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JERRY’S STORY




August 24, 1954 - April 1, 2006


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Current updates at bottom of page
Last updated 3/29/07
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"All My Loving"
by: The Beatles


The Gomez Family

Jerry Gomez was diagnosed with Indolent Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in August of 1998. He and his wife Carol were in the middle of a whirlwind of joy raising their new family, a set of six-month-old triplets, Robert, Julia and Max at the time of his diagnosis.

Since then, Jerry has undergone numerous conventional and experimental treatments to keep the cancer in remission. These types of treatment are no longer effective in fighting the cancer. The next step that has to be taken to save Jerry’s life is a bone marrow transplant.

Jerry has four siblings, but none of them are a match for him. Thus far, all other family members who have been tested are not a match either. The International donor bank of over 8 million has not yielded a sufficient match either. So we are asking for the help of our friends, co-workers and community.

The fact is that over 25% of people in need of a bone marrow transplant do not have a donor match. This percentage is even higher in the minority population. The % of minority donors in the International Donor Registry is extremely low. In order to help save Jerry’s life, as well as others in need of a donor, please, please come to one of the donor drives (the list is the other attachment on this email) and become a part of the National Donor program. With a simple test, you can literally be a lifesaver!

With much love, and many thanks for your support, The Jerry Gomez Family


UPDATE FEBRUARY 2, 2005 Jerry's Surgery to put the stent in his Kidney went very well on Monday. He is home and getting around as if nothing ever happened! We are waiting for the Doctors to schedule his next appointment to see if his creatin levels are normalizing from the surgery, so they can start his chemo regime. We are also anxious to see if his platelet count is still on the rise, as the higher it is, the more stem cells they will be able to harvest.

Gomez Family Video Jerry seeking a match in early 2005. It is a beautiful video."


UPDATE MARCH 13, 2005 Jerry will be leaving to Seatle for treatment this coming Monday. More information will be available this week. The hope is to get Jerry's Lymphoma into remission and try a transplant using his own marrow since there is no match for him within his family or the registry.

UPDATE MARCH 25, 2005 As Jerry was going through testing to begin his treatment and hopes of a marrow transplant, it has now been discovered the cancer has shown up in his marrow. This takes away the chance of using his own marrow for a transplant. He will be on his way home on Tuesday. Please pray that a donor match can be found for Jerry very soon. He desperately needs a match so he can be transplanted sooner than later.


~~*UPDATE MARCH 29, 2005 FROM CAROL, JERRY'S WIFE*~~

Dear Friends, Family, Co-workers, and Community,

Hi! It's me again....Well the good news is that Jerry is home from Fred Hutchison in Seattle. The bad news is that they have discovered a secondary cancer in his bone marrow. This means that he can not qualify for a transplant of his own stem cells, so he came home. HE MUST HAVE A BONE MARROW DONOR MATCH TO HAVE ANY CHANCE OF SURVIVAL!!!! I can not express to each of you the urgency for us to find this miracle person. Jerry's organs are shutting down because his tumors are getting so large. He will have to have another stint put in his kidney next Monday for it to be able to function. He then will start high dose chemo the following Monday. Hopefully we can achieve a remission with the chemo treatment, and he will be ready for transplant. The only thing that is missing is our donor at this point. I have no doubt that within this community, we will find that person.

Jerry's donor will most likely be of Latin decent, but not necessarily. His closet match on the National Registry was Northern European, with the number 2 and 3 closest matches being of Latin Decent. With this being said, we are encouraging everyone to go and register on the National Donor Registry. Please keep in mind that to go on the National Donor Registry only requires a simple blood test, and minimal paperwork. Also you must be between the ages of 17 and 60. If you are truly blessed, you will then have the opportunity to save someone's life.

I am a board member of the Katia Solomon Foundation. This foundation helps family's that are faced with cancer and transplant both emotionally and financially. We also help to organize and fund some of the drives that are listed. The HLA kits for non-minorities are very expensive, and we are committed to help Florida Blood services with these costs. Please log on to www.katiasolomonfund.org. This will give you the opportunity to help us help others with a donation.



OK, have I asked enough?! Get tested, donate to this very worthwhile cause, of course PASS THIS ON TO EVERYONE IN YOUR ADDRESS BOOK PLEASE!!!!!

Many, many thanks, and much love, Carol, Jerry, Robert, Max and Julia Gomez


UPDATE APRIL 7, 2005 Jerry recently underwent another surgery for a stent replacement in his kidney. He is doing great from the kidney stint replacement surgery. We are just waiting for Moffitt to schedule his chemo. Our main focus now, as you know, is to find a donor.

UPDATE MAY 24, 2005 Jerry has a match!!! He has been undergoing some very strong treatments, trying to reach remission. He has lost his hair. Jerry has been such an inspiration to so many. His family is there to support him and we are all praying he will reach remission quickly and be able to move forward with his transplant, his new chance at a life. Thank you to all who have registered as potential marrow donors, donated blood, platelets and other blood products and have been praying for Jerry and his family. Keep posted for more updates, transplant dates, etc. Love, Tracy (Katia's Mom)



UPDATE APRIL 19, 2005 Jerry's Plea




Jerry Gomez and Katia Solomon Foundation News Conference 6/15/05



Myron Solomon (KSF), Carol Gomez (KSF), Jerry Gomez, Patricia Chaves (KSF), Scott Ulm (KSF), and Victor Penna (KSF) June 2005



UPDATE JUNE 24, 2005 Jerry has gone to Seatle to prepare for transplant. Please pray all things will go smoothly and he can soon be on his way to a possible cure.


