Oh my God, I'm first! Great idea Wil, I'll do it.

Posted by: lois at May 3, 2005 11:09 AM

I'm there for you, Wil. Just ordered mine. Anyway I can help. Oh, and count me in for Dancing Barefoot as well.

Posted by: itty bitty at May 3, 2005 11:14 AM

Me three! Great idea and I'm happy to contribute.

Posted by: ctriefus at May 3, 2005 11:18 AM

Thanks, Wil! I just ordered mine, too. And I'm definitely interested in DB. This is pretty much my only opp. to get autographed copies, and it's in a good cause as well. Cool!

Posted by: Rodan at May 3, 2005 11:20 AM

I resized the images, so you can either use my links, or copy them to your site. so modem users won't be hit as hard.

http://www.csupomona.edu/~cwevans/001_IMG_3199_SIZED.JPG
http://www.csupomona.edu/~cwevans/001_IMG_5293_SIZED.JPG

Posted by: sfire at May 3, 2005 11:23 AM

Just ordered mine.. Any chance you can put up Dancing Barefoot as well? I've had it on my Amazon wish list for since it came out, but nobody's gotten it for me yet. I'll take matters into my own hands if I have to. ;-)

Posted by: JeffD at May 3, 2005 11:24 AM

I just ordered a copy. Yay! We are interested in getting DB autographed too. :)

Posted by: xapmat at May 3, 2005 11:24 AM

hey wil,

i have been visiting wwdn for years and i feel for you, i really do. a couple of years ago my cat had to have emergency surgery for feline urinary syndrome. the bills were about $2000 and at the time i was out of work and only had $500 to my name! recently, my dog had to have emergency spinal surgery to to tune of $3500, but i was able to cover that OK.

but back to the cat incident . . . i don't know if you remember, but i emailed you at the time and begged you to put a link on wwdn to my paypal donation site for my cat. i figured an animal lover like yourself would understand and help a poor guy and his cat out. my vet was actually holding my kitty hostage until i could pay the entire amount (which i was able to raise in a matter of three days). you ignored my request, which is fine . . . i figured you don't want things like that on your website and that is understandable. but now the story changes, wil. i am almost certain that you had little trouble covering the $7000 veterinary bills (if you did have trouble, please correct me). but now you want people, who probably have less expendable income than you, to contribute to your cats' vet bills that are already paid for when you wouldn't even help one of your loyal readers out. what gives, man?

Posted by: badams at May 3, 2005 11:27 AM

badams Actually, it was an incredible financial burden on me and my family. Each visit Sketch made to the vet was upwards of 300 dollars for X-rays, MRIs and blood work. Eventually, we decided that we just couldn't afford to take him any more, and I've spent more than a few sleepless nights wondering if one more visit could have given us the information we neede to increase or change his medication.

Thanks for assuming you know exactly how much disposable income I have, though, and what is and isn't affordable for me. That's some pretty impressive psychic skill you've got there.

And if you could point out exactly where I "expect" anyone to do anything, I'd really appreciate it.

Thanks.

Posted by: Wil at May 3, 2005 11:34 AM

This is a wonderful idea, Wil.

I'm going to offer you another one for the rest of your furry kids.

http://www.petinsurance.com/

http://www.petcareinsurance.com/

Either of these programs are very highly rated (the first one a friend of mine uses for all of her furbabies).

The same as any insurance program, it's the kind of thing you hope you never need. But if you do, you'll be grateful you've signed up for it.

Posted by: ShelaghC at May 3, 2005 11:40 AM

I'd be interested in a signed copy of Dancing Barefoot and willing to donate to your cause that way. I'm figuring that a cheaper price on DB would result in a smaller total expense. I just can't afford $50 right now.

Posted by: aeframe at May 3, 2005 11:43 AM

Quick question:

I am assuming that it would be in US dollars, correct? Just trying to see if I have it in my budget to do the exchange from CAD.

I'm sorry to hear about your recent loss, and if I can, you can count on a purchase from me.

Posted by: serawench at May 3, 2005 11:45 AM

wil,

thank you for your prompt reply. look, man . . . it is none of my business how much money you have. it was wrong for me to assume anything about your finances.

to answer your question, i never said that you expected anyone to do anything. i said you "want" people to help you out. that is true, isn't it?

the point of my entry was only to point out the fact that you ignored a request from one of your fans for doing the exact same thing that you are trying to do. the only reason i brought up finances is because at the time of my hardship, i only had $500 to cover a $2000 vet bill. your situation may have been different. that's all.

also, i need to remember that this is your website, not mine or anyone else's. if you want to raise funds for your animals, and not help any of your readers out with raising funds for their animals, then so be it.

Posted by: badams at May 3, 2005 11:46 AM

badams:

Dude. Do you have any idea of the number of people that Wil might have asking him "to do just this one thing" for them? He is one person that we all "know". There are a LOT of us (hundreds, nay, thousands) for him to know. I feel for your situation, but for Wil to ask us to help out by exchanging cash for a personalized copy of "Just A Geek" is vastly different than trying to get a celeb to sponser a link for your cause. Maybe if he had known you better, he might have done it. Maybe if he wasn't getting tons of email with similar potential requests, he might have done it.

As for him being able to cover his vet bills. Do you read this blog or not? Wil may not be in the poor house, but he ain't rich. He has to budget just like us "regular" folks. Please stop being oblivious. We read/listen to this blog for FREE. All the events, happy and painful, are here for us to read, comment, agree or not for FREE.

So, basically, get off the man's back. He is carrying enough right now.

Posted by: Emily_Nelfnoffen at May 3, 2005 11:47 AM

I'd definitely be interested in Dancing Barefoot.

Posted by: Beth at May 3, 2005 11:47 AM

Consider this a post contributing to interest in Dancing Barefoot, too :-)

Posted by: tim at May 3, 2005 11:49 AM

Hey Wil,

I would be happy to buy a copy of Just a Geek. I looked for it but can't find here in Toronto.

The problem I have is I don't have access to a credit card right now. Let's just say that if American Express and I were married, I would be sleeping tonight at my buddy Cory's house until she decides whether she will let me move back in or just sell everything and move back to her mother's house.

1) Would you accept a paypal payment?
2) For an additional $25 bucks or so, how about some head to head play on Trident poker. (For play money)

-Chris

Posted by: Cwakes at May 3, 2005 11:52 AM

Wil, I would cheerfully love to have a signed copy of DB. I think it would make a lovely gift to my DH who is still trying to figure out why I think "the guy who played a character I didn't like" is so cool. If I can learn, so can he.

*here's hoping my budget allows for a copy of "JAG"*

Posted by: Emily_Nelfnoffen at May 3, 2005 11:52 AM

the point of my entry was only to point out the fact that you ignored a request from one of your fans for doing the exact same thing that you are trying to do. the only reason i brought up finances is because at the time of my hardship, i only had $500 to cover a $2000 vet bill. your situation may have been different. that's all.

But are you and Wil personal friends or did I miss something? No offense, but how is he (or the rest of us) supposed to know if what you're asking is real or a scam?
You're criticizing the man for not posting a link about a situation he's completely unfamiliar with. Yes, Wil has a very widely read blog. But does that mean that he's obligated to post a link provided by a complete stranger who's asking for money from other people?

That's putting a very unfair responsibility on him. If he were to post such links he could be considered liable for for anything that turned out to be a scam.

I'm not trying to be heartless. Simply stating the facts.

Posted by: ShelaghC at May 3, 2005 11:56 AM

What a great idea, I should probably order - it'd make a great gift, or a replacement for me, if the one I lent to a friend never comes home! : )

Oh, but Wil, don't you know that once you've done one thing in Hollywood, you're insanely rich and beyond all care? All movie stars live in big mansions up on the hill, and have servants waiting on them hand and foot! ; ) Ah, the version of reality that some folks live in. . .

