California couple married 35 years die from COVID-19 11 days apart

Their son, Delon Adams, says that they taught him 'how to love' and were a 'true lovebird story'

A California couple, who met in high school and were married for 35 years, died from coronavirus just 11 days apart. 

Keith and Gwendolyn Robinson of Vallejo, California were sports fans and parents. Their son, Delon Adams compared them to the couple from the epic romantic film, The Notebook

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“This is a true lovebird story,” Adams told CNN. “They showed me how to care, how to love.”

Keith Robinson developed symptoms from the coronavirus first. A truck driver and diabetic, his symptoms started mild. 

Gwendolyn had far more severe symptoms. Her pre-existing conditions of asthma and MDS, a type of blood cancer, made her far more susceptible to the ravages of the disease. 

They were admitted into the hospital only two days apart. Keith went in on July 12 and Gwendolyn on July 14.

Keith and Gwendolyn Robinson of Vallejo, California were sports fans and parents.
(Photo Courtesy of Delon Adams)

She died just four days, July 18, after being admitted to the hospital. Her family was able to say goodbye to her on FaceTime. 

Meanwhile, Keith continued to fight. But, on July 29, he succumbed to the disease. 

“This is rough,” Adams said. “It’s one thing to know you are going to lose your parents eventually — but to know that you just saw them last week…and you never see them again, it’s a shock.”

A GoFundMe set up by the family described Gwendolyn as her family’s “purple rose.” 

Keith and Gwendolyn Robinson of Vallejo, California were high school sweethearts.
(Photo Courtesy of Delon Adams)

On the page, Adams wrote, “This amazing love story wouldn’t have caught the traction that it did (without support). 

“The entire family is feeling your love and support and it is helping us get through this so much to all of you, thank you. In our hearts and prayers, (we) thank you for the support.”

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The state of California has more than 500,000 cases of COVID-19. There have been over 9,700 deaths. 

Amid the pandemic, the state’s largest school system in Los Angeles, is keeping schools closed and turning to online learning. 

Dr. Deborah Birx of the White House Coronavirus Task Force has warned that the rural California Central Valley could soon experience a rise in cases. 

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