UPDATE JULY 13, 2005 Thank you so much for your prayers for Jerry's family!! I just spoke to Carol (Jerry's wife) earlier to get an update on how he is doing and when his transplant will take place. Jerry is doing well and will be starting to prepare for transplant. It has been found out he is not in remission, but with Lymphoma, transplant can still go ahead. Jerry will be having his kidney stent replaced on July 15th. He will then undergo 3 to 4 days of complete body radiation starting on July 21st and will be admitted into the hospital, for transplant, on July 24th. At this time, his transplant is to take place on the afternoon of July 27th.

Family and friends are asking that you pray for Jerry everyday but on the 27th, in the afternoon, please take a moment to pray the bone marrow transplant will go as smoothly as possible and Jerry, this wonderful husband and father of three, will be on his way to a full recovery and a long and healthy life. This has been a long road to get a match for Jerry and on the 27th of July, a long road to recovery begins. Prayers are so helpful, appreciated and needed for Jerry, his family, doctors and just everyone involved in his care and support.

Please check back for further updates as I will continue to update on Jerry's progress and condition.


UPDATE ON JERRY JULY 26, 2005

TRANSPLANT SET FOR THURSDAY, JULY 28TH PLEASE PRAY!!

Jerry is finishing his radiation treatments today for his bone marrow transplant and he finishes his Cytoxan treatments tonight. Tomorrow he has the day off (in the hospital) and then the next day (Thursday) is transplant. PLEASE PRAY FOR JERRY. He and his family very much want people praying. They followed Katia through her journey and they know it isn't going to be easy at all. Jerry is already having a lot of problems with nausea and such as well as mouth problems. They did find out the woman that is his donor is an American Indian. It is amazing to see how matches come together. Like Katia, Jerry is a very mixed heritage. So, please pray for him.**


UPDATE ON JERRY AUGUST 2, 2005
DAY +5

Jerry had transplant, as planned, on this past Thursday, the 28th. Transplant Day is considered DAY 0 in the transplant world and each day after is plus one day. So, today is +5 for Jerry. He has a lot to go through before he really can start getting better. Mouth sores, stomach troubles, very low to no blood counts, etc. As each problem arises, there is the prayer of a solution and improvement.

Jerry started on morphine yesterday for the mouth/throat pain, so he is much happier. His counts have all but dropped out, which is of course suppose to happen. It's called neutropenic? (not sure of the spelling) They say around day 12-21 the counts should start coming back up which means the graph is happening. The good news is that 3 days after Total Body irradiation and Citoxin that the tumors in his groin had noticeably gotten much smaller! Yea!! I will get his count tonight and catch up with you soon. Take care, much love, Carol

Here is some easy to understand information on Bone Marrow Transplants


UPDATE ON JERRY AUGUST 15, 2005

The update is that Jerry's White Blood Cell Count and ANC levels have both quadrupled each day for two days now. The Dr's say that this is what he should be doing. It means that the graft is taking! We are just praying that these numbers continue to increase this way until he is fully graphed! I'm sorry I have not done an update in a while, but I wanted to wait for some good news. Jerry has been so terribly sick over the past two weeks with the radiation and chemo side effects that I just didn't want to worry anyone with what was happening to him. It is amazing to me that the human body can endure so much. Jerry has not been able to talk to the kids or me for almost two weeks because his throat pain was so bad. Now that the White blood cell count is up, it will start to fight his throat infection, so he can finally talk to us without excruciating pain. The kids have so much to tell him too!! Our thanks for all of the prayers, they are working! Please keep them coming, we have a long recovery period with lots of challenges and unknown's. I am planning to go back out to Seattle to be with Jerry and his mother when he comes out of the hospital. He will be VERY weak, and there will be A LOT of home healthcare needed. I suspect if things keep going as they are that that should be in about two weeks from now. Again thanks to everyone who has supported our family in so many ways. From Prayers to food to friendship and more. It is true that good always will come out of a bad situation. We could not do this without each and every thing that has been done for us. God bless each of you! Much Love, The Gomez Family

UPDATE ON JERRY AUGUST 27, 2005 GOOD NEWS!!
Jerry is getting out of the hospital today!! His White Blood Cell count is 10.5 well within the normal range, HCT is 30, ANC is 8.5 and Platelets are 61 (he is making his own now!) These numbers look much better than when he went in so we know his new immune system is working very well! He has been dealing with some host verses graph issues. This is when there are rejection issues with the donors stem cells. It has come out on his skin and in his gut. He is being treated very successfully with steroids with one exception, he has developed temporary diabetes from the steroids. They are starting to wean him today over a long period of time, so hopefully this will resolve itself within a few weeks.

The Doctors are very pleased to say the least, they love his new immune system! Thanks for all of the prayers, and please keep them coming, Jerry still has a long road ahead of him. I will be heading out hopefully on Wednesday for a week long visit. He will be very weak for sometime and still susceptible to infection. We hope to have him back in Tampa in November for the Holidays! Blessings, The Gomez Family.


UPDATE ON JERRY SEPTEMBER 9, 2005
I just got back last night from Seattle and wanted to give you an update. Jerry is now 100% grafted! The bone marrow test showed there is NO LYMPHOMA in his marrow now! We will have a cat scan at day 70 to make sure all of his tumors are gone as well. Before the transplant, Jerry's marrow was 50% Lymphoma. Our prayers have been answered!! But, we still need more!! Jerry is having a very bad time with the Graft verses host on his skin. It had gone completely away with the steroids, but once they started to cut them back it returned with a vengeance! He has a rash over his entire body! He is on 200mg of steroids a day which have given him diabetes, depleted his muscle mass ( he has lost 25 lbs) and he shakes terribly. So, they have started on a Puva treatment as well. It is like a tanning bed to help with the GVH on his skin. The GVH in his gut seems to have gone away. He is eating very well!! But, we need to get the GVH under control on his skin because it keeps his immune system suppressed, and blood sugars off with the steroids. The good news about GVH is that is does cause a Graft verses tumor effect, which will kill any residual tumors that may still be in Jerry's body. Again, many thanks to everyone for all of the prayers and support. When I was in Seattle this week with Jerry, he was so emotional and thankful to everyone! His spirits are up, and he says it's because of all of the prayers and support he is receiving. Please keep sending them his way! Much love, and many thanks, The Gomez Family

