Mostly Good News!

Hey All,

So it was mostly-good-news results today; yay, God :)

The best news of course was that there's no tumor activity whatsoever; he's perfectly "clean!"  Huge praise there!!

However, when we got talking to him more about other symptoms (and by "him" I mean the PA we saw because the surgeon wasn't in, but it was ok), he decided to have Mark do another MRI of his spine (neck, thoracic, and lumbar) to see if there was anything there causing his continued leg problems (actually foot/ankle/leg and arm/hand).  

Another interesting thing was that we found out he may be having what are called "subclinical seizures."  I don't know if you remember us mentioning how he "shuts down" at times, and these times are definitely triggered by things like bright lights, loud noises, etc..  He even gets what's called an "aura" that tells him it's about to happen.  That's the nutshell, but anyway he's going to see his neurologist again to get checked for that, as well as a double-check again for MS (long-shot, but worth a double-check).

On top of all that, his fatigue may be caused by high blood pressure.  So, he's off to our regular doctor to get meds for that (hopefully soon).

So that's probably more than you wanted to know, but thought I'd tell you anyway :)  Thanks again for all the prayer and love and support.  It has meant so much!

love,

kim 

Great News!!!

Great news!!!  We saw Mark's surgeon and P.A. today to talk about the results of last week's MRI.  Everything looks so "clean" that they said he doesn't need another MRI, or to see them, for another YEAR!!!  We had fully expected to be on the "every three months" and then "every six months" schedules for the next year or two.  So to be able to jump straight to the yearly schedule was a huge encouragement and relief.  :)

We also talked with the P.A. more about his energy level (or lack thereof) and the weakness in his right leg/foot/toes.  He said that the fact that there has been even "slight" improvement is a good sign (even though it's super slow).  He encouraged Mark not to give up on the PT, because there is still a definite possibility for that to get better.  He also said that it's not unusual for people not to be feeling "back to normal" for at least 18 months to 2 years.  It was good to hear him *say* that, so we don't keep wondering/worrying why he's not progressing faster.  We've had other friends (with experience with brain injuries) tell us the same thing, but hearing it from the doctor too was a good reminder today.

Hopefully I won't need to update the blog for another year, so until then...
I don't think we'll ever be able to say "thank you" enough for everyone's care and concern, practical help, kind words, and prayer!!  We've had phone calls and emails; neighbors who went above-and-beyond anything we ever could have asked for; cards and meals; an unbelievably understanding and generous work client; family who came from miles away to be able to help; and even just listening ears when we've needed it.
We are humbled and grateful for the friendship and love you have all shown.
We have learned a lot along the way...  Some things we never wanted to know (like all the medical stuff), but other things that we are thankful for, such as how to bless others in this situation; remembering what *really* matters in this life (faith, family friends); and of course knowing in a very real way that Jesus is our Rock.  We can count on Him to hold us up, and to *never let go*, no matter what.

"Because of the Lord's great love, we are not consumed; for His compassions never fail.  They are new every morning.  Great is Your faithfulness!"  Lamentations 3:22-23

Life is Good :)

Today we talked to both the neurosurgeon and the oncologist about the results of Mark's MRI last Monday.  Excellent news!  They both came to the same conclusion, that everything looks great!  There is some scar tissue, but no "residual" tumor, or anything growing back.  We really hadn't anticipated anything, but still, it was in the back of our minds (no pun intended, hehe).  And, I suppose it will always be there for us somewhat, at least for the next few years.  The honest truth, though, is that we were still given an amazing amount of peace right up through our appointments today.  Totally a God-thing, and we are just as thankful for that as we are for the good result.  Many thanks again for all the prayer!

The humorous thing today was when another surgeon walked into the room where we were looking at the MRI pictures with our surgeon.  You would have thought they were a couple of frat brothers comparing their Frisbee golf scores:  "Dude, check out this tumor I took out!"  "Woah, dude, that thing was huge!  Great job!"  "Thanks, man!  Yeah, I really had to be aggressive!"  Ha!  Well, maybe not in those exact words, but you get the idea...
Anyway, one MRI down, and three more to go for this year.

Another nice thing is that at this point we really don't need to see the oncologist anymore.  The neurosurgeon will be the one on top of things for now. 

