: S.J
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Kentucky
Time: 2000-10-02 19:48:07
Comments: Hello, I'm an art student at EKU at am working on a painting about hate and hate crimes...you and your son have inspired me...Your loving words have torn at my heart and brought tears to my eyes...I'm gay and I understand how Bill felt all too well, I'm sorry I never had the chance to meet him in life, but nonetheless, his spirit has touched me now, thank you for sharing your story... S.

Name: Jaime Paulsen
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Indiana
Time: 2000-09-30 14:18:26
Comments: I was researching descrimination for a speech I am giving. I have to try to convince people not to hate others because of color, gender,sexuality, and other stuff. This has been one of the most helpful web sites I have come to. It really is sad how people treat others. I am sorry to here about your son. Thanks for the help with my speech.

Name: Joseph
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Olympia Washington
Time: 2000-09-30 00:18:32
Comments: I heard about this my freshman year and I am a junior right now at Olympia High School. I knew somewhat of what happened but after things happened at Oly I told someone I trusted and she sent me this page to read. It really moved me to find out the whole story. I just wanted to say that I think it was great that he had the courage to tell everybody and soon I hope I will tell the whole school.

Name: Heather Jones
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Kentucky
Time: 2000-09-29 11:18:02
Comments: I am in college and I am doing research paper.My paper has to be about disenfranchised people in this country and how they are powerless and what we can do to help. I chose to write my paper on homosexuals and lesbians. I wanted to do some research so I could tell a story in my paper and tell how hate can kill. When I read your story, I knew I had to use it. It touched my heart. I couldn't imagine wht it would feel like to lose a member of my family due to their sexual orientation. Your story is an inspiration, and perhaps through your words, people will begin to realize how ignorant hate really is.

Name: Ed McCarroll
Website: Wombats in the Virtual World
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: So. Calif.
Time: 2000-09-29 08:25:09
Comments: Actually, I've stopped by before, just didn't sign in here.

Name: philip
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: London - UK
Time: 2000-09-28 11:23:13
Comments: I met my partner when I was 17 and he had just turned 30. We have lived together for 31 years, and have never known anything but love. We grieve with you, nothing will ever bring Bill back to you, but never again will anything or anyone harm him. Remember, those we love are only ever a whisper away.

Name: Maureen Montgomery
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: The Back woods of Southeastern Ohio
Time: 2000-09-28 08:07:46
Comments: I am doing research for a persuasive speech on the rights of homosexuals and would like more info. Feel free to mail me anything you feel would be helpful in this endavor (sp?) Where I live is nothing but Bible beaters (I am a devout Presbyterian, but I have a very hard time tolerating theese folks) and Homophobics and I am looking to try to open some minds around here!

Name: ilse
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Amsterdam,Netherlands
Time: 2000-09-28 03:52:56
Comments: All I can think is, what a waste of such a beautiful young life, how utterly sad...however what a privilige for him to have (had) parents like you and for you to have (had) a son like him.Fear is the root of all evil.

Name: Russ Hemphill
Referred by: From a Friend
From:
Time: 2000-09-27 21:18:07
Comments: I heard you speak at Gonzaga University. I mentioned the use of the two terms: HOMOPHOBIA and HETEREOSEXISM. I am so moved by your committment and enthusiasm. I feel very fortunate to have been able to hear you speak. I hope that we can connect again. As a gay man, I have the hope that young people will have the opportunity to find answers in the personal search for their identity in safe homes and schools. I was fortunate to have a supportive home and was able to quickly learn the skills to build allies. Your work is allowing youth who are questioning and even identifying themsleves at very early ages a safer climate to grow.

Name: Sonny
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: London, U.K.
Time: 2000-09-27 15:35:36
Comments: I was moved to tears just by reading Bill's story and I share with you the loss of a fine young man. I can relate to Bill as I nearly went through what Bill did, but I chickened out. I had a hard time coming out to myself and accepting my own sexuality. I only wished that I could have been with Bill just before his final moment just to talk to him and convince him that he was loved and would always be loved by many. We all want to feel loved and belong. There is a lot that this world needs to learn about sexuality, caring and loving. My philosophy has always been that 'Do whatever you want to do so long as you are not hurting anyone!'. And that includes loving whoever you want whoever they may be. Why is my favourite colour blue, and why I prefer member of my own sex? I don't know the answer to this question except I just do. I'm not hurting anyone so I just be...And they should have just let Bill be.....

