Update from ali

Hello all, this is Ali here.  I'll be updating Mark's journal this week.  I apologize in advance for not being as good of a writer as Bryan!  On our last update, Mark had just had his second surgery to have a shunt placed in his head to help drain the spinal fluid.  It took him a little longer to recover than last time, but he was back to himself after a few days of rest.  This procedure was a success and his incisions are healing nicely!


Unfortunately his surgery delayed the start of radiation therapy by a few days.  After a CT scan, it was determined that the placement of the shunt did not affect the part of his head that was going to be treated.  Mark was ready to start radiation!  This was a day that we all had been waiting for.  We felt helpless during the weeks leading up to this.  But now the battle has begun!


Many of you have asked what does radiation entail?  For Mark, he will have treatments Monday-Friday for 6 weeks.  His first day was February 21st and he should finish April 2nd if all goes according to plan.  The treatments are in the medical center in Houston so there has been a lot of time spent in the car.  We have plenty of snacks, games, and electronics to keep us occupied!


Mark is feeling pretty good after each treatment.  Some nausea and drowsiness which we expected.  We are settling into a routine at the radiation center.  We pull up, check in, and find our corner in the waiting room which has been the same spot each day so far.  When Mark is called, he confidently walks back with the technicians.  They have his playlist of music ready for him to listen to during treatment.  As he walks back to the radiation room, I can't help but think how brave he is.  In the waiting room of patients, he is often the only child in the room.  He is a real warrior. 


We've also started a program with the school district since our last update.  This allows Mark to complete his assignments at home each week so that he can stay on track with his school work.  That is going well so far.  Thank you Mrs. P and Ms. C!  


We have had lots of visitors with friends and family!  Mark and Jameson's Uncle Chris came to visit last weekend from Michigan and we were blessed with some beautiful weather.  We spent most of the weekend outside and enjoyed an Aggie baseball game on Saturday.  


We are starting to see Mark's Army t-shirts and wristbands worn around town.  Thank you for showing your support!  We will share info on how to get a shirt once the online store is setup.  We know our lives are busy and can be hard to keep up with.  Know that we are beyond grateful for all of you and your prayers for Mark!