Hi everyone. This is Otis Petty’s son, Orlando Malone. My father lost his life to cancer on Saturday, September 19th. It was bad enough losing him to cancer. Now we continue to fight the system. Let me explain: My Dad fought cancer on all fronts. He not only battled this disease within his body, but he also battled government entities that poisoned the community of Barton, AL. He fought the government so that no other family would suffer the losses that we have. “Cold Ash” deposited into the soil here in Barton, AL has devastated this little community. Otis saw his Mother, Father, Brother, Brother-in-Laws, 1st cousins, and friends all die from the negative impacts of these environmental wrongs. How can one family see and feel the losses from cancer at such a ridiculously high rate and no one say anything? How can a community with about 100 people have such high rate of cancer yet no one step up to fight the root cause? The answer to that question... That’s what fueled his desire to get justice for us all. My dad took this fight seriously!!! He could be found getting samples of soil, testing water, or checking for new dump sites all over the community. He spoke with senators, Governors, and even helped other communities rally to stop Corporations from dumping toxins into underprivileged areas. He gave the people from those communities a voice! For the past year and a half, he could no longer eat or drink yet he still smiled and fought! For about a year, he couldn’t talk but kept smiling and fighting! Do you think this stopped his efforts to get out into the community? No! Even while weak, he would be going door-to-door educating people on their rights. He helped several with their claims for asbestos and other toxins. I would fuss at him to sit down. But it didn’t work. He made this fight his legacy! On Saturday of last week, he took his last breath. And, it looks like our family now has to fight to give him a proper burial and cover expenses. His insurance company notified the funeral home that his policy has been voided. Now we’re left fighting to get things in place as quickly as possible to give him a proper burial and cover expenses. If you knew and loved my dad, we’re asking for your help. If you can empathize with someone in this position battling against environmental issues only to have the “system” reject your insurance that you’ve faithfully paid ... we ask you for your help as well. For those that can help, thank you in advance! If you can’t help monetarily you can still help by praying for us to get through this difficult time. No matter what you give, it will be greatly appreciated. One last thing ... For those that didn’t know him, google “Otis Petty Times Daily” or “Otis Petty Cold Ash” and you can get a glimpse of the fight. You’ll see news articles, TV interviews, etc. If this blows you away, check the cold ash trackers for the Barton/Cherokee, AL area. Notice how the trackers are off the charts. In closing, my dad fought until the end. Now we’re fighting for him! Thanks for your help! Respectfully, The family of Otis Petty