Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Oct 6

Hello again. We had a good day today. Mark is starting to get a better handle on the pain. It is definitely still there, but he is learning how to manage it a little bit better and it is making life a little easier for him. The patches have helped and he is using pills for breakthrough pain. He looked much better today than I've seen him since surgery and it was a good feeling for me.

We visited with Dr. Farmer this afternoon. Matt, Mark's twin brother, went to the Dr. appointment with us. It really freaked Dr. Farmer and all the nurses out to see Mark's identical twin. They just couldn't believe that there were two of them. They all filed in to see them both and joked that they should charge admission. We discussed the upcoming chemotherapy and are still planning to start it on Thursday. Mark lost a pound and is down to 173, but actually looks better than he did last week, so I'm not too concerned about the pound weight loss. He has agreed to do the Carnation instant breakfast drinks (as opposed to the Boost or Ensure) and Dr. Farmer was glad to hear that he caved on that. She now asked him to do 2 daily. She's really pushing him!!!! (haha) Mark said he would try it. We again discussed the chemo agents and the potential for the Erbitux to cause anaphylaxis. Usually if it happens it will be on the first infusion and during the first 5 minutes. Boy am I dreading that!!!! Pray that Mark does not have an anaphylactic reaction to this medication. The other big side effect is a rash which is quite common and Mark will probably just have to deal with. The chemo will be weekly one day infusions for 4 weeks and then 2 weeks off and then he will repeat that cycle again.

Mark has started getting out of the house a little bit which is a BIG step for him. He went yesterday and today to Calen's football practice. He was considering going to Calen's football game this Thursday night, but now that chemo will get started, that may not be possible. We will have to see on that one.

We have had so many people helping out. Thanks to everyone who has brought food over. It is very appreciated. Also a big Thank You to Jason Price for your visit tonight and for fixing our fan. We love you so much!!!! Thanks to all of you who have continued to pray for Mark through this battle. We couldn't have made it this far without all of the support and prayers. Please remember Bennie Pierce and Carly Parker in your prayers as well. God bless!!!!

3 comments:

Julia Rogers said...

Rhonda, I did one of these so if you get two forgive me. I'm learning how to use. Just know that I am praying for you and Mark. I just pray for strength for you to keep going like you have. I know you must be very tired. Good Mark is getting out a bit. Luv U - Blessing & Prayers, Julia Rogers (kathy's mom in case to are to tired to think.) ha

Jennifer Mueller-Phillips said...

Rhonda--do you know what time Mark's chemo will start on Thursday? We can all pray together at that time. Jennifer

Bernie and Kathy said...

So glad you are feeling better Mark! We are continuing to pray for God's healing and grace. In everything He has a purpose and He works all things for the good for those who believe in Him. I'm praying the good is right around the corner!