Lisa Varillas Obituary

Varillas, Lisa Passed away Monday, July 30. She was an extraordinary wife and person. She is in a better place and I hope someday to be with her. All of the people who came in contact with her will miss her beautiful smile, her magnificent blue eyes and most of all her compassion for others. I want to especially thank all the Jehovah Witnesses for years of joy they gave her. I LOVE and MISS YOU MY WIFE and BEST FRIEND, husband Tommy. Her family and her stepchildren will miss her very much.

Published by Tampa Bay Times from Aug. 2 to Aug. 3, 2007.
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Memories and Condolences
for Lisa Varillas

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I ALSO SUFFER FROM FIBRO AND KNOW LISA'S PAIN GOD BLESS YOU FOR WHAT YOU ARE DOING FOR ALL OF US SUFFERING LISA WOULD BE SO PROUD.THANK YOU GOD BLESS

TONA STILES

September 1, 2008

I am sorry for your loss. I have fibro also. I hope the tv shows picked up your story to tell. I am just seeing your video. I will pass it on.

Nancy

August 27, 2008

I AM SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. THANK YOU FOR POSTING HER STORY. I HOPE SOMEONE HELPS US FIND A CURE OR AT LEAST HELP GET OUR VOICES HEARD. I TOO AM A SUFFERER

BONNIE BARRON

August 22, 2008

May God bless you. Have faith in the LORD JESUS and peace will be with you.

dave

November 11, 2007

Dear Tommy
I am so sorry for your loss of your wife.I too have been suffering from Fibromyalgia since 1991 and have had same thoughts as Lisa when my flare ups are bad.
You are in my Thoughts and Prayers
Maria

Maria

September 5, 2007

Dear Tommy,
My name is Shannon and I was diagnosed with fibro earlier on this year. When the pain first began, every doctor I saw told me I was depressed. My mother, like you, was trying to understand but only wanted me to feel better, and be the SHannon I was before the pain. She too asked why I couldnt go to college or work, why I didnt even want to go to the mall. Please know that we understand that, their are many times where we asked ourselves the same questions. I a twenty years old, and have aften wondered how I will be able to live everyday with excrutiating pain and fatigue. But through you and Lisas story, you have opened up that question to my friends and famly. You have spoken to those close to fibros, those who are trying to cope with the reality of their loved ones pain. I thank you for this, you have reminded my family and I how overwhelming this life can get, but their are other people who understand and do not deny the pain that a disease such as fibro causes.

Shannon Welte

August 30, 2007

I want to thank you for this true letter that has helped the rest of us. I was diagnosed last year with fibro and your letter explained exactly how I feel. It is easier going through this knowing that others have paved the way, though I wish that no one would ever have to suffer this way. I pray every day for my fellow fibro friends.

Velma Majors

August 29, 2007

Tommy,
I'm John, the preacher, who got my hair cut up at London Look. Sometimes by you, mostly by Paula, but we ofen talked. My son in law, Brian, began coming to you. My heart breaks for your loss. I know of others who suffer this way and their pain is far more than physical. My thoughts and prayers will be with you.
John

John Fitts

August 29, 2007

Tommy,

You bring a smile to so many people each and everyday. My prayers are with you and your family.

Joe Gerretz

August 29, 2007

Tommy,
I do not know what to say. The times i met and talked to her , she seemed so happy, and loving life. My Mom has also been diagnosed as having this condition, I am passing your letter on to her, and letting her know that " I understand" After reading the articles, I am sure you are correct, she gave her life so that you would be free to live yours to the fullest. See you soon, It is getting a little shaggy in the back.

Your friend, John "Friendly" Gilliss

John Gilliss

August 28, 2007

Dear Tommy:
I am heartbroken for you. Lisa was a light in this world and always shared joy with us, though I knew she felt much pain. Please know that you yourself have also spread much happiness to others, and have been loved by those whose hair you cut. My boys, husband and I are honored to have known you and are very sad to hear you will be leaving the area. You have entertained and groomed us well for so many years; we will never forget you!
I hope you know how much your honoring Lisa's memory is a great service to her and others with this condition, and take comfort in that.
You are a great barber and a gentleman! -- Carol, Ronnie, Alex and Andy Blair

Carol Blair

August 28, 2007

Tom,

I will always carry with me the great times the 4 of us had playing cards. Lisa's laughter was so infectious and will be greatly missed. Your mission of educating others has just begun. God bless you both.

