Kathleen Soliz Hernandez, 24, was born in Corpus Christi on September 3, 1986, to Ricardo and Yvette Soliz. She spent her childhood in Hebbronville and Zapata before moving to Austin in the eighth grade. On December 7, 2001, Kathy was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia, while a freshman at Bowie High School, where she eventually graduated in 2005 with honors. She was accepted into Texas A&M University and was preparing to attend when she relapsed in July 2005. In August 2007, while in remission, she married Heriberto Hernandez. She loved Herbie very much and enjoyed a brief sense of normalcy before a relapse in October 2007.
From the time she was very young, Kathy was a self-described "tree hugger" and was often referred to as "mother nature" by her family. She was an avid reader, loved intellectual debates and conversation and was passionate about animals. Kathy loved art, museums and independent films. She intended to pursue a career in mental health and had a desire to provide assistance to those experiencing health related trauma.
The courage and grace she demonstrated during her illness endeared her to her family, friends, caregivers and even those she'd never met. An inspiration to all, Kathy never lost her fighting spirit or her sense of humor. Her perseverance served as affirmation of a greater good and the incredible strength of the human heart. Kathy's life will be defined by her indomitable spirit, rather than her illness. Kathy's compassion and love for life grew inside of her since the day she was born and provided strength to all who loved her. Kathy made those around her better people. While Kathy today is in the presence of love and compassion on a level we cannot comprehend, from the day she entered our lives she allowed us to discover the better angels in each of our souls.
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