Name: yael shperber
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: israel
Time: 2000-09-27 10:57:20
Comments: I was very exsited when i read this story, i hope that many more gays will follow after their harets . like bill did!

Name: CRYSTAL AGUIRRE
Website: MSN.COM
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: WHITTIER
Time: 2000-09-27 01:01:05
Comments: IM TRULY SORRY FOR WHAT HAD HAPPEN TO BILL. I THINK IT IS GREAT THAT HE HAD A LOT OF SUPPORT. YOU AS BILLS PARENTS SHOULD BE PRAISED FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT. I HAVE MANY FRIENDS WHO ARE GAY AND BI-SEXUAL AND HAVE NOT RECIEVED THE SUPPORT YOU HAD GIVEN YOUR SON I THINK THE PARENYS IN OUR SOCIETY SHOULD FOLLOW YOUR FOOT STEPS BECAUSE YOU NEVER NO HOW LONG THAT PERSON WILL BE AROUND. I FOUND THIS STORY TO BE VERY TOUCHING AND I PRAISE YOU FOR BEEN SO STRONG,TAKE CARE

Name: buzzy
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Virginia
Time: 2000-09-25 19:48:39
Comments: I just want you to know that my thought are with you all. I am a gay youth and I too went through harassment while in high school, luckily though it was only verbal threats. My heart is with you.

Name: Manuel Sanchez
Referred by: From a Friend
From: San Antonio ,Tx
Time: 2000-09-25 13:56:40
Comments: As i type this how i feel about ur story about ur son i have many tears to share, i came out when i was in 8th grade, I have told my mom i am gay and with open arms she told me it dont matter to her cause i was her son and notthing could change that, i felt so lucky that i have a mother who loves me do matter what, Even tho i never was a victam to a hate-crime, i know how it feels like to lose a love one. But we all must remember our loves ones for all the good things they did and how much they touched us in many ways. My heart goes out to u and ur family for the lost of ur son, and i hope i could help in anyway i can

Name: Julie Lundstrom
Website: Julie's Women4Women,Lesbian Connection
Referred by: Signing another Guestbook
From: Amarillo, Texas
Time: 2000-09-25 10:45:47
Comments: I was touched by the story about Bill. It brought back memories for me. I survived. I still survive, but at times feel I only exist. I have been out for 3 1/2 years, and at age 30, and have been the victim of a hate crime in that time. It is only a matter of time until the world will be forced to recognize us as human beings, not just gays. I am anxiously awaiting for that time to come.

Name: elizabeth Schofield
Referred by: From a Friend
From: massachusetts
Time: 2000-09-24 22:14:39
Comments: I think what you are trying to do is wonderful! What a sad world we live in when people cannot be accepted for who they are. We have come so far and yet we have really come nowhere. I hope that someday Bill will have his justice, along with thousands of other young adults. Thank you for sharing your story, and making a difference.

Name: Sammy
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Eau Claire,WI
Time: 2000-09-24 21:28:56
Comments: Hello, First I would like to let you know, I am truly sorry for the lose of your son. I, being a 16y/o Gay male, know what Bill went thru. We are hated for what is a personal and private matter. I myself have been suicidal on many occassions. Thank God for close friends who where there at those times to stop me. Your son will live on in the hearts of those he loved and loved him. I did not know him, but sense he was a fine young man, with much to offer. I will say a Prayer for his safe keeping, in the hands of God. I only wish I could have known him. Please keep up the good work, of trying to stop the hate. Thank you for your time. love Sammy.

Name: Dave Gaskell
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Aylesbury Bucks England
Time: 2000-09-24 06:32:46
Comments: Thank you so much for publishing this incredible account of what goes so wrong in society. Here in my home county people are very intolerent and homophobia is high and unacceptable. a new nationwide campaign has begun recently called action against homophobia, it will in time save many lives and offer real protection to young people from such cowardly crimes. Having read your website a year ago I felt I had to remind myself of its contents again. I have put a link to it on a local website for local gay men some of whom may identify with its message, and may in turn feel brave enough to report similar crimes in future. So often these go unreported and allow the culprits to continue with their hate campaign. Your site gives a powerful message and I know offers hope and the beginnings of a solution to those affected by homophobia. Thankyou again I wish you a bright and happy future.