Darlene

August 28, 2007

Damn Tommy who would have known...for that matter who could have known. You are in our prayers forever Tommy. God bless you young man. You go ahead, hold your head up high. You did everything right. No one could have done anything better than you did sir, No one. You are a man's man Tommy. Do what your heart tells you to do and don't look back. You are in all our prayers.

Tom, Wes's Dad Kulaga

August 28, 2007

Dear Tommy,
We have had the priviledge of knowing you since moving here in 1989. As you know, you have been our family barber, first with my son, Adam and now a new generation with my grandson, Payton. Your story has touched my heart and the hearts of all who read it. I pray that your story "lives on" and serves as public awareness to families everywhere and to doctors of this horrible affliction. My heartfelt prayers are with you and your family, Tommy. My family and I will miss you when you move - but always know you will stay in our hearts forever.
Love,
Pat Taylor & family

Pat Taylor

August 28, 2007

Dear Tom,
I am so sorry for your loss. I spoke with you on the phone, I'm the one who actually posted your letter for you. I just wanted to share with you my deepest sympathies. You are such a kind man, for loving your wife so much. I know she's pain free now.
I too have Fibro, RA and CFS, I'm only 29, and most people tell me to get over it. If only they knew the pain. I am so grateful for you sharing your story with us, Lisa would be very proud of you. Don't hesitate to contact me anytime, if just to talk.
God Bless you and your family Tom.

Deanna S.

August 28, 2007

Please know that Lisa will always be with you and find comfort in knowing that she is with the Lord and in peace. I'm a member of Fibrotalk..please come visit us if that will help you. Also feel free to email me if you need someone to talk to. I am so sorry for your loss.

Lori Crotta

August 16, 2007

My deepest sympathy to Lisa's family.I am a member of the Fibromyalgia support group on WebMD.
Lisa would have found kindred spirits in us and we would have
given her the support we give each other. God Bless you Mr. Varillas for your love for her. She was one of us.

Linda Kenyon

August 16, 2007

Mr. Varillas and Family,
Thank you so much for what you wrote about Lisa, you unknowingly have help many many people.
God Bless you and your family,
Cheryl Santiago

Cheryl Santiago

August 15, 2007

Laurie Breault - FM Sufferer

Dear Mr. Varillas,

First, my sincerest condolences. I am so sorry your wife felt this was her only alternative. At least you Do understand why she did this.

I have been in those shoes. By the Grace of God, I'm still here. It is very trying and painful most days, having FM. You're so right. People don't think you are ill if you're not wheelchair bound, or show physical signs of illness. I am just at a loss to express how I feel regarding Lisa's suicide. It breaks my heart that she had so much pain in her life. She wasn't much older than me, I'm 45.

I applaud you for having the courage to write such a beautiful obituary for your wife. I'm sure she is smiling down on you now, painfree.

You also gave FM a name, Lisa Varillas. I hope you have been able to raise awareness to this horrible syndrome. I know you made a big impact on the fibromyalgia support group on webmd. You really touched all of us. I only wish maybe Lisa could have found us. We try very hard to support each other and help each other emotionally. Only those of us suffering this awful thing really know how we feel.

I understand not believing. It took my family several years and flares to believe it was a real problem. Thank God, you believed in your wife.

My heartfelt prayers are with you and your family!!

Thank you for your beautiful words.

Laurie Breault

Laurie Breault

August 15, 2007

I am so sorry for the loss of your wife,she was very lucky to have you as her husband,i to suffer from this awlful illness,my prayers are with your family,so sorry

ginger cowart

August 15, 2007

My heart goes out to your family over the loss of Lisa.
Your memorial tribute is a wonderful testament to the love you shared.
I too, suffer from Fibromyalgia and I understand how much your love and support meant to Lisa.
Warm hugs to your family and may God bless you.

