Meet Andy

Andy Avery, family member
Hickory Withe, Tennessee

Andy's Story

Hi folks, I'd like to share the story of my wife Beverly.

In March 2012 she was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer and had a tumor the size of a fist removed. Her surgery was followed by intense chemo for 12 treatments. She fought courageously while working her full-time job.

She began another round of chemo later that year. In 2013, doctors discovered her cancer was back and did a hysterectomy (minus the uterus) as it was involved and they feared making the cancer spread more. She had her 3rd round of chemo after surgery for another 12 treatments.

Doctors did more testing and found the treatments weren't doing much for the tumor so they tried introducing oral chemo. PET scans later showed the cancer was still there. They started a 4th round of chemo earlier this year and after the first treatment she was so sick she said she just couldn't do it anymore. It was the second time in 16 years of marriage that I saw her cry.

We removed the pump that night. She worked through this entire process until about March this year. We lost her April 16.

I don't say this to scare or warn anyone. I say it to encourage. She fought courageously and worked full-time. I told her several times that she "is a better man than I am." I applaud my baby, she fought long and hard! You can too if you're facing this mean disease. Remember Beverly's fight and fight in her memory, please? Never quit! She was a giver to anyone and all that came into her path. She gave even in her death. She donated her body to University of Tennessee in Memphis.

What One Million Strong means to Andy

One Million Strong means there is a lot of work still too do. But, it is a battle that can be beat. Be encouraged in your fight. Know that others have beat this cancer and many have given their bodies in order for science to learn and train doctors and specialists in better treatment procedures. My wife gave her body to science to make a difference. Maybe you can benefit from this or help others.

Andy's Advice

Fight, NEVER give up! Remember your family members, children and spouses that love you. You love them. God loves you, hang tough!

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