Funeral Services for Jeff
It is with heavy hearts that we start this GoFundMe in honor of our brother, Jeff Lewis.
In high school, Jeff was diagnosed with ulcerative or in his words, “all-sorts-of” colitis. While that took a lot of his energy and patience, Jeff handled it with a positive attitude and quiet strength. In 2017, he was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at the young age of 32. In order to give Jeff the best possible prognosis, the surgeons removed the cancerous portions of his large intestine, leaving him with a permanent ileostomy. Unfortunately, after a severe reaction to the chemo follow-up treatment plan, doctors discovered he had a genetic disorder that made it extremely challenging for his body to metabolize the 5-FU chemo drug. This lead to many complications in treatment plans, significantly reducing his chances of beating the cancer. Jeff’s resilience and strength persevered, yet again, with this devastating news. Still, he never complained, but learned how to cope with his diagnosis while earning his “Superman” alter-ego. He had a brief, 2 year period without hospitalizations or further complications. In November of 2019, his cancer returned. Right around Christmas time, he was suiting up to face another round of chemo and radiation. However, Jeff ended up in the hospital for another emergency surgery in January, furthering his complications and making his battle even more difficult. Despite adding more roadblocks, surgeries, and multiple hospital visits, Jeff continued his courageous fight for another year and a half.
On July 21st, Jeff entered hospice care as there was nothing more that doctors or medicine could do. Jeff had an incredibly deep reserve of strength, grace and acceptance throughout his battle. Despite the pain, nausea, discomfort, and frustrations, he was still quick with a witty comment or a smirk. He loved going for walks with family, talking about movies, books, comics, and music. He loved his family and we loved his quiet, lovable, and funny personality. He never questioned the hand he was dealt, he faced it head on, no matter the degree of hardship. On August 17th, surrounded by family, Jeff peacefully let go of all the pain and suffering. He is an inspiration to all of us about how to go through life - do not only notice the beautiful sunset in the midst of your heartache and pain, but share it, so others may appreciate it as well.
In this time of mourning and heartache, we are asking for financial help to cover end of life care, funeral, burial and any other unforeseen costs that accompany tragedies such as this. Any other funds will go towards purchasing a bench at Walnut Creek Recreational area where he walked with family and friends and the Buffett Cancer Research Center where Jeff received incredible care. There are no words to describe the loss we will continue to feel in the time to come. We would graciously accept any financial help you can provide.