Help Jimmy Get To Mayo

Family & Friends of Jimmy & Julie Gonzales, I’ve spent the past several nights sitting here in the ICU with my beautiful friend, Julie, while she lovingly takes care of her soulmate & husband, Jimmy. I’ve watched her worry & concern consume her entire being at times, but then is followed with a smile & her unwavering faith that things will get better for the love of her life. I’ve watched Jimmy smirk like a teenage boy when she showers him with kisses, even though the pain he is experiencing is barely tolerable & when Julie sneaks in his hospital bed to steal a quick snuggle I see two hearts that are absolutely content with that simple joy. Please read Jimmy’s story & the journey he has had to endure, thus far. On May 20, 2016 doctors found a large mass in Jimmy’s chest which was later diagnosed as a Stage II AB Thymoma. In June of 2016, he underwent surgery to have the tumor removed, followed by 28 rounds of radiation. After a few complications, Jimmy was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis (MG) in January of 2017. Thymoma and MG are closely related. Approximately 30% of MG patients also develop Thymoma. Myasthenia Gravis is defined as Grave Muscle Weakness. It effects the involuntary muscles that control breathing, swallowing and the other muscles in the face and arms. Jimmy has been hospitalized 3 times in the past 6 weeks with extreme MG symptoms. Unfortunately, his MG has stopped responding to even the most aggressive traditional treatments. The doctors also have discovered that there might be a possibility of residual Thymoma, thus it is probable that he may need more treatment for this issue, again. His current doctors believe the best place for Jimmy is the Mayo Clinic/Hospital in Scottsdale, AZ. Jimmy currently has health insurance, however, Mayo is considered “out-of-network” and the current insurance policy covers only 50% of the cost of treatments received at Mayo. Mayo also requires a large sum of money before any treatments are given. Julie has not left Jimmy’s side during this current hospitalization and will most likely be unable to return to work herself for a period of time. Jimmy is obviously unable to work at this time, either. Jimmy has a long road ahead of him, but the most important & immediate goal & need is for Jimmy to gain strength & get well enough to get him to the Mayo Clinic. Your prayers have held Jimmy, Julie & the boys up when there was nothing else for them to lean on. They thank you for your continued love, support, and prayers. They are eternally grateful & appreciate all of you! “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31