Posted by: robespierrette at May 3, 2005 12:02 PM

Hey Wil,

Even though I already own a copy of JAG, I just ordered another one just to give you a hand. Besides, this makes my collection of autographed WW merchandise complete, and the power of the dark side is now strong..

Oh, wait, that's the wrong movie. But at least I'm not quoting lines from the most recent play I was in, right?

Posted by: ak_hepcat at May 3, 2005 12:04 PM

Wil-
I understand very well the financial burden a sick cat can take! My 5 cats have had a multitude of medical problems. We've spent thousands as well. I'm so sorry about your loss!

Badams-
You are a jerk. You expect someone to put a link for every single person that spends $2000 on their animals, on his website? I think not. He'd have to dedicate an entire site to such a thing.Plus, how could he ever sort out scams from reality? I've spent the same amount on my cats. Give me a handout, please, just b/c you are famous. /sarcasm. Fans of Wil asked him how they could help. He gave them a way. He's not begging or expecting anything.

Posted by: marla at May 3, 2005 12:05 PM

Only 100 copies?

I hope you have a method of getting more or that you're keeping track of how many are being ordered. I'd hate to get a note back saying you'd run out of copies before you were able to process my order.

Either that or I'm vastly over estimating the number of WWdN readers are going to take advantage of this unique opportunity.

Posted by: dublos at May 3, 2005 12:05 PM

i understand, guys. i was completely off-base. the legal aspect of wil hawking for someone else (that he doesn't know) makes perfect sense. i guess i wasn't thinking that way, because i would never take advantage of somebody like that. sorry, wil, for freaking out on you.

Posted by: badams at May 3, 2005 12:08 PM

marla,

i am not a jerk and neither are you. i don't expect anyone to do anything and i never said wil was begging or expecting anything from anybody. i was wrong . . . plain and simple!

Posted by: badams at May 3, 2005 12:11 PM

badams:

Given that you have seen the errors of your ways, I suppose we can let you live. :smile:

Thank you for being strong enough to apoligize. It is a rare thing to see.

Posted by: Emily_Nelfnoffen at May 3, 2005 12:15 PM

Yeah, only humorless, self-righteous Star Wars Alpha Nerds who are in line at the wrong theatre (in protest) refuse to accept apologies.

Thank you, badams. No hard feelings.

Posted by: Wil at May 3, 2005 12:17 PM

Well this is my first post although I have been reading since about 2002. Sorry about your cats Wil, I know how much it sucks to lose a pet, I lost my dog last year and had my cat at the vets yesterday (after reading this for the last month or so I freaked, luckily she just needed to use the litterbox quite badly (who knew)).

Anyway more to the point, great job on the site it is nice to see a celeb that realises they are actually human and even nicer to see a celeb that loves linux.

I just ordered your book, funny I was about to order it at amazon for $16.47 when I saw this and figured it is for a better cause.

Posted by: liliafan at May 3, 2005 12:23 PM

thanks wil. my (previously mentioned) canine, who is recovering from spinal surgery, is still paralyzed, has no control of his bodily functions and is very sad. needless to say, he has been keeping me up all night, and for some reason, i am overly-irritated today. wil wheaton just happened to be the guy i took all my frustrations out on. this is completely unfair to you and i sincerely apologize. thank you for being you :)

Posted by: badams at May 3, 2005 12:26 PM

Hey wil,
Seeing as i was the first person to suggest the pay pal thingy....:P Could you reserve one for me?
(even if the books are gone Ill still give help ya out though)

I'll sort out the payment when I get home.

How much would it cost to post to Ireland?

Posted by: Noel Burke at May 3, 2005 12:29 PM

Wil,
Just placed an order there, But unsure if you're able to post it to Ireland or not. If you're not able to or even if its a whole pile of hassle, dont bother sending on the book, I would have given the money even if it was just a paypal thing anyway, so no worries.
Noel

Posted by: Noel Burke at May 3, 2005 12:43 PM

I apologise if my question has been answered elsewhere, or is self-evident, but would you be able to ship overseas? Specifically to the UK?

I already own JAG, but would love to have a signed copy. I'd be willing to donate extra to covered shipping if given an idea of how much.

Posted by: TheDivineGoat at May 3, 2005 12:45 PM

Jeez PayPal makes impulse buying WAY too easy... at least it's for a good cause. The last fund raiser I was in was for a goat for people in Hong Kong - never had much proof that it got there.

Posted by: Randy at May 3, 2005 12:47 PM

Well, I must admit I was moved by your heartfelt words about the pain you, your family, and your cats have gone through. Being a cat-owner myself, I couldn't imagine going through it. So, I decided $50 US wasn't a bad price to pay to help out a struggling writer with his vet bills (although I might have preferred Dancing Barefoot)... so I clicked on the link and discovered, much to my chagrin, that there was nothing said anywhere about shipping to Canada. No provinces listed in the "State" field and no mention of shipping costs if it was going north of the border.

Being the geek that you are Wil, surely you realize that your blog is on the Internet... and thereby readable by people who hated Wesley but like this Wheaton character all over the world? And while I realize that such far-flung places as Nigeria or New Zealand may be cumbersome, how about some love for your brothers and sisters shivering away in the Great White North? I know Canada's easy to miss, all tucked away down there, but we're literate too! Also, we like the kitties.

Umm... to sum up. Any way to get one of those up here?

Posted by: Astin at May 3, 2005 12:47 PM

p.s. if the fundraising goes well (which it prob should) It'd be cool to donate anything over the €7000 to an animal shelter? Just an idea.

Posted by: Noel Burke at May 3, 2005 12:47 PM

Terrific idea, Wil!

My copy JAG had been waiting patiently to be read up until a week or so ago. I can't tell you how much I appreciated everything you put into the book and how much I enjoyed it. My girlfriend had to keep asking me if I was going crazy as I'd just burst out laughing at some of the parts.

Anyway, happy to be able to help you out as well as obtain a personalized version. I hope to fly out to CA sometime and check out ACME or a reading sometime.

Best wishes,
Toby

Posted by: t_knotts at May 3, 2005 12:50 PM

Well, I can't afford one right now, but I did the next best thing - I asked everyone else to get me one.

I probably won't get one, but maybe some other people will buy one for themselves. I have a lot of cat owners for friends.

Posted by: MamaSlyth at May 3, 2005 12:57 PM

Just ordered my copy! I noted that some other posters gave you some links to animal insurance. It's really a good idea. After spending over $1200 on my horse in less than 10 hours and $2500 on my dog for two leg surgies, the insurance makes a lot of sense. Check it out and is usually reasonably priced.

Posted by: zipposwaywardsun at May 3, 2005 01:02 PM

Wil: I already have your Just A Geek (loved it by the way). If/when you hold a fund-raiser for "Do you want kids with that" let me know. I'd happily spend $50 for an autographed copy of that.

Posted by: OddieTaco at May 3, 2005 01:08 PM

Wil, I would be glad to donate you a few bucks for your bills, but cannot afford $50 right now. If you don't mind me sending you $5 via paypal I'll do it.

Posted by: Greggy at May 3, 2005 01:18 PM

Hey, Wil!

I have a friend in Israel who was wondering if this was only offered through PayPal. Some of the international folks have problems using that.

Posted by: MamaSlyth at May 3, 2005 01:18 PM

I just ordered a copy, happy to help out. I wanted to support the comments made earlier about pet insurance. I have it for my three cats (at a multi-cat discount). You still have to pay the bills first. The vet fills out some paperwork and you submit a claim. Animals with pre-existing conditions may not qualify. It's not perfect, but it's something.

Best wishes to you and Anne as you move through these sad days. It will get better. And Felix and Sketch were so lucky to have you.

Posted by: mharding01 at May 3, 2005 01:28 PM

Turns out that my friend wants to give it to me.

So, if there is something that can be worked out, you wouldn't be mailing it to Israel, you'd be mailing it to Oklahoma.

