Brock Gumm’s Celebration of Life Set for Saturday, Jan. 27
This is very difficult to write. Brock Gumm passed away in the arms of his parents Tuesday, Jan. 23, at 12:15 pm.
Brock's courage has been documented by his mother Paige, and loving family and friends. You've probably seen Brock's story on social media, as he had an active following on his Battle for Brock Facebook Page, and he received regional attention recently as Dez Bryant presented him with his record-breaking game ball.
It doesn't seem right to lose someone so young. My heart is breaking for those closest to Brock, as I know that they would give anything to have more time with their loved one.
Brock's battle with Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in his left arm began when he was six years old. The cancer started in his arm, but spread to his lungs, which is very common for this particular type of cancer. He underwent 21 rounds of chemo, limb salvage surgery, amputation of his left arm, a thoroscopy and a bilateral thoracotomy, before moving on to immunotherapy and homeopathic treatments.
Despite his family's efforts through all types of treatment and prevention, Brock earned his wings Tuesday. Though he is no longer physically here with us, Brock's short life has touch so many people. My facebook feed has been flooded with love and prayers for the Gumm family this week.
I never had the pleasure of meeting Brock, but I attended school with Brock's mom. We both grew up here in a small town in East Texas, where everyone knows each other and supports one another. Brock has inspired communities all over East Texas to come together to support those fighting cancer.
During football season I watched in awe as my alma mater wore rival colors on a Friday night to support Brock and his family. He may have only been on this earth for a short while, but his spirit will live on through all of those he touched with his courage and strength.
A Celebration of Life will be held in Brock's honor this Saturday, Jan. 27, at 10:00 am. It will be held at the Union Grove Lion Center Auditorium, 11220 Union Grove Rd, Gladewater, TX. The family is requesting everyone to wear a Brock shirt if you have one or something yellow or blue. They have also requested that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made in Brock's honor to A Shelter for Cancer Families.