UPDATE ON JERRY SEPTEMBER 14, 2005
PRAYERS NEEDED!!
I spoke with Jerry last night and his Doctor today. He has had a setback in his recovery. The Graft Versus Host Disease (GVHD) on his skin has turned aggressive. They are continuing on the steroids, but have stopped the PUVA treatment, since it can aggravate the skin further. Basically the donors T-cells are attacking Jerry's skin. The worst of it is on his wrists and legs. If it does not get better it will eventually break thru the skin, leaving him susceptible to infection which could be fatal for him at this time. They are trying him on a new drug called MFF to see if it will have any effect. The Dr. tells me they have two other drugs they can try if this does not work. There is no guarantee that any of the drugs will work, but with a lot of prayers I think we can find one that will!!! The transplant has been such a great success that if we can get past the GVHD, it looks like Jerry will be cured. The Dr's are also giving Jerry Oxycontin to deal with the pain all over his skin. He says it is like the worst sunburn you ever have had, and is especially painful in the joint areas when he moves. Jerry is keeping strong in his faith that he will get past this, but we will need all of your prayers for this to happen, I'm afraid. As always we are so thankful to each of you for your support and prayers, much love, The Gomez Family.


UPDATE ON JERRY SEPTEMBER 27, 2005
Jerry's recovery really is like two steps forward and one step back. I am realizing now why they said it would be a 6-12month recovery period. The good news is the the MMF drug for the GVHD on his skin is working, and they are starting to wean him off of the steroids again! They are now treating Jerry for an infection in his blood. They say it is pretty common in transplant and not to worry, but I still do! Olga (Jerry's Mother) had to take him to the hospital night before last due to excessive confusion he was having. It turns out that his red blood count and platelets were very low, so he was given 2 pints of blood and platelets, and is doing much better now. He is starting Physical Therapy today, because of the muscle loss due to the steroids he has been given. It is going to take a while for my "Tennis Buff" to get back in shape!

I am planning to take the triplets out to Seattle the week of October 10th to see Jerry and his mother. We are all so excited, I hope the Doctors will give us a final thumbs up when the time comes! As always we continue to pray for a full recovery and appreciate all of the prayers given to our family by others. I truly believe that is what has given Jerry the strength to get thru this ordeal. As always, many thanks and much love, The Gomez Family.

P.S. We got the most wonderful news last week. Our nanny Leticia, that has been with us since the babies came home from the hospital, called me to let me know that her son Antonio (who had gone on the National Donor Bank for Jerry) was called up as a match for someone!! I spoke with Antonio a couple of days ago, and he is very excited and hoping he will be selected to give someone else another chance at life! So many people went on the bank for Jerry, and because of that many lives may be saved! Please continue to encourage anyone not on the National Marrow Registry to join today!



LEUKEMIA AND LYMPHOMA SOCIETY'S ANNUAL LIGHT THE NIGHT WALK
OCTOBER 8, 2005 OLD HYDE PARK, TAMPA








UPDATE ON JERRY OCTOBER 10, 2005
The update is that we are off tomorrow am to see Jerry! The kids are soooo excited! Jerry sounds stronger on the phone too. The steroids are being cut back and I think that is helping make him feel better. They are talking about letting him come back to Tampa around Nov. 14th. The Dr.'s are suggesting that he stay in a transitional apartment until after the holidays. We don't want to risk any chance of infection with 3 kids, he has gone thru so much! But we can have distant visits and see him in person which will be great! As I have mentioned on several occasions, we really believe that Jerry is surviving thru this because of all the prayers and support from friends to strangers. With much more recovery to go, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts, and ask you to continue. The Gomez Family


UPDATE ON JERRY OCTOBER 17, 2005
Hi there! The trip was great, but very tiring with three 7 year olds. Having my sister Ruth with me was a big help though! It was great for Jerry and the kids to see each other, but they are all sad now that we are apart again. Jerry was going thru another problem when we arrived. They have found Fungus in his lungs, which can be very dangerous. It is yet another problem caused by the immune suppressant drugs. He is down to 60mg per day of prednisone, so hopefully some of these infections will stop. Jerry is also experiencing a lot of confusion with the steroids and all the other meds he is on. The Dr. says there is a possibility of getting him home in mid to late November. But, they have to get these problems fixed first There are several new drugs that Jerry has been treated with that have helped to save his life. We are so lucky to have God and modern medicine on our side!! Jerry is having scans and another bone marrow biopsy done today, so we should know if he is in complete remission in the next few days. I will keep you posted. Again, thanks for all of the prayers! The Gomez Family.





NEWS STORY ON JERRY NOVEMBER 3, 2005 BAY NEWS 9





UPDATE ON JERRY NOVEMBER 7, 2005
JERRY IS COMING HOME!!!!

Yes, Jerry is coming home on Thursday of this week!! What great news!!



UPDATE ON JERRY NOVEMBER 11, 2005
Jerry is SOOOO happy to be home! The kids have been talking his ears off since we got home. The missed him so much. Olga, Jerry's mother is trying to re-establish her "nursing center" for Jerry in Tampa. I am trying to get the house in order with the right food and supplies that he needs. Training three 7 year olds to wash their hands on a regular basis has been a challenge too! Although Jerry is home, he still has a long recovery ahead of him. He is being weaned from his immunosuppressant drugs, and we are praying that the GVHD does not come back. Once he is off of these drugs, we should see his counts come back in line, but that will take some time yet. In the meanwhile we are just trying to make sure he is not exposed to anyone who is sick, and make sure he gets plenty of rest in a comfortable and clean home! We are looking forward to a wonderful Thanksgiving, with so much to be thankful for!

