Update April 26th

More good news than bad this time:

Gary's tumor count (tracks the cancer activity) is now down to 57!!!  It started out at 693 on Dec.21st!!!
The target number is 40, so he is getting very close.  This shows very positively that the cancer is not spreading.  What we still do not know is if the tumor is pulling away from the artery, and we will not know that until we go to St Louis May 18th. 

Gary has had several good days since last Friday (April 22nd).  His pain has subsided enough that he has reduced the pain meds he is taking.  He did not sleep quite as much and started to get a little sassy (this is good!!).  Unfortunately, he had a chemo treatment this morning, so he will be set back for a few days.

For the best news:   Gary's birthday was yesterday...68 years young!!!  Next one he will celebrate will the 69!!!

Last Sunday, April 17th, Bolivar High School sponsored an alumni game for Relay for Life, in honor of Gary.  About 30 girls came to play, & several of his former players (boy's teams) from Pleasant Hope, Jasper and Gravette, AR came to just be there. Several members of his family were there also.

Gary was very surprised and elated to see everybody.  After the game was over (which included our daughters Dawn and Brandi, and daughter-in-law Lea Ann) they all got in the middle of the floor in a circle and had Gary get out there with them. They circled their arms and said a prayer.  What a moment!!!  The whole afternoon was very fun and emotional.

Again, thank you for your prayers, phone calls, visits, cards, etc.......

Until next time...... Jannis