Bob was in the hospital for most of the holidays after a procedure; sounds like it was carotid endarterectomy, he didn't say specifically. The worse news, though, is that during the stay they found a mass growing on his right kidney. He's going to be going through a battery of tests in the next couple weeks, first to determine what kind of growth it is, then to determine if he is strong enough to have it removed.

Bob sounded his usual self, so I don't really know how serious it is. He gave permission to mention this, and even post on the forums, though he said he's not looking for any pity or handouts (I told him he has friends and fans who would want to wish him their best); it was "steely Bob" who said no damn handouts or anything like that. He was more interested, I think, in discussing the future of D&D, specifically wondering at the way monsters work in 4E and how that affects the character of campaigns...

The best thing we can all do is keep him in our thoughts and prayers. If anyone wants to send him a card, mail them to me and I will pass them on (no gifts please, just cards). Mail cards to:

Adventure Games Publishing
Attn: Invincible Overlord
PO Box 185
Iola, WI 54945

Unfortunately, the news is not good.

I spoke with Bob's brother and with his son today. He's back in the hospital. Tests so far are inconclusive, but what's worse, Bob broke his hip, and some other problems have cropped up, so he's going to be there for some time still.

Your thoughts and prayers for Bob would be most welcome.

Get well soon Bob!!

I hope for a full recovery, Bob.

Hope he gets well soon!

jamesmishler wrote:Okay, it's out now.

Bob has terminal cancer.

I've known now for several weeks, but the family requested that I respect their privacy and not release the full details to the public as yet. Unfortunately, someone else has been calling everyone in the industry letting them know, and it's now leaking out to the public...

Bob does have cancer. The cancer from the mass they found on his kidney had apparently spread to his bone structure (or however that works). With radiation therapy to shrink the mass he will feel a little better, for a little while, but yes, he only has a few months to live on the outside. Three at best, if we are lucky.

Now that it has broken public, I'll give his son a call and see what kind of official statement they would like to make.

I'm sorry I didn't tell anyone earlier, but as I said, that was per the wishes of his sons, brothers, and sisters.

That's really awful news for the new year.  He's surrounded by people who love him, it appears, and has a dedicated following here on the Acaeum and elsewhere, as well as a great legacy. Not much more you can ask for except for more time...and you never know with that anyway.  Good luck to Bob.

Mike B.

While I don't know Bob I have come to know a little bit about him through his works and from what other people have said about him.  That "little bit" is a lot in Bob's case so I am sad to hear this news.  When I first heard he was sick I was really hoping it wasn't going to be this.   

Bob ...there are people you don't even know who are thinking of you and cheering for you.  Don't give up hope or be too glum.

Gregory

It was an honor to have met him, shook his hand, and spoke with him about game theory, design, and to have him sign my Wilderlands... I will not forget Bob, nor the amazement of Judges Guild.