Randy Asmundson-No One Fights Alone

With a strong talent in the art of Karaoke and a hearty laugh my Uncle Randy is a fun person to get to know.  As a grandfather he is always one to get his grand kids all hopped up on Red Vine Licorice (that's what grandparents are for, right).  It is evident that he loves his daughters, Michelle and Andrea, both with young families deeply.  As a small business owner, Uncle Randy has been dedicated his entire working life to fixing shoes. A business that began with my grandfather, and he continued with the trade once my grandpa retired.  

Being a small business owner, sometimes there  some sacrifices that come with the life. One thing being health insurance. My Uncle hasn't seen a doctor in over twenty years.  Despite this, during my visits with him, he has always had a smile on his face. When Christmas rolls around, everyone our family gathering can expect a few Lotto Scratchers as his gift to us. So sweet. No one ever struck it big! I am always so moved by the kind and thoughtful gesture. 

Like with his own grand children, my uncle is always so kind and loving to my children. A few months back, we stopped by and visited him at his shop. He was so accommodating and took my kids back to show  him how all of the shoe repair tools worked.  I was nervous about  my kid's fingers but they thought it was the best. Of course, he offered the boys a licorice as well.

As of lately, my uncle's health has been deteriorating. He hasn't been very vocal about his symptom's but as time has passed it has become more and more evident.  Despite his discomfort, he has been showing up for work, being a support to our family helping family member's lawns and house sitting when needed.  He has a good heart.

On June 21st, Uncle Randy finally got in to see a doctor at his daughter's insisting.  Upon admittance to the hospital, he still insisted that he didn't need to be there. ( Stubbornness runs in our family.) 

Saturday came and with it a devastating diagnosis.  Stage IV cancer in the stomach and other organs. The prognosis is 4-6 months. 

Today, Just over a week past the diagnosis, my mom and dad have welcomed uncle Randy in their home for hospice care.  His daughters have been helping him close up things at his shop, and my Grandparents are being as supportive and generous despite their own serious struggles.  Did I mention that this has been a terrible season for our family?  I think that's why we have families. We ban together and support one another. When you have family, no one fights alone. We are in this together. 

As for my Uncle Randy, in the very short amount of time since his diagnosis, his health has declined rapidly.  Regardless, he had a quite a few nice visits with friends and family. 

Friends and Family, today I ask you for support for my family. I love them so much. My heart breaks as we walk through this.  I love my uncle so much and it is devastating to see him struggle with this illness.  You can support us through a myriad of ways including prayers, and messages and stopping by to show your support. 

For information for visiting, you can email me at [email redacted] 

Lastly, as you know with the costs that come with a prepared for cancer diagnosis can be astronomical.  With no insurances, the costs for this journey will be quite a bit. If you are able, please also consider supporting us in this. 

In whatever way you are able to offer support,  we are very grateful.      No one should fight cancer alone. 


#cancersucks