Gary and Shana’s Story

Site created on February 22, 2020

After a week of increasing pain in his side Gary finally decided whatever was wrong wasn’t going away. The morning of Feb. 13 He went to Urgent Care and by that afternoon was having surgery. CT scans had indicated a mass in his colon which was confirmed by pathology several days later to be colon cancer. Ten days in the hospital was difficult but the outpouring of support has been tremendous. Gary is now home, healing well from the surgery and preparing for the next phase of this battle. He has a few more tests being done while they wait for him to be considered healed enough to begin chemotherapy. 


Words cannot express the gratitude and appreciation we have for the immediate and overwhelming support of prayers, encouragement, and financial assistance we continue to receive from this amazing community. God has us in his arms and we trust he will guide us through as always.  Gary would also like to express a special thank you to his amazing wife. In his words, “I could not have endured the hospital stay without her. Her ongoing support and encouragement has been simply amazing.”


With help from friends, this site will be a place Gary and Shana will continue to share updates on the progress of this journey and a central source of information on how to connect with and support them.

Newest Update

February 27, 2024

Journal entry by Crystal Cunningham —

Thank you to all who came to celebrate Gary's life. Shana and the family are deeply grateful for the love and support. Below is a link to a digital program and the tribute video that includes a space to share stories and memories of Gary. 

Gary Dave Murphy 1974-2024

There are also several dates remaining on the Meal Train calendar if you would like to care for the family in the coming weeks: Murphy Meal Train

Read More of the journal titled "February 27, 2024"
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