Reader comments: BYU athletics: Cougars rally for a friend

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Best of Luck... | 8:41 a.m. Sept. 27, 2008
... to George Curtis. I've never met him, but I understand he means a great deal to the BYU program--one of its many unsung heroes. I pray for the best for him and his family during this time of illness, and hope this technology helps him be able to communicate and enjoy a better quality of life!
CST | 9:37 a.m. Sept. 27, 2008
I wish I had known! I would have loved to have attended. Too many years ago to count I was an athlete at BYU. George is not only a great trainer but an even better person. Get well soon George!!
LVT | 10:06 a.m. Sept. 27, 2008
George has always been kind. A notch teacher and better person, always willing to help. One of my favorite experiences with him was the time that he took out of his busy day to explain his pickle juice idea for athletes. Class act!
Comments continue below
Gary SAC Trainer | 2:07 p.m. Sept. 27, 2008
George, didn't even know you were ill. God bless you my friend and mentor. Your roots here at SAC always pray for your success and better health. I'll be writing soon. Love ya buddy!
Dr. J | 3:22 p.m. Sept. 27, 2008
My sympathies to George. But why is a collection needed? Did he never carry insurance? No medicare support? It amazes me that folks rarely prepare for rainy days like these.
re: Dr. J | 4:18 p.m. Sept. 27, 2008
I am sure you have life all figured out now dont you dr j. No one said he didnt have insurance. Way to guess...
re: Dr. J | 7:12 p.m. Sept. 27, 2008
I can't believe that a trainer would make grat sums of money. Most of us would be hurting terribly financially to spend any amount of time in the hospital. Just the deductibles and 10% or 20% not covered by insurance would wipe out savings of most people.
mgd | 9:44 p.m. Sept. 27, 2008
The special voice computer costs $5000 to
$8000- very new tech.- and is not covered by any insurance or program. Have you ever seen the limits of what is covered by Medicare or private insurances? Not much.
Nixons | 11:14 p.m. Sept. 27, 2008
George, We love you and pray for you. We feel honored to have been your friend all those years ago at BYU.
Not an athlete just a student | 8:50 a.m. Sept. 28, 2008
Lest anyone think that George only dealt with athletes at BYU. I injured an ankle in a volleyball class. George happened to see my hobbling down the hall to the locker room. He asked me to take a look. Told me how to treat it for the next 24 hours and said to come to him the next afternoon. So I did. Frankly, I was treated like I was part of the athletic program. Ice, stem, whirlpool, etc. I know I was there to give his student trainers experience, but still....a true CLASS ACT!!!!!!!
Concerned Reader | 1:29 p.m. Sept. 28, 2008
Just to clarify to those whom may be ignorant about the whole situation. This event that was held was to gather BYU athletes, friends, and families to enjoy each others' company. George didn't know about the fundraising part. It is no one's business why the collection is needed. Those of us who know George, know that he would never request for assistance, but because he is a CLASS ACT, he deserves this support from those of us that appreciate him. Only the ignorant wouldn't understand why so many people would gather for one man.
Jovimister | 1:35 p.m. Sept. 28, 2008
I have only known George for maybe a couple of weeks, and I have the privilege to be invited to the BYU party. I acquired the sense of love and admiration other people have for George. How great of an influence he has been in their lives. I do believe in the saying "What goes around comes around." And I do believe this help is well deserved. Hats off to you sir!
Steve P. in Texas | 2:26 p.m. Sept. 28, 2008
Georgie Boy, It's great to see so many people honor and respect you. You have taught and helped so many people (including me) in many different ways from physical needs to spiritual developement. It was a privilege to work with you for so many years at BYU and see your selfless service every day and listen to your jokes all the time. I love & miss ya Brother and wish you the best!! Go Cougars!!
Ray B. | 6:56 p.m. Sept. 28, 2008
Dr. J:

There is a destiny in life that makes us brothers
None go this road alone
What we put into the lives of others
Comes back into our own

