The diagnosis came on October 31, 2017. Randy Albers was dealing with pancreatic cancer. No cancer is good, but pancreatic can be especially challenging. Surgery was attempted on November 12,  but upon finding that the cancer had spread to his liver, they sewed him back up, giving him a challenging prognosis. He plans to beat that diagnosis. I believe he will do it.

Randy, who turned 64 on Christmas Eve, started chemo in mid-November and will complete his sixteenth session at the end of March. There will be a CT scan to see how things are going, then plans will be made for the next steps. Scans have shown that the tumor near his liver has gotten smaller, which is good.

There have been a couple of setbacks, including a two-week hospital stay in February while Randy dealt with double-pneumonia and other things. He has lost about forty-five pounds, so his blue jeans sag a little, but he seems to have a good appetite. His attitude is outstanding. Randy's wife, Julie, has been his caregiver and life-savior. Randy and Julie married in 2011. Randy is also blessed to have his son, Jordon, wife, Mallory, and two beautiful grand daughters living in the area. The little girls dearly love their Grandpa.

Many will remember Randy's late wife, Margie, who sadly passed from a heart attack in 2009. They were married for over twenty years. Randy's parents, Homer and Marcene died during the past few years, as well as Randy's brother, Steve, who lost his life following a tragic biking accident while on a race around Mt Rainier.
 
As you can imagine, the medical bills are massive, especially when you add in a few weeks in the hospital, chemo sessions and doctors appointments. Insurance will hopefully pay for some things, but there are many expenses to deal with. Neither Randy nor Julie have been able to work for many months, although Julie is trying  to work part-time now, while also taking care of Randy, it is a challenge.
 
So, the battle isn't easy.  Your thoughts and prayers are deeply appreciated, as well as any donation you could give. Please also share this message to help get the word out to family and friends, as it is hard to get the word out to everyone. Things have been busy.

Life gets tough sometimes, but that's when people come together for each other. Love for one another brings out the best in us. Pancreatic cancer is a tough foe, but, Randy, Julie, his family and friends, are up for the fight of his life.

Always remember what a miracle every day is and be good to yourself and those who love you.
Cherish every moment...