A mother of three Sherron, Stacy and Sedric (deceased), and grandmother of six, Sharon dedicated her entire life to her music, and rearing her children and grandchildren. Sharon was a single mother who made sure her children had everything she could provide, but more importantly a strong spiritual life in God.

In November 1997 Sharon was recovering from an unrelated surgery when she discovered a “kernel” in her breast. She thought it was related to a normal lump she would feel after her monthly cycle. Unfortunately the lump became tender and much larger and she decided to make an appointment with her doctor.

About 6 weeks later, the doctor confirmed that she had breast cancer.

Through her unwavering faith in God and strong family support, Sharon was determined to fight the disease. “It came to pass, and this too shall pass” is scripture based affirmation that she quoted out loud daily. She was quickly diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer and was rushed immediately into surgery where she had one of her breasts removed.

She hit a brick wall when her doctor notified her that she would not be able to receive the treatment plan designated for her because Medi-Cal would not cover the treatment of chemotherapy or radiation along with her out-of-pocket co payment of $895 per month. He then phoned one of his colleagues who owed him a favor and in good will, that doctor agreed to take Sharon’s case. The doctor helped her enter a pilot program that was testing a new cancer drug. She then felt a sense of relief, but the program was short term.

Later, through employment, Sharon was able to obtain medical coverage and be treated by an oncologist and a team of professionals without being a participant in a medical trial.

Sharon overcame many obstacles during her two-year battle with breast cancer and told her children she wanted to “Live and Not Die”.

Sharon was in remission for eight months when the cancer attacked her body again. This time it had metastasized to her lungs, liver and brain. She was then told in April 2000 that she had six months to live. She was no longer afraid to die and helped to support her children in not being afraid as well.

She encouraged them, explaining that this was her life’s path and she would see them again in eternity. She knew that her experience would one day impact many more. In June 2000 she lost the physical battle to breast cancer, but won through the legacy of The Sharon Randolph Foundation. Indeed, the suffering came and passed, but her legacy certainly lives on!