As you may recall, Donnie’s tumor markers were in the normal range for a few months before he had his surgery in June.  After restarting chemo in September, they are down to the normal range after only 2 rounds of treatment.  Dr. Z and his PA’s were so excited to give Donnie the big news.  Of course, he takes everything in stride and says, “I wish I could be more excited.”  I can certainly understand how he feels, as he has been feeling pretty sick and nauseated for almost 3 months this time.  We can tell when his tumor markers are down, because his pain is very low.  So much to praise God for!

Due to his markers being low, his chemo will be given every other week now. This is another big praise, as he was getting it every week for 3 weeks, and then one week off.  This will give him fewer side effects, and more time for his body to recouperate from being slammed with chemo.

He weighed 160 pounds at the clinic yesterday, which is another really big praise. Weight gain and continued nutritional improvement are vitally important.  He continues to get his TPN at home every day, and his appetite has been improving. Most food still does not taste right (due to chemo), but some tastes are starting to come back for him.  I pray that continues.  It is hard to want to eat, when things you normally like taste like cardboard.

His nausea is under control, and we continue to wean his medications slowly.  So far, no problems.  Praise the Lord and AMEN!!!!

So here we are again, in a good place.  We don’t know what this really means for Donnie long term.  We remain amazed and optimistic that he is still with us after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer stage IV last December.  Admittedly, some of this time has been very, very rough, but conversely, some of this time has been very, very wonderful, enjoying the beach several times with our kids and grandkids, and enjoying other activities with our family and friends.

We continue to fight this fight with all the arsenal God has equipped us with: Discernment, good decisions in the health care arena, education, endurance, encouragement, happiness and laughter with our precious family and friends, love, and most importantly, the POWER OF PRAYER.  We are so grateful for the amazing caregivers that are in this fight with us, and so grateful for our family and friends that continue unceasingly to pray for Donnie and for me.  God has promised us that if we have faith, He can move mountains.  God seems to be moving this mountain of cancer over and over again.  We are so grateful, and look forward to the mighty plans He has for us.

Love,  Donnie & Tina