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June 16, 2010 | By : John Parham | Categorized Under : Announcements
UPDATE ON JOHN PARHAM: John ended up getting “the call” saying that the hospital had a lung for him. You can read more on John’s progress by reading “Thank You All For Your Prayers, Kind Words, and Support”, a blog post from the Parham Family.
The American Dream
J&P Cycles® truly is a business representative of the
American Dream. Jill and I started by selling parts out of the back of a van from a small town in Iowa. Now, we are the world’s largest retailer of aftermarket parts for motorcycles. It took a lot of work, sacrifices, dedicated employees, a strong family and some luck to get to this point.
The reason I am writing this letter is to hopefully help us all realize the simple things in life truly matter most. I was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis in the fall of 2007 (I never smoked cigarettes). Pulmonary Fibrosis is a lung disease, where your lung tissue becomes scarred and dies, never growing again. I have had 55 percent lung capacity since 2007, at least until March 16, 2010. That was the day I was admitted to the hospital for emergency colon surgery. That surgery went well, but in recovery, I got pneumonia and spent 33 days in Intensive Care as well as another 19 days in the hospital for a total of 52 days. My lungs are now damaged further and I am on oxygen at all times. I have had to learn how to swallow food and liquids all over again. I have never worked so hard in my whole life as I have in the last 10 weeks. I can walk short distances up to 75 feet, but then my oxygen levels drop to very low levels. My only hope to live is a lung transplant. Why am I telling you all this? It is not to feel sorry for me. I am a fighter; I want to live. Jill and I have way too many things we still want to do. One is watch our grandchild, Kaiden grow up.
But through these last two months, I have realized how important certain things in life really are. My family has provided never ending support and has always been there for me, especially Jill. My friends have, as well. I have seen friends in the last 10 weeks, I haven’t seen in years, and have received cards from all over the world. It really makes you realize how lucky you are. Believing in God and praying for strength to continue to keep going everyday is important. I had a lot of people praying for me and I appreciate it so much.
When you think about it, the most important thing is your health. You have to take care of yourself. Then, you need your family, friends and faith to help support each other.
As I laid in the intensive care unit, I dreamed of such simple things like being at home to sit on my front porch to smell the grass and hear the birds sing. It’s amazing how one’s priorities change when faced with a severe illness. So, please take time to think about all the things in your life that are important then look at them again if the doctor told you that you only had one year to live.
If you haven’t seen the movie “Bucket List” with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman, it’s a good movie. Maybe a little extreme with things they were able to do, but Jill and I created a bucket list three years ago and now we are on our second list. Many of the things were quite simple, but we just never took the time to do them before.
Last year Jill and I were married for 35 years and J&P Cycles® had their 30th year in business with over 22,000 people attending our Open House. My next dream is in the works right now as we remodel a 36,000 square foot former Wal-Mart building off of Highway 151 and move the National Motorcycle Museum to this location. We will have the Arlen Ness, Awesome-Ness exhibit as well as many other motorcycle exhibits on display during the J&P Cycles Open House this year.
The final thing I want to talk about is becoming an organ donor. Let’s face it, we love to ride motorcycles and with that comes a higher chance of getting hurt or killed in a traffic accident. If you are not already, please consider signing up to be an organ donor. There are thousands of people on waiting lists to receive an organ transplant. Some even die before one becomes available. It’s like giving the gift of life to someone else. To find out more about organ donation visit: www.organdonor.gov. Next, click on the header “Be a Donor” then “how to register to be a donor in your state.” From there, you will be directed to specific information for your state on how you can become a donor.
Jill and I wish to thank you for your business all these years. Motorcycles have been my life for almost 34 years. I cannot think of a better industry to be in. We have made so many friends and have met so many wonderful people and customers over the years. Motorcycle people are real – what you see is what you get. And, they are the most generous, loyal, honest and helpful people you will ever meet.
God bless all of you!