It is obvious where this man invested, where his treasures are laid up so to speak. Even though you did not know him, it would be indeed nice if the profession that has benefited from 61 surgeries were to donate to his need. This is assuming you are a real doctor, you know, the kind who help people.
THANK YOU-FROM HIS DAUGHTER | 1:28 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
Thanks to everyone who was involved. What he loved most about the fund raiser was that he got to see all of his friends. He considers himself so lucky to know all of you. He talks about you often and smiles every time he gets a text from a friend.
Stan Larson | 4:28 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
To George:
You're the best! As one of hundreds of unknown players you encouraged and bandaged back together, whether we were meat squad hero's or varsity stars, you treated all the same. Your stories still ring through my mind.
Keep the nurses laughin'
Joe Herrick | 4:39 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
George:
You have always been there for everyone and that is why we are all here for you. everyone that has been in the program has been touched deeply by your great spirit.

Love ya Bud
Phil Gio | 4:40 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
George, I'll always recall you having a smile and a positive attitude and usually a joke to lighten things up...it definitely helped, especially with me having a career filled with injuries. Thanks for taking the time to show you care to everyone around you. All the best and God bless always!
DRP | 4:44 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
George,

When U can I would like to take you back to Delta and get a load of hay for your horses again! Love you and wish you the best every day. You fixed allot more on me than broken bones and Ice packs. My wife and I will always be greatful.

See you soon
JOHN C | 4:49 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
George you are one of a kind!! who is truly loved and admired. I wish you a fast recovery, and im thankful for your care when i was playing at BYU. Best wishes!!!! john c
Nancy your sis | 5:52 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
Get well big brother I love you.Our Prayers are with you.George is a great brother and a wonderful and caring person. talk to you soon
Matt Johnson | 6:10 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
Georgie, one of the greatest (and funniest) things you ever said was "Its mind over matter-I don't mind and you don't matter" when I had 300lbs hanging over my head. Anyone who knows Georgie knows that he made everyone feel the way he made me feel, just like one of his own blood sons, like one of the people most important to him. Georgie, you are truly a man who walks the talk and lives the Gospel very effortlessly. I love you Georgie and Devyn says hello too. Thanks for making a great impact in my life and teaching me to say thank you
Ladd Akeo | 6:18 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
Aloha my brother George,

Aloha Wau ia 'oe, I love you my brother, get well soon from Maui, Hawaii. Mahalo for all the hunting trips, barbeques, chili eating gatherings, patching up our wounds, cutting the tails of our hair and posting on your wall, the talks, your unconditional support, guidance and love. I miss you man, I hope to see you soon. Me Kealoha Pumehana, Ke Akua Pu.
Ladd Akeo
M NAS | 6:29 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
Hey Papa George! Wanted to be at your bbq but the surf is good out here in SoCal. And yes, I keep a jar of pickles in my fidge for whenever I hit the beach... I can surf for hours without gettin tired. I'm impressed to hear about this computer, simply incredible! Can't wait to hear ya tell me what you really think about me hahaha! Love ya buddy! It was people like you that made my time at BYU great.
D | 7:09 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
They just don't make 'em like they used to. I, too, was a former meat squad player who was treated like a starter by George. I've talked with Frank Kush (former ASU head coach) who lit up when talking about visiting BYU and being taken horse back riding during his stay. All the best.
Chris Germann | 7:21 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
George! Your the best--thanks for taking care of us! We are praying for you and can't wait to hear what comes out of that machine!!
Dewey Gray | 7:23 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
When I was a freshman at BYU (1989), George was one of my first friends. He invited me lunch; as young football player from a different part of the country, that meant a lot to me. I will never forget his friendship, kindness, and healing touch after game. Thanks George.

