When Debbie Marquez reflects on her husband, Jerry Marquez, she remembers much more than his battle with stomach cancer. He was her soulmate, a dedicated father, and a beloved friend. Jerry’s story is one of resilience and love, and Debbie’s journey as his caregiver speaks to the strength it takes to support a loved one through such a fight. Now, Debbie is sharing their story with the hope that it can inspire change in the way stomach cancer is diagnosed, treated, and understood.
An Incredible Life Cut Short
Jerry Marquez was a 47-year-old emergency room technician who had dedicated over 20 years of his life to helping others. Originally from Mexico, Jerry found joy in the adrenaline of the ER, and he took pride in the work he did to help others in need. At home, he was a loving father to eight children, including a set of young twins. In early 2023, Jerry began experiencing reflux and severe heartburn. Thinking it was just stress or diet-related, he initially managed the symptoms with over-the-counter medications. But as his discomfort grew, it became clear that there was something more serious going on.
The Diagnosis and a Shocking Turn of Events
In December 2023, after months of worsening symptoms, Jerry’s GI doctor found a tumor during an endoscopy. Initially staged at stage three, there was hope that chemotherapy and surgery would treat the cancer effectively. Jerry started chemotherapy and eventually underwent an exploratory laparotomy. All preliminary tests looked hopeful. But when doctors began his total gastrectomy surgery, they discovered that the cancer had spread—to his liver, diaphragm, and esophagus. Debbie recalls the shock and heartache of learning that Jerry’s fight would be far more difficult than they had anticipated.
Treatment, Trials, and Heartbreak
The spread of Jerry’s cancer meant he was now considered a candidate for second-line chemotherapy. He was also advised to enter a clinical trial, which gave Debbie and the family hope. Yet, after only one round in the trial, his doctors found that his cancer had worsened, and they recommended he return to chemotherapy. Debbie remembers the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, including discovering that Jerry wasn’t eligible for immunotherapy because he lacked specific biomarkers. It felt like a disservice, as studies suggested that even patients without these biomarkers could benefit from immunotherapy.
Reflecting on Jerry’s Legacy and the Fight for Change
As Jerry’s health declined, he ultimately made the decision to discontinue treatment. Debbie describes it as a courageous choice: “In the end, he won because he’s no longer suffering.” She emphasizes that he didn’t lose his battle with cancer, and she continues to honor his memory by advocating for better stomach cancer awareness and care.
Debbie’s experience has taught her valuable lessons about being a caregiver. Her advice to others facing similar situations: “Don’t be afraid to ask questions, be that patient, and advocate fiercely for your loved one.” She emphasizes the importance of finding a community for support and taking it one day at a time.
The Importance of Screening and Change
Reflecting on Jerry’s journey, Debbie has become passionate about changing guidelines around stomach cancer screening. Jerry’s cancer might have been caught earlier if routine endoscopies were conducted for patients with chronic H. pylori infections. She hopes for a future where stomach cancer is detected earlier, sparing other families the grief and heartbreak she has endured.
Debbie’s Final Hope
Debbie is determined to make sure that her husband’s story brings awareness and change to stomach cancer care. She is pushing for more accessible treatments, such as immunotherapy, for patients without specific biomarkers and advocating for improved screening guidelines for stomach cancer.
Conclusion
Debbie Marquez’s story is a testament to the resilience of caregivers, the importance of advocating for loved ones, and the hope for improved stomach cancer care. Her journey underscores the need for early detection, broader treatment options, and the support of a strong community. In sharing Jerry’s story, Debbie hopes to inspire others and to create meaningful change in the fight against stomach cancer.
For more information and resources on stomach cancer advocacy, visit Hope for Stomach Cancer or check out the Stomach Cancer Alliance for support and guidance.