FEEDING TUBE SURGERY TODAY

Today we spent about 6 hours at the hospital while Mark had his feeding tube inserted in his stomach. The procedure is proactive, so that he will be ready to get his nourishment thru the tube when he is unable to eat orally after radiation begins. The surgery went well. He has about an 8-10 inch tube coming out of his stomach, and the end is taped down to his abdomen when not in use. I asked the doc if I could have one too so that I won't have to grocery shop for the next 3 months. Doctor was not amused. We got home and stacks of boxes were lining the walkway. All of the daily med supplies and liquid nourishment needed for the feeding tube for the first month had arrived. Tomorrow a home health care nurse is coming to train us on using and cleaning the feeding tube. He had some pain and discomfort tonight, but it passed after a couple hours. He's sound asleep now, so that is good. Another big hurdle today. A few more appointments next week, and then looks like the week of Nov 13th he will begin the daily radiation treatments, and the first chemo treatment will be Tuesday Nov 14th.

A year ago this weekend we were in Paris. While he was in surgery today, I spent some time reminiscing about our wonderful trip to Germany, Luxembourg, Paris and London, and looking at the pictures on my phone. Thought this was a good one of Mark, even with my goofy camera angle.......What a difference a year makes.......Cherish every day.

Love, Perry