Our continued thanks to everyone for their support and prayers through this very difficult time. Much love, and Happy Holiday's! The Gomez Family.

UPDATE ON JERRY DECEMBER 23, 2005 This is an URGENT prayer request for Jerry, who is back at Moffitt from this afternoon. Basically he was just not himself earlier in the day and he was taken back to Moffitt Cancer Center where his conditioning was worsening. They did brain scans and ran some tests. No results yet. His wife, Carol, is now there with him and his three children (7 years old) are very worried for their daddy. This is all happening right here at Christmas, a time that is usually filled with joy and peace. They need prayers for Jerry's improvement and for these tests to reveal some answers. He is basically non-responsive at this time and unable to care at all for himself. Please keep him in your prayers.

"Tampa Tribune Article on Jerry


UPDATE ON JERRY JANUARY 19, 2006 Please keep Jerry and his family in your prayers. Jerry has been having quite a few "episodes" recently that were very concerning. After having an MRI done and the results read, it appears Jerry has been suffering from strokes and damage being done by these. He will need physical therapy to try to reverse some of these effects. The cause is unknown but suspected to be from previous chemo treatments he has had.


UPDATE ON JERRY JANUARY 28, 2006
Jerry has been improving slowly. It is believed that certain medications had caused vasculitis so after changing medicines around, Jerry has started to improve. He still is not able to get up on his own, speak very much or have much activity but he is undergoing therapy to regain some of these things. He remains in the hospital and will remain there for weeks to come as planned right now. Jerry's family greatly appreciates your prayers and prayers are working. Thank you for your messages in his guestbook, your thoughts and prayers for the family and for continuing to follow Jerry's Journey.

UPDATE ON JERRY FEBRUARY 6, 2006
PLEASE KEEP JERRY IN YOUR PRAYERS AS HE IS NOT DOING WELL RIGHT NOW. HE SEEMS TO BE LOSING MORE OF HIS PHYSICAL ABILITIES. THEY ARE WORKING ON TRANSFERRING HIM BACK TO SEATLE IN THE NEXT DAY OR SO. PLEASE PRAY FOR JERRY AS WELL AS CAROL AND THE CHILDREN.


UPDATE FEBRUARY 8, 2006 FROM CAROL
Hi there! I wanted to give you an update on Jerry. Things are not going well for him. Yesterday after his MRI he had a seizure, and the MRI revealed more lesions in his brain, so whatever this is, is getting worse, not better. With this new complication, it would not be safe to air ambulance him back to Seattle, so I have Moffitt overnighting a Medical Report and all of his scans to them for review. They are now ruling out general stroke and vacuities since there are numerous lesions now. Jerry is having another spinal tap today to see if an infection will show up now, although it has not in the past. If it comes in with no infection, we will have to do the brain biopsy, which is what we have been trying to avoid. The consensus now is either bacterial infection, viral infection or cancer. Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma usually does not present in the brain, and if it does, it is not in the areas where Jerry's lesions are. Also, with a clean bone marrow biopsy and Pet scan recently it seems unlikely to be cancer.

Jerry has complete paralysis on his right side, almost no motor skills, and is bed ridden. We ask that anyone that reads this prays that the Dr.'s will be able to come up with a diagnosis, and that we can start a treatment that will save Jerry. The triplets will be 8 on next Wednesday Feb. 15th, and this is what they are asking for for their birthday. I want so badly to give this to them. Many thanks to everyone for their kindness and prayers. The Gomez Family


UPDATE FEBRUARY 10TH ON JERRY
This is Tracy Solomon, Katia's Mom. We have just returned home from a visit with Jerry and Carol at Moffitt.

I am coming here with some very devastating news that was given to Carol last night. Jerry has been going through so much recently and has had many tests run. The conclusion is that Jerry has now been diagnosed with
PML (Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy). Here is a bit of information on PML from the linked website:

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PML

Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rapidly progressive neuromuscular disease caused by opportunistic infection of brain cells (oligodendrocytes and astrocytes) by the JC virus (JCV).

Description

PML is an opportunistic infection associated with AIDS and certain cancers. It occurs in people with inadequate immune response and carries a poor prognosis. The incidence of PML, once quite rare, is rising as the numbers of people living with persistently compromised immune systems rises. An estimated 2-7% of people with HIV disease will develop PML. The infection also occurs among people undergoing long-term chemotherapy for cancer. PML is not considered a contagious disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control definition of AIDS, PML in the presence of HIV infection is sufficient to form a diagnosis of AIDS.

Causes and symptoms

Although at least 80% of the adults in the United States have been exposed to JC virus (as evidenced by the presence of antibodies to this virus), very few will develop PML. Little is certain about what causes JCV to produce active disease, but the virus persists in the kidneys of otherwise healthy people without making them ill. Recent evidence suggests that after prolonged compromise of the immune system, the virus changes into a form that can reach brain tissue and cause disease. In PML, the JCV infects and kills the cells (oligodendrocytes) that produce myelin, which is needed to form the sheath that surrounds and protects nerves.

About 45% of people with PML experience vision problems, most often a blindness affecting half of the visual field of each eye. Mental impairment affects about 38% of people with PML. Eventually, about 75% experience extreme weakness. Other symptoms include lack of coordination, paralysis on one side of the body (hemiparesis), and problems in speaking or using language.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is difficult, but usually relies on a neurologist and radiologist assessing the white matter of the brain on a computed tomography scan or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Tests of the cerebrospinal fluid can help distinguish between PML and other diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalopathy. The rapid clinical progression in immunocompromised patients is another distinguishing factor.