We also asked about the potential for improvement in his leg and foot (and toes), as well as in his stamina.  They pretty much agreed that there is still a chance for some improvement, but no one was ready to say that there would be a total recovery there.  So, he just continues to work at his PT, and also to rest when he can. 
It can be somewhat discouraging at times, but I have to hand it to Mark ~~  he just keeps saying, "Life is good!" 
And it is  :)

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:6-7

Christmas Lights. Seriously?

The neurosurgeon agrees that all is well!  I think it's safe to be completely elated now  :)

His next MRI and set of check-ups will be around the beginning of March.  We're on an every-three-month schedule this coming year, just to keep an eye on things.
We forgot to mention in the last post that because of the results of the "chromosome test" (FISH test, if you know whatever that is), they know that Mark had the kind of cancer that does not respond to chemotherapy.  So, any further treatment would either be radiation or (in an extreme case) more surgery.  Of course, we're praying that we won't be looking at any of that.

His leg and foot are still responding slowly, but at least they are responding.  In fact, he felt confident enough to put up our outside Christmas lights this year (with help from my dad)! 
We have a two-story house.
With high peaks.
I couldn't look.
But, to tell you the truth, it was great that he could do it, and they sure look terrific  :)
(And thanks, Dad!) 

Many, many thanks for all the prayer and encouraging words!  It has meant so much to us...

Merry Christmas!
Love,
Mark and Kim :)

"Nothing Special" never sounded so good

Mark had an MRI on Monday, and then we saw the radiation oncologist and the oncologist today.  Even though the oncologists didn't have the final "written report" from the MRI, they were still in communication by phone (and were able to see the MRI pics on CD).  The initial opinion between all three (the two oncologists and the MRI person) is that it all looks good!  In fact, the oncologist said that when he looked at the MRI, he didn't see anything special (I told Mark, "Yay!  You're nothing special!" Ha!)  We were able to see a "cavity" surrounded by scar tissue, and filled with the normal brain/spinal fluid.  There was no indication of any further cancer!
We still have to get that final MRI report, though, as well as talk to the neurosurgeon tomorrow.  We'll update again after that.
Assuming all is well with those results, there is no recommendation for radiation at this time.  Mark will have an MRI every three months next year, so they can continue to monitor him.

Also, some have asked why Mark hasn't had a PET scan or other tests to see if the cancer has spread, or if it came from somewhere else in his body.  We asked specifically about that today.  The answer is, it isn't necessary because that is not the kind of cancer he had.  Cancers are named according to where they originate, and the kind they are.  Mark's started in his brain, and is an "astrocytoma."  It isn't the kind that will spread, nor did it come from somewhere else. 

So, you can probably imagine the relief we are feeling today!!  Again, we still have some hoops to jump through, but we are (cautiously) elated!!
More tomorrow....  Stay tuned.....
(PS ~~ I tried to change some settings, so it may be easier to comment now.)

But I trust in You, O Lord.  I say, "You are my God.  My times are in Your hands."
Psalm 31:14-15

Christmas Shopping :)

Looks like the first week of December is going to be pretty busy!  Mark has an MRI on the Monday after Thanksgiving.  Then his surgeon, oncologist, and radiation oncologist each want to discuss the results with him at three separate appointments on the following Wednesday and Thursday.  We'll have more of an idea about any treatment after that.

He has 5 more physical therapy sessions this month, and then they will reevaluate and decide if he would benefit from more sessions.  While maybe not as quick as he would like, he is seeing improvement in the strength and function of his right leg and foot.  The toes are a little slower to follow though, which does affect his walking.  We are trying to look at the bright side:  we get to park in the handicapped spaces for now, which is going to make Christmas shopping a whole lot easier!  :)

Are all neurosurgeons like this?

We had the follow-up appointment with the neurosurgeon today.  Most of the time was spent with his very affable P.A.  However, in the three minutes we had with the doctor, he let us know that Mark is healing exceptionally well.  Then, almost as he was walking out of the room, he sort of nonchalantly mentioned that Mark might not recover "full" use of his right leg/foot/toes.  Huh?  This guy cracks us up with his, um, "bedside manner."  Good thing he's otherwise really good at what he does...  And good thing the physical therapist is a bit more optimistic!

