Relay for Life honors Dale, Linda Ulve Aug. 2
When choosing the Honorary Survivor and Honorary Caregiver for the Dodge County 2024 Relay for Life, a couple of heroic individuals sprang to mind for the selection committee. The two are married to each other and Linda Ulve, as the Honorary Caregiver, takes care of her husband, Dale Ulve, the Honorary Survivor, as he fights his ongoing battle with more than one type of cancer.
Dale and Linda were married in July 1995 at St John’s Lutheran in Kasson. They still live in Kasson and are glad to live close to family members and within easy driving distance of the Mayo Clinic, where they spend a lot of their time.
In 2009, Dale noticed blood in his urine, and was diagnosed with both colon and bladder cancer. After surgery removed part of his colon and one of his kidneys, he was diagnosed with a genetic disorder called Lynch Syndrome. That condition means his body is prone to certain types of cancer.
Since his battle began, he has been diagnosed with 11 additional cancers.
After losing his second kidney during another surgery, Dale asked one of his doctors, “How long can I expect to live without kidneys?”
Dale said the doctor replied, “Until you die, and none of us know exactly when we will die.”
So, the couple soldiers on.
Dale has dialysis three days each week and for a few years, the couple was able to perform this procedure at home — five times per week — thanks to the Mayo Clinic Home Dialysis program. After a number of additional health issues, they returned to the dialysis clinic for the process that keeps Dale’s blood clear of toxins.
Because of the Lynch Syndrome, he is not a good candidate for a kidney transplant.
The couple seldom complain, nor do they let Dale’s care take over their lives.
Dale goes to the Hayfield golf course each week in the summer. They appreciate their home in Kasson and share little chores to keep it maintained.
Linda enjoys gardening, sewing, and reading. Prior to dialysis, the couple enjoyed bus trips together. They have been to Maine for the fall colors, Washington DC, Niagara Falls, the Black Hills, and Minot, N.D. for the Norwegian celebration, Hostfest.
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