Kathy Stiles

August 15, 2007

I was so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help at this time.I was very touched by Lisa's story and her passing. I too suffer from Fibromyalgia and I want to assure you, she is in a better place. She loved you and I am sure she would want you to have all the love and support you need to help you with this. My family is saying prayers for you all. If you need anything, please feel free to contact me. I am a great listener.

With love and prayers,

Tara Kruthers

Tara Kruthers

August 15, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss.

I will keep you and your familiy in my prayers.

Kim Holmes

August 15, 2007

Dear Tom,
You said in your letter what others with fibro have tried to explain to thier loved ones. Lisa was very fortunate to have you, I too have FMS and CFS. I have suffered for 40 out of my 48 years with this monster.
Yes Lisa is in a better place now, with no pain. But, know that in my heart I feel your pain. May God bless you.
You have done so much good by publishing what you wrote. You will never realize how it has affected people. Maybe by publishing it, more people can get doctors, family and friends to realize just what we do go through. And I have had thoughts of doing what Lisa did, but now I have a daughter who has been diagnosed with FM, so I have to be here for her.

Mary Smith

August 15, 2007

I read the Memorial on the Fibromyalgial Support Board on WebMD.

A very moving tribute to someone who was obviously much loved.

You have my sympathies on the passing of such a precious soul.

Jeannie Williams

August 15, 2007

MY HEART ACHES FOR YOU. IM SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS.YOU ARE A INCREDIBLE MAN. I ADMIRED YOUR TRIBUTE, YOU WROTE IN THE PAPER 8/6/07 THE WORLD NEEDS TO KNOW THE PAIN.I TOO SUFFER WITH FIBRO/CHRONIC FATIGUE. BLESS YOU MY FRIEND

Marcos Greenidge

August 15, 2007

Hi. i was so touched to read Lisa's story, im a member on a Fm support board and we all talked about it last night,we wished Lisa would of found our board so we could love her as well.im here if anyone needs to talk.

im a 53 year old women with Fm, i undersatand.

God bless the whole family.
nancy from Anchorage

nancy petrin

August 15, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. I can tell by your description that Lisa was your wife, best friend and lover that she was real special. Please come and visit us and WebMd Fibro Support Board. We are all praying for you.

CeCee Kant

August 15, 2007

I too am a victim of FM. You and your family are in my prayers. I know that does not ease your pain, but please know that many people have been touched by your writing and , many will be helped because of it.

With great sympathy

Debbie Williams

August 15, 2007

Tom,
Please accept my condolences for the passing of Lisa. I too am a fellow fibromite and know just how Lisa felt. Her life on earth may be done,but her life in heaven is just beginning. We have another angel to carry us through our tuff times. Thank you for sharing Lisa's life with us.
((Soft Gentle Hugs))

Sue Emmons

August 15, 2007

I am suffering from FM, too. I understand how Lisa felt. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.

Carla Watkins

August 15, 2007

Thank you. I have Fibromyalgia too, the pain and statements from others, have me thinking of ending this cycle sometimes. With the internet access so easy, I have founds friends that are going through the same things, we support each other. Too late for Lisa, but thank you so much for sharing.

Debbie Mader

August 15, 2007

I am from the WebMD Fibro Board. A member posted Lisa's Obit there and it touched so many of us. I just wanted to let you know that there are so many of us that truly understand the pain that Lisa was dealing with.

My prayers are with each of you in this time of healing. Lisa is now at rest and without pain.

Sincerely
Deanna

Deanna Goble

August 15, 2007

Hello. You do not know me but I too have problems like your loved one had. I thank you for sharing your experience with the public about her. I am sure she was a very special person. She is now out of the pain she suffered every day.

My thoughts and prayers are with all of the loved ones which remain. I am sure she wants you to remember the good memories and have a good life.

May God comfort each and every one of you through this difficult time.

MiMi Lawson

August 15, 2007

May she rest in peace. Dear husband, you really did your wife proud with that obituary. I belong to a fibromyalgia board and we all feel your pains. You so described me at most areas. And yes, nobody sees that we are sick. My prayers are with you and your family at this time.

Betty Upchurch

August 15, 2007

My thoughts & prayers are with you at this time. I am a Fibromyalgia sufferer for 9 years. There are many of us who know what Lisa went through. God Bless you.

