Max Gomez Obituary, Death Cause – It is with heavy hearts that we share the devastating news of the passing of our beloved Dr. Max Gomez, an extraordinary individual who dedicated his life to the relentless pursuit of medical knowledge and compassionate journalism. Dr. Gomez departed this world on a quiet Saturday after a prolonged battle with illness, leaving a void that will be impossible to fill. He was 72 years old. Dr. Gomez’s illustrious career as a medical reporter and journalist spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on the world of journalism and healthcare. His journey with us began in 1994 when he served as a medical reporter and health editor for WCBS-TV. He later returned as our cherished chief medical correspondent in June 2007. His professional journey also included stints as a health and science editor for WNBC-TV, WNEW-TV, and KYW-TV in Philadelphia. Within our newsroom, Dr. Gomez was more than a colleague; he was a beacon of wisdom and kindness. He touched the lives of countless medical professionals, patients who entrusted him with their stories, and our viewers who relied on his insights. He was our in-house medical consultant, ever-eager to extend a helping hand, genuinely concerned, and willing to go the extra mile to make a difference.
Dr. Gomez’s academic background in health and science, combined with his relatable and engaging communication style, made him a formidable presence in the broadcast world. Over the course of his remarkable career, he earned multiple New York Emmy Awards, Philadelphia Emmys, and a UPI honor for Best Documentary for his report on AIDS. He also received the prestigious Excellence in a Time of Crisis Award from the New York City Health Department for his unwavering dedication after the events of 9/11, an honor that held a special place in his heart. His commitment to journalistic excellence extended far beyond accolades. Dr. Gomez received national recognition from The Marfan Foundation and the Leukemia Society of America for his poignant report on twin girls battling leukemia, who received life-saving bone marrow transplants from their 7-year-old sister. He was named the American Health Foundation’s Man of the Year and even earned a spot as a NASA Journalist In Space semifinalist in 1986.
Yet, what truly set Dr. Gomez apart was his openness about his own medical challenges. He fearlessly shared his personal struggles with his TV family and, during the COVID-19 pandemic, emerged as a steady and trusted voice of reason. Beyond his journalism, Dr. Gomez’s interests were as diverse as his talents. He co-authored three books on health and science and served on numerous advisory boards, bringing him into contact with presidents and popes. His dedication to community extended to his role on the national board of directors for the American Heart Association, as well as his involvement with the Princeton Alumni Weekly and the Partnership for Afterschool Education. Dr. Gomez was also a mentor, guiding undergraduate journalism and medical students, as well as aspiring physicians interested in medical journalism. Born in Cuba and later relocating to Miami with his family, Dr. Gomez pursued education with unyielding determination. He graduated cum laude from Princeton University, earned his Ph.D. from the Wake Forest University School of Medicine, and completed an NIH postdoctoral fellowship at Rockefeller University.