(I promise to read it to my cat George.)

Posted by: MamaSlyth at May 3, 2005 01:35 PM

Wil, I'm definitely in if there are any books left on Thursday (payday and all). But I'm crossing my fingers that there won't be - not because I don't want to help, but because that will mean your fundraiser has been a success!

My heart goes out to you on your loss.

And to those who might think a little less of Wil for doing this - frankly, it's just another example of what a Good Person(tm) Wil is. Many other people, especially if they have a strong following, have no problems in putting up a donate link to simply pay for bandwidth or for the next release of The Sims: Doggie Style. Wil is offering something very cool and tangible as part of his fundraiser and in return we're able to help out someone who did right by his animal companions and just needs a little help dealing with the financial aspects of that. If we were all so honorable in our intentions, then the world might be a better place.

Posted by: csarakas at May 3, 2005 01:44 PM

I really like this site, I like how your life is as real as anyone else's and how you appreciate things in life on a daily basis. Odd as it is, I learned about this site because I invest in Red Hat stock, it just led me here, odd how things work like that.

Posted by: MlSkine at May 3, 2005 01:47 PM

Wil, you said you didn't "feel right taking something for nothing". But, you give us readers a lot more than 'nothing'. You pour your heart out to us in your blog, which we read for free, and you are such a good writer that it enriches our lives. I lost my 16 year old cat to kidney disease on April 11, and reading your blog and knowing that you were feeling the same things I was made me feel like I wasn't alone in my grief. Not that I wanted anyone else to suffer as I was, but reading your blog and the associated comments made me feel like it was ok to be grieving for my Roosky and that I would eventually come to terms with it. The same sort of thing happens when I read about your parenting experiences and relate them to my own kids, etc. So, you have already given us readers a lot, and if you want to put up a 'donation' box beside the book purchase box, that would be totally fine with me (and I'm sure a lot of others). I already have both of your books, and I can't afford $50 US right now, but if a lot of us donate $5-10, it would add up for you. Please consider it. Thanks!

Posted by: AngieZ at May 3, 2005 01:48 PM

Wil,

I put in my order. I look forward to getting a signed copy of your book and I'm more than happy to help you out! I just hope you haven't run out of JAG! :-)

And you should take ShelaghC's advice about getting pet insurance. We should all do everything we can to make sure we don't lose our beloved furry friends. Especially when you only have one left. :-(

Posted by: Priori2ude at May 3, 2005 02:03 PM

I'd be interesting in an autographed copy os Dancing Barefoot as well.

Now, off to order JAG.

Posted by: AmyO at May 3, 2005 02:17 PM

Hey Wil,

You answered my prayers!! I have been wondering and praying for some way I could help! I mean, living thousands of miles away just puts a complete damper on everything. I have always said if there is anyway I could help out I would. I am buying your book right after I finish typing this message!! This will make my second copy of JAG to own which is great.

I have been reading the one I bought a few weeks ago, and can't put it down. It is the best book I have ever read, and I'm not just saying that! There is one problem I have been having. I love the book so much I do not want to handle it very much. Am I weird or what? Really, when I am reading the book I will handle it with the tips of my fingers so I don't rip the cover or anything!

Yeah, well, it means that much to me!! Now that I will have two copies I can put the one you sign up so nothing will happen to it, because if it did I would die, because this is probably the closest I will come to meeting you for a while!! I would love to come to one of your shows, but my time is absolutly crazy right now!! I know yours is also! I will attend your show one day. I cannot wait to meet you, not only because you are one of my VERY favorite actors, but because of the kind, caring person you are!! I really do admire your attitude on things. If you decide to put up anymore pay pals, I'm there for you!! Always. The best to you, Anne, and the Kids! Oh, as for badams, well you know where he/she can go!!

Posted by: JCade at May 3, 2005 02:24 PM

Ah, sadly I aleady have a copy and cannot afford to spend $50 this month, but I will pimp this in my blog - maybe someone will want to get one. It kind of has the right clientele reading it, after all ... .

Posted by: Sib at May 3, 2005 02:30 PM

"p.s. if the fundraising goes well (which it prob should) It'd be cool to donate anything over the €7000 to an animal shelter? Just an idea."

Nice idea, but if he only has 100 books to sell, I guarantee he's not going bring in more than $5000. :)

Posted by: Rodan at May 3, 2005 02:33 PM

I can't believe that my first comment here is another vote for you putting out some copies of Dancing Barefoot !!

But it is.

I already have TWO copies of JaG (because I use it in a class I teach on assorted "leisure" subcultures), and can't afford the cool copy :-(. But, I can probably justify such an expenditure for Barefoot! Look forward to it!

Cheers,

sunpony (the guy whose wife wrote to you late last summer about the fact that I was using your book for my class)

Posted by: sunpony at May 3, 2005 02:44 PM

Wil,

Not sure how, but this comment seems to have caused quite a stir on the LiveJournal cross post. If you have a bored 2 minutes, you may like to have a look..

Posted by: swiftblade at May 3, 2005 02:53 PM

Hey Wil,
This was the perfect excuse to buy your book! I'm ever so glad to help out. I already own a copy of Dancing Barefoot, and had been trying to find JAG in stores without much success. I was going to wait until after this weekend which is my birthday to make sure it wasn't one of my gifts, but with this incentive, even it is I'll just give the extra copy to a friend.

I left 'special inscription' blank, so I'm afraid you'll just have to be creative. ;)

Looking forward to it!
Jason

Posted by: Quix at May 3, 2005 02:54 PM

Oh btw, Wil, the images on the Thank You page are still massive would be a pain to dialup users. I took the liberty of resizing those for you.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v256/stefien/001_IMG_3206tn.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v256/stefien/001_IMG_5303tn.jpg

Posted by: Quix at May 3, 2005 03:01 PM

Wil, I've already got a copy of JaG, but not DB ... If you do decide to put up copies of DB, you've got one confirmed sale right here ... and in your LJ comments, Sarah's a 2nd sale.

Posted by: OmahaStar at May 3, 2005 03:01 PM

Have put the bait out for my friends in my blog - hope they bite. I'd really like to help contribute in some small way. I was so touched by your stories - and so sorry for your loss.

Re swiftblade - uh, yeah, but only people telling each other that they know Wil doesn't read comment made to the syndicated feed on LJ. Again?

Posted by: Sib at May 3, 2005 03:10 PM

I've been reading your blog for a while now, but this is the first comment I have left. I have 4 cats myself and I can't imagine how painful this has been for you and your family. I just ordered a copy, and I hope it helps with the bills.

Posted by: Tmyers526 at May 3, 2005 03:16 PM

Gah.

That is so lame when they do it, which is why I posted what I did on the entry before it.

(at least that was entertaining to some of us...)

Posted by: MamaSlyth at May 3, 2005 03:19 PM

I've been lurking here for quite a while (actually posted a couple comments a long time ago). The autographed copies are a great idea. I actually got DB for Christmas from my fiance, but I still didn't have a copy of JAG.

I'm so sorry about all the loss you've had to cope with in the last few weeks. I just (a year ago) lost the cat I grew up with. I had her for 20 years, and I still miss her.

You'll be in my thoughts. And a donation box wouldn't have been out of line either. :)

Posted by: jason at May 3, 2005 03:20 PM

I've been lurking here for quite a while (actually posted a couple comments a long time ago). The autographed copies are a great idea. I actually got DB for Christmas from my fiance, but I still didn't have a copy of JAG.

I'm so sorry about all the loss you've had to cope with in the last few weeks. I just (a year ago) lost the cat I grew up with. I had her for 20 years, and I still miss her.

You'll be in my thoughts. And a donation box wouldn't have been out of line either. :)

Posted by: jason at May 3, 2005 03:21 PM

I agree with Jason. I would certainly toss a virtual fiver into the box, just for all the writing you've done! But I understand and applaud you wanting to give something in return.