Ride Safe!
John Parham
I am a son of a preacher, and i do believe in the power of prayer. You are absolutely right about bikers being the most caring genuine people. I am a member of a local riding group, (Dirty Curry Riders)and we have raised money for those who have had hard times due to health. I too am an organ donor, and have been since I received a liscense. I also fabricate and repair bikes as a hobby, and always use your company for the parts. May God bless you and your family thru these times.
John your note hits me hard, So sorry to hear of your pains but I’m confident that only good will come from your note. I am proud to say that I’ve been an organ donor for decades. Also I donate platelets and plasma at every oppertunity. this is another good way to save lives and improve another’s quality of life. My best to you and your family, Buddy!
Walk it off John.
Love & Respect
Flash
Sober Riders M/C
Sacramento Chapter
JOHN,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. You and your family are good folks and you deserve the best.
Dan and Cindy
When I worked for you, how often did you tell me that you had been at the TOP and at the BOTTOM?!!! This is just another dip and with your strength and determination you will overcome this! You are in my thoughts. You and yours have been like a second family to me for years.
When I worked for you, how many times did you tell me that you had been at the TOP and the BOTTOM?!!! This is just another dip in your life. With you strength and determination you will overcome this! You are in my thoughts. You and yours have been a second family to me. Take care!!!
JOHN, I HOPE FOR THE BEST FOR YOU BECAUSE–YOU ARE THE BEST, AND FOR YOU TO FIND THE STRENGTH
TO SEE YOU THROUGH A SPEEDY RECOVERY AND, YOU ARE CORRECT—TO ENJOY THE SIMPLE BEAUTIES THAT LIFE HAS TO OFFER. SO, GOD BLESS AND CARE FOR YOU. DR. RICH AND TERRY ANDRIA–NAPLES, FL.
Fight on, John … that’s all we can ALL do. I hope and pray for the best for you and your family.
I’ve been use by the Lord to do supernatural miricules. I have no doubt of the power of God. No matter how the storm looks make sure you are right with the Lord. Search you heart for any wrongs you have had done as well as any unforgiveness. Truely ask God to forgive you and he will. The motive of your heart must be sincere. It is your heart of truth that will help you. Anything is possible with God. Have no doubt whatsoever. If so ask the Father to help you. Remember make yourself right with the Father. Pray, it makes the difference to healing or going home. And people have it backwards, you do not die for you are dead now, you go to live. Blessings and peace, Love, Oso.
I am very sad that a good person like you is suffering so bad – and it is hard to find the right words. I feel for you and I want to encourage you to fight. Do not give up, as god is not giving up on you. Your words were special to me and touched my heart, the only thing I can give back, is to pray for you.
You will make it buddy. Tom, Germany.
Good luck John. Hang in there and keep fighting.
John
While not as severe as you, I caught H1N1 last October out of the blue. While in the hospital, I contracted severe pneumonia and spent many days in ICU not knowing the outcome. In the end, I lost 1/3 function of my lungs. I do know about the very short walks and getting winded. It’s been a difficult recovery. There were times when I thought this would be the end to my military career. I missed two months of work. But through patience, hard work and lots of prayer, I continue to grow stronger every day. I’ve even started running again (not long distances). My pulmonologist even surprised me by saying that my lung function was improving (he was even surprised). The body is an amazing machine.
In short, you and your family are in my prayers… hang in there! Getting hit with something like this really make you appreciate the simple things in life and the blessings you’ve received.
Hi John,
We are sorry to hear about what’s going on with you right now. I don’t know if you’ll remember us, but my wife, Marcie contacted you several years ago, and sent you a picture of our 1947 Knucklehead with sidecar. I was sitting in the hack, and my neighbor was giving me a ride after I’d had knee surgery. You posted that pic in your catalog, and sent us a pic of you with a sidecar as Santa with a bunch of presents! I still have that picture on my wall! We wish you and your family all the best during these difficult times, and our thoughts and prayers are with you. Ron & Marcie Felix
Hey John
you helped put the wind in my face,thank you.
