In Loving Memory of Robert Carlin

Hi, my name is Lew, I am raising funds on behalf of my brother Bob (Robert). While we are not blood related, I was privileged to start a men's group for patients of Arachnoiditis. I ended up hosting these meetings from the second week, and Bob was there from day 1. I am 38 and live in New Zealand. Bob and I then spent the next few months, just him and I, catching up online weekly over Zoom. As we got to know each other, we began gaming online, spending time outside of meetings yarning. For those of those who don't know, Arachnoiditis is a neuroinflammatory condition, it's rare and is known to be the most painful condition in the world. It was given the name "The Devil's Disease" in the late 1800s and is written in medical journals (what little there is) and it equated to living with terminal cancer, without the relief of knowing your suffering will end. Fast forward. and up until late last year, we still had been talking weekly over 3 years later. We were joined by an exceptional group of gentlemen, for whom keep each other afloat as we grapple with the consequences of life derailing with no control over whatsoever apart from out mindset. There is no cure, there is a protocol to treat it developed by an incredible man, it's hard to get on that protocol because of the medication needed. And most who have severe cases (which Bob did) fight courageously every single day to try and be strong for our loved ones, be present for what we can and watch our world crumble. Bob battled for over 20 years and on March the 15th, Bob lost his battle. He fought to the end, he was an anchor in our group, a foundational member, our brother in arachnoiditis.

This Go Fund Me is being set up to help with his funeral costs and expenses, to help ease the pressure on his beautiful wife Paula and his family. His family and wife were his greatest achievement in life! Unfortunately, this condition not only affects the patient, but every single person he/she interacts with from the day of diagnosis. Not a day went past that he didn't acknowledge the sacrifices and appreciate the people around him and in his life. His wife Paula has supported him day in, day out, always being there for him, supporting him, caring for him and loving him. a Love you only read about in fairytales, the kind of love that inspires you, gives you hope in humanity and makes you realize no matter what we are truly blessed. He was a man of faith, a warrior and a man of resilience and honour, a kind, caring and gently soul. He was a family man, a patriotic man who loved spending time with his family, outdoors, fishing and traveling.

If you're able to contribute $1, that's amazing, it all adds up. If you can't afford to, that's ok too. Even a comment, a memory, or shared experience will be appreciated. Thank you for your time, if you want more information on Arachnoiditis, symptoms, support etc, go to www.acmcrn.org I will update the funeral arrangements when I get them.

Click the link below to view the obituary for Robert M. Carlin

Robert Carlin Obituary