In October of this year, my sister's partner of 25 years, Alan Johnson, was diagnosed with aggressive bladder cancer at just 52. It has since been discovered in other parts of his body. He is currently undergoing chemotherapy, has had two surgeries so far, and is facing many more surgeries to remove cancer and high-risk tissues and many more chemotherapy treatments. Alan has long been passionate about cars and racing, as well as hunting and fishing. He owned a body shop in Sauk Centre, MN for years (Centre Collision) and enjoyed racing cars competitively in and around Alexandria, MN. Because he has long been self-employed, he could not afford health insurance. His road is a tough one, but he's already in full fight mode! We are hoping to raise funds for him and Karrie, my dear sister, to help cover their medical and living expenses as they battle his cancer together. Incredibly, cancer is one of several unexpected challenges and setbacks Alan, Karrie, and their beloved dogs have faced together over the last 5 years. I share this in order to better illustrate how significant of an impact our collective kindness will have on them:

On October 10, 2020, at 1 am, their dream home in Osakis, MN burned to the ground from an electrical fire. Everyone and all their pooches escaped unharmed, but they suddenly found themselves homeless. For the next 10 months, they lived in a camping trailer on their property in Osakis and then in a rental home while their new home was constructed.

Literally the next day (October 11, 2020), Alan's dear mother, Betty Johnson, passed away from pancreatic cancer.

On September, 30, 2025 Alan had to close Centre Collision for good after years of tirelessly helping to keep the people of the Chain-of-Lakes region of Minnesota on the road.

Less than two weeks later, Alan received his cancer diagnosis.

Alan is a dear friend, a loyal partner, a proud brother, and a caring son. He and Karrie are facing a battle, there is no doubt. But his family and friends are rallying around him, and we are ready to fight right by his side. We are grateful for every minute we have with him, and we thank you all for your kindness, your love, and for any help you can give to them.

Keep-up with Alan and Karrie's journey to beat his cancer at his Caring Bridge site:

https://www.caringbridge.org/site/0e3b91d1-bb2f-11f0-8c5e-7f6a4c29d476