Bill Watkins knows more than he would like to about cancer. In 2007, he was diagnosed with throat cancer. He fought it and beat it. Now, he continues to fight, this time for the millions of other people facing the disease.

Despite never smoking and living a very active life, Watkins was suddenly faced with a battle for his life. He underwent treatment that continued through 2008. He said it was one a very tough year.

“I lost 94 pounds and couldn’t swallow for eight months. It was nip and tuck there for a while,” Watkins said.

After spending 2008, he spent much of last year recovering from the ordeal.

“I was able to beat it because of the good medical care I received and through the thoughts and prayers of loved ones and friends,” he said.

As a former physical education instructor at the university level in Arizona, and a former professional hockey player, Watkins was not used to being sick and not being active. Throughout his life, he always enjoyed exercising and working with his hands. When he retired, one of his pastimes was building birdhouses; it is a hobby he has picked back up now that he is healthy again.

“I really enjoy woodworking; it keeps me busy,” Watkins said.

Now, Watkins is combining his love for woodworking with another passion – helping fight cancer.

As a cancer survivor, Watkins was invited to the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life event last year.

“I went and walked last year and I will do it again this year,” Watkins said. “I am happy to participate. It shows that you can come back from a devastating disease. I also like walking for those who can’t do it themselves.”

Watkins says he will do whatever he can to support the Relay for Life goals.

“It is a tremendous community effort for a great cause. It is a blessing to be able to do it,” he said.

One way Watkins is helping out this year’s Relay for Life is by putting his know-how to work for the cause. He is building and selling his birdhouses for only $10, with the money going toward Relay for Life.

“I enjoy building birdhouses for my own recreation. It seemed like a good idea to build them and give the money to the American Cancer Society,” he said.

Watkins knows his birdhouses. He has 40 houses on his 10 acres of property near Cook Springs. He said with Leeds having the distinction of being a bird sanctuary, it is the ideal place to have a birdhouse. His property also has been declared a bird sanctuary.

“These houses are big enough for bluebirds or finches and they are easy to clean,” Watkins said.

In addition to building the birdhouses for his own enjoyment, Watkins also hosts workshops for children, giving them a chance to build their own.

Another way Watkins finds to fight cancer is by speaking about his experiences. He speaks to church groups and other organizations about his experiences. Battling cancer has opened Watkins eyes to the importance of fighting cancer, which is why he is passionate about helping the American Cancer Society.

“We must solve this problem,” he said. “It is killing an awful lot of people and maiming even more … many people never recover.

“We need to put all of our efforts into research. If I can do anything to help Relay for Life and the American Cancer Society I will do it and feel blessed to do it.”

Woodworking is not Watkins’ only talent, he also paints animal and landscape acrylics.

To purchase a birdhouse from Watkins, call 919-0900. The houses can be plain or painted in several colors. He also said he would deliver the birdhouses.

Also, Watkins, along with the Knights of Columbus, will host a free birdhouse workshop at the Holy Infant of Prague on March 13, at 10 a.m. There is limited space and parents should call Watkins for a reservation. Parents must accompany children.

For more information, or to get involved in this year’s Relay for Life fundraiser, call 640-4327.