Treatment

Currently, there is no known cure for PML, although it sometimes responds to treatment in patients with AIDS who are taking anti-HIV drugs (such as AZT, alpha-interferon, and peptide T). Although several agents have shown some potential in the last few years, such as the highly toxic cancer drug cytarabine, none are safe enough or sufficiently effective to be approved for PML.

Prognosis

PML is usually a very aggressive disease. The time between the onset of symptoms and death can be as little as one to six months. However, some patients infected with HIV have improved without receiving treatment specifically for PML.

Key Terms

Multifocal-
Having many focal points. In progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy, it means that damage caused by the disease occurs at multiple sites.

Opportunistic infection-
A illness caused by infecting organisms that would not be able to produce disease in a person with a healthy immune system, but are able to take advantage of an impaired immune response.

*******




Although Jerry seems to be near the end stages of this disease, they and the doctors have not given up hope. They are still planning to try to get a brain biopsy done on the 20th. Without this, they can't have a certain diagnosis. They also plan to start fighting with some strong medicines.

This site will continue to be updated. Please please pray.

"As long as there is life, there is hope."


Love, Tracy Solomon



PLEASE PRAY WITH US FOR JERRY

THERE IS AN UPCOMING PRAYER SERVICES BEING HELD.
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 AT 6:00PM
PALMA CEIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
3501 SAN JOSE ST.
TAMPA, FL 33629

THIS IS ALSO THE TRIPLET'S BIRTHDAYS. ROBERT, MAX, AND JULIA WILL BE TURNING 8 YEARS OLD. OUR PRAYERS ARE FOR A MIRACLE FOR THEIR DADDY THAT HE MAY RETURN HOME TO BE WITH HIS FAMILY WHO NEEDS HIM SO BADLY.



PLEASE KEEP POSTED VIA THIS SITE FOR ANY TIME CHANGES OR CHANGES IN JERRY'S CONDITION




UPDATE ON JERRY FEBRUARY 15, 2006
Jerry has begun a new treatment to try to fight the PML. This treatment is done by chemo drugs and is very aggressive and extremely hard on Jerry. His counts have already bottomed out which again, leaves him prone to infections. This is the only known treatment for PML and even so, this is not always done because of the severity of aggression.
The brain biopsy has been moved up from the 20th to the 16th. The hope is for the doctors to find answers to Jerry's condition that are more promising than the PML. PML is devastating. Please pray for the surgeons doing this surgery, the doctors and for Jerry and his family. There are many decisions to be made in just a little bit of time. Please pray for hope and for a miracle.

Remember tonight's Prayer Service at
Wednesday, February 15th, 6PM
PALMA CEIA PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
3501 SAN JOSE ST.
TAMPA, FL 33629

Today is also Robert, Max, and Julia's birthday. They are 8 years old today. Please pray for them to somehow find a good day in this. I am sure they will appreciate seeing the prayer service for their daddy, knowing so many many people care for Jerry and them.

Love, Tracy (Katia'sMom)




UPDATE ON JERRY FEBRUARY 16
Thank you so very much for each of you that turned out for the prayer service/candlelight vigil last night. You are so very appreciated and loved.
Jerry is scheduled for his brain biopsy today. First, his platelet count must reach 50,000 to lessen the risk of bleeding during surgery. He has been and will continue to recieve platelets to accomplish this. His blood counts will be checked throughout the day and when the platelets are acceptable, he will have his surgery. Therefore, there is no definite time as of yet.
Please pray for Jerry, his doctors, the surgeons, Carol, the children and just everyone involved today. This is a very risky surgery as well as a chance to find out exactly what is causing Jerry's symptoms. The prayer is that it is something more workable and with a better prognosis than PML.
Please check back to this site for any updates on the time of his surgery, Jerry's condition, and what is found through the surgery. Thank you so much for your prayers.
Love, Tracy


Feb. 16, 2006 ST. PETE TIMES ARTICLE ON PRAYER SERVICE

JERRY UPDATE FEB 16TH 1:30 PM

Jerry's platelets did get up to 65,000 but he needed to have an MRI which was done today. Therefore, his brain biopsy is now scheduled for 10:30 A.M. tomorrow on the 17th. They will again begin giving him platelets tomorrow around 4AM to prepare him for the procedure. They want his platelets above 50,000 but the higher the better for him.

Also, prayers are working. Jerry's spirits have greatly improved today! He appears to be smiling more and Carol says he got teary eyed when she told him of the prayer service last night and the candle lighting vigil. He does understand what is going on. He just isn't able to speak.


UPDATE ON JERRY FEBRUARY 17, 2006 5:15PM
Just heard from Carol and Jerry came through the brain biopsy very well ("with flying colors" Carol said). His platelet count had risen to 107,000 which was better also.
The bad news is that it appears to be PML by the preliminary results. They are going to continue with the weekly treatments (on Sundays) to try to fight this. They also said the preliminary shows it is AGGRESSIVE PML, which is not what they wanted to hear, nobody wanted to hear.
However, these are preliminary results. It will take 4-10 days to get the final readings. Carol is also asking to have it sent for a 2nd opinion.
Please continue your prayers for a miracle! Miracles are always an answer for any situation and in this situation, a very needed answer.

I know many of you have been very worried during the day and I wanted to update sooner but I had to hear from Carol first for any news. If you ever have any questions, please feel free to email me, Tracy (tracysolomon@tmail.com) and I will let you know whatever I know at the moment.

Thank you so much for following, checking and praying for Jerry, Carol, Robert, Julia and Max.