Posted by: sunpony at May 3, 2005 03:23 PM

Sold to the theatre geek in NJ!!

Thanks...glad to help in even a small way. I have 2 dogs and a cat, so I know about vet bills. Hope it goes well for ya, and I look forward to getting the book!

~Susan

Posted by: TheSingah at May 3, 2005 03:28 PM

Wil,
I put a post on my blog asking people to donate too. (Tried to use trackback with haloscan for first time ever but Didnt seem to work and i dont know what i did wrong)
Click here for my blog

Posted by: Noel Burke at May 3, 2005 04:04 PM

Hey Wil - I already own the books. Why don't you just let me send you $50 through Paypal?

Steve

Posted by: Timeframe at May 3, 2005 04:07 PM

Hi Wil,
Just put in my order - hope us Canadians can get in on the action here!
This is a great idea and I hope you're very successful with it. I've got my fingers crossed that DB becomes available!
Many thanks,
Colleen

Posted by: bova at May 3, 2005 04:16 PM

Awesome idea, IMHO...I snagged 2 copies, 'cause I'm greedy that way...and I knew someone who reallllllly wanted a signed copy. She's going to pee herself when she sees it.

Wil, thanks for the opportunity to get these signed copies. You're going to help me make someone's entire summer, I think.

Yay.

Now...when ya gonna write a novel? Inquiring minds want to know.

Posted by: Thumper at May 3, 2005 04:31 PM

Posted link over on my site, too. Hopefully I'll get a chance to order one before you run out! Waiting 'til my husband gets home--you do take money earned at Microsoft, don't you? ;)

Posted by: naiah christine earhart at May 3, 2005 04:58 PM

Oh, and one more "please add DB, too!"

Posted by: naiah christine earhart at May 3, 2005 04:59 PM

Alas, car bills have done my book fund in!

However, I totally support this venture, and if payday is kind to me I'll try to snag a copy of WHATEVER you're offering if you still have anything at that point. Looks like you're gonna sell out before I get a chance to contribute, but that's great for you!

I'm pimping this too all my friends, too. Just in case.

Posted by: Code Pirate at May 3, 2005 05:02 PM

Those vet bills can skyrocket out of hand in an instant. A $1200 surgery on my beloved Mr. Adventure turned into $2700 once they saw what was really going on -- at a time when every dollar counted for us. But I've never regretted taking that step; otherwise I would have always wondered whether he might have been saved if only I'd paid for the surgery.

I hope that you and your family have the same peace of mind that comes from knowing that you did everything that you could do.



Dancing Barefoot: Yes, please.

Posted by: Jo at May 3, 2005 05:58 PM

If this has been covered and my rapid reading has caused me to miss it, I apoligize in advance.

Would it be possible to send my copy of JAG to you to be signed for a fee? I'm thrilled that you have sold out, told you that we love you, but but, I would like signy-goodness too! *sniffle*

Ok, I'm over it, mostly. But really, please consider it unless there is something too complicated about doing that sort of thing. I would include a SASE and everything. Honestly, I would.

Just a thought.

Posted by: Emily_Nelfnoffen at May 3, 2005 06:12 PM

as I was reading this & thinking, 'rats! I can't afford $50 right now (or even $30 on Friday)!', I got to the part that said you were all sold out after 3 hours. while I'm disappointed I missed/had to pass on the opportunity either way, I'm glad your fundraiser was so successful! one of my cats a number of years back had huge vet bills too, so I can sympathize for the need. meanwhile, I'll pick up your books another time :).

l.
x

Posted by: loz at May 3, 2005 07:08 PM

i would like something with Dancing Barefoot because i already have JAG... and then you would really know that i love you because you KNOW i can get it on discount...

Posted by: Jessie at May 3, 2005 08:05 PM

Wil, how cool that your books sold out so quickly - except for the sake of those people who didn't get there fast enough to order one.

So, count me in for a copy of DB, which I would be buying as a gift for a friend. I'll be checking in for info on how to order that.

Posted by: Dave Westbay at May 3, 2005 08:09 PM

Wil, you should know in good times (and bad), the Posse ALWAYS comes through.

Best of luck.

Pook

Posted by: Pookie at May 3, 2005 08:14 PM

I was going to say "It took three hours?" but then I realized Wil hadn't checked in during that time. Heh. I wish I could get such a response for the charity walk I'm doing, but then... I don't have any copies of cool books I've written to offer. Someday I will get myself a copy of Dancing Barefoot and Just a Geek. Someday. Eh, I'm rambling.

Best wishes to you, Wil. Hang in there. There is no more powerful force in this world than friends, and most of us who read your blog consider you a friend.

Posted by: Laura Gjovaag at May 3, 2005 08:20 PM

Crap man, I could have HAD one if I didn't have to work for a living! Damn this mortal coil! :) Anyway Wil, I *still* cherish my signed copy of 'Dancing Barefoot' I received from you while you visited us here in Tulsa and hope that I can get a copy of JaG, signed of course, to join it one day. Peace bro. :)

Posted by: RipRyder at May 3, 2005 08:43 PM

Wil,

I just don't know what to say, I just started getting caught up reading your blog and so much has happened...I lost "my" kitty about two years ago and his brother is still with us, but I am not sure for how long. He is very old...

I have grown up with my cats, I watched their birth when I was still very young and now I am 23 and still have one of them with me. And I still can't help but think of Michael...

I have read many sad stories and many blogs from many people... I have heard stories that would make most people break down in tears and I have always kept it inside...But to listen/read your events without knowing it I had been moved to tears.

What I am trying to say is I can relate to your pain, I believe that pain is an individual thing to each person and different for each so we can't truly know it, but we can relate to it... And while this is a bit late I know, and I will post it to something more recent because I want you to know how much my heart goes out to you, because I know even a year later I still miss Michael and it makes me sad when I remember I wont see him peak around the corner and meow at me and try to startle the heck outa me.. and that he wont be waking me up anymore by nuzzling me gently first and stronger and stronger till I get the message.

I want to express just how much my heart goes out to you. I like so many people remembered you from TNG, but until I saw you on The Screen Savers one day I never really realized what a wonderful person you are. Intelligent, Caring, Fun, Creative, and above all....Real. I would be ordering copies of your books but I just read the post a bit ago and already you were sold out. I do however look forward to more than ever reading your works.

So please accept my digital hug and know that you are indeed a special person in this universe. BTW I know I have referred exclusively to you, but this is also meant for your lovely wife and family as well.

A/G

Posted by: TNAlphaGeek1982 at May 3, 2005 09:00 PM

Time difference SUCKS!
http://griff.buzznet.com/user/?id=1011020

Posted by: griff at May 3, 2005 10:25 PM

I just read this and you're sold out already???

Drat the luck!

:)

See, Wil? I told you that in your time of need we'd be right by your side supporting you! I was SO right!

Way to go!

Scott

Posted by: Scott T at May 3, 2005 10:37 PM

Great idea! It shows how much both Felix and Sketch means to WWdN readers.

And man! I'm way late and $50 too poor to get a copy. :( Although I own signed copies (during your San Francisco's Borders reading) of DB and JAG, sharing custody of them with my boyfriend Tim is hard! :p

Posted by: Crissie at May 3, 2005 11:03 PM

Damn I missed them! I would definitely like a signed Dancing Barefoot though. I love this site and I would quite happily subscribe to read the brilliant writing on here. More fundraisers!!!

Posted by: Joanna Neon at May 4, 2005 02:52 AM

I ordered your two books from Overstock.com a few days ago, so I'm happy enough that they are on their way. CAN'T WAIT TO READ THEM WIL!!!

