Some Good News to Share...

We have good news to share today. Two weeks ago, after Marc's second treatment, they did a blood test to measure his tumor marker. They do this at every appointment. The day of his first treatment Marc's tumor marker was at 240 (after rising the week prior from 140). After one treatment the marker only increased to 288. The doctor thought that was good news (it was showing signs of reacting and slowing), but that we should continue to expect the marker to rise or, at best, plateau after the second treatment. Well, today we found out that his tumor marker was at 208! It dropped 80 points in one treatment! It didn't go up, didn't plateau...it dropped by a large measure. We are very excited by this news!

The doctor also noted that his abdomen continues to soften and the tumor area that he can feel is shrinking. So, we won't be getting a PT scan for another month. The doctor didn't think it is necessary because he can tell from the tumor marker and his physical exam that the cancer is responding. The plan now is to finish up the next four months of treatment and pray for complete remission. We were encouraged today by an elderly gentleman in the treatment center. He had finished the same regimen Marc is on a month ago. He is doing fine and was in for a routine appointment. And...he still had his hair (a bonus). It was a huge encouragement to meet someone that had been through this very treatment and was thriving.

Thank you for your prayers and concern. We are excited to share good news when we get it. There is nothing better than celebrating answered prayers with friends and loved ones. God continues to be good and merciful!

With love and gratitude...