Seventeen
year-old Nigel Holland has been fighting for his life for ten years. It seems so long ago, when we got to know
Monica and Tim Holland at the Pine Knot Coffee House in the Village of Big Bear
Lake. We gathered on weekends to clap
and dance to the renditions of the featured musical bands and munchies from the
bakery ovens; while watching a young family with two little boys, Nigel and
Lucas. Many local businesses have
commissioned the talents of sign designer Tim Holland at his business Direct
Signs.
It was such a shock when we learned of the 7 year-old’s demise
and what seemed to be the whole town turn-out at the B’s Boathouse fundraiser. Nigel
had been diagnosed with a brain tumor, for which he
underwent surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.
Since those early days of unbelievable shock, the Holland Family
has been on a journey that no one would have mapped out.
I had the opportunity when working with Shirley Jones Fawn
Park development. Talented Tim Holland designed, constructed and installed the
beautiful archway, erected at the entrance to the Fawnskin site. That day, both Nigel and Lucas joined their
father to the installation, along with several of the North Shore residents
that came to witness the event.
We’ve seen Nigel in many public
events, such as the grand entrance of the AMGEN TOUR. That young man can always
muster a smile to his many friends!
It’s been a joy to watch the Boys grow-up. Channel 6 Ron Seymour and I did a ‘catch-up
with Nigel is Mother Monica, playing ‘model of the day’ at Snow Summit. It was
quiet evident to Ron and I, that this teenager wanted no more than to fit-in. Everyday
possible between medical attentions, he attended Big Bear Valley schools. The Big
Bear High School Student joined the Wrestling Team.
Suddenly, this brave teenager suffered a stroke and a new
brain tumor required surgery April 30th. According to father Tim Holland, Nigel is
being treated at Rady Childrens Hospital in San Diego.
Through the generosity of Gabriel and Maria Rojas, a Sunday
afternoon fundraiser event is offered to the public at the restaurant complex located
on Big Bear Boulevard.
EVERYONE IS INVITED TO SUPPORT THE FAMILY!!
By
E T Russell, May 2018