Name: Rick
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Evansville Ind
Time: 2000-09-23 18:59:45
Comments: What a wonderful world this would be with more people like your son.God Bless You.Rick

Name: Dean Marsh
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Cool, California
Time: 2000-09-21 21:57:26
Comments: Wow. I cannot begin to say what an incredible story that was. Living in a small rural community where blacks, gays, anyone who is not redneck is ostracized, it is incredibly emotional for me to comprehend such horror and grief in this poor boy's family. Being a gay 16 year old male myself, I know only too well the daily routines of verbal abuse. Sometimes, words can be so much more powerful than punches. God bless you all, Jesus loves you, and always remember the good times. Memories will never fade away, never.

Name: Russ Whitten
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Ocean Park, Maine
Time: 2000-09-21 13:28:53
Comments: Hell-o I am a high school student at Old Orchard Beach High School in southern Maine (15 min. south of Portland) I read what you had to say about the loss of Bill, and it struck me very strongly. I hope you dont mind, but I have a 3 page to write in my POD class, and I would like to use your story as a good strong beginning. The paper is on Hate Crimes, and hate groups. please e-mail me back if you have a problem with this, if not, thank you for your help. Russ (God Bless)

Name: Misi
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Olympia
Time: 2000-09-20 22:23:20
Comments: the "friend" is actually you Gabi. We've never really met except as a face in a crowd at Capital Playhouse before and after Steve Schalchlin's concert. I wish I could say I had known about your son and his story, I didn't. I wish I could have been there to support you during those rough days. I wasn't. Believe me when I say that my heart is with you and your family and the memory of Bill. What an incredible concert that was! Steve's music, your story, your bravery, strength and dedication has lit a fire under one more person to DO SOMETHING! to help in the fight against hate crimes, but even more importantly in support of our kids: of all persuasions, choices and lifestyles. PFLAG here I come! Love and peace from Misi.

Name: Jonathan Guttman
Website: Jon Kewl Net
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Long island, NY
Time: 2000-09-20 17:19:34
Comments: This is such a said story. as a gay youth i know what it is like to be gay bashed. I have decided to deticate my self to ending hate crime and creating awarness for queer issues. with help from everyone, one day these types of tragities will no longer be. JON

Name: Cynthia A. Spinks
Referred by: Net Search
From: Auburn, Alabama
Time: 2000-09-20 15:57:35
Comments: I am truly saden about your son. People across America does not realize or even care as to the way they treat their fellow man. It doesn't matter what a person's skin color, sexual preference, religion, etc. is, no one deserves to be treated the way some people in America treats them. What they fail to realize is that God loves for who we are and the only judgment that will passed is done by him. People who mistreat people for whatever reason will also be judged by our Lord and Saviour, then maybe they will realize what they have done. I enjoyed reading your story and I pray that the Lord will see your family through. When you need someone to talk to call on Jesus, for he will be a friend indeed and one that will be there for you whenever you need him. I will pray that God will strengthen you and your family with his love.

Name: Charles
Website: HealthyPlace.com - Mental Health Communities
Referred by: From a Friend
From: San Antonio, TX, USA
Time: 2000-09-20 08:19:02
Comments: Came here through a link at Eric's new site "Gay is OK!" at http://www.healthyplace.com/Communities/Gender/gayisok/index.html, a wonderful internet effort at preventing gay teen suicide. Your site and Bill's life are positive inspirations. Thank you for caring and sharing. We care and remember. Charles

Name: Elizabeth Miller
Referred by: Tripod
From: Bakersfield, Ca.
Time: 2000-09-19 00:08:15
Comments: I am blown away. I am researching a debate topic concerning limitations of hate speach on college and university campuses, and happened upon this site. I read Bill's story, I sympathised and understood. It brought me to tears that such a young and wonderful person could have been driven to the point of suicide because people's ignorance and hate. To his family: My condolances. To have lost someone so caring and beautiful to something so vile and immoral is unthinkable to me. Hate is not to be tolerated. My best wishes in your fight against hate and please know that there are others still in the fight with you. Don't give up hope that one day things will be diferent. May Love and Peace be with you. Elizabeth.

