Dear Friends & Family,

We met with Dr. Soldevilla (Mark's neurosurgeon) on 6/27 after Mark's first radiation treatment.  He confirmed that the tumor is cancer, Glioblastoma multiforme, Grade 4.  Because of it's size and location, it is inoperable but "treatable" with chemotherapy and radiation.  The hope is to reduce the tumor size, which will hopefully decrease the physical symptoms that Mark had been feeling (primarily headache and weakness).  The treatment/therapy plan remains the same: 6-8 weeks of radiation and chemotherapy.  The radiation is delivered 5 days/week; the chemotherapy pill, Temodar (Temozolomide) is taken 7 days/week until the end of the radiation cycle.  The 2 therapies compliment one another and patient's have a better outcome if both are used together. 

We understand that you all have been waiting, as we have, for news/results of the pathology report.  We wanted a chance to talk with all the boys before we told others.  It was hardest to tell Noah, but we had that conversation this week. 

We will include some websites that have given us additional information about the kind of tumor, treatment, etc.  Mark has expressed his confidence in the doctors involved in his treatment.  He is determined to stay optimistic and live each day to the fullest.  He had a good day today, taking a walk with Tyler and also with Noah, Felipe and Sofa (the dog). 

Thank you all for your loving support. Please continue to pray for Mark's health and well-being, especially as he starts treatment as he will be more susceptible to illness and fatigue. 

Sincerely,

Tyler, Keenan, Noah & Kelley

A few websites:

http://www.braintumor.org/patients-family-friends/

http://neurosurgery.ucsd.edu/glioblastoma/