Roberta “Bobbi” Domer

A Note from Barry Gromada, Where is Barry? Founder:

Cancer has taken the life of many loved ones from all of us. It is something that is lurking out there day in and day out. Cancer makes you ask the question why: Why me? Why now? Why him or her? Cancer has affected my family in many ways and has made me ask the question, why her?

I have known my wife Erin and her family for a long time. Actually, our families have been neighbors since 1986 and have been close ever since. Erin’s mother, Roberta “Bobbi” Domer, died from pancreatic cancer in 1989 at age 46 when Erin was only nine years old. Losing her mother at the tender age of nine was devastating to Erin and her entire family.

I know how truly proud Bobbi would have been of all her children. I know she looks down upon them each day and is amazed at how much each of her children has accomplished. She has a school teacher, a doctor, a pharmacist, a business owner and a homemaker, not to mention the 13 grandchildren that have been added throughout the years. I know how proud she is of her husband, Tim too. He’s the ultimate father and grandpa. He is so dedicated to each of his children and grandchildren, being actively involved whenever possible. He has truly taken this family and led them through life’s ups and downs. I know how much he would like Bobbi to have gone on life’s journey with him in life rather than in spirit.

This is why I am riding my bike for 24 hours for the American Cancer Society. I am riding for Bobbi who was taken away all too soon. I am riding for my wife who doesn’t go a few hours without thinking of her mom. I am riding for a mother, son, wife, brother, cousin, grandmother, wife, sister, grandfather, uncle, aunt, or friend who has been taken away from their loved ones without an answer. This is for the wish that all of those suffering from cancer fight the battle and win. This is for the remembrance of all those who have died from cancer, may they rest in peace knowing they are not forgotten. This is for the hope that one day there may be a cure for such a tragic disease.

-Barry-