Page 18- Jan 09 to May 09

Back in September of 2005, Sergio was 42 years old and just heard life changing news from his doctor- "You have ALS. No cure. Life expectancy is just a few years." WOW. All of a sudden, the future becomes today and thinking about turning 45 years old with friends and family around doesn't even enter the mind.

But we all know how much Sergio is a fighter and just a few weeks ago, Sergio defied doctor's expectations and was here to see his 45th birthday with lots of love surrounding him. Lots of people came by to wish him happy birthday and give him hugs and love. Besides his mom and sisters (and their families), wonderful neighbors (Paula and JR/ Bonnie and Greg/ Mike) came by. The Tice family stopped by to spend the evening with him along with some of his old girls soccer team members. Good friends like Cathy Salazar, Cathy Rude and Roland Salazar and his kids came by for the birthday boy. Frankie's buddy, Kyle, wanted to hang with Sergio and wish him a happy birthday too. And the phone calls just kept coming from friends and family kept the line busy for most of the day.

And if that wasn't enough, Sergio's inbox was filled to the brim with Happy Birthday wishes from lots of his friends and people who have been supporting Sergio and his fight. Emails came from all over the country and from every point of his life (friends of friends and family, extended family, people who just care, etc.). He was very overwhelmed and appreciative of all the kind words and thoughts (as well as some really nice gifts) that he received and wanted to send out a giant THANK YOU to all who keep him in their thoughts.

Sergio's nephew, Matthew (big sis, Sonia's son) wanted to do something for his uncle that was not only meaningful but permanent. So he decided to get a tattoo on the inside of his wrists that will forever remind him of his Uncle Sergio every time he looks and to "Never Give Up". Sonia is not a big fan of tattoos but thought this was a fitting tribute.

In February, the family had to say a sad good bye to Irina, the night nurse that was there to help Sergio and the family gets some rest. Funds for this care ran out and Kelly and the kids (with the help of a video monitor) now take turns tending to Sergio's needs in the middle of the night. Irina was wonderful with Sergio and Kelly and the kids really liked having her there taking care of him.

If you need a home care nurse and are interested in talking with Irina about what she can do to help, contact Kelly at Delucaland@yahoo.com and she will help you get in contact with Irina.

So many of you have been so very kind as to keep in touch and ask "How is Sergio doing these days?".

Well, at the moment, Sergio's physical condition is this: most of his motor skills are gone although he still manages to move his head and shoulders fairly well. Although most of his food is taken in by feeding tube, he still enjoys the ability to take some foods in by mouth and can still drink his morning Starbuck iced coffees through a straw. Communication is done mostly by nodding to letters to spell out words, yet- most of the time, his immediate family still can understand him when he tries to talk. He takes a few medications that his doctor has prescribed and getting a good night's rest is always a challenge.

Sergio's mental condition- He still enjoys his time with his family and friends. He loves to sit in his beautiful backyard, get some fresh air and soak up the sun. He enjoys a good comedy movie. Watching kids sports (of any kind) is always a highlight to the week. And, he has his favorite shows as well as Lakers basketball to fill his day.

Some days are good and some days are not as good. Some days seem to breeze by without too much extra fanfare and some days are filled with struggles. Some days are packed with fun and noise and some days are filled with quiet.

And yet- through this all, he still manages to inspire and teach through his illness. If Sergio's ALS has taught us anything, let it be to cherish each day as a gift from God- that's why they call it the PRESENT!