So, I have said before that no news is good news, and that is typically true. And, sometimes, no news is that the news reporter just doesn;t know what to write! I can do this because I am not getting paid you see. Good thing I don't work for the newspaper. I would be FIRED. Let's make it short and sweet. Cancer sucks! Okay, I have refrained for so long from saying that. Whew I feel better now. Sorry if anyone is offended. Oh yah, short and sweet. It has been a long trying, stressful and exhausting week. IT has been a roller coaster of up and down not only physically, but emotionally/mentally as well. Mark was incredibly tired after the first treatment and with a little relief from that followed with an ulcer in the back of his throat making it difficult to swallow, eat, sleep, etc. He broke out the old meds we had left from the last go around and has found some relief. The last couple of days have been a little better. I am going to copy a little bit of my Berend Family reunion submission to let you know our latest thoughts without retyping them.
" Mark said it last night that cancer is a thief. He is right. It robs you of lot of time, a lot of energy, a lot of health, a lot of money, a lot of pride, and it seems to consume your whole existence. But it is only temporary as are we. Only God is forever and that is where we keep our eyes set – on forever."
We are on day 1 1/2 of no kids. AAAGGGHHHH. I miss them so, but they are having a great time down south with my sisters and the kids. I just hated having them home alone while we are working, so this makes me feel a lot better. What we would do without all of the assistance?! Like I said, a lot of pride out the window. Only thankfulness for what God has given us in so many awesome friends and family.
To close, I don't keep too many forwards. Heck, truth is, sometimes I might not even open them. I sure did appreciate this one, short and to the point and right on!
Awesome!! We complain about the cross we bear but don't realize
it is preparing us for the dip in the road that God can see and we can't.
Whatever your cross, whatever your pain,
there will always be sunshine, after the rain....
Perhaps you may stumble, perhaps even fall;
But God's always ready, to answer your call....
He knows every heartache, sees every tear,
a word from His lips, can calm every fear...
Your sorrows may linger, throughout the night,
But suddenly vanish, dawn's early light...
The Savior is waiting, somewhere above,
to give you His grace, and send you His love...
God promises a safe landing, not a calm passage.
Thanks Darrin
Love to all, Missy
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Happy Fathers Day
Almost didn't get that in before midnight! Sorry I am not so up to date. Crazy busy as usual here. Mark finished hi treatment on Friday afternoon and we took his pump off. The effects unfortunately don't go away when we turn it off. He is exhausted. I am hoping he can get plenty of rest and look forward to a better off week. He did make it to watch Abby's softball games this weekend. Congrats to the Stars for 1st place in the AC tourney! Lots of fun!
We had a bit of misfortune on our way to Munday. Bambi's mama didn't fair too well and unfortunately neither did our suburban! What are the chances?! What are we - deer magnets? That is the 3rd one in 2 years! Can you say UNLUCKY? On the bright side, the kids had fun playing in the rock piles where we all watched the sunset while waiting on Mark's dad to deliver us to Munday. Thanks Doug for getting the car back to town. And thanks to Tim for letting us hitch a ride home from Munday.
Congrats to newlyweds Ryan and Kim. We wish you many years of wedded bliss. Many healing prayers to Dusty during your recovery. And Happy Fathers Day again to all the great dads we know.
Missy
We had a bit of misfortune on our way to Munday. Bambi's mama didn't fair too well and unfortunately neither did our suburban! What are the chances?! What are we - deer magnets? That is the 3rd one in 2 years! Can you say UNLUCKY? On the bright side, the kids had fun playing in the rock piles where we all watched the sunset while waiting on Mark's dad to deliver us to Munday. Thanks Doug for getting the car back to town. And thanks to Tim for letting us hitch a ride home from Munday.
Congrats to newlyweds Ryan and Kim. We wish you many years of wedded bliss. Many healing prayers to Dusty during your recovery. And Happy Fathers Day again to all the great dads we know.
Missy
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Dear God....
