Mark reached a huge milestone today. This morning at 8:00 he had his 30th Radiation treatment. Once he was done, we
went over to the hospital for his 3rd and final chemo day. His sister Janie joined us, and we switched off each hour to be with him
throughout the day. We were a bit worried heading into treatment, as he had a rough day yesterday, and his strength level was a concern.
He was not able to eat orally yesterday, which further compounded his weakness. This morning we found out that the blood work
done pre-chemo raised a couple of concerns. His Immune System is compromised, and he is showing some kidney damage
since his last chemo treatment. Because of this, they reduced today's chemo to 75% potency of the prior sessions. The doctor still expects
it to be enough to do the job, but he did not want to risk further damage to Mark's system or kidneys. They expect the kidneys will heal over time,
as long as there is no further damage. I am happy to report that 4 hours after getting home, he is doing great. I went to pick Grace up from her overnight stay in Corona Del Mar with our dear friend and Grace's original Mama Jane, and Jane sent us off with homemade scalloped potatoes. Mark ate two servings !! (....and so did I...what a surprise !!) Just when we thought eating orally was over for him, our Warrior battles back. Overall, as good a day as we could have wished for. The biggest goal the next 3-4 days is hydration, to continue to flush the kidneys from the chemo treatment. Since days 3-4 after chemo are usually the worst for side effects, it will be a very low key holiday weekend ahead.
With the holidays in full swing, I wanted to again thank Team Mark for all the incredible outpouring of e-mails, texts and cards he has received, and the messages posted here. It has touched us beyond words. Knowing how crazy the holidays can be, it further warms my heart how many people have taken the time to reach out. Grace wanted to say thank you too, but as you can see her mouth is a bit full. Every day is Christmas here as long as she's carrying her Santa around. Love, Perry
