A picture of Raist and a story about courage.

Until faced with something of this magnitude, most of us never fully appreciate the precious gift of life. We take, particularly here in the US, health and security for granted. Celebrating the gift of life seems to be what Raist is about. His passion for cues and billiards in general attest to that fact.

I think a man is nothing without his name. Integrity is everything. When you die, if you leave no legacy, you have accomplished nothing. I believe Raist has shown through this forum that he has integrity, and it has become obvious that he will leave a legacy, at a bare minimum in the cue collecting/billiard area. I do not believe that people can shut integrity on and off, so I must assume that this was a way of life for him, and that there will be a much larger legacy that what he has left us, but I am thankful for what I know of him.

God Bless,
Scott
 
cuenut said:
Until faced with something of this magnitude, most of us never fully appreciate the precious gift of life. We take, particularly here in the US, health and security for granted.


God Bless,
Scott
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Well I think many forget there are Only Four Things IMO Money Can not Buy.

Your Health. Not Healthcare

Happyness

Time we have on this Earth

True Love.

NUFF SAID.
 
Chris,

Thanks for sharing Raist's story. I had no idea. This is very sad to hear and I will be praying for him.

Barbara
 
Ya know, it always makes me sad when you hear stuff like this. Unfortunately, it's a fact of life. If there is any comfort, these Pool forums serve as a legacy of that person and gives a lasting insight to their personality.

Hoping for the best for Raist.


Eric
 
I have enjoyed postings and photos from Raist as long as I've been a member on AZ. When he offered his Greenleaf conversion for sale I called Chris for a reference. Chris essentially told me that Raist would be a reliable to deal with and whatever Raist had for sale was going to be accurately described. He was and the cue was at least as nice as he described it. Shortly thereafter I learned of his health situation. That cue stick now has much greater significance than any other I have.

I am greatly saddened by his predicament. Although we had only brief contact I must echo the sentiments of all who are posting replies here. As all those replies show, Raist is a true gentleman with great courage and humility. I hope that there's a miracle out there for someone as deserving as him. I wish him Godspeed.

Thanks very much, Chris.

Andy
 
TATE said:
TNPChampions.jpg


This picture is from the newspaper. This is Raist, TitlistSucker here on A-Z Billiards. Raist is well known among us cue collectors here. Raist is battling the advanced stages of cancer right now half a world away in Singapore.

This picture and story was sent to me at my request from MasterClass, Christopher, his good friend in Singapore. Raist confided in me months ago that his disease was progressing and that he did not have long to live.

This picture was taken in 2002. Raist is the healthy looking and handsome young man with the white collar looking down at the check. MasterClass is his friend next to him, with his fist raised. They just won the Team National Championship playing 8 Ball at Singapore's spectacular Convention Center.

A month of round robin qualifiers lead to the quarter finals, the semi-finals, and the championship. Raist and MasterClass were on a team that was only supposed to be an alternate. With mostly unknown players, they were a huge underdog to win anything much less the tournament. They were called to play in the semi-finals against the first team, and somehow they knocked them out!

They went on to the Convention Center, with it's 4 floor atrium filled to the brim with spectators.

Raist was ill at the time and in severe pain, but insisted on playing his matches. It was a race to 9 playing 8 ball. Raist's team made it to 8 ahead.

They were on the hill, and it was Raist's match. Despite the pain and weakness from his illness, Raist stepped up and played. It was his moment. Raist somehow made it through the 9th rack AND WON THE NATIONAL TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP! The stadium erupted in pandemonium.

This picture was taken, and Raist was taken to the hospital right after and admitted.

Raist has always faced his disease with the utmost courage, rarely talking about it. All this time I knew Raist , he never even mentioned this championship.

Let's pray for this beautiful young man. Please, now let's pray for a miracle.

Chris
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I remember Rist from RSB and he was a respected member. My prayers are with him.
JoeyA
 
JimBo said:
I've known (and liked) Raist for many years now, going back to early RSB days, he's always been a stand up guy, I'm pullin for him.
Jim
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Ditto for me too.

"They were on the hill, and it was Raist's match. Despite the pain and weakness from his illness, Raist stepped up and played. It was his moment. Raist somehow made it through the 9th rack AND WON THE NATIONAL TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP! The stadium erupted in pandemonium."

Well done Raist. A true display of strength, skill and courage.
Doug
 
Raist and I tried to do some business together a few times. I think we always had problems communicating because of the time difference in our posts. Although we never did a deal, I always knew that he was a person that could be trusted. He said what was on his mind, and he is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to cues. I already miss his insight on these forums!

I'll be pulling for you, Raist! Stay strong...

Steve
 
Chris, great post. Although I don't personally know much detail about Raist's situation, it is obvious he is a courageous person. He has always been a valuable contributor to this forum as well as RSB, not to mention a passionate aficionado in the world of cues. While it seems that many of us get quite crazy at times, Raist has always been even-keeled, sincere, and fair. From experience, I can tell you that he is a man of his word and a exceptional person to deal with. I want to take this time to wish him, his family, and friends my best wishes and hope for a recovery. God speed and hope you get well soon, Raist.

