Great News!!!

Hello all~

On Thursday, Dad's radiation oncologist (who funnily enough looks like Mr Bean) declared that his tumor is "virtually gone". Last week he also got the news that he is responding so well they are reducing his radiation dose daily. He will be done in six more radiation treatments and one more round of chemo. He has received amazing medical care by a wonderful team of world-renowned doctors (Drs Ridge, Mehra, Gupta and Nicholeau) at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. As hard as the treatment has been on Dad, thankfully we never had to worry about the quality of his care. I cannot stress how much everyone's thoughtfulness has buoyed my parents over these past few months. We are so grateful!!
Once he is finished with radiation his mouth will start to heal and hopefully he will be able to eat easier. He is able to eat some solid food now, so his swallowing functioning is on the mend. We are looking forward to him gaining weight. He is also regaining his ability to speak which is a huge blessing! I am looking forward to the day when I can call him on the phone and chat about something else other than this cancer. It has been a long time!
Darline has been able to spend some quality time with my parents as of late. Due to her recent loss of her husband it goes without saying how gracious she has been. We cannot thank her enough for her giving of her time and of her heart.
Mom and Dad will be winging West for some rest and relaxation once this nightmare is over. Will post where and when when I have details.