Thank you for my faith in you, for the power of prayer, for my wonderful family and for all of my wonderful friends. Please God, help me to never ever take them for granted. It is my prayer that I can someday, somehow, give back what has been given to me. Amen. Mark
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Fight 2, round 1.
Well, we made it here in just under three hours this morning. We were so lucky on the traffic. It slowed, bit never actually stopped. We saw Dr. McCullom first. (Have I mentioned how much we like him.?) He has been so good to us and he just met us a week ago. Everything looked good to him, so we came downstairs to the chemo lobby. Oh my. We were there for about 1 hour and 15 minutes before getting back to the infusion room. (one of the three that they have) We made lots of observations while waiting...
1. I believe we were the youngest in the room! There might have been one or two close, but the other 30 had us by 20 to 40 years!
2. There were no Indian or Asian people in that room(leads me to agree with the whole diet theory. Makes you wonder about all of our processed food??
3. It's a small world. Who would have thought we would come to an oncology office in Dallas, tx and Mark would see someone he knows?! A Past coach and teacher, coach David Milson, is being seen in the same office as Mark. We learned not too long back of his illness. We wish him the best and many prayers go out to him.
So right now we are sitting in our little cubby. Mark is receiving the "poison" with no apparent effects as of yet. They premedicated for some of the side effects and are just waiting patiently for it all to infuse. We just popped a movie in the VHS. That's right. I just searched through two drawers of VHS tapes looking for the requested western. (not that he is picky or anything!)
The best news is that we will only have to make one trip every 2 weeks. He is going to let me discontinue his pump at home and return it by mail. We are so happy about this. It beats driving, waiting and pAying for a 5-10 minute visit.
He plans to do 4-6 treatments before re-evaluating. He says that is when there will be big decisions to make regarding treatment.
I knew it wouldn't matter what movie we put in. He is kicked back in the easy chair-sleeping!!!!!!!
All is well. Love, Missy
1. I believe we were the youngest in the room! There might have been one or two close, but the other 30 had us by 20 to 40 years!
2. There were no Indian or Asian people in that room(leads me to agree with the whole diet theory. Makes you wonder about all of our processed food??
3. It's a small world. Who would have thought we would come to an oncology office in Dallas, tx and Mark would see someone he knows?! A Past coach and teacher, coach David Milson, is being seen in the same office as Mark. We learned not too long back of his illness. We wish him the best and many prayers go out to him.
So right now we are sitting in our little cubby. Mark is receiving the "poison" with no apparent effects as of yet. They premedicated for some of the side effects and are just waiting patiently for it all to infuse. We just popped a movie in the VHS. That's right. I just searched through two drawers of VHS tapes looking for the requested western. (not that he is picky or anything!)
The best news is that we will only have to make one trip every 2 weeks. He is going to let me discontinue his pump at home and return it by mail. We are so happy about this. It beats driving, waiting and pAying for a 5-10 minute visit.
He plans to do 4-6 treatments before re-evaluating. He says that is when there will be big decisions to make regarding treatment.
I knew it wouldn't matter what movie we put in. He is kicked back in the easy chair-sleeping!!!!!!!
All is well. Love, Missy
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
It's a go.
Everything is set for tomorrow's visit to Baylor Medical Center in Dallas. Mark is doing fairly well today. He was very tired and just a little bit sore, but overall seems to be recovering quite well.
We received biopsy reports today. The reports confirmed that the cancer has spread from the primary colorectal cancer. This means that all of the cells came from the rectal tumor, into the lymph nodes and lymphatic system and were circulated to these other areas and began to grow there. And finally, it means that you treat for the primary cancer, not where the cancer is now located.
