12/04/2025
An amazing and extraordinary man died in his sleep on Tuesday morning. I met him through the VA Community Care program, and practiced as his massage therapist.
He was 85, and a Vietnam veteran. While serving on duty, he was exposed to agent orange and over the years, the nerve damage took its toll.
In his earlier years, he held a 4th degree black belt in karate and ran his own successful business.
On the outside, someone could look at him and say he was an old man. But they would be erroneous to think so.
It's strange, maybe, but as I came to know him, I never saw an 85-year old man using a walker or a wheelchair. I saw who he really was - a champion whose heart was vibrant and full of fire. His spirit, determination, commitment and discipline was with him to the very end. I'm so sorry I did not have the opportunity to know him longer. I will miss him. I send love and comfort to his family. ππ