A look ahead

Well, it turns out major surgery and not eating for several days straight does have its downside. Dad's system isn't processing food efficiently yet, so the doctors have decided to keep him in the hospital where he can continue to get the right care and nourishment until it does. This is ok, even though Mom, Dad and the rest of the family would love to see him home.

Mom and Dad met with the oncologist a couple of times Tuesday. He has given them hope for possible remission. Once Dad is fully recovered from the surgery, he will begin regular chemotherapy treatments every-other-day with a week's break in between treatment regimens. Mom and Dad will learn more about what that will entail and what to expect over the coming days and weeks, but they are planning to fight the disease with the tools available. The oncologist shared the story of a patient he's been treating with a very similar situation to Dad's who is now eight years beyond diagnosis. This is great news to hear.

As always, thank you for your prayers and continued support.The notes in the mail, comments on the blog, the anonymous gifts of food, and all the other thoughtful gestures have been overwhelming. We appreciate the blessings we are already seeing and look forward to many more small miracles. Know that we share all your comments and well wishes with Dad, so please keep them coming.