The Man and the Scars update

Heb 13:6 The Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid. What will man do to me?

Phil 4:13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

Is 58:11 And the Lord will continually guide you, and satisfy your desire in scorched places, and give strength to your bones; and you will be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.


Hi all,

Here is a brief update regarding myself. I went back to MD Anderson for another round of xrays, blood work and a CT scan. This was the second one for this year.

The blood work and chest xrays showed no sign of cancer. The CT scan did show the continued area of infection and bone compromise which has been an ongoing situation for me for quite some time.

The jaw that I broke as a result of my physical therapy did heal back. I can once again resume my physical therapy. However, this time I will be doing it in more moderation ;-). ( No improvised air tools!!)

We decided to fore go any additional operations in regards to the infected area and rather focus on a regimen of non surgical options to stimulate the blood flow and revive the damaged tissue and bone.

I have been able to eliminate antibiotics as a result of this process. It will take a long time and patience will be the key.

I am still not able to open my mouth more then 5 mm which makes all my meals a challenge. However, I am able to eat and maintain my weight and have also been able to increase my stamina.

I am not scheduled to return to MDA until my two year mark which is in August/September. At that time, we will once again go through the process and review my progress. The type of oral cancer that I had usually shows up again in the first two years. If I can make it to that milestone, the odds are reduced.

I was discharged from the radiation department which was an encouraging sign. I was thrilled as those 30 days of radiation were tough and not something that I would want to do again.

As always, we appreciate your continued prayer support and the notes of encouragement.

Semper Fi

M, T, Gun, Win and Tess