Pastor Dewey Gray
Darci | 10:07 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
What an awesome tribute - and sooooo deserving. Backyard BBQ at the hospital, very appropriate. I remember being ordered in to have my ankle checked out by this new trainer at BYU years ago. This BIG guy was laying out on a table. We got to talking and had a nice conversation. Then you came in and he left. You said, "do you know who that was?" and I said, "Am i suppose to?" It was Jason Buck. My kids still don't believe that story. It was fun to visit you back in the day. Sure great seeing you drop off your son at the MTC when I was dropping off mine last August. Crazy how paths cross sometimes. I wish you all the best. Love you to peices too. You are loved by so many in so many ways. God bless you and your dear family, xxoo D
W.Chow | 10:51 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
Hope you are doing well. Say hi to my hair tail you cut off with your tap cutters and hung it on your wall. You are in my prayers.
David Aupiu Sr. | 11:18 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
Braddah George, Sorry to hear of your illness. My love to you and your family. I first met George when he was my Head Trainer when I played for the U.S.F.L-L.A.Express and I wish he was with us when I was at the "Y". He always had a big heart and alot to say, He always invited my family up to his place to see and ride the horses, George, may the Lord bless you and your family, Much ALOHA and Thanks Dave Aupiu #44
Naki Maile | 11:26 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
George you are the man! I'm so grateful for your friendship! I was a young dad when I got to BYU and you always showed SOO MUCH love to both of my little girls! Whenever they came to the training room or practice you always had candy for them and would make them feel special. You always wanted them to come out to the farm and ride horses and see all the animals!

One of my favorite time with you was on daughter's 16th birthday and you asked a bunch of us to go to your daughter's school (Lehi High) and sing 16 candles for her at her school during lunch in front of everyone! I knew that it was going to end up being me singing a solo because none of the other guys were singers. But I know we all did it for you George because the love that you always showed to all of us. So we did it and George LOVED IT!!! ...not too sure how much your daughter liked it. :)

Anyhow I love you brother and hope you get better soon! I love you and you're in my prayers!
Dan Gerber | 11:59 p.m. Sept. 29, 2008
The true strength of your character was in the way you treated no-names like myself the same as you would treat any all-conference, all-American player...with biting sarcasm and unyielding teasings. :) Best of luck to you, George. Our thoughts and prayers are always with you.
Dustin Rykert | 9:09 a.m. Sept. 30, 2008
George thank you so much for everything you have done for me. I wish I would have known about the Bar-B-Q you know I would have been there. I miss your laughter and your jokes they always brightened my day. I need to make you some chili but I don't think I could ever make it hot enough for you. I love ya George. You are in my prayers. DRykert79
Andy Boyce | 11:59 a.m. Sept. 30, 2008
George, you were a GREAT influence on me and one I will remember the rest of my life. You have been a great friend over the years and Lesli and I will always remember the Horse excursions. All the best to you!!!
Earl and Tara Kauffman | 12:25 p.m. Sept. 30, 2008
George is a great man. We wish him the best
The Meserveys | 2:48 p.m. Sept. 30, 2008
George,

man I'm sad I missed your cookout! Maybe now I could get in a few wise cracks of my own. I could never do that with you talking. :-)

Thank you for the thousands of hours you spent taking care of us, always treating every person like they were the most important thing in the world. As an athlete you were always there to help us, encourage us and make us better. Most of us were a long way from home and you have always been adviser, best friend and big brother rolled into one.

There are thousands of us pulling for you, praying for you and thinking of you. We'll be here for you like you always have been for us.

Matt and Keri Meservey
Mike Sumko | 6:11 p.m. Sept. 30, 2008
George,

You will be in our prayers and thoughts. You were always so good to us while we were there. I remember you helping me to the doctor's office and then taking me out to lunch after I tore all my ligaments in my ankle. I've always appreciated you and you kindness and the extra time you took to listen to me and help others. You're an amazing person. Wish we could be back in Utah to spend time with you.

