The tools of a law enforcement officer’s trade are obvious: badge, weapon, uniform. But as with many things in life, what is most essential is invisible to the eye: courage, honor, commitment, and an unshakable belief in doing the right thing no matter the cost.
Richard Martinez was one of the greatest teachers on this subject, because he was one of its finest students. The courage to not look away in the face of overwhelming odds was everywhere in his life. Most people didn’t know the true depth of his courage as he heroically battled stage 4 kidney cancer for 11 years. On Nov. 17, 2019, the decorated federal agent passed away.
Known to family and friends by many names – Rich, Barney, Bingo, and The Lobo – Richard was a larger than life presence. His reputation for practical jokes preceded him. Yet, when it came to the rigors of his job as a special agent with the Drug Enforcement Administration, he never missed a beat. The first to offer help in any way he could, the only thing bigger than his personality was his heart. His strength of character and body was undeniable. Through the pain, surgeries, hospitalizations, treatments, and side effects of his disease, he pushed through and kept going.
Initially diagnosed with metastatic kidney cancer in 2008, the aggressiveness of his disease was such that by the following year doctors had given him a 5 percent chance of living another five years. Much like how he approached his work, he attacked the disease head on, refusing to give in to the pain and discomfort experienced while going through treatment. His courage and resilience inspired everyone around him to never give up, including the team of physicians and scientists determined to do everything in their power so that Richard could continue to live and fight another day.
And he took full advantage of it, from celebrating treasured birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays with his family in Hawaii to seeing his daughters grow up, graduate from high school, and go on to college. It was during this time that he also set and achieved important professional milestones, including being named DEA Agent of the Year in 2011.
Participating in the clinical trials and research initiatives required tremendous sacrifices on his part, including frequent and painful biopsies, which he did not only to help himself but others as well. By selflessly giving of his time, tissue samples, and test results, Richard provided researchers with valuable insights regarding a particular tumor behavior that plays a role in drug resistance. Insights from which researchers continue to learn more and will aid in the development of life changing therapies and medicines.
Richard’s integrity, courage, and never quit attitude contributed not only to the person he was but the legacy he leaves; a hero who made an incredible impact on the lives of others. Every life is exceptional. Richard proved that one person can make a difference.
