Chemo III

Foreword by Bruce Springsteen

We are coming to you today from the Columbus Oncology and Hematology Associates (COHA) infusion center! As you can see from the photo below, Mark is outfitted in purple and ready to face the next four hours of chemo in style. Today is Mark's third round of chemo, but his first at COHA. Being here is a world of difference from his other two treatments. Everyone is so friendly and on their game. They even offered him snacks without him having to ask. :) We had 20 minutes with his oncologist before the infusion, which was 20 minutes of the doctor's undivided attention. He wasn't rushed, was able to ask all of his questions, and even received a compliment from Dr. Kourlas, calling Mark an "energy-giver."

Last week, Mark had an ERCP at Riverside, where two stents were installed into his biliary ducts. His bilirubin is slowly decreasing, and his skin is almost returning to its normal color. The ERCP procedure was $2,200 out of pocket. Because of your thoughtfulness and generosity, we've been able to pay this bill and afford to spend the night in Columbus ahead of his procedures. In the BC days (before cancer), the trip to Columbus from Athens was a piece of cake and something we would often do just for fun. Now, because of the pain he's experiencing, the drive is mostly excruciating for him. He's been riding in the backseat of our Honda CRV on all of our trips because he can get a little more comfortable, and the ride feels a bit smoother. All I know is that if you look up the definition of a backseat driver, you'll see his picture as an example, lol. Seriously though, because of you, these trips are manageable. He really is getting the best of care here through OhioHealth, and we have you to thank for making it possible.

We also want to thank the Davis family of Weston, WV. Mark's aunt, cousins, and others from his mom's side of the family pitched in and purchased a Bemer B. Body Evo for him. This was an extremely thoughtful and generous gift. He's used it practically nonstop since receiving it on Thursday, and it is portable, so it can accompany him on his hotel stays.

We have one other thing in the works that we will tell you about once the website is ready, but a little teaser is that it will have to do with Loudin's Legion. Stay tuned :)

Again, thank you to everyone who has chosen to go on this journey with Mark. Your love and support have a positive impact on him daily. We appreciate you!!

-Jill from GoFundMe