Sincerely,
MIKE and JENN SUMKO
Bill and Keri Bryant | 7:30 p.m. Sept. 30, 2008
What a sad surprise to get this news about a special man with a big heart.
George, you were a part of a day that will go down in history: the one and only time I have seen Billy on a horse, and one of his last official attempts at really romancing me 13 years ago! :) (Maybe it had to do with the fact that you and I couldn't keep straight faces while he and the saddle slid down under the belly of one of your trusty steeds!)
Thank you for giving me the memory of that ONE thing I do much better than my husband. Thank you for taking time out of your very busy work and family life, to take a horse-lover you didn't even know out on the trails, just to help Bill get his girl. Thank you for the guidance and friendship you offered him his years on the football team, and being one of his favorite people in the program.
May God bless you and your family through this trial.
With fond memories,
Bill and Keri Bryant
Mike Johnston | 7:59 p.m. Sept. 30, 2008
George,

You will be in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. You were definitely one of the people who could put a smile on my face at any time. You took care of so many of us throughout the years and it is nice to see that we could give back to you.

One of my favorite memories of you was playing softball in the off-season with you and your family. You made me, as well as thousands of others, feel as if we were part of your family and for that....thank you!

Take care,

Mike Johnston
Donny and Sara Atuaia | 8:20 p.m. Sept. 30, 2008
George is one of the greatest people I know. He has such a huge heart and I thank him for taking care of me and Mark, and Alema (okay, my whole family). You're the man and we love and your family.

Much Alofa,
The Atuaia family
Steve Clements | 8:23 p.m. Sept. 30, 2008
Thanks not just for your healing touch, but refraining from shoving the lds religion down my throat. You let an arrogant kid stroll through the training room showing off his cross and bible and didn't patronize me for it. It made a difference as I have been a member for 13 years now. May the Lord bless you and His will realized in your life.
Bobby Griffitts | 7:00 a.m. Oct. 1, 2008
Thanks for taking care of me with football and life's injuries as well. You're a great friend.
Love ya. Bobby
Jon Pollock | 2:02 p.m. Oct. 1, 2008
George there are only a few people I have crossed paths with during my life that I can truly call my hero and George you are one of them! Thanks for your love, support, great sense of humor and for being my friend when I needed one the most. Please take care of yourself and let me know if there is ANYTHING you need.

your friend,
Jon
Terence Saluone | 1:22 a.m. Oct. 2, 2008
George, you have been a great influence on a lot of players and people, and my prayers are with you! You were great treating me with my injuries, and not punching me for yelling at you when you ripped my ingrown toenail before a practice.

We love you George!

Terence
Tamra & Ian | 2:21 p.m. Oct. 4, 2008
I wish I could have made it! We love you so much and often think of the wonderful memories including chili and scone parties, chocolate chip pancakes, and a mentor and dad I couldn't have done without. I will be visiting at the end of the month.
Jason Straw | 11:54 p.m. Oct. 6, 2008
George, your an inspiration to all of us. Thank you for showing kindness and for your encouragement back in the day. I'll never forget in the SMU game in 2006 after I collided with the kickoff returner and I suffered a concussion and they took my helmet when I was not aware of it. When I was to go on the field again I could not find my helemet and I was screaming to those around me, George simply took me aside and told me I had been benched due to my concussion. I didn't believe him and he asked me to count backwards from 100 by 7. I was unable to do so and he laughed with me for a moment. Thanks George. I hope you recover soon.
Scott Doubek | 3:31 p.m. Nov. 17, 2008
George, sorry these comments are so late. I'll never forget the prompting I got a few years ago to give you a call while I was in the neighborhood. What a blessing it was to see you again. My wife and I enjoyed the tour of your ranch and talking about old times at SAC and life in general. As I have read the comments above, it is obvious that you have influenced many lives for the better, both famous and not so famous like myself. I cannot thank you enough for letting me know that Utah existed back in the mid '70s. Without that knowledge, who knows where I would be today. I think of you often as I reflect on my life today. I have found myself spiritually thanks to you. I can never thank you enough for that! I told you "Thank you" several years ago and I'll say it again. "Thanks George. You're an inspiration". You'll be in my thoughts and prayers. Love ya, Scottie

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