One thing led to another and he gradually got to know more and more people. This was clearly noticeable yesterday: almost everyone knows Willem by name and is aware of his health situation. “He can’t be stopped,” says a visitor, laughing. Others are especially concerned. A woman frowns at the reporter sitting next to Willem in the van. “Can you perform CPR?”
He is visibly moved by all the support he received and continues to receive. “When you see how many cards, apps, phone calls and fruit baskets you receive… ‘Willem, we can’t miss you yet’. That is heart-warming and that is why I am also busy today, perhaps against my better judgement.”
Hectic? No
Despite the fact that he receives phone calls all the time and is needed at the port (“Willem! Can I let these cars through or not?!?”), he calls his job today ‘relaxing’. “I just love this. It seems hectic, but it gives me a nice and calm feeling to do this for the residents of the Beemster, of which I am one.”
And now? “I’m going to really rest for a few weeks now. That’s important.”