Love, Tracy (Katia's Mom)


UPDATE ON JERRY FEBRUARY 20, 2006 I just spoke with Carol to get an update on Jerry's condition and final results from the brain biopsy. The final results are not yet back but the doctors are assured the preliminary results of Agressive PML are correct. Jerry did recieve his second dose of treatment yesterday. Carol is working with getting him back on a diet of healthier foods that are more natural and also his favorites. His diet needs improvement. The doctor says Jerry's condition has a small bit of hope but we ask that you continue to pray for a miracle.



UPDATE ON JERRY FEBRUARY 22, 2006 2:00 PM
THE FINAL RESULTS ARE IN FOR THE BRAIN BIOPSY AND IT HAS CONFIRMED THE PML DIAGNOSIS.

St. Pete Times Article February 24, 2006



UPDATE ON JERRY, FEBRUARY 28, 2006

TODAY WAS A GOOD DAY!!

Jerry had some visitors today that were greeted by a great surprise! Jerry more alert and responsive!

Scott and Sara Ulm, their 6 month old baby, Josephine along with Myron Solomon had a chance to visit with Jerry for a bit today.

Carol had called and let them know Jerry had shown some improvements in the last day or two due to some new medications he has been put on and all of the prayers being said for Jerry worldwide. She said he was more alert and eating better. This has given Carol and Jerry's doctors a new sense of hope.

Jerry recently started some anti-psychotic medication with the hopes to slow the progression of the PML. Much to everyone's surprise, it seems Jerry is responding better than anyone expected. Olga, Jerry's Mom, who has dedicated herself to the care of her son, was excited to relate to Jerry's visitors the miracle that seems to be taking place. Jerry was interacting more and showing more movement than usual.



Jerry with his Mom, Olga



He was also very happy to see Scott and Sara's baby that he reached out and touched her little foot and began playing with her. Isn't it amazing what a baby's smile can do?



Josephine Ulm



Although Jerry still cannot get out of bed and is partially paralized, the fact that he is improving and not showing more deteriation is a great sign. Jerry still cannot speak or do things for himself but the hopes are the lesions he has in his brain will start to heal and as they heal, he will gain back some of what he has lost.

We all know that, through God, miracles can always happen and it appears Jerry's chances of improving are growing each day right now.

The doctors are saying if this drug works the way they are starting to think it may, Jerry will just have to be the "Poster Child" for the medicine.

Of course, Jerry remains in very serious condition. He has staples in his head where the brain biopsy took place and he has a lot of physical, mental and emotional restoration to go through.

Please please continue your prayers. Carol, the kids, and just all of Jerry's friends and family want Jerry to continue to improve and only through prayer and God's grace is this possible.

Love, Tracy Solomon


UPDATE ON JERRY MARCH 5, 2006 Jerry continues to improve! Since starting the GEODON (Ziprasidone) an antipsychotic drug, Jerry is continuing to show improvement. He is beginning to speak and show that he is more understanding of who is with him. He is responding more to questions AND Carol says he is eating very well!

Does the word MIRACLE come to mind!

Carol and I were talking on the phone not only about the miracle of this drug but just how the information came to her at just the right time. There are so many things to be thankful for right now.

Of course, Jerry remains in critical condition but there is hope, a lot more hope. Jerry has a lot to build back on as far as his physical movements and abilities, his speech, his strength, so much BUT Jerry is improving at a time when it was thought he would be getting much worse.

Thank you so very much for your prayers and for coming here to follow Jerry's PROGRESS!

Love, Tracy Solomon

PS Thank you so very much for leaving messages to Jerry, Carol and each of their children in the guestbook. Your words of encouragement are so appreciated.

UPDATE ON JERRY MARCH 8, 2006
Jerry's latest MRI shows no changes in his brain which means there is no progression of the PML! That is a good thing. This hopefully means Jerry can start showing improvements and that the damage done by the PML can hopefully be reversed in some areas. Please continue your prayers for Jerry's continued improvements, no matter how long they take or how slow they seem to come about. Everyday is a miracle with Jerry:)

Love, Tracy Solomon


UPDATE ON JERRY MARCH 10, 2006
Myron and I went to go visit with Jerry and Carol yesterday. When we got there, Jerry was just waking up from a very deep sleep. The medication he is on makes him very groggy and he sleeps alot. They wanted him to eat dinner though and he needed to take his medicines. That is what he was doing when we got there. He was eating some pudding with medicine mixed in. I share this with you to let you know how Jerry is doing by the little things we see. First, he didn't like the pudding and he made that clear. That is a good sign. Secondly, he can chew and swallow well, another good sign. While we were there, he started with this cough but he couldn't cough himself clear like we can. He was getting both nervous and upset and finally, he was able to cough. That is a good sign. He can feel his right hand as he responded when Myron touched his hand. That is a good sign. He ended up eating some chicken, squash and mashed potatoes. Although Jerry cannot speak all he is thinking, when he was trying to cough, it was either hurting him or scaring him that he couldn't and he said (quite strongly), "GOD". That is a good sign as it lets us know the communication ability is somewhat there.

So, all in all, the visit left me with a great feeling of hope that if the PML will stay away, giving his brain a chance to heal and for the doctors to be able to wean some of the Geodon (which makes him so so sleepy) then, it appears Jerry has a lot of room for progress. We were talking about the fact as to, "Will Jerry be 100%?" Well, that is hard to say but with the amount of time he has been physically set back, it will take a lot of physical therapy and emotional hard work to get him able to do things for himself. I feel it is possible if things continue in the direction they are going right now.

The last MRI shows no changes, so no further damage to his brain and no improvement in the lesions there. The MRIs are only one week apart but if the PML was continuing to progress, it would show. The plan is to do another MRI and if the PML hasn't progressed, start weaning the Geodon down some.

All of this is hard on Carol and Olga, seeing Jerry unable to do things for himself but especially for the unknown of what is to come and how much Jerry can regain once given the chance. Please pray for their ongoing strength. Also, for Jerry's 3 children. Julia, Max and Robert miss their daddy so much. Please continue for Jerry's emotional and physical strength. Pray for his doctors' continued treatments.

