Rally for Ron: Fighting Cancer One Day at a Time

My name is Morgan, and I am proud to be the stepdaughter of Ron Charles. Before I share our story, I want to sincerely thank you for taking the time to read it. For that alone, I am deeply grateful.

When my mom, Sandy, lost a bet to a frequent customer at the local market she works at, she never imagined it would lead to a date that would change her life forever. Who could have guessed that a simple bet on a football game would spark a love deeper than anything they had ever dreamed? In May 2022, Ron and Sandy were married, ready to spend the rest of their lives together and live their happily ever after. They pledged their vows: to have and to hold, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health. No one could have foreseen how quickly those vows would be tested in way they never saw coming.

In July 2024, just two years after Ron and Sandy’s beautiful union, Ron, in his early 60s, received the devastating diagnosis of stage 4 colon cancer—the most advanced stage. The cancer had spread beyond his colon, primarily affecting the bones in his spine. Despite this, Ron became an example of courage and resilience. However, his health declined rapidly, transitioning from an independent and active man to someone in need of full-time care and support. While his unbreakable spirit inspired us all, it would be dishonest not to acknowledge the many challenging and heart-wrenching days we've faced together.

Sandy, Ron’s wife, has always been great at multitasking—a skill that has become more vital than ever. She now juggles countless roles, serving as their sole financial provider, housekeeper, caregiver, and, most importantly, Ron’s unwavering partner. Adjusting to this new "normal" has been a difficult journey for Ron. For 27 years, he served as a dedicated volunteer firefighter in Coburg, OR, and spent 16 years working in a local school district. Known for always lending a helping hand to those in need, Ron has spent most of his life giving to others. Now, learning to lean on others for support has been a challenging adjustment for someone so accustomed to being the one offering help. Ron’s diagnosis forced him into an early retirement from the two jobs he loved, which also turned their dual-income household into a single-income household. It is no secret how expensive it is staying afloat in this economy but with Ron recently losing his health insurance entirely, another unexpected obstacle, staying afloat feels nearly impossible.

Ron has not had his chemotherapy in over a month due to overwhelming costs. While we continue to remain hopeful and committed to Ron as he continues to fight for that happy ever after that he so deserves, we are in need of help. We are actively working on getting Ron healthcare coverage and assistance at home but it has been a slow and challenging process. Unfortunately, cancer doesn't stop growing even if you lose your health insurance. While Ron can occasionally miss a treatment here and there, he will continue to need chemotherapy for the rest of his life.

Your donation will directly support Ron’s healthcare needs, including medical bills, medications, treatments, essential medical supplies, and living expenses. Every contribution, no matter the amount, is deeply appreciated and makes a meaningful difference. For those who are able, I’ve included Sandy’s (Ron’s wife) Venmo as an alternative method for contributions. We understand that not everyone can give financially, especially with the holidays just days away, so we kindly ask for your support by sharing this with your family, friends, or anyone who can help us reach our goal together. Your kindness and generosity mean the world to us.

From our family to yours, we wish you happiness and good health. May this holiday season be filled with joy and love, and may the new year bring you and your loved ones nothing but the best. Thank you for your time.

-Morgan Elliott

Ron & Sandy Charles Venmo: @SandyCharles