Sam has continually been a quiet yet mighty advocate for social justice, primarily in the field of
child welfare. None more important than the welfare of his children – all 7 of them, including me.
Dad was the first to know of Bret’s AIDS diagnosis when called to escort him home from a Tokyo
hospital without disclosing his condition, thus breaking the law of both countries at the time.
Dad and his wife, Sharon, nursed Bret from that initial brush with death and kept the secret that
was Bret’s to tell in his time. Supportive of his eldest son to the end and beyond, Dad became
and remains a founding member of my ride support team.
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| Crew Mama Alma & her daughters |
Mom and Dad had both been in failing health and coincidently passed away within days of each
other at the start of this year. Amid the shock, we siblings teased that it was Bret’s turn now; bet
he’s surprised! But then, surely all three are delighted to be reunited again.
When I see those 3 empty chairs on Day 1 of this year’s AIDS Vaccine Ride route, my mind will be on the people in
my life to whom this ride meant the most and our mutual
dedication to those whose families should have more time
together in this life.
