Mark Garis

Obituary - Philadelphia Inquirer

2009-12-22T23:02:00.000-05:00

http://www.philly.com/philly/obituaries/20091222_Mark_G__Garis__72__longtime_educator.html

Obituary - Brethren in Christ Church website

2009-12-20T09:36:00.001-05:00

Here is another obituary posted on the Brethren in Christ denomination's website with more information about Mark's church involvements:

http://www.bic-church.org/news/churchwide/09_12_18_mark_garis.asp

Obituary - newspaper link

2009-12-19T21:26:00.002-05:00

Here is a link to Mark's obituary in the local newspaper:

www.thereporteronline.com/articles/2009/12/19/obituaries/doc4b2c119cf3cf1678364277.txt

(Not sure if this will come up as a link to click or whether you'll need to copy and paste it)

They also posted it as a news item:

www.thereporteronline.com/articles/2009/12/19/news/doc4b2ce11b749b3470319520.txt

Funeral Plans

2009-12-18T14:01:00.002-05:00

We have now finalized plans for the funeral and viewing ...

There will be a viewing on Monday evening, December 21, 5:00-8:00 pm at Williams-Bergey-Koffel Funeral Home, 667 Harleysville Pike, Franconia, PA.

There will also be a viewing on Tuesday, December 22, 11:00-12:30, prior to the funeral at 1:00 pm, both at Zion Mennonite Church, 149 East Cherry Lane
Souderton, PA. Following the funeral, there will be a time of light refreshments in the fellowhip hall with an opportunity for people to share memories and stories about Mark.

Interment will be private at the Silverdale Brethren in Christ Church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to:

* Philadelphia Mennonite High School, 860 N. 24th St., Philadelphia, PA 19130
* Messiah College, 1 College Ave., Grantham, PA 17027, for the Mark and Nancy Garis Endowed Scholarship

Peaceful Homegoing

2009-12-18T09:26:00.002-05:00

This morning at 5:45, Mark passed away peacefully. While we are sad to see him leave us, we rejoice that he has now entered into his eternal reward and is with his Savior in heaven.

For the past two days, Mark's breathing was labored. Last night Kris and I sensed that we should stay with him, so we took turns in shifts to sit with him and hold his hand. At around 5:10 this morning, Kris prayed that Mark would go quickly and peacefully and that he would be able to breathe comfortably. Immediately after she prayed, his breathing slowed to a normal rate. It then continued to slow down, and she woke me at 5:30. We sat with him, holding his hands and telling him that we loved him. He then very clearly said, "Love you" two times and stopped breathing.

We are so thankful for God's goodness and mercy in allowing Mark to have comfort and peace in his passing. We thank you all so much for your prayers for Mark and for our family during these days.

Jeff, Kris and I are working on plans for the funeral and will meet with the funeral home later this morning. We expect to post the arrangements later in the day.

Nearing the End

2009-12-17T14:42:00.003-05:00

Mark's disease continues to take a toll on his body. He is now in his bed all of the time. Each day brings further decline. He developed a yeast infection in his mouth ("thrush") for which we swab his tongue and mouth. Kris and I are learning new nursing skills and he had been encouraging us when we made mistakes in turning him over in bed,etc. It is going better now, thanks to help from the Hospice Aides. Today Mark is unable to talk or whisper, but we usually know by his face what his needs are. This morning he drew his hand up to his head, meaning that he had a pain in his head. The nurse told us to give him some morphine. He opens his eyes slightly, but is generally asleep. We know that he hears us . . . he can squeeze our hands. When we ask him, he usually indicates that he is confortable. We don't know how long his body can go on, but we do know that it is slowly shutting down. We continue to pray for God's mercy to give him a peaceful goodbye.

Managing Changes

2009-12-12T14:25:00.003-05:00

This week Mark's appetite decreased a lot. His swallowing ability became problematic. We were given instruction in how to feed him. Then three days ago Mark was coughing for a period of time after eaing his thickened juice and pudding. He had a short episode of unresponsiveness before resuming his normal alertness. We had a Hospice nurse come to check him. The nurses have told us that his disease is progressing. So at this point he is only able to take a minimal amount of thickened liquids. He has no pain and knows what we talk about. He cannot speak very well, just a very soft whisper. That takes a lot of energy for him. He is content and enjoyable to be with. He continues to be loving and appreciative.

