I have been in business in Roseville since 1971; this City has been very good to me and my family. As a local business person I've sat on many boards and committees; always trying to give back as much as I received from our community. In 2005 I was diagnosed with a very rare blood disease called Amyloidosis; most likely brought on by exposure to Agent Orange while I was an infantryman during the Vietnam war. I was treated for this challenge at Boston University Medical Center. In order to defeat the Amyloidosis, I had an autologous stem cell transplant and high dose chemotherapy (two days of chemotherapy equal to what you would normally receive in six months). Fortunate for me, I was in incredible shape, being a long distance runner and weight lifter because I lost almost 70 pounds in six weeks of treatment. After my recovery I wanted to give some time to an organization that I could easily relate with. An employee in my office introduced me to the Keaton Raphael Memorial. Once I saw the struggle that the brave little people, who through no fault of their own, go through and their never say no positive attitude, I was sure this was the right organization to give of my time. I can honestly say that being a small part of this wonderful organization has enriched my life beyond my expectations when I first became a member. I relate to the children, but could never say that I come close to the bravery they exhibit. Their determination and fighting attitude and their spirit has been an inspiration. Every story I read, every picture I see, brings tears to my eyes. I can only hope and pray that we as a nation find a way to harness and destroy this dreadful problem.