Robby passed away suddenly in 2006 at the age of five. He was an energetic, kind, loving and caring boy that would light up a room with his contagious smile and enthusiasm for life. Our desire to honor Robby’s legacy and to perpetuate his loving spirit continues to drive our focus of helping children and families in our community.

Robert Martin Gomez was born on May 2, 2001. Within minutes a team of respiratory doctors and specialists filled our labor and delivery room. He was rushed off to NICU and later diagnosed with Laryngomalacia, a condition that affects the epiglottis and restricts airway. Based on the severity of his condition, he was transported to CHOC. Only two days old, Robby received a tracheotomy to allow him to breathe and endured the first of many surgeries to correct the problem. He spent the next 3 weeks recovering at CHOC, as well as ongoing doctor’s appointments and surgeries at CHOC and through CHOC affiliates. As first time parents, we received a quick life lesson on how precious life is and how important it is to embrace each and every day. Looking back, we now realize that this was preparing us for an even bigger life lesson, coping with the loss of a child.