First, a brief update. On June 26 a CT scan showed an acute left parietal lobe mass. Bob was referred to a neurosurgeon in Muskegon. Surgery was scheduled for July 10. At that time the doctor removed about 90% of the tumor. The tumor was malignant-a glioblastoma multiforme. Unfortunately this kind of cancer is aggressive and fast growing. On July 12, Bob needed a second surgery for the removal of a blood clot. The doctor said the clot affected the brain similar to a stroke. Bob was released from the hospital on July 18.

Bob is happy to be home. Recovery is going well, just much slower than he would like. Each day we can see the progress he has made. He has some good days and some not-s0-good days. He is frustrated that he is not able to do all that he would like to do and he is really tired of not feeling well. One of the side effects of the steroids he is on (to control the swelling) is a yeast infection causing a sore throat and cough. That is finally better. He is still having headaches which they say is normal. It seems like too much sensory input (too many people, people talking loudly or TV on and people talking) can bring one on. We think the weather the past few days may have brought some on as well. Sometimes normal activity can trigger one. So, it is a delicate balancing act. When he is feeling good he wants to get outside or go out to his shop, but is afraid it will bring on a headache.

Bob has had two appointments at the Johnson Cancer Center in Muskegon. (Unfortunately, radiation cannot be done at the Cancer Center here in Mason County.) Planning for radiation is a complex process (and taking far longer than we thought). He returns next Thursday for a final planning appointment. We think the radiation will start on August 18. He will need to go there Monday-Friday for the next seven weeks. Treatment will take about 15 minutes. He will also take a chemo pill and an anti-nausea pill each night before bed.

We are so thankful for the wonderful support of family and friends. We thank you for the calls, cards, and prayers. Please continue to pray. We are praying for a complete cure (God can perform miracles!) and for Bob to be able to resume some of his activities during treatment. Please pray for patience, strength and courage for Bob. Please pray also that Bob will be able to keep a positive attitude in the days and weeks ahead. He told me the other day that he was going to kick this tumor's a_ _ !