Okay, I know I have told you before what awesome friends and family we have, but it is really just over the top. We are blown away by how our friends and family have gathered to help us. Not only carting kids, sending cards, flowers and supportive notes, arranging activities for kids, visiting, cooking, baking, and entertaining, but even doing yard work, fixing tires, and planting flowers! Whew. I am certain I have left something out. We don't even have enough kind words to let you know what it means to us. Neither of us are real good with not being able to do it all ourselves, but you guys are making it so much easier. I kid you not, the Scotland fairies made over my poor barren, flower beds and then sent the male fairies over later to finish the yard work and odd jobs. (I call them fairies because they convenmiently showed when no one was home so they couldn't be identified easily!) You can't imagine the relief when Mark got home and realized it wasn't waiting on him anymore. And how beautiful it was, after the rain last night, to sit on the front porch and take it all in. God is good and has blessed us abundantly with so many wonderful people in our lives.
Until later, Missy
We received biopsy reports today. The reports confirmed that the cancer has spread from the primary colorectal cancer. This means that all of the cells came from the rectal tumor, into the lymph nodes and lymphatic system and were circulated to these other areas and began to grow there. And finally, it means that you treat for the primary cancer, not where the cancer is now located.
Okay, I know I have told you before what awesome friends and family we have, but it is really just over the top. We are blown away by how our friends and family have gathered to help us. Not only carting kids, sending cards, flowers and supportive notes, arranging activities for kids, visiting, cooking, baking, and entertaining, but even doing yard work, fixing tires, and planting flowers! Whew. I am certain I have left something out. We don't even have enough kind words to let you know what it means to us. Neither of us are real good with not being able to do it all ourselves, but you guys are making it so much easier. I kid you not, the Scotland fairies made over my poor barren, flower beds and then sent the male fairies over later to finish the yard work and odd jobs. (I call them fairies because they convenmiently showed when no one was home so they couldn't be identified easily!) You can't imagine the relief when Mark got home and realized it wasn't waiting on him anymore. And how beautiful it was, after the rain last night, to sit on the front porch and take it all in. God is good and has blessed us abundantly with so many wonderful people in our lives.
Until later, Missy
Monday, June 14, 2010
Message from the hospital.
We are at the hospital waiting for discharge. The day has gone very smoothly. I so appreciate all of the people who worked to make everything fall into place so nicely. Mark got his belly full and is now snoozing. Shhh. Listen. You might can hear him! Hehe. Good drugs should make for a nice nap. We are looking at being able to leave about 2:00.
Nelda and Janet, you guys are both good medicine. I am sure that everyone who frequents the blog will agree. I have people tell me all the time that they enjoy the comments almost as much as the posts. (secretly I enjoy them more!). We love you all much
Oh yah, a little q and a.
Q. What are they doing the biopsy for?
A. It is assumed that these new spots are a recurrence of colon cancer. However, there is a very small chance it could be a new cancer. Treatment for all cancers is individual. For example, breast cancer patients don't get the same mess as colon cancer patients. That is why the doctor wants to be 100%.
Q. What kind of biopsy was it?
A. He had a needle biopsy done with CT guidance. This is the least invasive way to get pieces of the tissue to be examined .
Q. How long before you have results?
A. We are hoping to have them by tomorrow afternoon to take Dallas on Wednesday.
Q. Didn't he already have a port?
A. He had a port for his last treatment regimen, but was anxious to be done with it after the whole ordeal was over. That port was removed in January when he had his bowel surgery. He says he is still glad he did it because he has enjoyed not having it.
Q. What next?
A. He plans to work tomorrow??????? Sure am glad Danny didn't take the comfy chair from the shop! Wednesday is a doctor visit in Dallas and the chemotherapy start date.
I am very open to questions if you want to leave them in a comment or e-mail. I may not always know, but I have great resources to find out!
Oh yah, Several people have asked about MD Anderson. We are both very comfortable with where we are at Baylor. I know that md Anderson is great and we think that at one time it was the only place to be. We even feel like there are circumstances where it is the absolute only place to be. But, we both feel like we were led to Baylor for a reason. (Quite possibly the same reason we are doing any of this to begin with!) we just have to trust that God is giving us the tools to make the best decisions.
Nelda and Janet, you guys are both good medicine. I am sure that everyone who frequents the blog will agree. I have people tell me all the time that they enjoy the comments almost as much as the posts. (secretly I enjoy them more!). We love you all much
Oh yah, a little q and a.
