A Bill Update From The Kennedy's

Since the last post he has been battling through several issues. He had his pain under control, but ran into problems with nausea due to all the pills he was taking. He was admitted to the hospital for tests and it was concluded that the pills were upsetting his stomach and making him unable to keep any food down. He returned home and was put on continuous liquid (pump) pain medication. He can push a button when more pain relief is needed. Since then he has needed this dosage steadily increased due to his back pain. He has since had a lift delivered so he doesn't have to transfer via the transfer board which was causing him discomfort. He is now to the point where comfort, not treatment, is a priority. He and Carole had a visit from a social worker from a Hospice program to discuss any further services that are needed. They provide any supplies he may need, and are more liberal with any pain management he may require. Helen Jones MD, his wonderful primary physician, had agreed with the decision to move forward with the Hospice program. Please contact Carole first if you would like to visit to ensure he is up to visiting, and that it fits his schedule.

On another matter:
Fresno State Head Trainer Ed Ferreira and Team Physician Dr. Eric Hansen have established a scholarship in Dr. Bill's name. The scholarship, "Dr. William "Bill" Kennedy and Friends Scholarship" was established in recognition of 23 years of dedicated service to Fresno State's sports medicine program and athletic training education program. Fresno State Department of Athletics is honoring Dr. Bill Kennedy by establishing a scholarship in his name. This scholarship will be given annually to an undergraduate student majoring in Athletic Training.

In doing this, we are asking the many friends and associates of Dr. Bill to support his legacy by contributing towards this scholarship fund. We are seeking to create a minimum endowment of $25,000 (or Dr. Bill's lofty goal of $100,000) which will provide the annual scholarship award to one of our athletic training students.

Your contributions are tax deductible. Checks are payable to the Bulldog Foundation. Please write "Kennedy Scholarship" on the memo line. Please forward your contribution to:

Kennedy Scholarship c/o Ed Ferreira
Department of Athletics
Fresno State
5305 North Campus Drive
Fresno, CA 93740

Thank you very much for honoring Dr. Kennedy and supporting the Fresno State Athletic Training program. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Ed at your convenience. His phone number is 559-389-1958 or email him at edfe@csufresno.edu

The deadline for finalization of the scholarship is MONDAY, OCTOBER 30TH.

We consider ourselves very fortunate for all of the love and support during these tough times, and we will keep this blog updated with any new developments regarding his condition.

Peace and Love to all,

The Kennedy's