More Aids and Aides for Mark's Care

2009-12-05T21:29:00.004-05:00

You may be wondering why I haven't updated this Blog. We have been very busy with Mark's care, since Kris arrived home (a good but long journey for her). We transitioned to Hospice Care recently and continue to have Community Home Service Aides also. Our mornings tend to be quite intensive. After his morning concludes with breakfast and bathing,etc., Mark takes a long sleep in his recliner. Moving him from chair to wheelchair, table or bed has gotten more comfortable with a Hoyer Lift. Although it looks monstrous & takes up a lot of space, it enables us to mechanically lift him. There is less stress on his body and it's easier for us too. Mark remains very pleasant and positive. He sleeps a lot more and is weaker in body and voice. We do use a medication for him in the evening to relax him at bedtime. His faith is strong and contagious. In turn, friends and family's prayers have been an encouragement to us!

Comings and Goings . . .

2009-11-20T20:45:00.002-05:00

Mark had his appointment with Dr Kaufman yesterday (Thursday). It is always a major effort to get him in the car & transport him to Grand View, so he was quite tired when we returned. The MRI had some positive aspects, those being mixed with some decrease in his functioning abilities.
We look forward to Kris' arrival from Thailand, arriving by early evening on Monday. My brother Mike, and wife Mary Lou, plan to stay til Tuesday to greet Kris.(I could not have cared for Mark this past week without their help). We're praying for a good trip for Kris and that she will be able to sleep on the plane. It will be great to all be together for Thanksgiving!

Upcoming MRI

2009-11-10T21:15:00.004-05:00

Mark has had three treatments by IV and that has gone well. Dr. Kaufman has ordered an MRI for the beginning of this coming week. I'm assuming that we will learn the results at the next appointment on Thursday, November 19. Mark sleeps a lot between meals and goes to bed very early. He is comfortable and content. We are getting a lot of support from our church family,including Kris' support team who are taking turns to come each evening. I appreciate all who call or help in numerous ways. Our morning Aide continues also. We are managing okay, even though it is difficult to see him slowly declining. God is faithful to us always.

Visit With the Oncologist

2009-10-22T21:32:00.003-04:00

Mark seemed a bit stronger today. Jeff assisted us in getting to BuxMont Oncology for the office visit with Dr.Kaufman. Although this was the first time to meet him, he was on top of Mark's case & had obviously read the report/recommendation from Dr. Rosenfeld. He noted that his "performance status" is decreasing. He concurred that the Avastin drug is an "opportunity for him to get some response", as many other patients have experienced. So that was administered again today by IV in the port Mark has now. He actually slept through half of the one hour drip. He enjoyed a nice meal at home tonight from Janice Althouse and stayed up to watch some TV. The Home Health Care Aides are doing a wonderful job daily. God continues to direct this journey we're on. Thank you for your prayers.

Managing Some Changes

2009-10-16T21:47:00.002-04:00

In the last 2-3 days, Mark was losing strength and needed a lot of assistance. Fortunately this happened when my brother Mike and Mary Lou were here. Mary Lou did the kitchen work and helped in numerous ways and Mike was able to handle Mark's weaknesss when we needed to help him move about. They've had experience with Mary Lou's mother, so showed me how to assist Mark with his mobility. When I called our Palliative Care group to discuss Mark's new needs, Susan Smith, R.N. came within a couple of hours and also sent a Social Worker. So today was a very busy day, meeting with them and deciding what course to pursue. We decided to engage Community Home Services who will send an Aide twice daily, for 2 hours each morning and 2 hours in the early evenings. Susan also felt that a hospital bed would be easier for Mark to get in and out of, and no sooner had she ordered it than it arrived. It is now set up in our guest bedroom, with my bed beside it. Mark is sleeping for the night and I shall do the same soon, as I am tired too. I am so impressed with the speed of making these connections and changes, to say nothing about the sensitive and caring nature of our new medical friends.

2009-10-13T13:55:00.002-04:00

Mark's port was successfully put in last week, so he will never have to suffer the poking and probing of his veins again. Then on Friday his IV with Avastin went well. It took 2 hours and will be repeated every 14 days. He will see an oncologist every two weeks before the IV. I was referred to a service there at Grand View Hospital in which a nurse practitioner is assigned to a patient to monitor progress and potential problems between doctor visits. Today Chris Hanson came to our home, did an assessment, and has another appointment with us here in a week. Meanwhile she will have a raised toilet seat and a wheelchair delivered for times when Mark needs assistance. His size makes it difficult for me to handle (sometimes) when he wants to get up or down. We are very pleased with Chris, the NP, and thank Laurel Landis for referring us to her.
Family is so important to us. Jeff was here yesterday and tomorrow my brother and sister-in-law (Mike & Mary Lou) will come for 2 1/2 days. On Saturday Wesley and Viola, our grandchildren, will come with Beth for a visit. Mark may doze off for a while, but that's okay. Kris "Skypes" daily from Thailand. It's almost like she is here too. Most of all we know that God is here with us.
Here's a promise from Isaiah 41:10 that Robin wrote out for us:
Do not fear, for I am with you;
Do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Upcoming Intravenous Treatments

2009-10-05T18:19:00.003-04:00

Today we met with a new oncologist at Bux Mont Oncology Group in Sellersville. Dr Spears went over Mark's history and report from Penn and plans to follow through with that. We then went to the area where he will get the intravenous medication and had his blood drawn today. Mark's veins are increasingly difficult to get blood from, so they feel that he should have a port for the upcoming treatments. Therefore, on Thursday he will get a port implanted at the short stay unit at Grand View. Then on Friday he will have his first treatment at the Outpatient building where the oncologists practice. His treatments will only be on every 14th day. We were told of the possible side effects and what to watch for. We are ready to move forward with this new treatment because of the potential benefits.

Change in Treatment

2009-10-01T18:11:00.003-04:00

Today Mark had his scheduled MRI and other tests at Penn and met with his neuro-oncologist. She explained to us that the chemo he's been on for 2 months is not taking care of the tumor, so she recommended a medication approved for brain tumors that shows good promise. Interestingly, I was going to ask her about that medication, Avastin, as I have been researching about it too. She also is suggesting that we get an oncologist locally so that it can be administered bi-weekly(intravenously) without us having to travel to Philadelphia. She and we are looking into Grand View Hospital as a site for that and expect to have an appointment soon with an oncologist who is on staff there. We'll keep you posted on that. Meanwhile, Mark will continue with his Physical Therapist to improve his balance.

We're grateful . . .

2009-09-20T20:27:00.003-04:00

The past 5 days have been encouraging, as Mark's appetite has improved; his physical therapy is making him more active; and we have gone out three times to eat with friends. We also enjoyed having Jeff, Sara and Tess here today for a barbecue. It may be one of the final picnics of the year. The weather was perfect.
To those of you who have written responses, mailed cards, called, visited or spoken to us, we say a big thank you! To the many who have prayed for us, again we say thanks! It's definitely helping!

Side Effects from Chemo

2009-09-14T21:40:00.003-04:00

Resuming chemo 5 days ago also meant resuming a poor appetite with weight loss. Instead of begging Mark to eat, I asked his oncologist for the "megace" prescription that he had 3 years ago which successfully pulled him out of that problem. So tomorrow he will begin that and also his physical therapy. PT has taken so long to get set up. I'm sure it will be helpful too. It's been a vicioous cycle: eat less, be more tired. I'm hoping we break this cycle! Please pray with us for that to happen.

Doing Better

2009-09-03T10:24:00.003-04:00

For the last two days, Mark has been eating quite normally. Yesterday he went with me for a ten minute walk. I'm thankful for small progress! I expect it to continue.

Doing Better

2009-09-03T10:24:00.000-04:00

Today's Appointment

2009-08-31T18:12:00.005-04:00

Mark had an appointment today with his neuro-oncologist and Nurse Practitioner. I drove us to Jeff's house in Germantown & he took us the rest of the way to the hospital. (No trains for us today). They will keep him on his course of meds as prescribed. They believe that he will get stronger again and have decided that they will order physical therapy for him. This will probably be done locally, at Grand View Hospital, per my request. He needs to hear someone else tell him to get up and move around, not just me. (It's too easy for me to do things for him when he asks me to.)

His weight dropped 11 pounds in the past 2 1/2 weeks, due to loss of appetite. But I think the prayers of our church members, friends, and Kris and team in Thailand have been heard! This morning for breakfast he ate 2 eggs with a little bacon, one half English muffin, one Bran muffin, 10 ounces of orange juice and a cup of protein- fortified hot chocolate! I could hardly believe my eyes! Then on our return home from Philly he asked me to stop at Red Lobster for a late lunch. (He had taken a gift certificate from Jeff and Sara along with him.) He ordered a big seafood platter and ate half of it, bringing the rest home for tomorrow. So it looks like we're on the road to recovery! PTL

Remembering Ted Kennedy

2009-08-26T21:06:00.004-04:00

Our "big adventure" today was to go to the lab for weekly blood tests. Before going there we went out for lunch at Java on Main Street. But Mark was not hungry, so he ordered just a bagel and latte. And he was not really hungry for supper. I'm wondering if the chemo is playing games now with his appetite. When this happens it's harder work to entice him with nutritious foods that he likes. Hopefully tomorrow will be better!

This was also a sad day, learning that Ted Kennedy died. He had the same type of brain tumor as Mark. I'm glad that the tributes to him have been so postitive, for he really did accomplish a lot in the political world, especially for the most needy. When I was in college, I worked two summers as a Nanny in the home of Joe Kennedy's personal physician (in Massachusetts.) There were photos and stories of the Kennedys who were in the same social network. I did not personally meet them, but from that time period on, that family was part of our history. May God give them all His peace and comfort.

Trip to the Hospital

2009-08-16T12:20:00.004-04:00

Mark continued to be more tired & lethargic, so early Friday morning I called the hospital and talked with the neurologist on call. She suggested bringing him in, through the emergency room. So we drove down to Penn & they began an intensive testing: Xrays, CAT scans, blood tests, ultra sound, etc. Almost ten hours later he was discharged, as all of his tests were clear. They do think that his body is not happy to be off the steroids, even though he was gradually tapered off. So now he will be back on a minimal amount of steroids for up to a month. They gave him a break too, not having to take his chemo on Friday. :)

Again, this Sunday he wanted to be in Worship Service, so we did go to church. It was a wonderful service. He is asleep now to restore his strength so he can go to the annual Garis Reunion right here in Souderton. We will stay only a short time.

Lethargy

2009-08-13T20:49:00.002-04:00

Mark's tiredness and lethargy have increased this week. I have been checking in with his doctors at Penn by phone. They say to consider this normal for what he has been through. They expect that it will decrease in a week or more. So we are just hanging around the house while he rests and sleeps. He began his chemo also.

2009-08-05T21:11:00.004-04:00

On Monday, August 3, Mark had an appointment with his neuro-oncologist.She is very pleased with his progress. She had two students observing her as she examined and talked with Mark. (She is also a professor at Penn). When she told them that he is an "Energizer Bunny", I spoke up and told her that he has been very tired lately. It seems that going off the steroid medication is leaving him lethargic. On the other hand, it has given him a tremendous appetite. I was sure that he must weigh ten pounds more, but in fact his weight is exactly what it was before surgery! I remember this stage in his recovery from the first tumor surgery. Dr. Rosenfeld said that he will get his energy back gradually. I believe her.

The incision has healed so well. We will visit the surgeon for his post-op on the thirteenth. Dr Kevin Judy is on the Brain Tumor Team with Dr Rosenfeld. He had told us immediately after the surgery that it was non-eventful. He has agreed with Dr Rosenfeld that the preferred treatment now will be the same chemo that Mark has been taking for three years. But instead of one week every two months, he will take a reduced dosage of Temodar pills daily for three weeks, followed by one week of no meds. After he sees the doctor at that point, he will keep cycling the chemo: three weeks on; one week off. He will have MRIs every two months . . . same as he had been doing. The goal is to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Mark has tolerated this chemo well for three years, so we expect that when he starts it again next week, it will go well for him. He will not be on the Clinical Study anymore, so I will no longer be giving him injections of Poly ICLC (interferon).

We had a good time together at our house on Saturday for Jeff's forty-fourth birthday. Since Jeff wanted to forget how old he is, little Tess easily got all of the attention. At nineteen months she is a ball of energy, keeping Sara constantly watching out for what trouble she can get into. Big brother Wesley entertains her a lot, which she enjoys. The birthday balloon was a big hit with her until it ascended to the peak of the ceiling. Ladder and Broom Mission needed! Now we are looking forward to seeing Viola here on Friday night with Wes and Beth. Viola has been canoeing all week at Spruce Lake Camp, her fifth year of camp. The recent rains must be providing lots of streams for them. Can't wait to hear her tales.

Tomorrow we will again Skype with Kris. She is a regular communicator with her Dad. Knowing that she is about 12,000 miles away, yet seeing her on the computer screen and hearing her voice, melts the miles away. How fortunate we are with our family! And you, our friends! Thank you for taking the time to read this and encouraging Mark. May your prayers join ours, on his behalf.

Walking, Talking, Enjoying Summer . . .

2009-07-21T08:29:00.003-04:00

Mark continues to feel very well. He takes daily walks, enjoying the walking paths here. His steroid pills are tapering off, for which he is thankful. It does increase his appetite, as a side benefit. He is happy to talk with friends and neighbors. And yes, he did go to church on Sunday, six days after surgery! He also spends a lot of time reading. I think the Phillies are making him happy too, as they continue to win each game. Many mornings we enjoy web cam conversations with Kris. Then we enjoy the beautiful weather we have been having, often eating out on our patio. Thanks so much for your interest and prayers.

Home from the Hospital!

2009-07-16T17:04:00.002-04:00

Just 72 hours after surgery, Mark was released from the hospital! He has been anxious to get home because he feels so well. The nurses had orders to keep him in bed or in his chair,but Mark kept getting up when he wanted to change places or go to the bathroom. He is strong and has no pain. And he is so glad to be home. He has very few restrictions.
After his brain heals, at his post-operative visit with his oncologist in about 4 weeks, it is expected that he will resume chemo to destroy any remaining cancer cells. On the schedule he had for the past 3 years, he took high doses of chemo pills for 5 days every 9th week. Soon he will begin a regimen of daily, low-dose chemo pills. He has always tolerated his chemo very well. We pray that he will continue to. We are optimistic about his prognosis.

Nan

Day after Surgery

2009-07-14T22:21:00.004-04:00

The surgeon, interns and nurses who have Mark under their care are all very pleased with Mark's recovery from the surgery. He was moved from ICU to a regular room on the neurology floor which is thankfully, much quieter. The view from his oversized room with large windows on two corners overlooks the city. The afternoon sun is toasty warm, a nice change from cold AC elsewhere.
With the monitors removed, there are only a few medicines, including minimal pain medication. Mark enjoyed 3 regular meals today. I left the hospital tonight after he was settled in a recliner, watching the All Star baseball game. (Do you think he noticed that I was gone?)
We'll soon learn when he will come home. With this quick initial recovery, I am reminded of the verse in Ephesians 3:20, "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His poower that is at work within us, to him be glory for ever and ever!"

Nan

Successful Surgery!

2009-07-13T13:39:00.002-04:00

Mark has successfully come through his surgery with flying colors. The surgery was three hours to remove the small tumor. The surgeon met with us afterwards and said the new tumor was successfully removed.

We visited with him after his surgery, and he was very lucid. He seemed much better than the previous surgery - the difference was amazing! Nan plans to stay here overnight.

Although Kris was not here, she had the next best thing. Jeff was able to keep her constantly updated with email and even sent a video of Mark saying hi after the surgery.

Thank you all so much for your prayers.

Jeff, Sara, & Nan

An R & R Trip, July 8-9

2009-07-07T21:31:00.003-04:00

Today Mark did the pre-admission round of tests and paperwork for his surgery next Monday. We will be leaving the area for 2 days on a short trip with our good friends, Vernon & Blanche Althouse. Wednesday and Thursday we'll be away. Mark feels great and it looks like the weather will continue to be beautiful. That's a bonus!

New Tumor, July 1, 2009

2009-07-01T14:26:00.004-04:00

I've reactivated Mark's Blog to bring you up-to-date on what's been happening recently. We have rejoiced in God's merciful care over Mark for three years. He has enjoyed a good quality of life, and has responded well to his on-going treatments to prevent a recurrence of a malignancy. However, at his regular check-up on June 19, an abnormal area showed up on his MRI. A second MRI a few days later confirmed that a small tumor has grown, near the site of the old one. The team of various specialists at HUP (Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania) reviewed the images. Jeff, Mark & I visited the surgeon yesterday and were shown those images. The surgical method and possible risks were discussed. We have been in communication with Kris in Thailand and have decided to move forward with surgery with the same doctor who did the first successful surgery.
Dr Kevin Judy's plan is to reopen the 3 small titanium plates which he screwed in Mark's head after the first surgery, since the new tumor is in the same general area. He says that this will make it less invasive. Mark will have another MRI and lab work on Tuesday, July 7 in preparation for surgery on Monday, July 13. (He is so good about these tests!) I will not know the time of his surgery until a day or two before. We appreciate your prayer support during this new phase.
Nan (and Mark, Jeff, Kris and Family)

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Two Years Later . . .

2008-05-25T20:33:00.003-04:00

Today we are celebrating the second anniversary of Mark's medical journey. Just think . . . it's been two years of uncomplicated recovery! As I shared in church this morning, we are SO grateful to God for his mercies, grace and answered prayer every day. Mark stays involved on two boards: Messiah College and Phildadelphia Mennonite High School. We recently attended meetings/events at both. