A Message from ILA SAGCD President Alan Robb

Dear Brothers and Sisters of the International Longshoremen’s Association,

I am writing today with a heavy heart to honor the life and legacy of a man we lost far too soon—Nick Brown. Some years ago, Nick was a superintendent for a local stevedoring company in Houston. He dreamed of becoming a longshoreman and providing a better life for his family. Through hard work, dedication, and integrity, Nick rose through the ranks and became a true soldier for the ILA.

Unfortunately, Nick’s life was tragically cut short this weekend while he was sleeping in his bed. Though I didn’t know Nick well, I watched his career from a distance with admiration, as he was living the American Dream—the very dream we all strive for. I don’t know the cause of Nick‘s death, and I make no assumptions about it. I only know that Nick died far too soon. It is with this in mind that I urge each and every one of you to take your health seriously.

Most of us are fortunate to have access to the MILA healthcare plan, one of the best in the nation. But its true value can only be realized if we use it. Sadly, I have witnessed far too many of our members who have fallen victim to preventable health issues simply because they didn’t take the time for regular check-ups or screenings.

I share this message with you not only as a fellow longshoreman, but also as someone who has lost loved ones to illnesses that could have been avoided. My own brother passed away from colon cancer at the age of 65, a disease that is one of the most preventable and curable when caught early. He was 62 before he had his first colonoscopy—and by then it was too late. Two and a half years later, he was gone.

This is why I am pleading with you—please, take advantage of our MILA healthcare plan. If you haven’t had a check up in the last year please schedule one. Follow your doctor’s advice, take your medication as prescribed, and make healthy lifestyle choices. Most importantly, encourage your coworkers, your loved ones, and those you care about to do the same. The difference could save a life.

We are about to enter into what promises to be the greatest contract in the history of the ILA. This contract will give us the opportunity to create lasting legacies for our families—but only if we are here to see it through. We must survive in order to thrive.

If you haven’t had a check-up in the past year, please make it a priority. If you’re over 40 and haven’t had a colonoscopy, schedule one. And if you haven’t done a cancer screening, please take the necessary steps to protect your health.

Do it for yourself. Do it for your family. And let’s work together to ensure that we are all healthy enough to enjoy the prosperity that lies ahead for the ILA.

I hope this year marks the beginning of the best years of your life. I hope it’s a year filled with good health, great prosperity, and a bright future for all of us.

In solidarity and with deep care for your health,

Alan A. Robb

SAGCD President

International Longshoremen’s Association