Sean
 
This is one of those things that make life very depressing. Fortunately though the human body is capable of extrodinary things that many would claim impossible. Some would call these mirracles, some don't know how to explaine it. I don't know Raist but if he can read this I would say Don't accept it. The brain is a powerful tool that is still a mystery to even the experts. Now is your time to explore it and find yourself, find the pain, and eliminate it. Some people can slow or speed up there heart rate by just thinking about it. Some can produce addrenalin at will to make them stronger. There are many cases of people that have been terminally ill only to find out that there cells fought off the disease. Is it a mirracle? I don't know. The doctors say it is because they can't explaine it but I like to think it was the person and that person alone. I like to believe that somehow whether conscious or subconsciously they're brain sent out the troops and went to war. You have the tools. Find them and do it! And yes I will pray for you as well.
 
Chris, Thank you for sharing this story. Hopefully there are many more success stories to come. Raist has always had good suggestions and he would willingly share quality information with other members. I miss seeing his avatar... Hope you get better soon Raist!!! Your in my prayers buddy.

... I just noticed the check pictured says $10,000 (Ten Thousand ONLY). I think Raist was trying to talk them into kicking in an Oak Titlist too. :)
 
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Poolschool said:
Chris, Thank you for sharing this story. Hopefully there are many more success stories to come. Raist has always had good suggestions and he would willingly share quality information with other members. I miss seeing his avatar... Hope you get better soon Raist!!! Your in my prayers buddy.

... I just noticed the check pictured says $10,000 (Ten Thousand ONLY). I think Raist was trying to talk them into kicking in an Oak Titlist too. :)
Click to expand...
Pool is a pretty new sport and does not garner as much support and following as compared to other sports like soccer.

It was the biggest prized money tournament that year. But the money was also just a bonus. I would give it all back just to be there again with the team. The Nerves we were feeling, the atmosphere, the pleasure of winning, the envy and congratulations we received. Most importantly, we did it! Looking back, it was a long road. But a truly memorable one.
 
Hi all,

Thanks for all the kind words guys. Many of your compliments has been most flattering and i am not worthy keke :eek:

brief recap on what really happened to me...
Yeah i got diagnosed with bone cancer last march in 2005, and was already the later stages of the disease when it was discovered. The prognosis was to be 3-6 months unless i did a hemipelvectomy (sp?) which in laymen terms means taking off the whole left leg and the bum. Well no pool? not on your life i told the doctor, for someone who spends 8 hours in a pool hall everyday, i wouldnt be able to stand not playing pool less than a day!
i got a bad deal though... by sep 05 i was already in too much pain even with morphine to last a decent game. Bone Cancer, haha what irony, if i have gotten some other cancer rest assured i be lying dead over a pool table.
Sometimes it feels as though i am been punished for playing way too much pool kekeke..

Remarkably, its been a long 15 months since and without any other medication (chemo) other than some alternative theraphies i read on the net, and of course carressing my precious titlist cues i have gone so far now. i wholly bedridden now lying on my stomach all the time.

Real nice pic Tate, the thing is, i didnt even remember i took this photo as i was already running on a high fever then. The fever helped though i think haha, as i was to groggy to feel any pressure from the cameras as i run out the last rack.

Anyway once again thank you all for the kind words and prayers.


Bgrds
Raist Chin
 
titlistsucker said:
Hi all,

Thanks for all the kind words guys. Many of your compliments has been most flattering and i am not worthy keke :eek:

brief recap on what really happened to me...
Yeah i got diagnosed with bone cancer last march in 2005, and was already the later stages of the disease when it was discovered. The prognosis was to be 3-6 months unless i did a hemipelvectomy (sp?) which in laymen terms means taking off the whole left leg and the bum. Well no pool? not on your life i told the doctor, for someone who spends 8 hours in a pool hall everyday, i wouldnt be able to stand not playing pool less than a day!
i got a bad deal though... by sep 05 i was already in too much pain even with morphine to last a decent game. Bone Cancer, haha what irony, if i have gotten some other cancer rest assured i be lying dead over a pool table.
Sometimes it feels as though i am been punished for playing way too much pool kekeke..

Remarkably, its been a long 15 months since and without any other medication (chemo) other than some alternative theraphies i read on the net, and of course carressing my precious titlist cues i have gone so far now. i wholly bedridden now lying on my stomach all the time.

Real nice pic Tate, the thing is, i didnt even remember i took this photo as i was already running on a high fever then. The fever helped though i think haha, as i was to groggy to feel any pressure from the cameras as i run out the last rack.

Anyway once again thank you all for the kind words and prayers.


Bgrds
Raist Chin
Click to expand...

titlistsucker thanks for sharing what is going on with your health...I wish you the best of luck with you fight with cancer....
 
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God bless Raist.
That was one of the most courageous stories I have ever read and happy to see you are are in good spirits. Stay well.