Name: Melynda
Referred by: Net Search
From: Austin, TX
Time: 2000-09-16 19:15:46
Comments: I am a student at the UNIVERSITY OF TX AT AUSTIN...i came across your website and ur son's story while i was doing some research for my sociology class.. I am doing a portfolio and the topic I have decided to do my final project on was HATE CRIMES.. to be quite honest with you i didn't know much about the subject..upon coming across your sons story it saddens my heart deeply and brings soo many thoughts to mind.Lately the more i keep reading and researching all this information and facts about the subject I find myself becoming aware of just how horrible and cruel society can be.It's a shame and a shock to realize how people can actually committ these kind of crimes based on looks, race, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Im very sorry to hear of your loss..It should be something that noone should have to face or ever go through.You are a very strong woman to have to deal with that sort of loss but i hope that you are somewhat at peace ..and that you do continue to get your story across to people ..thank you for sharing your story..take care.. and best of wishes to you and your family.. god bless you..ALWAYS, melynda

Name: Shannon O'Brien
Website:
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: St. Paul, MN
Time: 2000-09-14 16:06:15
Comments: First, I would like to say that I am so sorry for your loss, but I thank you for your strength and courage in sharing your son's tragic story with us all. I have many friends who are either gay or bisexual, and I've even seen one of them go through many of the same feelings of depression and despair that Bill must have gone through. I just pray that through sharing Bill's story that some people will find hope and understand that there are people who care. If we work together, I believe it is possib;e to break down some of the walls and hopefully put a stop to the horrible hate crimes that take place in our country and around the world. Thank you for you work and compassion. Sincerely, Shannon K. O'Brien

Name: Cecelia
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Olympia
Time: 2000-09-14 09:59:41
Comments: I was a few years behind Bill in school, but the impact of his life has touched me greatly. One of my dear friends was colse to him and I learned about this website from him. I too am an openly bisexual student in Olympia. I too attended Olympia High School. I was never physically assaulted like Bill, but I had someone go through my bag one day and plant nasty notes in all of my notebooks and folders. I was often slandered for walking down the halls with my Girlfriends even if there was no sexual bond. I want to thank all those of you who are fighting and ask you to please not give up.

Name: john trevett
Website:
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: florida
Time: 2000-09-14 09:38:07
Comments: bless you as parents for the understanding and facing the difficult circumstances with your son.it looks as if you did all that you could to be supportive.while iam an adult now when i was a teen i was the victim of a violent hate attack by students at my school.very similar to the experience you relate.it so affected me i was in the closet till i was in my mid thirties,married and a dad. i have now healed thru the most painful difficult parts of that time turbulent adoleescens.being out of the closet and making room for being truly authentic in this worrld is how my spirit has adjusted.the pressure to being staight along with the awareness of being in a gay/bisexual orientation is a double one. please know that in the spirit of "carrying on" as donnna summer sings, i willl continue to blaze my own trails for understanding. also to note their is a wonderful program started at barnes and noble books, enttled , close the book on hate- 101 ways to combat prejudice. please obtain some of these marvelous brochures to pass out to those in your commmunity. with love for your son and your family i remain true. john

Name: Rachel
Referred by: Geocities
From: Mandurah Western Australia
Time: 2000-09-13 21:15:42
Comments: I was very touched. As a 16 year old i have thought about suicide myself. I wiil remember this story forever.

Name: Ray Burton
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Massachusetts
Time: 2000-09-13 09:15:19
Comments: Thank you for sharing your heart warming story ... I will be praying for Bill and you ( and your family).. survivors are truly victims too ! I'd like to share this story in the police and corrections academy classes that I teach. Please e-mail me if it's o.k. Thanks. My best to you and Bill's family and friends !

Name: William Stringfellow, Wewoka, OK
Referred by: Tripod
From: Wewoka, Oklahoma
Time: 2000-09-12 22:59:52
Comments: Thank you for presenting a loving and heart felt tribute.

Name: Kenneth Creech
Referred by: From a Friend
From: San Diego, CA
Time: 2000-09-12 18:42:19
Comments: I have read Bill's Story many times, for class and I even used quotes and information from the story in my Senior Research paper I did on Discrimination against homosexuals. His story is indeed a sad one, and not too distant from some of my own experiences and feelings. I know it must have been difficult for you to lose a son who did so much and tried so hard to be what others percieved as normal. I spent a large chunk of my life so far trying to fit in even when I knew I didn't. I came to realize that I never would fit society's standard placed upon young boys. My note to you is not a sad one however, I wanted to write you and tell you that I am so glad there are people like you, and your family. I helped to start a gay youth club in my high school and brought this story to one of the meetings to read to everyone. I don't think there was a dry eye in the room. I hope you continue to get support and offer support because I know from my own past that people certainly need all the support we can get. Thank you again for everything you have done for the Gay, Lesbian, and Bisexual community. Sincerely, Kenneth Creech

