Jerry and Paula fell in love while attending Westland High School in 1976. They married July 4th, 1977 and soon welcomed their first born. Sadly, Johnny Jr. was laid to rest after 9 months. Their 2nd born, Joshua was welcomed in 1980 and their youngest, Jason in 1982. Jerry and Paula are hardworking, successful, loving parents that gave their sons the greatest childhood. Joshua’s stories of growing up in the forest are the best. Though there were many years of happiness, there were a few years of sadness in which Paula laid her father to rest in 1995, Jerry laid his father to rest in 1997, and Paula laid her mother to rest in 1998. Eventually their hearts were full when Jason welcomed their grandson, Jake. They love Jake so much, he lives with them. Jake is Jerry’s shadow and it’s the sweetest thing.
Three years ago, Jerry was diagnosed, fought, and beat colon cancer.
Currently, Jerry had a few weeks of bad coughing, and waking up nauseous. Paula feared Jerry may have a blood clot due to him getting short of breath. Jerry went to the ER July 29th and as they were testing for a blood clot, they found masses in his lungs from the chest x-ray. His blood tests showed his cancer markers were really high. Jerry and Paula went to his oncologist July 31st and they ordered CT scans. August 4th were the CT scans and within an hour of arriving home, the oncologist called. Jerry has masses in both lungs (30 tumors) and lesions scattered throughout his liver. He has 2 huge tumors in his lungs and 1 gigantic tumor in his liver. Jerry’s lymph nodes are swollen around his heart and all through his lungs and liver. Jerry's official diagnosis is Metastatic Colon Cancer that has spread to his lungs, lymph nodes, and liver.
This upcoming week consists of biopsies in search of any lifesaving treatment. The fear, anxiety, pain that the Dill family is going through is unfathomable. Paula is the only one able to work and she will be taking care of Jerry. Paula and Jerry have been together 46 years and cannot imagine life apart. I’m asking for donations to send Jerry and Paula on a vacation. Just the two of them, away, celebrating nearly half a century as the loves of each other’s life. Jerry has always wanted to visit Alaska. If circumstances don’t permit Jerry to travel, then the money raised will go towards his medical expenses.
Any donation is appreciated greatly. We believe in the power of prayer. Please pray for Jerry’s healing and strength for Paula, Joshua, Jason, and Jake.
Thank you.
Jerry started experiencing pain in his leg and hip while in Gatlinburg. He wasn’t up to do much but managed to see a show at the Comedy Barn which was hilarious. I recall sitting next to Jerry and appreciating his laughter. 
8/28/23- A lot has happened to Jerry spiritually since being Saved and Baptized. After many prayers and talks with God, Jerry chose to spend the rest of his life LIVING and not sick with Chemo. After making his decision, he feels at peace. He made immediate changes in his diet which include: cutting out sugar, eating organic non processed foods, turkey tail smoothies, and much more healthy alternatives. His doctor said he gives him 3 months to live and Jerry said only God knows how long he has. Jerry is spending lots of time with family, friends, Duke, and the love of his life, Paula. Jerry is going to Church, as well as spending time at home talking and learning more about Jesus. Paula and Jerry are looking forward to hosting a Bible Study at their home on Thursday ❤️🙏❤️
8/17/23 - Jerry had his port put in on Tuesday, 8/15. His hospital release was delayed 4 hours due to high blood pressure. The port is located in his chest, under his collar bone. It’s been 2 days since his procedure and he still doesn’t feel well. Due to Jerry being sore and sick all week, they’re aiming for Chemo to start Monday, 8/21/23. 
Jerry will be getting his port in and starting Chemo this week. Unfortunately, Jerry wasn’t a candidate for the pill. 
