Steve Metcalf, former longtime Chair of the Orange County Democratic Committee and current Superintendent of the Montpelier School system, announced yesterday to members of the community that he has what has been labeled “inoperable and incurable” bile duct cancer and has been given from a few months to eighteen months to live, depending on how he responds to chemotherapy.

Steve’s family has been steeped in Vermont politics behind the scenes over the years. His children have been active – particularly Ben who, among other things, was a staffer for Howard Dean’s Presidential campaign. His ex-wife is a former Chair of the State Democratic committee.

Steve is a truly great guy, and I’m sure I speak for many in wishing him the best as he fights this thing. In the letter he sent to the community, he indicated his intent to “beat these crazy odds.” Those of us who have had loved ones stricken by cancer (or have had to cope with it ourselves) know how truly unpredictable it can be, so hang in there. If anybody can beat it, Steve, I’m sure you can.