We Are Family

We Are Family
By Robert “Bobby” Bock
NAPS Southeast Area Vice President

As I enter my 43rd year with the Postal Service, I reflect on the incredible journey I’ve had. I have been a proud member of NAPS for over 30 years.

Throughout the years, I’ve had the privilege of attending many NAPS events where I met countless dedicated members and high-level postal officials. One consistent message I’ve heard time and again is, “Take care of your health.”

As a disabled veteran, I’ve had to take time off over the years due to my disability. However, I made it a point to always conserve my sick leave so I could continue to provide for my family in times of need.

In November 2024, I was hospitalized due to a serious illness. What followed was a difficult journey—three hospital stays and six operations. During this time, I met Dr. Michael Smith—the remarkable doctor who saved my foot from amputation. My hospital stays averaged around 20 days each. I was out of work for a total of six months.

What helped me through this tough period, beyond the medical care, was the incredible support from my NAPS family. I received countless phone calls and visits from NAPS friends and colleagues. I also was deeply touched by the outreach and concern shown by postal officials. I cannot express how much that meant to me.

There are two key takeaways I hope you remember from my story:

1. Take care of yourself! Your health truly is your wealth.

2. Conserve your sick and annual leave.

You never know when a rainy day might come.

We are more than co-workers; we are family!