Tina Miller

August 15, 2007

My heart breaks for your loss , I was diagnosed 3yrs ago and I wish that I had known Lisa.May God lift your hearts and spirits into His loving arms.

Sandra Lee Lupo

August 15, 2007

Thank you so much fro care-ing so much of your wife to write such a beautiful tribute! We at the fibromailgia board are thinking its just the kind of letter to show sceptical drs! Thanks for the tool we might use! Very sorry for your loss, am sure its a big VOID. This too shall pass and hope quicker with the network of people here praying for YOU now! Daun in mo...:)

Daun Patston

August 15, 2007

I am so sorry for the loss of your wife. I know fibro and chronic fatique so well. I am 48 and have had it since age 8. So I do understand her emotional pain along with the physical pain.
With all my prays, Mary Smith

Mary Smith

August 15, 2007

Tom,
Please accept our sympathy with your loss. I have lived with fibromyalgia for 20 yrs.,your letter could not have described what a person with this sickness endures and how people just do not believe or understand how terrible it is for one to live with. I know exactly what Lisa felt for I have been there and only by the grace of God was able to find some medication that has helped me live with this sickness. My husband and sons have stood by me like you have with your wife and I know it has not been easy for them. Thank you for opening up some people's eyes to this sickness and maybe more of them will come to an understanding of it, especially all the doctors out there who still think it is all in our heads.
May God Bless You and give you the peace to get you through this.
Mary Ann Henry

Mary Ann HENRY

August 7, 2007

Dear Tom-

I am sorry to hear of your loss. I know Fibromyalgia quite well. I suffer from it but with mild to moderate symptoms most days. I started having symptoms in 1993. I am the Case Management Supervisor for a local disease management organization that offers Medipass insured individuals with Fibro, CFS and Neck/Back pain additional services such as acupuncture, massage and nutrition. I also attend several of the local support groups in the area. Tom, by writing that beautiful tribute, you have more to give Fibro a voice then I have witnessed in my lifetime. People need to know (especially doctors and caregivers) that the symptoms are not just in "your head". The pain and fatigue are real. Thank you so very much for sharing Lisa's story with all of us. This story will live on as a fine tribute not only to her but to you as a wonderful loving and supporting husband. Blessings to you.

Tracy Woolrich

August 7, 2007

Dear Tom,I don't know you or your family, but the tribute was brought to my attention by my husband & I cried for a long time. To see that someone who lives with you understands the pain you have and love you as this person is truly amazing. I understand her inability to endure this pain only too well,even though I am considered "high functioning",there are many, many days.....thank you for your kind words to the world about Lisa, your relationship with her is obviously quite loving & giving. I do believe it meant a lot to those living with Fibromyalgia & may hopefully help those who live with them. I hope you and your family find some peace, and I am sorry for your loss of this obviously loving person, Lisa.

Judith Moroff

August 7, 2007

Tommy, In my line of work, I don't always get to meet good people. I immediately knew when I met Lisa and You some 15+ years ago that you two were wonderful people with great character. I will miss Lisa, but will smile knowing my life is better for knowing Lisa and you. Thank you for sharing her story about Fibro. I will share it and educate many people. Holly, Jamie, and I extend our deepest sympathy for your loss.

Daniel Slaughter

August 7, 2007

Tommy,
You & your family are in our thoughts & prayers. Please know that that I'm here for what ever you need so do not hesitate to call.
Love,
Steve, Tina, Tyler & David

Steve Craig

August 6, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. I too suffer from fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue so I know how Lisa felt. I hope that your tribute will open some hearts out there- it was very touching. I will keep you in my prayers.

Lori

August 6, 2007

Dear Tommy:
Just wanted you to know how very sorry we were to hear about your loss.

