Phil Robinson...RIP

November 18, 2009 was a very traumatic day for me. A gentleman who I worked with for over 24 years suffered a stroke at work. Another tech and I rushed to him and tried to help him. It seemed ages until the rescue squad got there.

It was a major stroke and Phil lay in a coma for months. I went to see him once. I dont know if he ever knew I was there either then or later. In February he was retired from the agency. Last month, we invited his family to VOA for a tribute to him in which his family was given a plaque honoring his service. I was fortunate to be one of the people chosen to speak of my memories and pleasure of working with him over the years.

A couple of months ago, he was moved to a rehabilitation facility and his condition improved slightly. It seemed as tho he was able to acknowledge your presence, know you were there, but unable to verbally communicate.

Today, I came into work...blissfully cheerful and ready for a normal day. The colleague who was with me when Phil became ill asked me to sit and had a very odd expression on his face. He told me that Phil died the night before. He was gone.

I never got to say goodbye to a man who I respected very much, who loved his family, his job, his life. Who never forgot to ever see the good in people and situations. My life has been enriched for knowing him for the time I did.

He was a true gentleman. Phil...you are missed, always remembered. Your suffering is over...rest my friend. Rest in peace