Staff Sgt. Matthew Bumpus died for a government that abandonded him

I've been asking this question since the 80's. Where are we when they need us?

Matthew Bumpus just died for a Government that abandoned him

Matthew Bumpus was initially diagnosed with Acute Myleogenous Leukemia (AML)in August 2006. The following is excerpts from a letter Matt has sent to some Congress & Senate members in an attempt to get assistance. Hearing Matt's story in his own words is very powerful.

"My name is Matt Bumpus and I am 31 years old. I live in Roseville, CA with my wife and two sons. I had the honor of serving my country in the US Army for 8 years and 9 months. I was a Staff Sergeant, Command Section Sergeant and Stryker Vehicle Commander; and was in Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 3rd Infantry Regiment. I served in Iraq for a year and was primarily in heavy combat zones in and around Ballad and Al Mosul. When I returned, my wife and I decided to go home to California and start setting down roots near our extended family and continue growing our family.

In July of 2006, I was home, had a job with a bright future, we were expecting our second child, we had just moved into a house, and life was good! At that time I was receiving a 10% disability for a wrist and shoulder injury. I had included a claim for hearing loss suffered while enlisted, but it was denied and therefore not included in the disability.

On July 31st I was rushed by ambulance to the hospital with acute appendicitis. The next thing I remember is hearing that I had been diagnosed with the life threatening disease; Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML). I was told that there was ‘chromosome damage due to radiation exposure.’ The following months of chemo, drugs, increased ringing in my ears, and various procedures, were at times unbearable. This is an extremely aggressive form of leukemia so the treatment is aggressive as well. But by the grace of God I went into remission at the end of 2006. I returned to work and an almost normal life. I was alive, in remission, and very thankful.

Editor's Note: Matt died on the morning of August 3rd, 2008, after a valiant battle, surrounded by family and friends.

We are encourage everyone to register with the Bone Marrow Registry (all it requires is a simple swab to the cheek and a little paperwork) and to please tell everyone you know about the importance of the Gulf War Exam.

click post title for more, I need to wipe my eyes now.