Thank you so much for following Jerry and for your wonderful messages.

Love, Tracy Solomon (Katia's Mom)

UPDATE ON JERRY MARCH 14, 2006
I spoke to Carol today and Jerry continues to improve! His last MRI shows improvement from the one a week ago so they have cut the dose of Geodon from 40mg to 20mg. This is allowing Jerry to be more alert and awake. He is eating well and each improvement gives more hope to more recovery. I think we are all witnessing a miracle in Jerry. PML normally only gets worse and worse. There usually are no improvements, only worsening. Please keep those prayers going for Jerry's miracle.

Love, Tracy Solomon

UPDATE ON JERRY MARCH 20, 2006 Please continue to pray for Jerry's PML to improve and go away. Also for Jerry's ongoing strength and focus. Right now, the issue seems to be Jerry's site. He is losing his site. They aren't sure how much he has lost as it is difficult to test him. He has been having quite a bit of outburst which of course is hard on himself and also Carol and those taking care of him. Carol says it is like a "roller coaster" with him. Up one day and down the next and you really never know which direction each day will be. Jerry should be having scans early this week to check the status of his brain and the lesions due to PML. The hope is there aren't more than last week and that things continue to improve so they can once again wean some of the Geodon. I will update as soon as I hear about the scans. Love, Tracy Solomon

UPDATE ON JERRY MARCH 22, 2006
Carol passed on to me that Jerry is again becoming less responsive. They aren't sure yet whether it is the PML progressing yet, the JC Virus acting up or what. He is scheduled to have an MRI today to let them know his status. Whether or not doses of his medications to fight the PML or to hold back the GVHD has yet to be determined. He has been upset with both the loss of sight and with the inability to do things for himself like using the bathroom and having people need to take care of him like cleaning him up. As you can imagine, Jerry does understand what is going on with his body. He is a grown adult not being able to do things that are normally taken for granted. Please pray for Jerry's continued strength as he so much needs it right now. Also for Carol, Jerry's Mom (Olga), Julia, Max and Robert. This takes so much out of a family and prayers for their strength and encouragement are greatly appreciated. They are blessed to have good friends and loved ones close by.
Love, Tracy Solomon
PS I will update when I hear about the MRI results.

UPDATE ON JERRY MARCH 25, 2006
I spoke to Carol yesterday and the MRI shows no more PML progression which is good news. Jerry's counts are also improving which is good. It shows his body's ability to fight things on its own is getting better. The bad news is Jerry is still becoming less responsive (slept nearly 24 hours straight), not eating and not taking his medicines which can be very bad. Please pray his body can adjust to the change in meds and that he can be more alert, eat better and continue to take his medicines.
Love, Tracy Solomon


UPDATE APRIL 1, 2006 I come here with deepest sorrow to let you know Jerry Gomez passed away around 12:30 today in the hospital. I will update more on arrangements later. Please keep Carol, Olga, Julia, Max and Robert as well as their families and friends in your prayers. Love, Tracy

UPDATE APRIL 2, 2006
Last night, we went down to visit with Carol and the children. Our hearts were very warmed to see so many loving friends and family for them there. Carol wants to thank EVERYONE who has prayed, sent encouragement and just been there through all of Jerry's treatments, good times and hard times. She also wants to thank everyone for being there yesterday and last night and continuing to stand by her. She wants to thank you for the food being brought and just for all you do. Jerry's arrangements will be posted here later as soon as they are known. Love, Tracy Solomon

Below is something I posted on Katia's Site today in memory of Jerry.



Jerry and Katia shared a unique bond. I remember when Katia found out Jerry also needed "new blood", she would pray that he would find his match. She would always ask how Jerry was doing and draw him pictures. Jerry always had a strong concern for Katia and how she was doing. Katia was so happy to find out Jerry had a match and was going to finally get his new blood. She was happy to hear when he was returning home to be with his family.

These last few months, as Jerry was in the hospital fighting for his life, Katia always remembered him in prayers and would send a picture for him with Myron or us when we would go to visit. Jerry would always show concern of how Katia was doing although he was going through extremely hard times.

Last night, when we got the call that Jerry had passed away, Katia heard Myron on the phone say, "Oh no..." So, she asked Sharayah what was going on and Sharayah told her that Jerry had passed away. As soon as Myron got off the phone, she came in and asked, "Daddy, why did Jerry die?" It was heartbreaking. We don't let Katia know everything that goes on with others passing away. We try to keep things positive around her. She did however know that Jerry was in very serious condition. She knows his 3 children and they all are always concerned about Katia as well. We explained to her that Jerry went to be with Jesus in Heaven but that he would be able to look over his family and watch his children. We explained that he is happy and not in any pain now.

As we were leaving to go visit with Carol and the children, Katia asked us, "Tell them I miss Jerry." Although she is so innocent in so many ways, Katia does know a lot about life and she appreciates it as she knows life is not something promised to everyone for a long long time.

She likes this picture of her with Jerry because she said, "We were being friends." And that they were. Although they were far apart in age, they will always share a bond.

"Jerry, we will miss you so much but we will make sure you are always remembered for all that you stood for and the love you shared."

Love, The Solomon Family


*****

SERVICE TIMES:

Visitation Wednesday April 5th 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Blount & Curry Funeral Home
605 S MacDill


Funeral
Thursday April 6th
Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church
San Jose at Himes
12:30 pm


THE FOLLOWING IS A MESSAGE FROM SCOTT ULM, PRESIDENT OF THE KATIA SOLOMON FOUNDATION. IT IS ONE OF THE EMAILS BEING SENT OUT TO THE MANY MANY PEOPLE WHO HAVE FOLLOWED JERRY'S STORY AND PRAYED FOR BOTH JERRY AND HIS FAMILY.

