Last Friday, Mark had another PET scan, and today we met with Dr. Urba. As we expected, there continues to be NO evidence of active cancer anywhere in his body! Mark started Keytruda one year ago, with infusions every three weeks. His side effects have been minimal so he could stay on it longer, but after collaborating with experts in the field, Dr. Urba believes that one year is long enough. Today was Mark's LAST treatment! YAHOO!!! As Mark mentioned in the last post, his odds for complete remission are much better than ever before. If tumors reoccur, there is a good chance that he will respond positively to the medications he has already taken. Also, with continual research, new and improved treatments are possible.
Of course, routine monitoring will continue with regular doctor visits as well as CT scans every 3 months for a while, moving to every 6 months, and then to once a year. Dr. Urba also trusts that Mark knows his body well enough to detect if anything is amiss.
It will be 6 years this coming February since the first diagnosis, and initially his odds of cure were very small. How we appreciate all of your support, faith and prayers during our journey! You have blessed our lives, and we thank you! We want to give back to those who are going through difficult challenges, and hope that we will be sensitive and aware. Life is filled with trials of every kind, and our opportunity is to support one another along the path.
We wish you all a very Happy 2018 filled with peace, joy and love!
I've been watching the last few weeks just knowing/expecting a positive end of year report, and needless to say I'm not the least bit disappointed. Praise God for His healing power. How exciting to witness a ongoing miracle in the life of a humble, God loving man. I will continue hold you up in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteMay He continue to bless you!
Praise our Faithful Heavenly Father yet again!!! We ask...trust...believe and celebrate Gods goodness with you as we journey through the privilege of friendship together! You are the most generous, amazing givers I know and can't imagine your being able to give back any more. Can hardly wait to see you both soon!
ReplyDeleteBlessings, Blessings and More Blessings to you in 2018!
What a wonderful ending to 2017 [and the 6 previous years] and beginning to 2018. We are so, so happy for you and your family. Enjoy them every day and we look forward to your good works in the future. All our love, Brian and Lynn
ReplyDeleteI Love you both to the moon & beyond!! SOOO grateful for you both.
ReplyDeleteHugs & Love, Brother & Sister Dear xoxooxox