Oncology update/from Mark

Hear any good brain-jokes lately?

I met with the Oncologist today and at this point he is suggesting we wait on any Radiation or Chemo treatment. I will meet with a Radiation Oncologist probably during the next week or so, because with my age and the type of cancer I have, I fall right on the line in regards to treatment solutions. Under the age 40 they recommend no Radiation, 40 and over they recommend Radiation. Since we are dealing with the brain, side effects of treatment include paralysis, so proceeding cautiously is favorable. By letting the brain settle down over the next six weeks, we should have a better idea how to proceed. This close to surgery, an MRI may not show a difference between scar tissue from the surgery and missed cancer tissue.

So this is good news!

In six weeks I will have another MRI taken and then will review those images with the Oncologist and then set a treatment course, if any, at that time if he sees it necessary.

Today I was also given a clean bill of health via the Speech Therapist. She was quite amazed how well I was able to speak, process and think, only having surgery 2 weeks ago. Yep, not only do I have pictures that prove I have a brain, I have a therapist who signed off on that I use it pretty well. :-)

As of today, I am moving around pretty good. I do have to use a cane to walk, but everyday feeling more strong. I have 7 more Physical Therapy sessions to attend over the next 3 weeks, and then will be reevaluated for further therapy.

I think that is about it.
Thank you again for your prayers and kind words. I will continue to keep you informed on how things are going.

m

Baby Steps and Legos (Note from Mark)

I just wanted to thank all of you who have been praying and loving on my family during this season of our life. Some of you I may never know but I will remember by the peace you helped provide me through your prayer, confirming God is in control and we have an awesome God!

Today I got to go home. Yeah!

Now I look forward to playing Legos with my boys. They are going to enjoy playing with dad. Who knew it would be the simple things like this that will help reprogram my brain and rehabilitate me back to a full recovery.

I have a lot to relearn, and so much to be thankful for. With baby steps and Legos I am on a path to a full recovery!

In His grip!
m

Home!

Mark is home!  :D  We are so happy  :D  He is doing really well.
The boys made big "Welcome Home, Dad" posters, which Nana hung on the porch railing for him to see as we drove up  :)
Next week we start up with all sorts of appointments, but for the next few days we rest.

the key

If you know much about us at all, you probably know that our faith is pretty important to us.
As I was just telling a friend, the reality is that our faith has been the key to getting us through this hard time.  Because over the years we have pursued knowing Christ, there is a connection there that, while maybe hard to put into words, is still very very real.  Without Him, without His Word, without confidence in prayer, and without knowing that He loves us and has the best in mind for us, we would be a mess.  
We would have no peace, no hope.  
But we do.
Jesus is real.  Jesus is here.  And Jesus is giving us this chance to speak up for Him.
Even if the hardest thing you have to do today is decide what you want to wear, remember that you are loved by an amazing God, who wants to know you better.  (And if that's puzzling to you, let's talk more :))


Do we still have our *moments,* our hard times?  Of course!  We would be delusional not to.  But we choose not to go down the path of "what ifs," but instead rest in Christ's love for us.  Even when the "best for us" feels hard for a while.


From Psalm 91...
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress,
my God in whom I trust..."
"Because he loves Me," says the Lord, "I will rescue him; 
I will protect Him, for he acknowledges My name.
He will call upon Me, and I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble.
I will deliver him and honor him.
With long life will I satisfy him
and show him My salvation."

A little oncology info

Mark saw the oncologist today, but he didn't really give him much more information.  It sounds like the oncologist works with a team, and they will be figuring out a course of action together, over the next few days.  We'll set up an appointment to meet with them next week, and will know more then.

Therapy is going really well, which again we attribute to the power of prayer and the grace of God.
He is scheduled to go home sometime this Friday!  We are really looking forward to that  :)

Biopsy Report!

Good news!  It is an "astrocytoma" ~~  which isn't the "best," but is still not bad, particularly because it's definitely a Grade 2! 
We are SO THANKFUL.
THANKFUL.
THANKFUL.
THANKFUL.
Tomorrow we talk to the oncologist about what kind of treatment he'll get (if any).

