Gone But Not Forgotten - Josh Gomes

By Sherri Rojhani, Hemophilia Society of Colorado
Summer 2001

 

The Colorado bleeding disorder community is saddened by the loss of a remarkable young man at the age of 22. Josh Gomes will be remembered for his determination, spunk and wonderful sense of fun. Josh was a student at the University of Denver and a recipient of our Mark Rheames scholarship award. He loved driving his Toyota Four Runner with his friends, listening to music and traveling to family reunions in Oregon.


Josh was diagnosed with HIV as a toddler and valiantly followed extreme medical regimes in order to combat this disease, in addition to hemophilia. Josh became very involved in the AIDS community and participated annually in the HSC entourage at the Colorado AIDS walk. Josh campaigned against AIDS in many ways, including walking with Essie Garrett and was featured in a KCNC television report with Stephanie Riggs. Stephanie and Essie were both at the funeral to share words of inspiration and comfort to those who mourned Josh. His friends were pall-bearers and they played several musical selections in Josh's honor. His tutor spoke lovingly of Josh, and his parents were presented with his degree from the University of Denver that he would have earned.


Josh leaves behind his loving parents, Steve and Mary, and his sister, Heather Gomes.
Note: HSC contributed food trays for the funeral service. The family request donation be made in Josh's name to the "Joshua D. Gomes Scholarship Fund" at the Porter Credit Union, Call 303-778-5702 for more information.

 

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