May your life blessed…..
John I don’t measure a man’s success by how high he climbs but how high he bounces when he hits bottom.”So john hang in there you will bounce back and in joy the little things ( Your Family) I no i’ve been there. Love & Respet From all of us at Chop.Shop.Custom.Cycles
I’m so sorry to hear this. My mother live with this for eight years before she went on to be with the Lord. The doctors gave her three years to live, but the Lord gave her eight. She learned to love all the simple things as you are. Remember, the Lord knows you “date”, not the doctors. Lean on him and all will be good. My prayers will be with you! Thank you for sharing this with us. May God be good to you and your family!
John & family: We met face to face at the Hall of Fame award ceremony in Spearfish in ’06 when you and I (ABATE of California founder) were inducted into the Hall of Fame. As I said in my acceptance speech, if it wasn’t for you starting JP Cycles, I would not have been able to get the parts to keep my old Panhead running. I am sorry to hear you have not been well. Thanks for your diligence in keeping we “old school” riders on the road. Our thoughts are with you.
John – fight on, buddy. I had a near-fatal accident on my Kawai bike 2 years ago – shattered my right leg from the knee down. I had two surgeries, have screws in there permanently, walk with a brace and a cane and my walking abilities are very very limited. Am also a prostate cancer survivor – Oct. 2009 – radical robotic prostotectomy – became very ill after my trip to Sturgis in the Summer of 2009, and thought the end was near. Never ever give up the fight – bikers are indeed a very special “group” and we are survivors.
John & Jill.
Aside from the power of prayer and the human spirit,
our hospital system and Allopathic medicine have saved John’s life. We can all be thankful for that.
Please now look into the ability of Naturopathic and Homeopathic Medicines to improve the quality of life you now have. There are natural ways of helping to heal and ease the body’s adjustment to it’s new condition. MD’s don’t deal with these . Find a good Naturopathic doctor to supplement your medical treatment and hopefully improve your health and abilities.
We need good folks like you around for a lot longer.
I wish the best to you both.
John,
Although we have never met I feel like you are on of “us”. A biker, a fighter, a family man, a person who cares. I grew up in CR but live in AZ currently, I’ve been riding since age 12 and have also been a customer. I wish you the best as you fight this and hope that you and your family continue to enjoy life.
Rex
keep your head held high and the wind in your face
best regard to you and family russell (magoo)
australia victoria
Knowing what really matters in lfe is one of the greatest gifts God gives us….no matter what circumstances are involved in that understanding including coming in contact with your mortality. That gift IS a true blessing ….count yourself blessed John because when we are prepared for the future, is when we live in the minute. Take care and God be with you…….
Jim Franco
Seattle, Washington
John you have been an inspiration to myself and countless others. Your long outstanding career in the Motorcycle business shows dedication and passion are keys to success. I personally thank you for advice you have given me for which I will be forever grateful. I have known of your illness and have kept you in my thoughts for the last few years. My friend, please get better. You are an outstanding person that has helped change the way people can get parts for their bikes. A true pioneer. I will take your advice and keep the simple things in life as the most important. Thank you for being my friend.
Kenny Price
John…I met you in Sturgis a few years ago. I’m saddened by your health issues and will pray and hope for a strong recovery from you illness. If I can muster up another ride this summer, maybe we can meet again and talk about stuff that makes us smile….that just might be motorcycles. God bless you. Allen Snively. Lake Tenkiller, Oklahoima.
your stamina got you where you’re at. we love what you have created for us and your creator loves you for you. i lost my wife in 08 to copd after 30+ years of marriage. you have so many people praying for you. live it, love it, and go on. we,re right there with you bro. he has a plan. go for it.
John,
The list of comments from friends following your note show the overwhelming amount of love and admiration so many have for you – the strength of their support is all powerful.
