This past week has been full of ups and downs. Some days Mark seems to be making good progress, and other days, he does nothing but sleep. Managing pain has also been challenging. Last week, a blood test showed that the bilirubin count had gone down, but unfortunately, the one yesterday revealed that it was back up.
After an hour on the phone with the specialty pharmacy, the 3rd generation targeted drugs, Braftovi and Mektovi, shipped, so we should have them tomorrow. In the past, these types of medicines have worked quickly to shrink tumors, so we have hope that will happen again.
We had planned to get a family photo in early September since our last one was at our 40th wedding anniversary celebration in 2018. Since then, three additional grandsons have joined our family. But, as often happens, conflicts got in the way, so the photo session was canceled. This past Friday, the 17th, I had a distinct impression that we needed to have our family photo taken soon. I immediately contacted one of our children. After looking at the weather forecast, we realized that the best option would be to get together that very day. Really? That certainly didn't seem very likely! Gathering our 5 children, spouses, and 19 grandchildren at the last minute with no conflicts seemed impossible. Nevertheless, phone calls were made, and to our amazement, everyone could come around 5:30 pm. The photographer we had planned to use was also available. It was a treat to have Mark's mother, stepdad, and two sisters with us, as well.
That was all fantastic, but we had another problem--Mark was so weak and exhausted that he had hardly been out of bed all day. But, after a special prayer, he joined us while the group photos were taken. He had a big smile and no pain the entire time, and although his color was a bit yellow, he looked fabulous! We got the digital images a few days later and were absolutely amazed at how well they turned out! It certainly felt like another sweet miracle.
How we love this beautiful family!
Amazed but not surprised it all worked out for the pictures, so great to see your two smiling faces for the first time in a long time. Another gift from above. I continue to pray for His will in your lives. Love you both.
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