P.O.

To the Barasch & McGarry Law Firm

I want to personally thank you and your whole law firm collectively for the unwavering devotion and professionalism to not only me, but the entire fire dept. family. The compassion and deep concerns I experienced by each and every one of your staff can not measure my sincere appreciation. It rivals the dedication we have of honor and duty.

When I first started showing symptoms of 9/11 injuries, such as corrosive Gerd, bronchial spasm’s, sleep apnea, and unfortunately being diagnosed with Barrett’s esophagus, I was scared my career as a fireman would be ending. As well as scared of dying from esophageal cancer (God forbid) I was just promoted to the rank of Lt and had a very short time out in the field. I had a lot of problems breathing on the fire floor. Fireman will always put their lives on the line to save anyone they can. But they never think of saving themselves. That was me. Until I was told by a few firemen buddies of mine; you need to get checked out. I did just that. And to my horror, I had a lot of issues to deal with and decisions that needed to be made in the best interest of me and the department.

I met Mike Barasch and Ed Markowitz in the fall of 2013. They honestly and empathetically felt my pain not only for me, but my career. Mike has extended his kindness to my family as well. I was on light duty for 2 1/2 yrs. It was rough. But Mike and his law firm had my back all the way, just as if we were going down the hallway together at 4am. I trusted in him. I can breathe a sigh of relief knowing he had the concern of my future and that of my family. Thanks to his law firms work, he took an economic burden from me and it’s a load off my mind today. To my brothers and sisters still on the job, if you know you’re not well, get checked out. Be safe. Thanks again Mike.