At 73 years old, after a lifetime of putting others first and surviving unimaginable loss, Randy Fitzpatrick has one heartfelt dream left: to see the beauty of this country by train before time runs out.

My name is Meg Bierschbach, and I have the privilege of serving as a caregiver to a remarkable man named Randy Fitzpatrick. Randy lives in Bay City, Michigan, and is someone who has spent his entire adult life quietly serving others—never asking for recognition, never expecting anything in return.

In recent years, Randy has endured more heartbreak than most people should have to face. In 2016, he lost his adult son to an overdose. Then, in 2021, he lost the love of his life, his wife Lajean, to COVID. Lajean was Randy’s world, and her passing left a profound emptiness. Despite his grief, Randy continued to show compassion and care for those around him.

Shortly before Lajean passed, Randy earned his degree as a Chaplain. Rather than focusing on his own pain, he used that calling to support others in moments of illness, loss, and transition. Throughout his life, Randy has volunteered countless hours through organizations such as the Jaycees and the Lions Club, and he has served in soup kitchens, nursing homes, and other charitable efforts. Helping others has never been something Randy did for praise—it has simply been who he is. As he often says, “Life is service to my fellow human.”

Today, we are asking for help to give Randy something he has never asked for himself.

One of Randy’s greatest bucket-list dreams is to travel across the United States by train, especially through the Rocky Mountains. He dreams of seeing the landscapes he has only ever read about—watching the country pass by from his seat, reflecting on a life spent caring for others.

Because of his age and health needs, Randy will require assistance on this journey, and I will be accompanying him as his caregiver. We estimate the total cost of the trip to be approximately $5,000, which will cover travel, accommodations, and essential support along the way.

This journey represents far more than a vacation. It is a chance for healing, peace, and joy after years marked by loss and selflessness. Any donation, no matter the amount, brings Randy one step closer to experiencing a dream that means everything to him.

Thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting Randy’s story. Your kindness can help give a truly generous soul a moment of wonder, beauty, and hope. God bless you.