5000 mile road trip with treasured dog sparks funny adventures and news headlines
COVINGTON, LA – In November of 2016, Wili, a 12-year-old terrier mix named Nawiliwili Nelson, was diagnosed with adenocarcinoma and given only three months to live. Heartbroken, his human, Episcopal priest Bill Miller, set out to celebrate Wili’s life, by arranging something his cherished four-legged campion loved to do most of all – travel. While Wili underwent surgery, chemotherapy and holistic treatments, Miller mapped out one last trip, something he considered to be the final task on Wili’s barket list- a journey from New Orleans to Las Vegas, and back, during 2017, and that unique road trip is now lionized in Miller’s latest book titled “The Last Howlelujah – Tails from the Trail.”
Miller notes with his spiritual humor, adds, “On a paw and prayer, I packed the car and off we went for an incredible journey that inspired thousands of people to come together to make a difference in their community.”
Along the way, Father Bill held book signings and gave uplifting talks, raising money for homeless dogs and animal shelters, in venues from churches to bars to BBQ joints and breweries and sitting next to him at all 23 stops was Wili. This book is a collection of heart-warming stories about their adventures that remind us of what ultimately matters in this life and the special and spiritual bond shared between humans and their canine companions. It’s the story of the power of a man and his dog, so when reading, be prepared to laugh and cry.
Miller recalls the time he sprawled out on the floor, cuddling Wili and remembering the extraordinary journey the two had taken. “I told him that he was the most special critter in the world-a one-in-a-million dog-and that there would never be another like him. I’m pretty sure I heard him say, you’re not bad for a human. Shorten your sermons, and all is forgiven.”
Miller hopes forgiveness is a theme that readers will pick up on, especially during these tumultuous times in our country. Miller believes there is something we can all agree on. Animals bring unconditional love and companionship into our lives.
**Please note: a percentage of the book sale proceeds will go to The Howlelujah Foundation, a charity founded in Wili’s memory, to help local musicians who have pets, easing some financial burden Covid has bestowed upon them.
About Fr. Bill Miller
William “Bill” Miller is an Episcopal priest, a teacher, motivational speaker, author, former co-owner of a bar, and founder of various jazz fests with a ‘soulful’ purpose. Father Bill uses his sense of humor and his gift of storytelling to intertwine real-life tales with those of the Gospel as a way of enlightening all those he comes into contact with. His homes have been in Houston, Austin, Hawaii, and now, Covington, Louisiana where he is Rector of Christ Episcopal Church.
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Lynda O’Connor
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