My Beloved Cousin Bob: The captain of the paramedics and a firefighter in a major US city, he was one of the original paramedics from when the discipline was new. He gave his whole 40 year + career and beyond to helping people, saving lives. Bobby’s prostate cancer was removed 5 years ago, but then last October it was back, very aggressive. It quickly spread to his bone and brain. How ironic that studies have shown a clear link between the toxic smoke from today's consumer goods, and cancer in firefighters. Also there may be a connection between the firefighting suits and prostate cancer.
He had been planning to marry his partner of 14 years, on this May 14, 2016. When he got the diagnosis, he wisely moved it up to December 2015. How wonderful the law had evolved to allow this joyful ceremony. Thank you to all the activists and politicians who made it possible for him to have a dignified wedding in California, and letting Martin have equal rights as any other spouse would in the light of the difficult decisions that needed to be made during his treatment and hospice.
Bob taught me so many things, about love, and life, loyalty, faith, curiosity about the world beyond this that we can see. Rest in Peace my brother of the soul. You were much loved.