By Lisa Morgan
The woman who has supported multiple artists, musicians, businesses, non-profits, and individuals through more than a decade of publishing is dealing with a debilitating disease, Guillain-Barre (gee-YAH-buh-RAY) Syndrome or “GBS,” that has left her unable to walk, wheelchair bound, with limited use of her hands. She is “Tracy Freaking Dietlin.” She WILL recover. But GBS is no joke, and she needs our help RIGHT NOW.
According to the Mayo Clinic, Guillain-Barre Syndrome “is a rare disorder in which your body’s immune system attacks your nerves. Weakness and tingling in your hands and feet are usually the first symptoms. These sensations can quickly spread, eventually paralyzing your whole body. In its most severe form, GBS, as in Tracy’s case, is a medical emergency. Most people with this condition must be hospitalized to receive treatment. The exact cause of Guillain-Barre syndrome is unknown, but two-thirds of patients report symptoms of an infection in the six weeks preceding. These include a COVID-19, respiratory or a gastrointestinal infection or Zika virus. There’s no known cure for Guillain-Barre syndrome, but several treatments can ease symptoms and reduce the duration of the illness. Although most people recover completely from Guillain-Barre syndrome, some severe cases can be fatal.
Tracy spent 5 weeks in the hospital, much of which her condition went undiagnosed. She has also been additionally diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, a hiatal hernia and a severe case diverticulitis, further complicating her recovery. She is now home with home health care professional visits along with the help and support of her loving partner, Phil Lacombe, and daughter, Michelle Brewer. Medical costs have already added up, and her ability to work has been severely interrupted.
Tracy Palooza will feature multiple award-winning local musicians, all whose local careers have benefited from her support. Without Tracy and her tenacity to make her dream publication come true, many of our local musicians and artists would never have experienced events that grew their exposure and afforded them opportunities they never would have otherwise, such as the CV Music Awards. As a result, the music culture of the desert has grown immensely.
The artists performing: Keisha D, Jetta King, Josh Heinz, Michael Keeth, Rick Shelley, Courtney Chambers, Brad Mercer, Yovés, David M. Flemming, Tom Edwards, Lisa Lynn and the Broken Hallelujahs, People of the Sun, and After Lashes. Raffle and auction items include hotel and golf packages, designer clothing and jewelry, artwork, and more.
Your $25 contribution will reserve you a seat at this musical event. Casuelas Cafe will be providing a delicious appetizer buffet and offer drink specials as you enjoy a phenomenal gathering of local talent. There will be many raffle prizes and silent auction items as well as opportunities to win prizes. ALL proceeds will go directly to Tracy Dietlin.
We are deeply grateful to all the musicians and those who have donated, as well as for our wonderful sponsors: Casuelas Café, Fantasy Springs, Joshua Tree Voice, Marker Broadcasting, Alpha Media, Shops on San Pablo. We look forward to Rich Gilgallon (“Da Coach”) MCing the event, and words from longtime entertainment writer for The Desert Sun, Bruce Fessier.
Get your tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/tracy-palooza-benefit-for-tracy-dietlin-publisher-of-cv-weekly-tickets-637675002097.
If you’d like to donate items for the auction or raffle, please contact Steve Johns at (760) 272-4544.
To donate directly to Tracy Dietlin send to www.paypal.me/coachellavalleyweekl.
