In early November I participated in my first B.A.S.S. Nation Championship on Grand Lake o’ the Cherokees out of Grove, OK. I qualified to fish the event nearly a year prior through South Carolina B.A.S.S. Nation. Although I didn’t have the success I was hoping for during the Championship, I learned a lot about a new lake, put myself around fish to do well, and had a lot of fun. I can’t wait to get back. However, this is not a fishing story, but rather a story that presented itself because of fishing. A story about the people we meet when we go fishing.
While at a New Year’s Eve party, December 31st, 2023, my wife was telling some friends that I had qualified for the B.A.S.S. Nation Championship. Through their conversation, it was determined a good friend of a good friend, lived on the lake the tournament would be held. Shortly after, I was connected to Eddie Bilbrey of Grove, OK. Eddie immediately expressed excitement to host me for a week during the tournament. Over the following ten months, I would occasionally check-in with Eddie while we awaited my trip west. I had heard that Eddie’s wife, Laurie, had recently been diagnosed with cancer after a few years in remission. Honestly, I felt a little guilty imposing but was assured I was welcome.
We arrived to the Bilbrey home the day before official practice began. Eddie was out finishing up a pressure washing job and we were greeted by Laurie with a hug. She quickly made us feel at home and took away any stress I may have felt, being a thousand miles from home and entering the biggest tournament of my life. Looking back, I realize how ridiculous that thought was. Eddie joined us a little later with a smile and an eager sense to want to help in any way. He wanted to share his favorite fishing spots, but was quickly but graciously declined, as anglers are held to a strict, no information rule. Eddie appeared disappointed but seemed to understand.
For seven days, I had the pleasure of getting to know the Bilbrey family, including Eddie’s mother, sister, son, and two grandchildren. Eddie and Laurie are both Navy veterans, met while stationed in Hawaii, and married in Las Vegas. Eddie is a retired postmaster and Laurie is a nurse. Their daughter is currently serving in the Navy and their son is in realty.
Laurie was diagnosed with cervical cancer approximately six years ago. One morning I had a long conversation with her. She discussed her childhood, growing up in a small town in Oregon, and how she loved to spend her time outdoors. Laurie is a talker, and when she talks, you can’t help but shut up and listen. As she described her life, she spoke with a passion and perk that held my attention, even while her cat “Trouble” clawed at my shirt. Laurie is self-described as “tough” and it’s clear given what she’s been through, she is tough. I would argue that she is equally kind.
Throughout the week, two things remained constant. Number one is a seemingly endless flow of people stopping by to talk, have dinner, or just hang out. Number two is everyone was always welcome and greeted with open arms and smiles. I had initially felt as an intruder but soon realized that this family genuinely enjoys the company of others and always wants to help. After a few days, I was feeling comfortable in my environment for the week and growing fond of the Bilbrey family. My feelings of joy were briefly interrupted with concern as Eddie and Laurie left for Tulsa for Laurie’s latest PET Scan. Eddie described the results as “not worst-case scenario, but not the results they were looking for either”. Cancer sucks.
Despite all of what this family has endured and will continue to endure, there I was, welcomed with open arms and kindness while I tried to win a bass tournament. For five days, I learned as much about Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees as I could. The more I fished the more I thought about Eddie and Laurie. Throughout the week in Oklahoma, the 1,000-mile drive home, and ever since I have returned, I continue to think about what an awesome example of life they lead. When faced with adversity, be tough like Laurie, and always be kind and welcoming to others.
Former National Champion coach of the NC State Men’s basketball team Jim Valvano said “To me there are three things in life everyone should do every day. Number one is laugh. Number two is think — spend some time in thought. Number three, you should have your emotions move you to tears. If you laugh, think and cry, that’s a heck of a day.” Thank you to Eddie, Laurie, and the rest of the Bilbrey family for helping me enjoy one heck of a week. I appreciate you all, hold you dear in my heart, and look forward to meeting again.
As I left on the final morning to begin my journey home, I noticed for the first time some décor on one of the walls. Inside five separate frames included a small saying. Listen to your heart. Live for today. Trust in yourself. Love heals all. Reach for the Stars.
Please consider donating to any cancer related foundation you prefer.
Thank you.