August 6, 2007

Dear Tommy:
Just wanted you to know how very sorry we were to hear about your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. If there is anything you need, please do not hesitate to call.
Vinny Pisano, Carol & Willie

Vinny Pisano

August 6, 2007

To Tom and family,
My sincerest sympathies to you and yours on the death of your beloved wife. My prayers are with you.
-Dana, a fellow fibro patient

August 6, 2007

Dear Tommy and Family, I did not know Lisa until I read your beautiful tribute to her in today's St. Pete Times. Although Lisa and I never met, we shared the bond of Fibromyalgia. I was diagnosed about 12 years ago, finally learning that it was not "all in my head". Until recently I suffered only moderate flare-ups 2-3 times a year; this latest flare has been much worse and for much longer. I cannot imagine suffering for years in this condition. I understand how Lisa, and many others, could reach the end of endurance. Thank you, on behalf of all of us who suffer with Fibro and endure the lack of empathy and understanding of our friends and family. Lisa was so blessed to have you at her side. Thank you for "going public" about what Fibro really is, how it really feels, and how it affects lives.
God bless you and your family.

PATRICIA SLINGO

August 6, 2007

Lisa, if I could talk with you one more time....tell you how much we loved you....you are and will always be in our prayers and our hearts..With love, your sister-in-law Barbara

barbara stuto

August 6, 2007

I live in Melbourne, FL. My Sister just called me and read the notice to me. I cried. My Sister is living with Fibro. As hard as it was to have written this, I do believe you have brought critical awareness to this conditon. My heart goes out to you and your family. Know in your hearts, she truly is in a better place.

CW Post

August 6, 2007

DEAR TOM,YOU ARE IN MY PRAYERS THANK YOU FOR GIVVING MY AUNT YEARS OF HAPPINESS, SHE LOVED YOU VERY MUCH.

DAWN GRASSO

August 6, 2007

you will be missed tremendously from your whole family. you were loved.we all are glad you are at peace and pain free. you will be missed so so much. we loved you. your loving niece dawn

dawn grasso

August 6, 2007

I read your tribute today in the paper and it made me cry...may your grief be lessened by all those who help carry it for you. May God give you peace.

Rebecca

August 6, 2007

Tommy and Family,
My mother and I wish to give you our sympathy's. To let you know our thoughts are with you. As everyone has said, Lisa was a very special person and we, like all the people who have come in contact with her, will miss her deeply.

Gail and Lil

August 5, 2007

Tommy: We are so sorry to learn of Lisa's death. Our heartfelt sympathy goes to you and your family during this saddened time in your life. Our hopes and prayers are with you during this difficult time. Please accept our warmest sympathies. Our thoughts are with you. Sincerely, David and Shannon Riek (Jacob & Joshua too!!)

David and Shannon Riek

August 5, 2007

Dearest Tommy, My heart breaks for your loss. I can only hope you will find peace with family and friends, knowing we think and pray for you. Life will one day re-unite us with our loved ones.
Sincerely, Tricia

Tricia Tripicchio

August 4, 2007

Tommy,
I am so sorry to hear about Lisa.
My thoughts and prayers are with you at your time of sorrow. Lisa was truly a very special person.
With Love
Dina and all of your friends from Innovision

Dina Reeser

August 4, 2007

tommy-out deepest sympathy fot you and the family.we wish we could be there with you at this time.lisa was my friend. norman,karrie, jonathan and kayla

norman rishel

August 3, 2007

We were so sorry to hear of your loss. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help at this time.

normand,janet &jason leblanc

August 3, 2007

Tommy,
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to both you and Lisa and your family. Her beautiful smile always brightened up my day. My wish for you is that the beautiful memories you have of her will eventually ease the pain of such a tremendous loss.
You are in my thoughts, my prayers and especially my heart.
Joan

Joan Sheehan Caglione

August 3, 2007

We will miss you so very much Lisa. We have never known such a warm and loving person who always had a smile and warm hug every time we saw you. My children , my husband and myself feel so sad knowing that you are gone from this earth. However, we know that you are at peace. Your love and compassion will be with me for the rest of my life. I will carry it in my heart always. As I imagine your beautiful smile I feel comfort. Your deep love for your husband Tommy, whom we dearly love, was inspirational. You were a wonderful friend and we will miss you very much.

Jayne Goldstein

August 3, 2007

Lisa, I havent know you very long but you became my friend and I will miss you very much, the talks we have had will always be a part of me. You are in a better place no more pain no more sorrow. I know you are looking down on us and will protect the ones that love you and care for you.....You will be missed.....You will always be loved....Your an angel now so spread your wings and fly be free and live on....

Toni & Catherine Fino

August 2, 2007

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