What would you do if you were told that the pesky cough you had for a short time was actually Stage 4 neuroendocrine lung cancer that had already metastasized to your spine and liver? An aggressive cancer; a terminal diagnosis.

It's a question that we've all probably thought about… or perhaps have already walked that difficult path with someone we loved...

In our work as a County Veterans Service Officers--we often walk alongside Veterans and their families embarking on a difficult medical journey. We are on the front lines--helping to navigate the complex and sometimes frustrating world of VA medical care and disability benefits. It is a very rewarding role and it takes a team to make the advocacy machine work.

A lucky day for me and the Veterans here in Jefferson County, Wisconsin--was in December 2011 when Retired US Air Force TSgt Gene Asmann walked into my office. He signed on to our team as a VA "work study" while using his Federal G.I. Bill to complete his IT degree-- and by April 2012, he had taken on the role of Deputy CVSO.

We made great partners in the business of connecting dots for Veterans and their families. I could tell you 100 stories of how he has gone above and beyond the call of duty to make a difference for others. I can also tell you that if it weren't for his computer skills as the VA transitioned to a "paperless environment" I surely would have lost my mind along the way!

As we reluctantly accepted Gene's retirement on January 12th, 2024 (which, poignantly, was also his birthday) -- we began to contemplate what we could do to support him through this difficult time. And--so many people were asking how they could help--that we decided a GoFundMe campaign would offer an opportunity to show support.

There are logistical and personal hurdles ahead for Gene:

At the forefront is needing to move to a more handicap accessible home as his stamina and lung capacity declines--but I surely would like for him to be able to afford a family trip to Hawaii or (his dream destination) Australia before he journeys through the 'stardust portal'.

It breaks my heart that Gene's greatest worry is not for himself--but rather for the loved ones he will leave behind. Setting the goal of this campaign at $100k is partly metaphorical as he is priceless to me -- but also reflects my sincere desire to alleviate his worries in this world

I invite you to join me in showing Gene some love--and thanking him for his 20+ years of military service -- as well as for his dedication spanning nearly 13 years of service with the Jefferson County Veteran Service Office.