Now WAY OFF TOPIC:

I just watched Nemesis.... and did you know that on the new Star Trek Nemesis DVD, under special features "A Star Trek Family's Final Journey".... that they didn't edit you out completely. I saw you in several frames sitting next to Gates at the wedding table and I was so happy! You have to look very closely, but there you are! So dashing in your white dress uniform. However, I'm still really upset they cut you out of the damn movie. Now we are left to wonder what the hell happened to Wesley.

Hollywood ... (as i'm shaking my head)

-Kel

Posted by: kelsquatch at May 4, 2005 03:05 AM

Wil,

Name your next book "Dancing Bigfoot"...

(Just a suggestion)

:) Kel

Posted by: kelsquatch at May 4, 2005 03:07 AM

I already own Just A Geek, but I would DEFINITELY want a signed copy of Dancing Barefoot. I've been putting off buying that for a while even though I loved Just A Geek. Now's the chance(hopefully) for me to hop on that opportunity.

Posted by: BloodyFork at May 4, 2005 03:09 AM

Awww, see what happens when I don't read this blog everyday. :(
If you decide to sell some copies of DB, you can count on me.
Good idea and well wishes Wil.

Posted by: HeatherAsDarkCloud at May 4, 2005 03:27 AM

I've never posted before, but I'm a regular lurker, and I was just waiting for payday to order a book. I had hoped only one little day wouldn't be too late, but it seems when I first read the message was too late. :) It's pretty amazing that they sold out so fast, but I completely understand.

I'd like to add myself to the list of people that would like Dancing Barefoot as well. I check every bookstore I visit, even sections I don't expect them to be in, and never find these two books.

Posted by: Andie at May 4, 2005 03:57 AM

i saw this entry yesterday before i left work -- sadly my 6 year old powerbook conked out over the weekend and there's no more WWdN for me if i'm not at work -- and i thought, good for wil. having just finished JAG over the weekend, i now know how hard it is for him to do something like this.

i am stunned at the response and how quickly the books sold out. (and wil, please, please please put up dancing barefoot!!) shoot, i'd buy a sketch or felix t-shirt, wil, i'm just that much of a geek. (of course the "profit" margin on those wouldn't help you raise quite as much money as quickly!)

dude, people respond to honesty and especially to a "celebrity" who's really just a regular guy. you've got to find a way to get over this idea that people don't like you cuz it's just not true anymore. you are seriously smart, seriously witty, wickedly funny and totally real. screw hollywood and whether or not they *think* they like you enough to give you a job. how many times has hollywood been wrong with casting? puh-leaz. (i know that doesn't help when they keep saying you're second choice -- i just went thru that job-hunting -- you're right, it's even worse when you keep hearing that than just knowing you don't have the job!)
dude, you're awesome. i've been a huge fan since what, 86? when did that movie come out? *shiver* doesn't matter. the only reason i even started watching ST:tNG was because of you.
as far as i'm concerned, you got a raw deal. you haven't let it keep you down. you keep trying. you went to frickin' drama school, made all the right moves and some idjits couldn't see it just made you better than ever.

let us do something for you now. you deserve it. and you deserve it a lot more than you know.

you're not taking handouts; you're not begging; you're not selling yourself when you put something like this up or when you put stuff up on ebay. you're not selling out. look at how fast you sold those books yesterday, man. think about that.

dude, you keep doing what you're doing. and fer cryin' out loud, keep writing. listen to your mom and your english teacher, and to that ghost of chris chambers, too. you're a writer. and stuff like this fundraiser is just us readers finally getting around to paying you for our daily dose of reading.
peace, man.
enderFP
ps what's up the ibook?

Posted by: enderFP at May 4, 2005 05:00 AM

That you are surprised to have sold out quickly surprises me. You have a bunch of us reading about your life on a regular basis because, on whatever level it is for each of us, we feel like we all have stuff in common with you. In a strange way, getting to know someone even through a blog feels suspiciously like making friends, if that makes sense. So, you've got a group of invisible friends who really aren't so invisible, and we care. Doesn't surprise me at all.

~Susan

Posted by: TheSingah at May 4, 2005 05:13 AM

I'm all for the buying a copy of your book and sending it in for an autograph. I know that other, less talented, people than yourself charge a nominal sum for this, so why not a swell guy like yourself? I promise not to send anything like a "Wesley" figure or anything TOO geeky (now a custom CSI "Walter" figure or WSoP Wil Wheaton figure would be cool, right?)

Mostly, as a guy who has cats too, I know the double-whammy of having to deal with the loss emotionally and financially. The least I could do is help out a fellow strong, white, adopted father of Feline-Americans.

By the way, your column in The Onion kicks booty, repeatedly. You've passed Dan Savage's column as things I look forward to on Wednesday and reached the same plateau as "Red Meat". (And not the crappy dual land portait of plateau as was in Revised edition: The original art last seen in Unlimited edition.)

Posted by: Thomas at May 4, 2005 06:04 AM

Hi Wil

I'm adding my voice to the chorus of "I don't have $50 right now, but I do have $5"... Since you are making up the The Bear eulogy booklets anyway, would you consider offering just those, signed or not, at $5 or $10 to help make up the other $2000 (and give those of us who don't have money or missed out on the 100 JAGs a way to help?) That might mitigate the something-for-nothing-ness...

Posted by: starlady at May 4, 2005 06:04 AM

Blast!

I was reading this post, smiling and planning to order a signed copy immediately and thinking that this was a brilliant solution to the quandry of a need for funds coupled with strong and admirable principles... but then I get to the end of the post and realize that I was too late.

Me sad.

Congratz Wil, on the idea and the support it generated. Condolences on the reasoning and need for the effort.

Thanks for sharing your life and words with everyone.

Posted by: BLUE at May 4, 2005 06:41 AM

well crap!!!

I took the wife to the book store last night and I ALMOST bought Just a Geek but somthing kept me from doing it. And then this morn I see this and said HELL YEAA!! THAT is why I did not get it last night....
and then I saw they were already gone! ;-(

if you can work somthing out and get some more... count me in

Posted by: gopherbroke at May 4, 2005 07:18 AM

Wow! Looks like I should have ordered mine at work yesterday, instead of waiting until I went home. ; )

I'm sad that I won't have my very own autographed copy of JAG, but at the same time I'm so happy that it all worked out! 7k is a big chunk-o-change.

Posted by: ignote at May 4, 2005 07:30 AM

$7,000 for a vet bill??? Holy Shit, is EVERYTHING in So Cal expensive now? I'm glad I escaped when I did.

Glad to hear the 'fundraiser' went well for you, Wil. Maybe next time you can get yourself a cheaper pet? Not that your cats were cheap, or to cheapen the memory of them.

You know what I mean.

Posted by: warcrygirl at May 4, 2005 07:56 AM

warcrygirl You know what I mean.

No, I don't know what you mean. Because cheapen the memory of them is exactly what you just did.

Posted by: Wil at May 4, 2005 07:59 AM

Dang, how does one follow that last post... um...

Say, I'd love to contribute, but with the stock sold out and that I already have a signed JAG, what can one do?

Posted by: jslicer at May 4, 2005 08:22 AM

warcrygirl: um, shut up. They're not pets, they're family. Get it? Would you tell someone to "get a cheaper child next time" if their 2 kids just died? Jeebus.

Wil, pay no attention to the people who Just Don't Get It.

On a different note, I'm bummed that you ran out of books and I can't help out. :-( Any chance I could order one anyway?

Hang in there!!

Posted by: cosmiquemuffin at May 4, 2005 08:49 AM

Wil,

My advice is not to listen to those who do not have anything constructive to say. Whether it be children or pets, the medical bills can be staggering, but some don't realize this fact.

We were able to help by securing our copy within the first hour and just want to say Thank You for the copy. We would have helped even without the book, but it is a definately plus as I cannot exactly get to California. :) If you do decide to offer Dancing Barefoot, we would definately be interested in a copy.