Koop
 
rackmsuckr said:
I will certainly add my prayers for this courageous young man in the battle for his life. He hasn't had many years on earth, but if one's life is measured by your friends, then he has indeed lived a full life. He is lucky to have you for a friend. Thanks for posting his amazing story.

Linda
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I couldn't agree more with what Linda has said, especially about having you as a friend.

I will add him to my prayer list which is unfortunately growing day by day. :(

Eydie
 
Raist,
You can beat this... I have been diagnosed with TERMINAL osteosarcoma twice. Sometimes the doctors are wrong with their "terminal diagnosis". I will definitely keep you in my thoughts and prayers... keep strong and remain faithful.
 
titlistsucker said:
Hi all,

Thanks for all the kind words guys. Many of your compliments has been most flattering and i am not worthy keke :eek:

brief recap on what really happened to me...
Yeah i got diagnosed with bone cancer last march in 2005, and was already the later stages of the disease when it was discovered. The prognosis was to be 3-6 months unless i did a hemipelvectomy (sp?) which in laymen terms means taking off the whole left leg and the bum. Well no pool? not on your life i told the doctor, for someone who spends 8 hours in a pool hall everyday, i wouldnt be able to stand not playing pool less than a day!
i got a bad deal though... by sep 05 i was already in too much pain even with morphine to last a decent game. Bone Cancer, haha what irony, if i have gotten some other cancer rest assured i be lying dead over a pool table.
Sometimes it feels as though i am been punished for playing way too much pool kekeke..

Remarkably, its been a long 15 months since and without any other medication (chemo) other than some alternative theraphies i read on the net, and of course carressing my precious titlist cues i have gone so far now. i wholly bedridden now lying on my stomach all the time.

Real nice pic Tate, the thing is, i didnt even remember i took this photo as i was already running on a high fever then. The fever helped though i think haha, as i was to groggy to feel any pressure from the cameras as i run out the last rack.

Anyway once again thank you all for the kind words and prayers.


Bgrds
Raist Chin
Click to expand...

Raist,

I am so happy that you were able to post some words here. Your courage and candor is just incredible. You have a lot of friends here pulling for you.

I have a feeling that we will be hearing a lot more from you.

take care,


Chris
 
titlistsucker said:
Hi all,

Thanks for all the kind words guys. Many of your compliments has been most flattering and i am not worthy keke :eek:

brief recap on what really happened to me...
Yeah i got diagnosed with bone cancer last march in 2005, and was already the later stages of the disease when it was discovered. The prognosis was to be 3-6 months unless i did a hemipelvectomy (sp?) which in laymen terms means taking off the whole left leg and the bum. Well no pool? not on your life i told the doctor, for someone who spends 8 hours in a pool hall everyday, i wouldnt be able to stand not playing pool less than a day!
i got a bad deal though... by sep 05 i was already in too much pain even with morphine to last a decent game. Bone Cancer, haha what irony, if i have gotten some other cancer rest assured i be lying dead over a pool table.
Sometimes it feels as though i am been punished for playing way too much pool kekeke..

Remarkably, its been a long 15 months since and without any other medication (chemo) other than some alternative theraphies i read on the net, and of course carressing my precious titlist cues i have gone so far now. i wholly bedridden now lying on my stomach all the time.

Real nice pic Tate, the thing is, i didnt even remember i took this photo as i was already running on a high fever then. The fever helped though i think haha, as i was to groggy to feel any pressure from the cameras as i run out the last rack.

Anyway once again thank you all for the kind words and prayers.


Bgrds
Raist Chin
Click to expand...

I love your spunk! I'm glad you are trying alternative therapies and don't have to be on chemo. As Blackjack said, there can be other ways to fight this thing. You hold the power within you; I can see that you do. You know we are all pulling for you here. :) :) :) :)

Linda
 
TATE said:
They were on the hill, and it was Raist's match. Despite the pain and weakness from his illness, Raist stepped up and played. It was his moment. Raist somehow made it through the 9th rack AND WON THE NATIONAL TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP! The stadium erupted in pandemonium.

This picture was taken, and Raist was taken to the hospital right after and admitted.
Click to expand...


titlistsucker said:
Real nice pic Tate, the thing is, i didnt even remember i took this photo as i was already running on a high fever then. The fever helped though i think haha, as i was to groggy to feel any pressure from the cameras as i run out the last rack.

Anyway once again thank you all for the kind words and prayers.


Bgrds
Raist Chin
Click to expand...
Raist, I think it's safe to say that everyone of us here can only hope & pray to have the courage & strength that you have should we ever be faced with something like this in our lives. I've often seen survival stories on TV and thought to myself that I hope I would be a strong enough person to survive like these people had if I was ever in the situation they were faced with.

Your story from the pool championships to the decision to not have the amputation done is a bittersweet story of courage. Bless you and the strength you have taught others by example. I will pray that your health takes a turn for the better and that one day you'll be able to do the one thing you love so much... play pool.

Continue to think positive, it can go a long way in your recovery. Thank you for being you. :)

Take care,
Timberly
 
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