The Love Family

Andrus Love’s life was saved by his wife’s intuition. After two falling spells, which were dramatic as Andrus is over six feet tall, she suggested that he visit the doctor. He was initially diagnosed with the flu, but his wife Beatrice insisted that he get more tests. Sure enough, there was a mass in his chest, and he was sent to UAB to start chemotherapy. His family put hands over him and prayed.

He has acute lymphocytic leukemia, which meant that he would need a bone marrow transplant. Eventually, an anonymous donor became a match, and Andrus told his doctors, “Y’all are gonna witness a miracle.” 

Andrus was a fighter and “rockstar patient,” according to the medical staff. He was also stubborn. He hated getting his blood clot shot, so he took to walking multiple times a day to prevent blood clots and a painful injection. 

Their family relied on each other and on their faith to get through the journey. “God has his purpose,” explains Beatrice, “We’re fighters. For me, the hardest part was leaving my kids.” Andrus and Tammy have four exceptional children, who all made honor roll this year despite their dad’s medical difficulties. 

Red Mountain Grace made it possible for the family to stay together as we provided a two bedroom apartment. There was space for the kids to do their schoolwork online during COVID, but they are excited to get back home. 

Andrus, a psychology professor in Auburn, remains in great spirits and advises others experiencing challenges to, “surround yourself by good, positive people.”