Best regards from some friends in New Hampshire

Posted by: numberwhun at May 4, 2005 09:25 AM

I have a dog and cat I consider family. I also have two sons. I can afford to pay ALL of their medical bills, thank you very much. How is it you do all this work and yet you can't pay your bills? Perhaps you should rethink your next trip to Vegas.

And please, do not compare my kids to pets; as much as I would cry and miss my cat and dog when they die (they are 7 and 11 years, respectively, so the time is closer than I realized) I would never mourn my pets the same way I'd mourn the loss of a child.

And I would NEVER have a cheesy auction to pay for the bills. Seriously, Wil, pay your own bills.

Posted by: warcrygirl at May 4, 2005 09:54 AM

warcrygirl: omg, are you truly so stupidly clueless? do you have ANY idea how many people in this country work their butts off and cannot afford healthcare for themselves, much less their pets? it must be nice to be independently wealthy and able to afford medical bills. i wouldn't know. while i was working full time as a freaking teacher at the university of notre dame -- without any health insurance -- i got cancer. so did my cat. trying to choose between your own treatment and that of your pet is a damn hard thing -- oddly enough, though, while the vets wouldn't work on brenden without $$, the doctors gave me chemo even knowing i couldn't pay for it. i'm alive. brenden's not. that oh-so-wonderful "family" of notre dame didn't help out at all (outside of a few close friends.

don't you DARE take wil or anyone else to task for what you call a "cheesy auction." it's an honest way to make some money while giving people stuff they want. there's no shame in it -- have you read how many other people are asking for more books? how many are asking for the same deal on his other title?

and what makes you think that he paid for that trip to vegas (in anything other than time)? for all i know, the tournament folks had him flown in AND spotted him the place at the table. they've been known to do things like that.

everyone else: sorry for the rant. this is obviously a hot button issue for me. sheesh

Posted by: enderFP at May 4, 2005 10:08 AM

Wow, so much controversy of something so simple and obvious.

#1 Have bills.
#2 Sell personal property to pay bills.

Folks, the books are Wil's to do with as he pleases. Selling them to help pay the bills sounds like a perfectly good idea to me.

In the last twelve months, two of my dogs racked up nearly *twenty five thousand* dollars in vet bills. I sold all kinds of stuff to help defray those costs. (I'm still in debt to my eyeballs.) Not one of my friends or acquaintances questioned it in the least.

Wil, I hope you'll understand that I don't have the money to help you out right now. But, good luck, and I'm very sorry about the loss of your cats.

Posted by: fewterer at May 4, 2005 10:15 AM

I think that Warcrygirl is under the delusion that just because Wil works in the entertainment industry that he is automatically rollin' in dough. Have you not been paying attention? He's been auditioning, not working as much as he'd like. Guest spots pay a few grand here and a few grand there, but that doesn't add up to a small fortune. And doing a show like he does at ACME can't be the kind of cash you must think it is. I'd be shocked if it was even a thousand a week, actually, and I make more than that sitting on my fat ass in my living room teaching voice and acting part time, while he's out working his ass off. Because I am fortunate enough to make a decent living, I am more than happy to help a fellow actor out of a tough spot, because we all go through them. He didn't say he couldn't pay his bills, he just said it made things tight. He's obviously trying not to let the unexpected medical bills of his pets impede upon his ability to provide for his family. Seems like they come first, or did you miss that part? Oh, and, I hope the use of the word "never" doesn't come back to bite you in the ass, as it almost always does. (I said almost, so don't have a stroke)He set a price and sold us a special edition, personalized copy of his book... Hardly the "cheesy auction" of which you speak. Those of us who are fortunate enough to be able to help out did...others offered words of support. Each thing equally important. We bought it without a gun to our heads. We bought it because we have compassion for others. Yay for you because you can pay all your bills. You get a cookie. What's sad is that the callousness and shallowness with which you attacked in order to defend whatever injustice you felt was committed against you will be competely lost on you.

Self-righteous indignation is SO not a good color on you. Seriously.

Posted by: TheSingah at May 4, 2005 10:29 AM

omFg. warcrygirl, how heartless and unsympathetic can you be? First of all, not to be able to appreciate someone grieving over the loss of a family member and slapping them in the face (the face if they're lucky) is simply inexcusable. Who are you to judge the Wheaton family if they happen to want their pets to have the medical treatment necessary to keep them alive with a good quality of life? If you had read the comments above, you'd see that it was their choice to make the financial commitment necessary to take care of Sketch and the Bear, and at a certain point they did decide that they just couldn't commit any more money to their cat's continually declining health (I'm sure quality of life issues were probably a part of their decision, too). Simply because you would have made the decision to shoot your dog in the head doesn't mean that you can insult them with impunity (and impetuousness) relatively anonymously on his website.



Of course, Wil doesn't need us to fight his battles for him, but if you'd actually read his actual blog entry, you'd also have seen that he didn't want handouts, and that he wanted to actually provide his readers/fans/"friends" with something in return for their help and goodwill.



Finally, if you don't care for the honest fundraising effort, and if you wish to simply denigrate, degrade, and snipe, then I'm sure I speak for many readers/fans/"friends" when I say that you're free to move right along.

Posted by: VineyardDawg at May 4, 2005 10:30 AM

"Seriously, Wil, pay your own bills."

I'd venture to say that that is exactly what he's doing. Like all the people on ebay, or all the people out there in the world holding garage sales. Sell stuff off = make money. warcrygirl, if you've got a problem with this concept, you've got about a billion other people to go screaming to about it. Come back when you've learned some manners.

Posted by: Liza at May 4, 2005 10:44 AM

And I would NEVER have a cheesy auction to pay for the bills.

Never say never, warcrygirl... Some day you may get slapped with unexpected expenses--and that happens to a whole lot of people--and find yourself hawking stuff on Ebay to pay it off. And you won't see anything wrong with it. You'll simply be thinking you're selling some of your stuff to raise money to pay your bills.

This is no different.

Wil has a product. He has something people want and are willing to pay for, and he has a need to generate a significant amount of cash so that he can be an honorable person and pay a debt he owes. He's not sitting here saying, "um, yeah, gimmee your money." He's selling a product. Something many, many people have been asking for.

I guarantee that if I had this kind of audience, I'd be putting my own books up for grabs to pay off my own considerable debt (or perhaps I should have procurred myself a cheaper brain to make sure I didn't get such an expensive tumor on it...?) Because, seriously, even with good medical coverage and a really good income, you can find yourself up to your eyeballs in debt because of a single uncovered medical incident.

You just never know what's going to happen. One day you're getting by just fine, the next there's a huge medical bill--your own or your pets--staring at you, and you whatever you have to do to pay it. Seems to me this venue is a lot better than just not paying it, wich s what some people would do.

Posted by: Thumper at May 4, 2005 10:47 AM

I am always a day late! I would love a book, have the money. SIGH>>>>> Good luck Wil if you need more my family is there for you. you have a good soul.

Posted by: Intelboy at May 4, 2005 11:19 AM

It amazes me that anyone would criticize Wil for selling material that he created. You wouldn't bash a painter for selling autographed prints of his work to pay his bills, and this is absolutely no different. Wil's fans get something they want, at what is obviously a fair price to them, and Wil gets money he needs to pay off some bills. There's nothing unethical or immoral about it.

Posted by: Andrew at May 4, 2005 11:23 AM

twarcrygirl-
I am so dumbfounded by how some people can actually feel justified about bringing others down. I mean, grow up, instead of being the 'whitty back-talking word-slinger who got one up on wil' that you must think you are to even venture such a post, you have shown us that you are an ill-mannered, stuck-up, undignified twit who is not above still throwing a childish tantrum.

Posted by: MyntCioccolatta at May 4, 2005 11:26 AM

:blushes:

I am dumbfounded by myself. Please replace 'others' with 'good-hearted people'.

Where's the edit button???

