Andy’s Cancer Battle

Hello, my name is Sara Turner and I am Andy’s sister. For those that know Andy and his wife Tara they are not one’s to ask for help as they are usually busy helping others. I’m asking on their behalf for you to read Andy’s journey and consider helping if you are able to.

The Journey thus far:

Andy began having severe headaches in January of this year. After they continued without relief he saw a neurologist and also went to the ER. While awaiting a scheduled MRI in late February the pain continued to escalate. On February 13th he went to the ER for the second time and an MRI found 2 masses on his brain. We were devastated and knew this was serious but didn’t know what to expect or what was next.

He was transported to Indianapolis and after many detailed tests it was discovered that he had 3 lesions on his brain, 1 in his abdomen and 1 on his lung.

What we thought originally looked like benign masses on his brain that needed removed had escalated to cancer once we learned there were lesions in several parts of his body. They then took a lung biopsy to get more information and was able to rule out a few types of cancer that treatment would not include surgery to remove the brain masses.

They scheduled brain surgery to remove the 3 masses from his brain for February 21st. It had been a long 7 days waiting on information so that we could take some type of action and it was now surgery day. Andy of course spent those past 7 days providing his visitors and nurses with entertainment and a positive attitude :). Andy was ready for surgery and wanted to get the fight started to beat whatever cancer was in his body!

The surgery was successful and they were able to remove 90-95% of the masses. We were so thankful and relieved to do something to start this fight.

I remember having a moment after the surgery reflecting on how shocking this all had been and still is.

Andy just had brain surgery. 9 days ago we were sitting at our sister Shayna’s house watching the Super Bowl together. Just 8 days ago I was worried about a list of things that no longer matter at all.

Andy’s recovery from brain surgery has had some hiccups but overall he is doing well. He had a hematoma from the surgery that has required a minor procedure and a lot of care (and discomfort for him). He then had some gastrointestinal issues that created challenges with dehydration, severe cramping and pain that put him back in the hospital for several days. He is home now and continuing to recover to prepare for what is ahead.

The future Journey:

It took some time to get answers but Andy was eventually diagnosed with Stage 4 Metastic Melanoma. He will have radiation to shrink the remaining lesions on his brain. He will then begin immunotherapy treatment to battle the remainder of the lesions (abdomen and lung).

The Ask:

Tara and Andy are facing each day of this journey in the most brave and loving way that I’m in awe of. Tara is such a loving wife that spends all of her time, energy, and love supporting Andy and their kids. I want to help them during this very difficult time and am asking if you could please pray for Tara, Andy, their kids, and all of the Dr’s and staff treating him. Also, If you are able to, please consider making a donation to help with medical expenses as they have a long road ahead and will not be able to consistently work during his battle.

Thank you so much for your support!

Sara (On behalf of Andy & Tara)