ROMERO, Reuben Mario

Reuben Mario Romero Born July 28, 1946 in Tempe, Arizona, Died February 24, 2004. Son of Gabriel and Juanita Romero. Reuben surrendered to his longstanding battle with quadriplegia and died peacefully with his nephew, Rick Jr., and his attending physician, Jim Berg, at his side. He was a patient at Craig Hospital in Englewood, Colorado since April of 2003. During his stay at the hospital, he courageously underwent several surgical procedures to prolong his life. Reuben's attitude regarding his injury and his illness was that he wanted to savor each moment of life until the time when nature would take its course. With this philosophy, Reuben became a medical marvel, surviving his catastrophic injury for 39 years and greatly exceeding all the doctor's expectations. "Out & About with Reuben Romero" is an original variety show designed to inform and inspire the disabled community throughout the world. Developed in 2002 by Reuben and his nephews, Cris and Rick Romero, "Out & About" was the achievement of Reuben's lifelong dream of becoming a disc jockey. On November 26, 2002, the show was the focus of a feature article written by Kenneth LaFave in the Arizona Living section of The Arizona Republic. This article inspired citizens throughout the state, in particular those who shared in Reuben's triumphs over disability. Reuben became seriously ill shortly thereafter, and production was postponed. Reuben returned to the microphone in the Spring of 2003. Despite the immense challenge of performing with a tracheotomy, Reuben recorded his most poignant work from the family education center at Craig Hospital. In the spirit and honor of Reuben and "Out & About," this production will resume championing the rights and opportunities of disabled people everywhere. Contributions can be sent to: Reuben Romero http://outandaboutradio.com 2315 N. 39th Place, Phoenix AZ 85008 Published in the Arizona Republic from 3/1/2004 - 3/3/2004. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Reuben Mario Romero, 57 years old, died February 24, 2004. Memorial Service was held at Manning Hall, Memorial Presbyterian Church, 4201 E. Thomas Road, March 6, 2004. Published in the Arizona Republic on 3/1/2004.