Psalm 34:1-4

"I will bless the Lord at all times.  His praise will continually be on my lips.  My soul will boast in the Lord; let the afflicted hear and rejoice!  Glorify the Lord with me; let us exalt His name together!  I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears."

You Never Let Go

I added some music here.  It's a song that came to us much in the same way that the whole "standing on the rock" thing came to us.  (Apparently we need multiple exposures for us to grab on to something, lol!)  Anyway, we heard this twice in a row at church, and then our sweet friend, Annette, sent it to us as well.  She had heard it in her church last week too!  Pretty amazing timing, if you ask me. 

Today he gets a full schedule of therapy.  Then the therapists and doctor all get together and decide where he's at, and what to do next.  Will keep you posted.
Technically he's able to come home, but more focused attention there might be a really good thing.
We're just waiting... 

just a few

A few of my favorite things...
*Real clothes, not a hospital gown
*A cot, not a chair (for me to sleep on)
*Grandparents caring for kids (and doing our laundry, and cleaning our kitchen...)
*Neighbors who caught and fixed our broken hose
*Terrific nurses, therapists, and doctor
*Daily improvement in Mark's condition

On to Rehab

They finally transferred Mark out of ICU and up to Rehab on the fourth floor.  (He had been able to move from ICU sooner, but there just weren't any beds available.)
Technically, he could even go home at this point, but because his leg is so weak, he decided to opt for some therapy that our insurance provides for.  How long he'll be here all depends on how quickly he improves, but it will be anywhere from three to ten days.


The boys finally got to see him today too!  That was good, very very good (for all of us)   :)


If you're in the area, come on in and say hi, if you'd like.  I know he'd like that  :)  Just give us a heads-up if you do, though, so we can make sure he's not in the middle of therapy (which will be at least three hours a day, spread throughout the day).


Many thanks again for all the encouraging notes!  I was able to read several to him today that he hadn't seen yet, and he was really overwhelmed... 

The wi-fi isn't as good up here, so that may slow down communication a bit.  I'll check email and the blog when I can.

slow but steady

Slow but steady improvement today. 
Still not sure when he gets to come home.  Could be another day or two, or maybe three or four!  

Psalm 34:1
I will bless the LORD at all times;
   his praise shall continually be in my mouth.

saw the surgeon

We spoke with the neurosurgeon this evening.  He was very positive, and said Mark is doing great!

We asked him very specifically if we had to worry about this tumor being the kind of "cancer" that could either spread to other parts of his body, or had come from somewhere else.  He immediately and emphatically answered, "No, it's not that kind of a tumor." 
He also said that, barring any random microscopic cells or something, he was able to remove all of the tumor.
So that was reassuring, to say the least!

We also learned that "cancer" isn't really a technical term they use.  It's more accurate to use the word "tumor," and to say that Mark has a "brain tumor."  What's more important is what "grade" it is.  Grade 1 is rare, Grade 2 is what he's pretty sure Mark has (and is what we are "hoping" for), Grade 3 is serious but definitely treatable, and Grade 4 is of course very serious.  On the other hand, he also said that you could say that Grades 1 and 2 could be considered "benign tumors," while Grades 3 and 4 would be "malignant cancer."
I THINK I get it......  

snowflakes

Mark is still doing really well today (considering).  There truly is no other explanation for this other than answers to prayer and the grace of God.
He's still in ICU, but only because there aren't any beds available in the next area yet.


We have been surprised, though, at the effect the surgery had on his right arm/hand and leg/foot.  While we saw some pretty good improvement with his hand yesterday, his leg and foot have been a little slower to catch up.  Looks like we'll be doing some physical therapy to get him back on track there.  Apparently the tumor was really close to the "motor strip," so that's the reason for the weakness/numbness.  We'll find out more about that (hopefully) when we talk to the neurosurgeon this evening.

So much to be thankful for!
*Mark's dad was able to spend the night with him, so I could go home and get a good night's sleep.
*The boys have taken turns being sick (so haven't seen Mark yet), but they are WELL taken care of by Grandma and Nana.
*Mark is "days ahead" of normal recuperation of this type of surgery.  We are seeing slow but steady progress with his right side.
*He is feeling parts of his right leg that he hasn't felt for years!
*And to top it all off, we saw snowflakes today  :D