Dear friends,

It is with a very heavy heart I am informing you that Mr. Jerry Gomez passed away Saturday April 1st at 12:30pm. Although e-mail was not my first choice to inform you of his passing, I felt that because at times you have been following his story it was better than reading it in the newspaper. Jerry's long and hard-fought recovery reached a low this past weekend, and on Friday evening Jerry's wife Carol spoke to him and said that it was OK for him to let go...that she and the triplets would be alright.

My sadness is somewhat softened knowing that Jerry Gomez is no longer suffering both emotionally and physically. Before he became almost incoherent recently he confided to his family that this disease had brought him closer to God than ever so we know where Jerry is right now. Whether or not you knew him personally, he and his family appreciated your prayers and support more than you could possibly realize. I am now asking that you continue to pray as Carol and the kids try to rebuild their lives without Jerry.

Carol's strength truly continues to amaze me...even in her grief on the night of Jerry's death, she confided to her friend Myron Solomon that she was more determined than ever to remain a Board member of the Katia Solomon Foundation and that she will continue to support our mission of helping families with victims of blood-related cancers. She even asked that in lieu of flowers, donations could be sent to our newly-formed foundation. The foundation helps to educate the community about the need for marrow testing, and it also help's blood-related cancer victim's families in the Tampa Bay area to have somewhere to turn to for individual assistance. Now thanks to the Gomez family's generous gesture, it will help to ensure that the Katia Solomon Foundation will live on along with Jerry's legacy.

This message is certainly not a plea for a donation, but it is a plea for more prayers and support. What Carol offered to do for the non-profit foundation shows not only her incredible generosity, but it also exemplifies her strong endurance. The Gomez family fought this disease together and although it was not the cancer that ultimately took Jerry from this earth, it was his original condition of lymphoma that eventually caused his demise. I have learned a tremendous amount about the preciousness of life and family from both the Gomez's and the Solomons, and it makes me want hug my loved ones a little tighter and much more often.

Thank you again for your support of the Gomez family. I believe that the wake is at Curry-Blount on S MacDill at 5-ish on Wednesday, and the funeral is the next day at 12:30 at Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church. There should be an obituary in the papers tomorrow.

Sincerely,

Scott Ulm President Katia Solomon Foundation, Inc.
www.katiasolomonfoundation.org
"Sharing Hope on the Wings of a Ladybug"


ARTICLES IN THE NEWSPAPER TODAY 4-4-06

***
Jerry's Obituary

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St. Pete Times Article April 4, 2006
"Husband Fought So Bravely"

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Tampa Tribune Article April 4, 2006
"Cancer Warrior"

***


UPDATE APRIL 10, 2006

I spoke with Carol today. It is hard to believe that Jerry has passed. I added the song on here, "All My Loving" by the Beatles. Jerry really liked this song. I will try to make changes on the site and continue to keep it updated on how Carol, Max, Robert and Julia are doing. Even add some new pictures.

So many turned out to Jerry's services. How touching. There is so much support. Carol is so thankful to each and every person that has prayed, offered their help, just anything.

Please continue your prayers for the family and check back for further updates.

Love, Tracy Solomon (Katia's Mommy)

UPDATE MAY 6, 2006
It has been a little over a month since Jerry's passing. I wanted to update as Mother's Day is approaching. I would like to ask your prayers for Carol as she faces this Mother's Day as well as Olga, Jerry's Mom. So many people have been so supportive to Carol, the kids, and Jerry's family. I know Jerry touched more lives than we will ever know.

Carol is so very grateful for everyone's prayers and support. Love, Tracy (Katia's Mommy)






UPDATE JUNE 17, 2006

June 16, 2006 Climb for Cancer Donation
To Moffitt Cancer Center
In Memory of Jerry Gomez

The Climb for Cancer Foundation donated $25,000 in memory of Jerry Gomez to
Moffitt Cancer and Research Center. The funds are to help expand their "Talking With Your Child About Cancer" program to help the children whose parents are facing or have passed from cancer. Of course, Jerry's passing left behind his wife Carol and their triplet 8 year olds, Julia, Robert and Max. Jerry's Mom, Uncle and some of his sibblings were there for the presentation and it is just a beautiful way for Jerry's life to live on in helping others. He so much wanted to be a part of helping others and to speak on behalf of the
Katia Solomon Foundation after beating his own cancer. Jerry, like Katia, had a hard time finding a marrow match and never found a perfect match. He wanted there to be a match for anyone needing a marrow transplant.



Dear Friends,

It's hard to believe that we are approaching the anniversary of the passing Jerry Gomez. Of course we all laugh that he picked April 1st.....but know that it was typical Jerry!

Carol and the triplets are doing fine and coping the best way they can, spending a lot of time with friends and family. The triplets turned 9 last month! Carol has shared moments of feeling Jerry's presence, from a musicbox playing spontaneously after being silent for months to spanish moss dropping around her (Jerry used it as a baseball mit when he was younger). We all miss him terribly but know that he is seated right above 3205 Bay Vista watching his family!

Please take a moment to remember Jerry and his family in your prayers on Sunday. You can also drop them a note or email.

Carol Gomez E-mail Address: Carol.Gomez@mybrighthouse.com

Home:
3205 W Bay Vista Ave
Tampa, FL 33611


Please leave his family a message the guestbook:

Thank you AGAIN for all of the support and help that you offered the family while Jerry suffered through his illness and the help offered to his family once he passed.

Hug your loved ones and cherish everyday!
:)Brandi (Close Gomez Family Friend)





Please sign THE GUESTBOOK




"I Still Dream About You" (Song and Slideshow)
This song and slideshow presentation was written to remember Jerry and others whom are no longer with us.





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