Celebration Event in Maui - by Ane

On Wednesday we were able to welcome the rest of our guests as they arrived at the Sheraton Maui. There are over 300 here with Precoa.

Thursday evening was the big celebration dinner and event where many are recognized and honored for their accomplishments.  Much time and energy goes into this presentation so Thursday was a very busy day for all those who were involved.  Mark spent most of the day working with the others in preparation.  He and Bret had several parts in the program and then Mark would be giving the closing inspiration message (which he knew would involve his current health situation.)

Around 4:00 pm he came to the room to get ready.  As he was leaving to go back down he told me that his chest was really hurting.  He has had chest pain for awhile now, but usually when he takes a deep breath or when he is in process of lying down – not all the time.  This was very concerning. We contemplated going to the hospital, but neither of us felt like we should leave.  We wondered if it was partly due to stress.  The concern I had previously felt melted away.

The award presentation was awesome!  Many people were recognized and there were fun games between awards to liven up the evening. Before the top sales awards were given, there was a surprise presentation for Bret & Mark.  A video had been put together with comments from different employees about their view of and feeling about each one.  It was amazing and brought tears to our eyes.  After the top sales awards were presented Bret said a few words and turned the time over to Mark.  He talked about gratitude, kindness, and becoming who we want to become. Because some knew and some didn’t know about his cancer, he felt that he needed to let them all know what was happening.  He summarized the events of the past couple of months.  Many had no idea and lots of tears were shed.  At the end he had a standing ovation and Bret asked if everyone would pray for his recovery.  It was a very sweet moment.  Afterwards so many shared their love and support as well as stories of their own challenges and miracles that some have been recipients of.  It was an incredible evening.  Mark was able to carry on with no problems.

When he got in bed he wasn’t able to find a position that didn’t hurt so he took some Ibuprofen to help him get to sleep.  The next morning he felt much better and has continued to feel well. Today he has had time to relax and just enjoy being here!  With so many praying for him something good has to come of it.  How we appreciate the love and support we have felt from so many!!!