The Murph Challenge Day 11: Finely Dean Volkman
Day 11 of 31 is dedicated to Finley Dean Volkman. At 9 months old, Finley was diagnosed with brain cancer. Optic pathway glioma is a slow-growing brain tumor that arises in or around the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain. As the tumor progresses, it presses on the optic nerve. It was clear from an early age that Fin was a Fighter.
Despite the diagnosis, his parents (Derek and Stacy) were relentless in getting him the best care possible. They inspired many by trusting their parenting instincts. To always ask more questions. To love with all your heart even when life is not going as planned. To ask for help and lean on family when they needed it.
At age 3, Stacy wanted to make Fin’s birthday extra special and asked for others to send him a card….a staggering 9,312 birthday cards came in showing the love and support for this small but powerful fighter.
Fin had more surgeries, chemo, and scans than Stacy could count over the years. After one of Finley’s surgeries it left him blind. He was so scared after it happened, but he did not let that keep him from being happy. It was amazing to see his determination for all who knew him.
Nominator Rebecca said:
“I would say Finley inspired me to be a better person. He inspired me to be more giving. He was such a sweet boy who didn’t deserve what life threw at him. He was a fighter!”
On Sunday, June 6th, 2021 Finley Dean Volkman passed away at age 7.
“He will forever be loved and missed by everyone. ??? We will all eternally miss him and love him. Finley, your strength inspired the world. There is absolutely NO DOUBT about that. You will always be in our hearts. Don’t take life for granted, make the best of your days here on this earth like Finley did. He is a fighter, through and through. There is NOTHING more precious than LIFE, itself.”
– Mom (Stacy)
Every Day We Fight is honored to dedicate today to the memory of Finely Dean Volkman. Many prayers to you and your family.
Day 11 of 31 Murph Time: 30:21
When I did the Murph Challenge for the first time I became hooked. Not because it was fun but because it was painful, challenging, and meaningful.
These 31 challenges are a dedication to a fighter, a warrior, a person battling that’s an everyday hero.
– Tate Wheeler
“The Murph Challenge is more than just a workout. It is a tradition that helps push us, humble us, and allows us the opportunity to dedicate a bit of pain and sweat to honor, LT. Michael P. Murphy, a man who sacrificed everything he had for our freedom.”
-Murph Website