Dear Friends and Neighboors,
Over the last year and a half, I have become ill. I have been to more
doctor's and hospitals than Bruce Springsteen has tour dates.
I was misdiagnosed
with serveral diseases. Upon simple examination, and through the efforts and
intelligence of a great man and excellent neurologist named Dr. Terranova,
I have been diagnosed with ALS or Lou Gerhig's disease. It is of the progressive
nature, which sad to say, will shorten my time here on the Island.
I cannot say enough great things about Dr. Terranova. His charm,
wit, and compassionfor treating peopleis expressed simply by his commitment
to excellence, delivered with a very sincere integrity. In addition,
Dr. Toby Tracy and the staff at Ocean Family Care have been dedicated friends,
and have been more than helpful, on many occasions. These doctors remind me
of the great doctors that once made house calls. They clearly dispel the myth,
that good local doctors cannot be found. Don Koppa, Bob Schmidt and the staff
at the Surf City Pharmacy have shared their knowledge and research and offered
me assistance and answers, many times when I clearly didn't have a one.
It's refreshing to know such knowledgable, friendly people exist, at a local
family owned pharmacy. When the new corporate pharmacy refused to order the
drugs I needed to survive, Surf City Pharmacy had the medication on hand,
and was there for me.
Through the strength, knowledge and determination of Mayor Deborah
Whitcraft's office, Deb has provided many a common sense approach to issues
when there was no answer. I cannot thank her enough for her friendship, and her
ability to get right to the heart of the matter. Ms. whitcraft's example of leadership
defines why young women dream of being President, and solidifies why they should
hold that office.
Dawne Thumbhart, from the Ocean County Board of Social Services,
has been more than a true professional and friend. Her expertise in her field
and knowledge of the system is insurmountable. Truly, these women restore a
faith in government, when today we question priests and CEO's. They possess
the ability to provide simple common sense solutions in a land devoted to and
strangled by red tape.
At this time, I would like to thank the Island community for embracing
me in my fight against Lou Gerhig's Disease. There are far to many of you to list,
and although I cannot express my sincere appreciation for your help, I want you
to know I am blessed knowing you all. Your words, thoughts, prayers, and polite
consideration are more than appreciated. People comment on the positive manner
in which I face this disease, but I can't think of any other way to approach it,
considering the wide array of family, friends and Islanders I have fighting with
me. Having friends and knowing people has always been my greatest resource.
Heartfelt Thanks, God Bless, and enjoy the holidays...
In real estate, they say location,
When they really mean community.
Sincerely,
Ron Riker
Beach Haven, NJ