Posted by: MyntCioccolatta at May 4, 2005 11:31 AM

Wil,

Is there a way I can get my copy of the book signed with a witty comment for a donation? LMK, thanks :)

Posted by: xcvmvcx at May 4, 2005 12:21 PM

I'm not a real big fan of self-righteously indignant people who think it's just A-OK to spout off a bunch of crap at me. So, welcome to bannination, warcrygirl. I'm sure you can find a sympathetic ear over on Live Journal, or maybe in the Star Wars line at Grauman's.

And not that it matters, or that it's really anyone's business, but I don't get paid for ACME. I do it because I love to perform. In fact, I've had to turn down more than one paying gig because it conflicted with an ACME performance.

Continuing down that path, I was lucky enough to freeroll into the WPT Championship in Vegas, and everyone who played got a room at the Bellagio. And when I was knocked out, and didn't get the free buffet any more? I went across the street where it was cheaper to eat. And I didn't gamble, because I couldn't afford it.

I'm doing whatever I can to support my family, pay my bills, and sock money away for Ryan and Nolan to go to college. I'm so terribly, terribly sorry that my methods don't meet with your oh-so-important approval. Excuse me while I don't give a shit what you think.

Posted by: Wil at May 4, 2005 12:48 PM

Hi Wil,

I don't normally venture into the comments... here be dragons and all that, but in case no one has suggested it for the future... Pet Insurance is great for peace of mind.

We lost a pooch a year ago to cancer and the emotional drain is tough enough without having to have those $ issues bouncing around in your head.

Our other doggie is fully covered for just pennies a day (actually for about a $1 and a few pennies) and it is the best thing we have ever done. We use VPI and are quite happy with them. (http://www.petinsurance.com/)

Posted by: Rob Holland at May 4, 2005 01:14 PM

Working for free 'cause you love what you do. How much better does it get? You rock! You really, truly rock.

Oh, AND you provide for your family. You work harder than most of us, I think. And then some whacko has to attack you for having the nerve to actually sell the book that you wrote. Unfreakinbelievable.

Now I wish I'd bought 2 books, dammit. Sell the other one and I'm in!!

~Susan

Posted by: TheSingah at May 4, 2005 02:19 PM

Hi Wil,
Like everyone else I'm sorry for your loss.

I ordered your book through PayPal, but am not sure if I was one of the first 100. Does anyone know how I can find out? If I wasn't one of the first 100, what happens?

Wil - I'd love to get a book. Any chance you could get enough to send out to all the people who completed an order (even if they weren't in the top 100)?

Thanks and take care

Posted by: BMG at May 4, 2005 03:21 PM

BMG: I'll do everything I can to fill all the orders, even if it means going to my local Borders (Hi Jessie!) and buying whatever they have on hand (which is usually one copy. Thanks for nothing, O'Reilly).

In the unlikely event that I can't fill an order, I'll use the magnificent "refund" feature from PayPal to make sure you get your money back.

Posted by: Wil at May 4, 2005 03:40 PM

Damn Wil, I just love you. No wonder I've been a loyal Wheaton Fan for 20 years... you don't put up with any shit.

I know what you are going through, and I know how much it hurts. Just hang in there kiddo.

And good for you, putting up some of your assets to earn money. I know it was hard for you to do. But it's fucking reality. Personally, I sell on ebay and overstock to earn a living (and people pay me thru paypal). Just because you are a celebrity doesn't mean you can't do what everyone else does. You shouldn't have to defend yourself, but some people are so narrow-minded, sometimes you have to.

You keep doing what you're doing and don't ever feel bad about it. You have to make a living too. Those of us with IQ's higher than 'people that stand in the wrong line to see Star Wars' understand that just because you are a celebrity doesn't mean you have a free ride in life.

:) Kel

Posted by: kelsquatch at May 4, 2005 04:04 PM

Did I say that last line right???

(as I'm grabbing for my ADHD medication, seriously)...

Sometimes I confuse myself. (Hard to believe I have an IQ of 145, isn't it)

:) Kel

Posted by: kelsquatch at May 4, 2005 04:25 PM

May I get a copy of Dancing Barefoot, please,oh, pretty please? I was able to find JAG at a local bookstore, not that I wouldn't love a signed copy (I definitely would!) but I know you're sold out.

So, may I get a copy of Dancing Barefoot? Thanks!
Jen in Illinois

Posted by: miskaffon at May 4, 2005 05:26 PM

must've been the 'fundraiser' word that freaked out warcrygirl. suggesting that selling the book(s) you wrote is anything less than... um... normal/rational/logical is just plain crazy. that sort of thinking is kinda like saying that using your time to do work for someone else in exchange for payment is prostituting oneself, I daresay. I am continually amazed by the things people say.

anyway, Wil - I'm just wondering if you've looked into anything like cafepress.com as a temporary measure even? (I heard of it because I was/am part of a project called 'blogs of beauty' that was supposed to be sold via cafepress). this kind of service might be a good 'stop-gap' method to get more books out quickly, since you can upload all the material to cafepress.com & they will print each book purchased, on demand. here's the URL, if you're interested in looking at it: http://www.cafepress.com/. good luck whatever you do, and I'll look forward to my chance to get all your works :).

l.
x

Posted by: loz at May 4, 2005 06:28 PM

Actually, I was just over at Cafepress earlier today perusing some of Wil's wares (I gotta get one of those convention T-shirts! Too funny, and a great 'cultural artifact' to wear to class!), thus he may already know about the publishing end? It's too bad that O'Reilly is not getting it into stores in quantity (I think I saw two at the local Borders the last time I was there).

I will reserve any comments for warcrygirl since she is banninated. I will say that the issue resonates for me; when my Dad got brain cancer and the bills were piling up he got very innovative about selling his art (he was on disability but loved to paint and had tried to make a living at it several times). His hospice even hosted a fundraiser where he sold the paintings, and he generated a couple of grand to pay the bills. It did not save his life, in the end, but it did show how much he cared about my mom, and to an extent me. It is totally the perogative of the artist, the afflicted, or those they love to sell their wares and talent to make the money needed to pay for care in times of need.

Wow, that is a lot of prepositional phrases! :-) But you get the point. . . . Like my dad, Wil has taken responsibility for the decision to get care, no matter the expense, and that is a fine, noble thing. And he is doing it in a creative way that gives people something that they obviously REALLY want. Sounds beneficial all around! And much healthier than those folks who are shelling out $300 to buy an invitation from the wedding of the latest Runaway Bride. People are helping out and building ties and appreciating art and communication. That is quite kewl, says I. . . .

Posted by: sunpony at May 4, 2005 06:59 PM

yup, agreed sunpony. sorry about your dad, that must've been an awful thing for all of your family to go through.

actually, I just came back because I had meant to say first time that re: the books/cafepress.com it might not be possible for Wil depending on his prior publishing contract... but silly me, I hadn't even looked to see if there was any Wil Wheaton stuff there already (must go look now). so... turned out to be a bit useless as a suggestion, but oh well ;).

on a more general note, don't you just love the opportunities the internet has opened up? besides the whole 'instant' communication thing between people from different walks of life & in different parts of the world, I think it's really cool that there are so many ways people can make a living &/or just fulfill their creative urges, using services on the internet. wondrous.

l.
x

Posted by: loz at May 4, 2005 07:15 PM

I haven't been here in a while.

You've got some great readers/fans. Impressive.

This may sound corny, but I tell my 7 year old son when ever one of his pets dies, beta, frog or snail--there's a heaven for the pets we've loved. I belive that.

Posted by: Shellybean/Michele at May 4, 2005 07:33 PM

hi wil -

me lurk you long time. thanks for sharing your life with me, i really admire you. i placed a belated order for an autographed copy of just a geek for my new husband (we've been married almost two weeks) this evening, and would love for you to have my fifty dollars whether or not you can send me a book. I would also like to go on record as being very interested in easing your vet bill burden further by taking a copy of dancing barefoot off your hands.

