Mark has bounced back much faster this time. His energy is returning, he doesn't have the incessant itching, and the pain in his muscles and joints has not been debilitating. Of course, he wants to work in the yard, but his limit is about an hour a day. Otherwise, he's pretty much back to normal. We don't understand why it's better this time, especially since this cycle was so difficult. Perhaps it's because he had a longer break before this round. No matter, we are thankful. Also, the pressure he noticed in his abdomen has subsided, so he assumes the tumor has shrunk. Now, we hope it goes away!
The next treatment starts Monday, April 5th. After this round, he will have a 5-6 week break before the last two cycles. Dr. Taylor said that he could get a Covid vaccine during that break. That would be nice as we have been ultra careful with him having contact with anyone but close family.
We continue to express heartfelt gratitude to our loving Father for intervening so often in sparing Mark's life over the last nine-plus years. Early on, we felt impressed to ask for an extension of Mark's life, and received an assurance that it would be granted, although we didn't and still don't know for how long. Of course, we hope for many more years together, but we are well aware that the extension could end at any time. All we know for sure is the promise we have received that the Lord is aware of Mark, that his life is in His hands, and that he will not be taken before his time. Ultimately, none of us are going to get out of here alive!
Our hearts ache for dear friends and family who have recently lost loved ones. We cannot imagine how deep their grief and sorrow must be. We grieve because we love. This quote says it so well, " The only way to take sorrow out of death is to take love out of life.” Russell M. Nelson
GREAT NEWS
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