Q. What are they doing the biopsy for?
A. It is assumed that these new spots are a recurrence of colon cancer. However, there is a very small chance it could be a new cancer. Treatment for all cancers is individual. For example, breast cancer patients don't get the same mess as colon cancer patients. That is why the doctor wants to be 100%.
Q. What kind of biopsy was it?
A. He had a needle biopsy done with CT guidance. This is the least invasive way to get pieces of the tissue to be examined .
Q. How long before you have results?
A. We are hoping to have them by tomorrow afternoon to take Dallas on Wednesday.
Q. Didn't he already have a port?
A. He had a port for his last treatment regimen, but was anxious to be done with it after the whole ordeal was over. That port was removed in January when he had his bowel surgery. He says he is still glad he did it because he has enjoyed not having it.
Q. What next?
A. He plans to work tomorrow??????? Sure am glad Danny didn't take the comfy chair from the shop! Wednesday is a doctor visit in Dallas and the chemotherapy start date.
I am very open to questions if you want to leave them in a comment or e-mail. I may not always know, but I have great resources to find out!
Oh yah, Several people have asked about MD Anderson. We are both very comfortable with where we are at Baylor. I know that md Anderson is great and we think that at one time it was the only place to be. We even feel like there are circumstances where it is the absolute only place to be. But, we both feel like we were led to Baylor for a reason. (Quite possibly the same reason we are doing any of this to begin with!) we just have to trust that God is giving us the tools to make the best decisions.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Another Great Day!
WooHoo!!! I wish you all could have been in Round Rock at the state baseball tournament this week. We are so fortunate to have gotten to make the trip. It was great! The Trojans came out with two big wins and a state title! They played great!!! So proud of their committment and their hard work to get there.
So glad to hear from you Auntie N. We have been worrying about how you were feeling since we had not heard from you. We send prayers and many wishes for good health and great days for you.
Now, about this fighting we have heard so much about. Thanks to Janet for taking us "back in the day." All those who have reported that Mark is a fighter knew more than we thought??!!!!
So glad to hear from you Auntie N. We have been worrying about how you were feeling since we had not heard from you. We send prayers and many wishes for good health and great days for you.
Now, about this fighting we have heard so much about. Thanks to Janet for taking us "back in the day." All those who have reported that Mark is a fighter knew more than we thought??!!!!
I am certain he will be soooooooooo happy for me doing this. We are are ready for him to whoop this cancer stuff too. (Sorry Uncle Donnie, but it does look as if he has the upper hand!!)
Love to all, Missy
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Go Trojans!
We are at the state baseball tournament in Round Rock. The boys won today and will play for the championship tomorrow. Woohoo. It is truly a nice diversion. Final plans are set for next week. Still planning port placement and biopsy on Monday have appt in Dallas on wednesday
the 16th for first chemo.
Sorry so brief, but this little hand held thing is horrible for being wordy. Thanks to Deanna for the hospitality while we are here
the 16th for first chemo.
Sorry so brief, but this little hand held thing is horrible for being wordy. Thanks to Deanna for the hospitality while we are here
Monday, June 7, 2010
Schedule made
At least partially anyway. Mark saw the surgeon today and scheduled a date for the placement of his infusion port as well as for the biopsy. They will both be done on Monday the 14th. Since this was supposed to be the day he started chemo, I am working with Dr. McCullom's nurse to change that. It is looking like the start date could be the 16th or possibly the 21st. She will let me know tomorrow.
Not much else to report and so many things to get done tonight. Special prayers for Granddaddy. Hope you are feeling well and a big thank you to Cindy for keeping us informed.
Missy
Not much else to report and so many things to get done tonight. Special prayers for Granddaddy. Hope you are feeling well and a big thank you to Cindy for keeping us informed.
