It's a New Year for Mark!

On December 31, 2008, Mark and Martha bid farewell to what wasn't the best of years for them. Although there were a few highlights, like the overwhelming support Mark received from his friends, family, coworkers and mere acquaintances at his August benefit, Mark spent over half of the 2008 year in the hospital or recovering from treatments and surgeries. He ended the year on a positive note, however, at his December appointment in Columbus to follow up on his most recent scans. The doctors reported that he looked even better than the last time he was there. Always preparing for the worst, new tumors or spread cancer, the report at his December appointment was the kind we pray for and rarely expect to receive. Mark is looking good, feeling good, and for the most part is the same old Mark we know and love! What an amazing thing! In only a couple short months, it will be FOUR years since Mark was diagnosed with cancer and given less than six months to live! He has beaten the odds by 3 1/2 years! That's something to cherish and celebrate as we reflect on all of our blessings at the start of this new year.

Come support Mark in another way through his art of photography. Mark's photography will be featured on the first floor gallery of the Mansfield Art Center January 18 - February 22, 2009. You can see some of his work here.

On behalf of Mark and our entire family, we would like to thank all of you for helping Mark along throughout this grueling process of giving Melanoma a run for its money. Your support means the world to all of us.