This morning, La Radio confirmed that Mario Gomez Heredia (74), a member of the group of 33 miners rescued from the San Jose mine in 2010, has passed away.
The information was provided by the Candelaria Funeral Home in Copiapó, which also confirmed it to Radio Bío Bío. So far, no details have been disclosed regarding the cause of his unfortunate death.
Gomez was the oldest member of the group of 33, and he played a crucial role in communicating with rescue teams by sending the first letter with the coordinates from the shelter.
I just want to thank God and everyone who participated in the rescue of the San José Mine. Especially the President. @sebastianpinera, @asougar, @CristianBarraZ, and @lgolborne. Eternally grateful. pic.twitter.com/8h5WvlibQb
— Mario Gomez Heredia (@MarioGomezN9) October 14, 2018
This type of information was essential for the successful rescue of all the miners after about two months, during which Gomez was the ninth to be brought out of the San José mine.
Mario Gómez Heredia, the oldest of the 33 miners, has died
In 2018, several years after the accident, it was reported that Gomez suffered from pulmonary fibrosis and silicosis, diseases commonly found in individuals who work in mining.
At that time, he had traveled from Copiapó to the Hospital del Tórax in Santiago, where he required an oxygen supply.
Although he had hoped for a possible transplant, medical evaluations ultimately ruled out that option.
“Due to my age, they only allow up to 65 years old, and it is really risky for me to undergo such an intervention,” he stated, according to Página7.
However, despite none of the “33” visiting him at that time and the illness forcing him to “carry my oxygen machine everywhere,” Mario expressed his determination, stating “I want to hold on to life.”
Pulmonary fibrosis, according to the American Lung Association, is a disease characterized by the formation of scarring in the lungs, which leads to difficulty breathing.
Symptoms include shortness of breath (especially during physical activity), persistent dry cough, fatigue, and muscle and joint pain, among others.
This condition is more common in men, with risk factors such as exposure to hazardous chemicals, cigarette smoke, autoimmune diseases, gastroesophageal reflux, and family history.
This morning, La Radio was able to confirm that Mario Gomez Heredia (74), member of the group of 33 miners rescued from the San José mine in 2010, passed away.
The information was provided by the Candelaria Funeral Home in Copiapó, which also confirmed it to Radio Bío Bío. So far, no details have been provided about the cause of the unfortunate death.
Gomez was the oldest within the group of 33, and played a key role in contacts with rescue groups, given that he sent the first letter with the coordinates from the shelter.
I just want to thank God and everyone who participated in the rescue of the San José Mine. Especially the President. @sebastianpinera @asougar @CristianBarraZ @lgolborne Eternally grateful. pic.twitter.com/8h5WvlibQb
— Mario Gomez Heredia (@MarioGomezN9) October 14, 2018
This type of information was crucial so that, after about two months, all miners were successfully rescued in a mega operation where he was the ninth to leave the San José mine.
Mario Gómez Heredia, the Oldest of the 33 Miners, Has Died
In 2018, years after the accident, it was learned that Gomez suffered from pulmonary fibrosis and silicosis, common diseases among those who work in mining.
At that time, he had traveled from Copiapó to the Hospital del Tórax in Santiago, where he required an oxygen supply.
Despite hoping for a possible transplant, medical tests ruled out that possibility due to his age, as he stated, “It is risky for me to intervene like this,” according to Página7.
Despite these challenges, Gomez remained hopeful, expressing his desire to hold on to life, saying, “I want to hold on to life.”
Pulmonary fibrosis, according to the American Lung Association, is a disease where the lungs present scars leading to difficulty breathing.
Recognizing Pulmonary Fibrosis: Key Symptoms
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities
- Dry and persistent cough
- Fatigue
- Joint and muscle pain
Risk Factors
This illness is more common in men and associated with various risk factors:
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals
- Cigarette smoke
- Autoimmune diseases
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Family history
A Legacy of Strength and Resilience
Mario Gomez’s life following the rescue operation of the 33 miners reflected a continuous battle not only against the physical challenges posed by his health issues but also against the emotional scars left by the traumatic experience of being trapped underground for 69 days.
Community Support and Recognition
Gomez was not just a miner; he became a symbol of resilience and survival. His courage was celebrated throughout Chile and beyond, garnering attention and support from individuals and organizations focused on mining safety and health awareness.
Health Challenges Post-Rescue
After the rescue, many miners, including Gomez, faced ongoing health issues attributed to their time underground. Issues such as:
- Respiratory diseases
- Mental health problems, including PTSD
- Physical ailments related to prolonged entrapment
Reflection on Mining Safety Standards
The tragedy at the San José mine prompted a significant reevaluation of mining safety protocols in Chile and globally.
New Regulations and Safety Protocols
In light of the incident, many mining companies adopted stricter safety measures, including:
- Regular safety drills and training
- Improved communication systems for emergency situations
- Enhanced ventilation and air quality measures within mines
The Ongoing Fight for Miners’ Rights
The legacy of the 33 miners continues to inspire advocacy for miners’ rights and health protections, pushing for better working conditions and comprehensive health care for those in the mining industry.
Case Study: The Health of Miners Post-Rescue
Insights from Occupational Health Professionals
Occupational health experts have highlighted the importance of monitoring former miners’ health and providing necessary medical support:
| Health Issue | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Pulmonary fibrosis | Regular lung function tests and oxygen support |
| Mental health support | Access to counseling and mental health resources |
| Physical rehabilitation | Structured exercise and rehabilitation programs |
Mario Gomez’s Lasting Impact and Message
Mario Gomez’s story is not merely one of survival; it is a powerful reminder of the importance of community, resilience, and the fight against occupational hazards in the mining industry. His words and experiences will continue to resonate with those who knew him and the broader community seeking justice and recognition for miners around the world.