Missy
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Great Day
Well mark was at the computer, so I thought it would be a great time for him to post. The response I got from him was not so convincing! so I am laying here posting on this new toy we are trying out for our kids. You can bet this will be a short one! My fingers are way too big to do any efficient typing. And my not so young eyes need a magnifying glass for this thing.
We had a great day at the baseball games. Yea Trojans!!!!!! Headed to Austin next week. It was hot, hot, hot, but the guys played some great baseball and we got to see several family members from that area as well.
Church picnic tomorrow.
Sweet Dreams to all, Missy
We had a great day at the baseball games. Yea Trojans!!!!!! Headed to Austin next week. It was hot, hot, hot, but the guys played some great baseball and we got to see several family members from that area as well.
Church picnic tomorrow.
Sweet Dreams to all, Missy
Saturday, June 5, 2010
I knew I would forget something.
I didn't mention in the last post the Dr. McCollum was very shocked that Mark was able to receive the full 12 doses of chemo the last time he was treated. He assured us that the medication he received is exactly what he would have given, but that it is not easy to get through the whole regimen due to the side effects. Kudos to Mark!
He also assured us that he is more aggressive than we are used to in the area of follow up as he feels that is a necessity. We are comfortable that he will be watching everything very closely.
That's all I got!
Love, Missy
He also assured us that he is more aggressive than we are used to in the area of follow up as he feels that is a necessity. We are comfortable that he will be watching everything very closely.
That's all I got!
Love, Missy
Friday, June 4, 2010
Dr. Appointment
WooHoo we are on the right track! We met with Dr. Mccollum at the Sammons Cancer Center at Baylor Dallas. From Start to finish the whole visit was splendid. The registrar was even as sweet as she could be. The entire office was very laid back and yet very proficient. The following highlights the details.
1. It is apparent that there has been a recurrence of colon cancer in at least 4 areas of concern. It looks as if this recurrence would most obviously be metastasis from his original colorectal cancer. This means that those cells originating in the rectum and infiltrating the lymphatic system survived the chemotherapy and have now landed in these other areas. He is 90% certain this is the case. He, however would like to be 100%. If Mark's labs were greatly elevated, he would be 100%, but they are not. His CEA (tumor marker) is within normal limits. For this reason, he wants to biopsy the largest of the lesions.
2. The only treatment at this point is chemotherapy. The goal will be to resolve or at least shrink the tumors that are there. If this can be done then there is the possibility that surgery and or ablative techniques could be done to take care of the other lesions.
3. His choice of "poison" as Mark so fondly refers to it is Folfiri with Avastin. This is a little different combination than the Folfox he had the first time. The most obvious reason for this, for me anyway, is that it didn't do the job! But also, the side effects can be more of a problem the second time around, especially since it has been less than 1 year since his treatment. He feels that this treatment may come with some difficult side effects as well, but they are unpredictable and many people tolerate it quite well.
4. We will know within 2 to 3 months after treatment whether there is any success with this medicine. If not, the medication will be changed.
5. We will be going to dallas for his treatments. It will be much the same as last time. we will go there on Mondays, he will receive his bolus infusion over several hours, and then he will have the pump until Wednesday. At present we will return to have it discontinued on Wednesdays.
6. We set his first treatment for June 14th. Our job was to get his biopsy and port placed next week so we could start. However, he will have to be off his coumadin for a period of time before the procedures, so we could be pushing it. We may have to push that back a week. Both of these procedures will be done in Wichita Falls.
Dr. McCollum was very kind. He asked questions and listened for answers. He knew a great deal about Mark and his treatment and even his heart before he ever came in the room. He made every effort to work with us not only because of location but also because of our crazy insurance needs. It really feels good when things go right after you have to make tough decisions. Truly, all you can do is pray about it, as we did and trust in the guidance He sends your way. We are so blessed.
The last issue I want to address is kind of a difficult one. I am doing so because we are human, just like all of you. The big question is, "What does all of this mean long term?"