Thanks for opening the eyes and hearts of so many; thanks for reminding me to focus on what is truly important in life.
Sending you our support as well.
Dave – Tel Aviv, Israel
This past weekend I attended the J & P Open House in Anamosa, IA as a vendor with James Gaskets. This was our firt time attending, but definitely will not be our last. I have never met so many nice people in one place; especially the employees of J & P! Everyone was so helpful and accomodating and just genuinely nice. I attended both the vendor appreciation dinner and the unveiling of the Arlen Ness exhibit at the National Motorcycle Museum and I’m so glad that I did. John and Jill were present at both events and spoke candidly about John’s current medical condition and recent acceptance to the donor list for a lung transplant. Their words were very moving and honest as they were meant for us all to re-think our priorities and appreciation for the things we may take for granted. I was also fortunate enough to be able to spend time with John’s parents as they operated the booth and sold raffle tickets to benefit the museum, which was located near James Gaskets booth in the J&P warehouse. They are wonderful people who are so proud of both John and Jill and are full of optimism when it comes to John’s lung transplant operation. It’s obvious that they have always “cheered” you on. I was honored to be able to get to know them a little bit and to be a part of the open house in Anamosa. Looking forward to seeing you both again next year! Thanks for everything.
Sincerely,
Tami Smith
General Manager
James Gaskets, Inc.
Challenges like the one you are facing are alot like a dynamometer . A spiritual dynamometer if you will . When a load is applied to the dyno to measure the engines H.P. and torque, the engine resists the load to reveal it’s true power output . Like the engine on the dyno you too must show this challenger what power resides at the core of your being and resist the load that is being imposed upon you . Kind of like a large V-twin : not alot of screaming revs ,just a huge amount of seismic like torque with no way to pull it down . Solid ,strong & true . God Bless and always fight the good fight !
Get Well John!
I have always felt that you are one of the kindest, honest men I have ever known or worked for.
My prayers are with you!
Senator
Dear John,
you know cancer does the same kind of tap dance on your spirit, or at least it tries. Went down that road a couple of years back. Better now thanks to good Doc’s and the power of prayer. Now don’t get me wrong here…I’m not very religious, but a lot of people were praying for me and I beat the bitch. So, I will pray for you. And you too will beat the bitch. Get healthy, get the transplant and ride hard! Doner card in hand here since the beginning of the program. Good luck John!
allfernow
Billy Allen
Dear Mr. Parham,
How right you are about focusing on the real joys of life while you can. You quickly learn to enjoy life’s simple pleasures when your own mortality becomes evident. My wife and I are celebrating our 19th wedding anniversary. She was diagnosed with invasive ductal breast cancer last year and she is still experiencing chemo side effects. Although a loved one having cancer is something I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy, we have never been so close and have really been blessed by how our lives have changed. Life takes on new meaning and the simple pleasures become so important to enjoy while you can.
Although I’m a new customer I appreciate your willingness to contact you customer base with your story.
God bless you and your family and I will pray for you.
RB
MS Gulf Coast
Thanks for the inspiration regarding remembering what’s really important. We all get so busy that it’s easy to forget.
God bless.
John you are in our prayers, and I have put you on the prayer chain at church so add 2500 more people praying for you. We missed seeing you vending next to us at Wauseon this year. You take care and feel the good thoughts coming your way. Remember hope floats!
John I’m Sorry to here about your heart ship as a disable person my self I understand what it is to keep trying every day to over come physical issues. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family.
I am a donor myself and I personal lost my best friend of 38 year + while he waited on one of those list and I know others that only have a 2nd chance at life becouse of donors.
Best of luck in your battle for life
Dano Bad Bones
God Bless you
[...] you may or may not know, John Parham publicly announced this spring that he was diagnosed with Pulmonary Fibrosis back in 2007. There’s no cure for this disease — the only hope for extended survival is a lung [...]