Lauren Alaina’s Stepfather is Battling Stage IV Melanoma

For several months, Lauren Alaina and her family have been facing a private battle that many families around the world go through. In March, her stepfather, Sam Ramker, was diagnosed with cancer and is currently in a fight for his life. While she’s stayed mostly quiet about his ongoing battle, Alaina finally opened up to fans about what’s been going on.

“I have been seeing a lot of you posting and asking about what is going on with my step-dad and how you can help. I am not one to ask for anything, but you guys have consistently been reaching out,” she wrote in an Instagram post. “His story and what our family has been dealing with is written on his go fund me page. The link is in my bio. He is fighting harder than I thought was possible. He is the strongest person I know. Cancer doesn’t discriminate. It doesn’t care if you’re two or 80 years old. It doesn’t care if you’re a perfectly healthy 47 year old step-father, husband, and grandfather who eats healthily and runs 6 miles a day. It can happen to anyone.”

According to the GoFundMe, Ramker was diagnosed with Stage IV Melanoma and after several other tests, he learned the cancer had spread to his liver, heart, lungs, pelvis, sciatica, lumbar spine and thoracic spine. Because of its aggressive nature, Ramker’s doctors recommended radiation treatment over surgery as the operation would delay treatment for six weeks.

As the family continues to navigate the treacherous waters of his cancer battle, Alaina sent out prayers to those with family members also going through the same process, while also thanking fans for their love and support.

“To the families and people who have been affected by this horrible disease or any disease, my family has felt the pain you’ve felt for the last four months. We are praying for you. We love you, and we are so thankful for all of the love coming our way.”

In closing on her Instagram post, the “Doin’ Fine” singer revealed the story behind the photo she posted in tribute to her stepdad, taken during the 2018 ACM Awards week.

“I chose this picture because of how happy that trophy made him,” she wrote. “We found out I won New Female Vocalist of the Year at the @acmawards the same week we found out he has cancer. We made sure he and my mom were there for the award show. That trophy is my very favorite thing I’ve ever gotten. It brought so much happiness in a week of sadness. That’s how God works.”

Alaina first spoke of her stepdad’s diagnosis during an interview with Sounds Like Nashville. During the 28th annual City of Hope Celebrity Softball Game, she revealed that the game hit a little closer to home this year for one specific reason.

“This year, I’m playing for my stepdad,” the Georgia native explained. “We found out a couple months ago that he has cancer and so we’re right in the middle of the battle. I now know what it feels like to witness that and it’s scary and the worst, so I’m proud to be here.”

Since its launch, the GoFundMe for Sam Ramker has raised more than $11,000 with a goal of $100,000. To donate and stay up-to-date with his battle, click HERE.