Hi everyone -- my name is Davette Martin-Repola. In the picture posted above is my cousin, Robert Martin, sitting next to my Mom, who sadly is no longer here on earth with us. My cousin Robert spent most of his life in the San Diego area, along with many other members of the Martin clan, but for for past several years Robert has been living with us Martins here in Arizona at the Lazy DM Ranch near Patagonia, where he helps out in a multitude of ways and too many ways to count. Many of you who know Robert locally may be surprised to learn that Robert was born with severe profound hearing loss and is actually legally deaf. Robert has worked really hard throughout his lifetime to overcome this disability as best he can -- to learn to pronouce a huge vocabulary of words and build the confidence to speak those words. Although his ability to accomplish this and to communicate with others is reliant upon the combination of very high powered hearing devices and reading the lips of the person he is speaking with, it's incredibly remarkable that he is able to speak and engage in intelligent conversations at all.

My cousin Robert is a genuine gem. A heart of gold. He's kind, caring, sensitive, thoughtful of others, and he is a giver. He's the guy that steps up to help with no questions asked when someone has a need or is in crisis. He's the guy whose heart hurts when yours hurts and he's not shy about sheding a tear along with you. The love, patience and support my cousin Robert extended to Mom, and the entire family, throughout the return of Mom's cancer and final passing speaks volumes about his character. He is a true gem and I am honored to lead this fundraiser for his benefit.

We learned a few days ago from Robert's hearing doctor that his high powered hearing devices are worn out and need to be replaced. The hearing tests revealed that Robert's hearing loss has declined slightly since the time that the last hearing devices were purchased 8 years ago and we will need to invest in devices with greater range capacity in order for Robert to continue hearing. Expensive, but necessary. I admit that my ability to hear is something I easily take for grantit and I can't even imagine.......

The Martin Family thanks you from the bottom of our hearts. Your generous donation of any amount is greatly appreciated.