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Alan Bonander was our Parkinson's Paul Revere. Always on the alert for news by land, air or Internet, Alan was on constant vigil for the clue that might bring the cure. He would venture into the darkest night, putting aside any regard for personal safety or expense. His duty was his honor; to carry the lantern, to light the way to end our common suffering. Alan loved, supported and defended the cause of "Ending Parkinson's Disease in our Lifetime" with every breath he took, with every fiber of his being. I only saw Alan at Parkinson's meetings. Since he was usually in charge, I expected he would have no time for personal contact. To the contrary, Alan often stood just outside the entrance, keeping one eye on the meeting, yet finding time to greet his many friends. His warmth and affection was evident in the way he remembered the particular details of each person's circumstances. Alan's shy smile and subdued manner were a thin disguise for his droll sense of humor and the twinkle in his eye. Whenever I was in a jam figuring out medical insurance, I called Alan. If I considered adding new medication to my already heavy dosage, I called Alan. If I thought of something really funny, I called Alan. When my spirits hit bottom and I needed a kind word, I called Alan. I counted myself lucky to have had Alan as my friend. I know I speak for many. Love and gratitude to his family for sharing this remarkable man with us. May his many acts of courage and kindness return as blessings to heal you during this most difficult time. I suspect Alan has already given his first pep talk to the angels about increasing heavenly assistance to find the cure. Most likely he has already accrued frequent flyer mileage on his newly issued wings and is busy organizing a celestial SWAT team. One thing for sure is nothing could or did stop Alan before, and nothing in heaven or earth can stop him now! Farewell, dear friend, farewell. Julie Hildreth, Mill Valley, CA