Name: Kara
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Quincy Michigan
Time: 2000-09-12 10:02:05
Comments: Yours is a very touching story. I am currently involved in an Independent research project in which I will uncover and publish the personal stories of homosexual individuals and families of homosexual individuals whose lives have been affected by hate crime. Let me know if you are interested in participating in my project. Kara

Name: Frank
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Safford, Az.
Time: 2000-09-11 23:21:47
Comments: I am moved by what I read about your son, I know how difficult it is to face hatred by others just because a person is gay or bi. When I was younger I faced harrassment by those who suspected I am gay and it was devastating, but now that I am older, I have the courage to deal with what I am. Thanks for publishing Bill's story, it touches my heart just as it did for thousands of others.

Name: Teresa Hurley
Referred by: Net Search
From: alex.Mo.
Time: 2000-09-11 20:57:47
Comments: To bill'I know your pain.My daughter and my self are both gay.And my husband and I lost a 16 yr. old son because of a man messing with him .He couldnt take it any more.My heart goes out to you wonderful parents of bill.Gob bless you for your works. My prayers will be with you.Keep the faith. thank you for sharing

Name: Ted Dinger
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: Phoenix
Time: 2000-09-11 16:11:33
Comments: I was very moved by the story of Bill. He was and is a very special person. I would like to say that even though he is not here physically, he is still making a difference in the lives of the gay community. Thank you for posting the story and I sincerely hope that you continue to be strong and continue to Love. God Bless you my friend.

Name: Rustie
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: Central Oklahoma
Time: 2000-09-11 13:39:35
Comments: I am very open about my sexuality. I just came out to my parents and they told me that they still loved me but they just did't understand. I really hope they come around because I really want them to meet my boyfriend. Although my parents do not understand what I am going through they still love me. So I guess what I am saying is you don't know how your parents will take it untill you give them a chance. Rustie In Oklahoma

Name: Stephanie Hurlburt
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: st.marys, ohio
Time: 2000-09-11 08:35:32
Comments: i loved bill's story. yea, stuff like the happpends somewhere everyday. i read this story becuse i found it while i was suposed to be looking up stuff for a class. bill was strong and i admire that about him. i'm not gay or bi, but i understand what him and his family went through. you have my support and my best wishes in your fight for gay rights and your fight for bill. i know it was hard for you to talk about this and it was hard for you to experiance this. you all were strong and i offer my support for bill and your family. best wishes in everything *~*stephanie*~*

Name: Natalie
Referred by: Just Surfed On In
From: ontario canada
Time: 2000-09-10 20:40:38
Comments: I was doing this project in my law class and decided to do it on hate crimes. I had no idea how someone could be brought down and have their self-esteem crushed so fast. Being a teenager myself (17) I thought i had to struggle with alot of things but i had no idea some people had a tougher time than i did. I just wish i had the courage you son did. I bet he changed alot of lives when he spoke at that rally, i know for sure this story has touched mine. Good Luck with everything

Name: stacey
Referred by: Yahoo!
From: peoria, il
Time: 2000-09-10 14:08:29
Comments: This was very hard for me to read. I fear my two small children growing up in our disturbing world.

Name: Barbara
Website: writingsfromtheheart
Referred by: From a Friend
From: Seattle Wa
Time: 2000-09-10 13:33:22
Comments: I love You! Your sweet, smart, WISE, WISE, and a GREAT HUGGER!!!!!! Your site teaches me to be in the now and not fear the past, but wear the memories with courage...Thank you. I am also thanking you for being a source of support to me as I grieve for my loving daughter who's life isn't over yet, but..still I grieve because sometimes she suffers much and it's not easy to see her suffer in her body. Her faith brings her much strength as do her friends and those who may not have met her face to face, but yet they pray for her and love her in the now. Gabi, you inspired me to put up the site for Doriann and thank you dear. Your strength and willingness to share your life and your knowledge and activism is a gift to me. I thank my God for wonderful souls like you who are here and sharing your purpose in life. Be blessed dear and thank you for suck a beautiful memorial to your son. Be seeing you soon at Steve's concert. Much love, Barbara

Name: Gabi Clayton
Website: an index page to past guestbook pages, responses, and more...
Referred by: Tripod
From: Olympia, WA
Time: 2000-09-10 08:14:49
Comments: This new guestbook was started on 9/10/00. 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