Posted by: katy at May 4, 2005 07:58 PM

hi wil -

me lurk you long time. thanks for sharing your life with me, i really admire you. i placed a belated order for an autographed copy of just a geek for my new husband (we've been married almost two weeks) this evening, and would love for you to have my fifty dollars whether or not you can send me a book. I would also like to go on record as being very interested in easing your vet bill burden further by taking a copy of dancing barefoot off your hands.

Posted by: katy at May 4, 2005 07:59 PM

Dear Wil,
i was wondering if i can still donate later this week or early next week?
i wont have money in my paypal till next week, and is there a way i can maybe get a signed copy of dancing barefoot, please. i didnt get a chance to buy a signed copy of just a geek (just goes to show how popular you are:)cause they went so fast. please let me know. im a huge fan, as well as pet lover, but wether i get a book or not, i promise, i will still donate. take care and god bless

Posted by: danIEL at May 4, 2005 08:04 PM

Add me in for the "would like to contribute but has budget constraints" category.

Not that I'm going to check, but if anyone has done the "buy low, sell on e-bay high, pocket the profit" deal for this, I swear... Not the right spirit dude. (Just had that horrible thought when I wondered how the desperate would be able to get a copy). On the other hand, if Wil comes up with a signed manuscript of some sort, something one of a kind, and puts it up via e-bay, would people be interested? (Wil, you might consider saving a few copies if you get another batch of books for e-bay auction donations for a pet charities of your choice to help out "kitty friends in memory of Felix and Sketch".)

We have an aging dog with medical issues and I told my mom about how you had to let one kitty go, then another just... We really felt for you and your family and looked at our happy doggie (she's a spunky one) then at each other. Thanks for giving us an opportunity to share something with you for putting into words the sorrow at the sickness and passing of a pet. It's also nice to see the concept of community so well demonstrated where people just want to help out.

Random thought- if you save your change in coin-jars, take them to the coinstar or handroll them. We "reclaimed" a few hundred dollars that way. I was astounded at the huge amount.

Posted by: freecia at May 4, 2005 08:39 PM

Well, I have refrained from comment all day, so I guess, as the day is nearly spent, that I, too, must drop my two cents on the floor. I have read each and every comment regarding this particular entry, which many who have posted comments have not, as they are often repeating each other. I am not a great lover of animals, as you are Wil, but I can respect the love one feels for a family member. Though I doubt the bond is quite the same as with flesh of your flesh, etc., I do realize that to many, such as yourself, your pets are, in a way, like your own children at best, but very close friends, at the least. I think it is a powerful statement about your capacity to love that you were willing to lay down seven large to try to save your little friends(family). I don't recall anything being written by you stating that your family had gone without, or that you were on a drunken gambling binge in Vegas (probably looking for Spongebob). I do recall you mentioning that you wouldn't just take donations, instead, you wanted to give something back, in the form of an autographed book. It would have been easy to just say, "gimme, I need money" and your thousands upon thousands of loyal fans would have caused your bank account to overflow. You have shown love to your pets and integrity to your fans. (raising a mug) Here's to you, Wil Wheaton, may you long reign as America's favourite blogger.

PS- I think several people have raised a couple of valid points. As loyal readers I think it only fair that you give them an opportunity to give to "the FUND". Also, I agree that a charitable foundation would be superior, however, there is a certain cost involved for the books, so, how about 50% of the proceeds to benefit (fill in animal charity of your choice) Maybe list several charities and allow us loyal readers to vote. It would rock, and it would be a great way to honor your pets.

Posted by: jayep at May 4, 2005 09:20 PM

just another pro-pet insurance post here. i have VPI for my two pet bunnies and they have never given me any trouble with claims. they don't cover everything but they do cover a heck of a lot. i should know; i've submitted enough claims. they won't cover pre-existing conditions, though, so it's best to get it early if you don't already have it. riley and ferris (those are their names, right?) will be thankful.

Posted by: arifa at May 4, 2005 09:56 PM

Bugger! I was waiting for this and am a wee bit too late.

Sure, I could go out and grab them in the store, but I'd much rather the money went directly to you, as the artist, than through the system. If it helps with your frighteningly large vet bills, all the better.

As I don't yet have either book, I'm easy on what's available, but didn't want to go through the fundraiser page yet because I'd prefer to confirm that you're able to ship to Australia or can let me now how much extra shipping is involved.

Which is all a moot point if you've been cleaned out of stock by people much quicker off the mark than I've been today.

Posted by: Red Wolf at May 5, 2005 02:05 AM

I'm not a real big fan of self-righteously indignant people...

*gasp!*

who think it's just A-OK to spout off a bunch of crap at me.

*whew!*

You know, I'm always a little late to the party. Sucks that all the books are gone. Wil, I'll join everyone else who missed out in saying that if you can find more copies of Just A Geek or Dancing Barefoot to autograph I'll buy one of each. I'm with Red Wolf--I ordered your books through my university's interlibrary loan and they were awesome, but when I buy them I'd much rather have the cash go directly to you.

Posted by: Righteously Indignant at May 5, 2005 07:38 AM

Don't know what happened but my original order didn't go through, so I did it again. So there ya go, Wil. I hope it helps.

Posted by: itty bitty at May 5, 2005 07:52 AM

Figures, I redo my order and they're gone. Oh well. I'm glad you got the responses you did and again I hope it helps.

Posted by: itty bitty at May 5, 2005 07:53 AM

Wil,

Some friendly advice: Wait an hour before you respond to anyone giving you a hard time. If you do that, someone will more than likely come to your defense and things will be smoother that way.

When you only take the time to respond to negative posts, guess what kind of post people will start to write?

And the poster who was talking about "get a cheaper pet..."--that post didn't deserve a response at all. It wasn't even that hostile, just someone who views animals differently than you do. (Some people have an "animals come, animals go" kind of view, many who live on farms for instance.)

So let it go. Take the high ground.

I love your site and I love the fact that you allow people to comment, but you will have to get used to the fact that you will never get 100% approval/adoration/support. And that's okay.

Me, I'd settle for 25%. :)

-n

Posted by: neesh at May 5, 2005 10:06 AM

My mouth dropped open in shock when I read those warcrygirl's obliviously tactless post but will avoid jumping into teh ring. It's got enough bodies.

I know this isn't worth much, but you have my emotional support. I realize that's not as helpful as financial support but maybe there's comfort in knowing that there's one more person in the world who's not insensitive. I already have JAG and can't afford $50 right now.

It reminds me that a couple of years ago I commented on the "Wil Wheaton has a posse" thongs (back when I posted as "delphine") but never bought one. Maybe it's time. Congratulations on selling out and good luck with the rest of the fundraising.

Don't let the assholes get you down. There are many more people who care about Uncle Wil.

Posted by: AT at May 5, 2005 10:58 AM

I forgot to post this part:
Wil said, In the unlikely event that I can't fill an order, I'll use the magnificent "refund" feature from PayPal to make sure you get your money back.

How about sending out an email to those people first informing them of a refund? Then they have the option of declining it.
"That's okay, I did it for Sketch and Felix, not for the book."
People are so nice.

Posted by: AT at May 5, 2005 01:39 PM

Hey!!! Fundraiser idea II. Could one of the online poker sites allow us to do a charitable tournament on their site? A thousand of us who love hold'em, which I had never watched or played prior to reading your blog, could each donate 5-10 dollars and the winner of the tournament could have the total funds donated in their name. Doable? I don't know, I just want to sit at the final table with Big Willy! I think it would be a fun way to spend/donate a few bucks, and it would allow quite a few who were short the fifty an opportunity to feel a part of the love.

Posted by: jayep at May 5, 2005 10:47 PM

Here's a big hug from LJ, k?

Belinda

Posted by: Belinda.Short at May 6, 2005 06:59 PM