I wish to commemorate the life of Michael Trom, Men Talk Production 1989-90, Men Talk Editor 1991-93. He died in his home on Jan. 1, 2004, age 46. For more, read the Goodbye Stranger article in the Jan. 14, 2004 City Pages.

Mike was a friend I met in the mid '80s working in the tech theatre scene. He had an early aptitude for the use of technology, and worked as a writer for the StarTribune sports pages. By the late '80s, Mike was active in the production of Men Talk and was instrumental in converting our methods. Goodbye scissors-and-glue! Hello Macintosh and Quark Xpress!

Throughout this time, Mike also struggled with depression. I witnessed his hospitalization for attempted suicide; we talked often about men's issues and difficulties; and we both turned to the Men's Center for help. We attended men's conferences, support groups, and classes. Many times, I believe that support from other men made the difference between life and death.

When Mike moved back to Fargo ND in 2000, distance grew between him and his Twin Cities support network. In the end, it was too much. I wish every city had a Men's Center so every "Mike" has a place to go for support when it gets rough. Let's work to make it so.

On behalf of the Men's Center, I extend my deepest sympathy to his family.