With tears I tell you that there is only One who knows the answer to your question. The facts are: cancer is no good at anytime. When cancer returns it is no good. When it returns in more than one spot, it is no good. What is good is our God. He has blessed us with a wonderful son, brother, cousin, friend, husband, and dad. Many have watched him persevere through adversity multiple times over since he was a child. All of the statistics, the studies, numbers and percentages do not factor in the miracles. You have to trust, as we do, that He is going to take care of Mark in His own way. You have to be tough to fight this fight (and we know he is), but you also have to trust. I believe one of those Clemmer boys said it best, "Surely there is but one set of footprints in the sand." Absolutely no doubt!
We love you all, Mark and Missy
P. S. GO TROJANS!!! They need a pair of big wins tomorrow.
1. It is apparent that there has been a recurrence of colon cancer in at least 4 areas of concern. It looks as if this recurrence would most obviously be metastasis from his original colorectal cancer. This means that those cells originating in the rectum and infiltrating the lymphatic system survived the chemotherapy and have now landed in these other areas. He is 90% certain this is the case. He, however would like to be 100%. If Mark's labs were greatly elevated, he would be 100%, but they are not. His CEA (tumor marker) is within normal limits. For this reason, he wants to biopsy the largest of the lesions.
2. The only treatment at this point is chemotherapy. The goal will be to resolve or at least shrink the tumors that are there. If this can be done then there is the possibility that surgery and or ablative techniques could be done to take care of the other lesions.
3. His choice of "poison" as Mark so fondly refers to it is Folfiri with Avastin. This is a little different combination than the Folfox he had the first time. The most obvious reason for this, for me anyway, is that it didn't do the job! But also, the side effects can be more of a problem the second time around, especially since it has been less than 1 year since his treatment. He feels that this treatment may come with some difficult side effects as well, but they are unpredictable and many people tolerate it quite well.
4. We will know within 2 to 3 months after treatment whether there is any success with this medicine. If not, the medication will be changed.
5. We will be going to dallas for his treatments. It will be much the same as last time. we will go there on Mondays, he will receive his bolus infusion over several hours, and then he will have the pump until Wednesday. At present we will return to have it discontinued on Wednesdays.
6. We set his first treatment for June 14th. Our job was to get his biopsy and port placed next week so we could start. However, he will have to be off his coumadin for a period of time before the procedures, so we could be pushing it. We may have to push that back a week. Both of these procedures will be done in Wichita Falls.
Dr. McCollum was very kind. He asked questions and listened for answers. He knew a great deal about Mark and his treatment and even his heart before he ever came in the room. He made every effort to work with us not only because of location but also because of our crazy insurance needs. It really feels good when things go right after you have to make tough decisions. Truly, all you can do is pray about it, as we did and trust in the guidance He sends your way. We are so blessed.
The last issue I want to address is kind of a difficult one. I am doing so because we are human, just like all of you. The big question is, "What does all of this mean long term?"
With tears I tell you that there is only One who knows the answer to your question. The facts are: cancer is no good at anytime. When cancer returns it is no good. When it returns in more than one spot, it is no good. What is good is our God. He has blessed us with a wonderful son, brother, cousin, friend, husband, and dad. Many have watched him persevere through adversity multiple times over since he was a child. All of the statistics, the studies, numbers and percentages do not factor in the miracles. You have to trust, as we do, that He is going to take care of Mark in His own way. You have to be tough to fight this fight (and we know he is), but you also have to trust. I believe one of those Clemmer boys said it best, "Surely there is but one set of footprints in the sand." Absolutely no doubt!
We love you all, Mark and Missy
P. S. GO TROJANS!!! They need a pair of big wins tomorrow.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Latest Update
Well I wish I had a good result to report, but the scan today turned out much as we expected. That being said I will go back and answer a few questions about what is going on. But first, don't forget to sign your comments if you are not logged onto the blog. The anonymous posting is the easy way to leave a comment, but it does not automatically leave a signature. All of your kind and encouraging words have touched us as usual and we truly feel the benefit of having you all on our side. And, to all the facebookers, you might pass along the blog site to your friends. It seems people are wondering what is going on. They see prayers, but don't know what for.
So, three weeks ago we were having a great time in Florida with our kids, Keith and Cindy, and their kids. We had been planning the trip since 2008 when Mark was originally diagnosed. Prior to our leaving, we knew that we would be looking at a 6 month scan and Mark decided it would wait until after Disney. God is always working! After returning, we called the cancer center and scheduled an appointment. This was strictly a routine follow up. You may remember his prior scan was in November 2009 and was all clear. He was having no complications or symptoms. The results were unbelievable. We were shocked to find that Mark's cancer had not only recurred, but had returned in as many as six different places. I just knew they had the wrong person. This absolutely could not be. I was about to call to have them make sure it was the right report when I read the result of his aneurysm measurement. Sure enough. It was for real. And so began another whirlwind of emotion, decisions, indecision, wondering and waiting. Now on the 5th day following those results, and with lots of help from Dr. Ho, Dr. Hudkins, Dr. Crim and all of the great people I work with, we think we are becoming more focused and getting prepared for what lies ahead. And now for the questions that seem to be most common....
Q. Where is the cancer?
A. Following today's confirmation by PET scan, we know that there are four lesions and several lymph nodes that are involved. There is a mass or nodule in each lung. A lesion on the liver and a fourth and largest lesion (tumor) that also appears to originate in the liver in the upper abdominal area. The apparent lymph nodes involved are in the abdomen on the right and left sides.
Q. How did this happen?
A. When Mark had his original tumor resected, Dr. Crim assured us he was working for a cure and also assured us that he removed all of the cancer in and around the affected area. We have no doubt that he indeed did so. What he had no control over was the cancer had already invaded the lymphatic system. While the nodes that were affected at that time were removed, there was no guarantee that there were not cancer cells circulating systemically. Hence the chemotherapy regimen following surgery. In theory, the chemo would have killed any remaining circulating cancer.
Q. What did the doctor say?
A. Good question! We haven't seen one yet. We got to visit with Mark's gastroenterologist shortly after getting the results. He is so good to us. He did tell us that due to the number of locations, surgery and radiation were not options. His treatment would include chemotherapy and possibly experimental treatment. He urged us to get things moving and to get a second opinion as well. A pathologist friend of Mark's was also so kind to take time to listen and offer his expertise as well. Of course nothing happened over the holiday weekend. We have decided to seek treatment at The Sammons Cancer Center at Baylor Healthcare in Dallas. We will see Dr. Andrew McCullom on Friday of this week.
Q. Did you tell the kids and how are they?
A. We waited until the kids were out of school on Friday to tell them. They are doing well. Austin really struggled initially. He surprised me with his insight on the situation. Impulsively he was very angry (Praise God - he is normal!), but has since become very interested in the details and asks lots of grown up questions. He makes me very proud as do Abby and Landon. While they have not been very vocal, I know that it is on there mind frequently as they will come out of the blue with questions like, "Daddy, how long are you going to have the cancer this time?"
Q.How is Mark?
A. Mark is an amazing man. He has been somewhat quiet. I can't imagine what goes through his mind and how he can possibly concentrate on anything but what is going on inside of him. While the fear of the unknown about the treatment ahead is inevitable, he remains positive and is cautiously ready to get this thing started.
Q. What's next?
A. Thanks to Cynthia at Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas We will be seeing Andrew McCullom, M.D. on Friday the 6th at 1:30 pm. This appointmet was originally going to be on June 21. Cynthia went to bat for us and made it possible for this week. Thank God for good people!
We repeatedly say that we have no idea what lies ahead of us. We know from where we've some that there isn't much of it that is any good, but we have no doubt that we are not walking alone. Mark will persevere as he has done before and he will do it with style I am absolutely certain.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for all that you have done thus far.
PS. I am asking for extra prayers for Mark's family. I can't imagine having to watch a child of mine nor my own brother in the same situation. They are an amazingly loving and supportive family. I ask that they, like us are able to feel the presence of so many caring praying people.
Much love, Missy
So, three weeks ago we were having a great time in Florida with our kids, Keith and Cindy, and their kids. We had been planning the trip since 2008 when Mark was originally diagnosed. Prior to our leaving, we knew that we would be looking at a 6 month scan and Mark decided it would wait until after Disney. God is always working! After returning, we called the cancer center and scheduled an appointment. This was strictly a routine follow up. You may remember his prior scan was in November 2009 and was all clear. He was having no complications or symptoms. The results were unbelievable. We were shocked to find that Mark's cancer had not only recurred, but had returned in as many as six different places. I just knew they had the wrong person. This absolutely could not be. I was about to call to have them make sure it was the right report when I read the result of his aneurysm measurement. Sure enough. It was for real. And so began another whirlwind of emotion, decisions, indecision, wondering and waiting. Now on the 5th day following those results, and with lots of help from Dr. Ho, Dr. Hudkins, Dr. Crim and all of the great people I work with, we think we are becoming more focused and getting prepared for what lies ahead. And now for the questions that seem to be most common....
Q. Where is the cancer?
A. Following today's confirmation by PET scan, we know that there are four lesions and several lymph nodes that are involved. There is a mass or nodule in each lung. A lesion on the liver and a fourth and largest lesion (tumor) that also appears to originate in the liver in the upper abdominal area. The apparent lymph nodes involved are in the abdomen on the right and left sides.
Q. How did this happen?
A. When Mark had his original tumor resected, Dr. Crim assured us he was working for a cure and also assured us that he removed all of the cancer in and around the affected area. We have no doubt that he indeed did so. What he had no control over was the cancer had already invaded the lymphatic system. While the nodes that were affected at that time were removed, there was no guarantee that there were not cancer cells circulating systemically. Hence the chemotherapy regimen following surgery. In theory, the chemo would have killed any remaining circulating cancer.
Q. What did the doctor say?
A. Good question! We haven't seen one yet. We got to visit with Mark's gastroenterologist shortly after getting the results. He is so good to us. He did tell us that due to the number of locations, surgery and radiation were not options. His treatment would include chemotherapy and possibly experimental treatment. He urged us to get things moving and to get a second opinion as well. A pathologist friend of Mark's was also so kind to take time to listen and offer his expertise as well. Of course nothing happened over the holiday weekend. We have decided to seek treatment at The Sammons Cancer Center at Baylor Healthcare in Dallas. We will see Dr. Andrew McCullom on Friday of this week.
Q. Did you tell the kids and how are they?
A. We waited until the kids were out of school on Friday to tell them. They are doing well. Austin really struggled initially. He surprised me with his insight on the situation. Impulsively he was very angry (Praise God - he is normal!), but has since become very interested in the details and asks lots of grown up questions. He makes me very proud as do Abby and Landon. While they have not been very vocal, I know that it is on there mind frequently as they will come out of the blue with questions like, "Daddy, how long are you going to have the cancer this time?"
Q.How is Mark?
A. Mark is an amazing man. He has been somewhat quiet. I can't imagine what goes through his mind and how he can possibly concentrate on anything but what is going on inside of him. While the fear of the unknown about the treatment ahead is inevitable, he remains positive and is cautiously ready to get this thing started.
Q. What's next?
A. Thanks to Cynthia at Baylor Charles A. Sammons Cancer Center, Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas We will be seeing Andrew McCullom, M.D. on Friday the 6th at 1:30 pm. This appointmet was originally going to be on June 21. Cynthia went to bat for us and made it possible for this week. Thank God for good people!
We repeatedly say that we have no idea what lies ahead of us. We know from where we've some that there isn't much of it that is any good, but we have no doubt that we are not walking alone. Mark will persevere as he has done before and he will do it with style I am absolutely certain.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for all that you have done thus far.
PS. I am asking for extra prayers for Mark's family. I can't imagine having to watch a child of mine nor my own brother in the same situation. They are an amazingly loving and supportive family. I ask that they, like us are able to feel the presence of so many caring praying people.
Much love, Missy
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