Today’s post should be a little lighter news…
This is the first time in a while we’ve had three days off without a single appointment or test! It really makes us feel more normal. Having Rachel visit us over the weekend was also a very special time (even though she did attend a few meetings with us) She has been a huge support for us especially when it comes to nutrition. I’m down around 10 pounds since November and going into Chemotherapy next week it’s important to not go any lower. Rachel took Diane shopping and came home with a huge pile of healthy food. Before and after Chemotherapy there’s a big need for hydration, particularly with electrolytes. Rachel has a good friend, Emma who is part of a Boulder, CO company called Skratch Labs. Today, we received a monster package of hydration products, healthy snacks and a recipe book! Thanks Emma!
Many people ask me, “how are you feeling?” Or, “are you OK?” I think you should know that I am yet to experience any real pain or symptoms from the actual cancer. I am currently still a little sore from last week’s laparoscopy procedure but today Diane and I got out and hit the pickleball around for an hour or so (the heat got to us quick)
I asked my Oncologist, Dr Kalamadi if the cancer would begin to slow me down or cause pain. He said, your only problem this summer will be the chemo we are going to be administrating. In the words of Bill Murray in Caddyshack “So…I’ve got that going for me.”
All that being said, I have had three incidents of a very upset stomach that resulted in vomiting and one hospital visit. These three incidents were likely because of the cancer. But in another glimpse of God’s hand, if it had not been for these incidents I never would have gone to a hospital for observation and CT scans.
God is Good
Thank you for sharing your journey. You and Diane are strong and your support group is enormous! I know God is hearing all our prayers since He is giving you indications of His intervention. Strength and prayers are coming your way from us. Love and hugs to you both. "You Got This"!
ReplyDeleteAndi and Bruce
Captain Mark, I have been blessed to call you a friend since the early 90s in Alaska.
ReplyDeleteYou shared your passion and love for rivers and rafting with me which for which I'm eternally grateful .
I cherish the planning, waiting, discussions, and incrdible experiences of of all those world class river journeys in Alaska and the Grand Canyon we shared together.
The same strength, skills and enthusiasm you displayed in completing those wilderness journeys, Im confident you will employ display on this journey in life as well.
Faith, prayer and trust in the Lord, will get you through this journey in life brother, just like you avoided most of the the sweepers and obstacles in our river journeys.
You are blessed with a tremendous wife Diane and daughter Rachel by your side.
Stay in the "V" baby, you got this! Continued prayers each day for you!
Mike n Kathy
Love you Uncle Mark. You’re the strongest person I know in the family. You got this. Your positive attitude will shine and beat this nasty cancer.
ReplyDeleteWe love you. Sending love and prayers from Kentucky!
ReplyDeleteMake sure to visit. Tustumena’s water and air have many benefits.
ReplyDeleteWe’re all wishing and wanting the best for you and Di.
Love,
PG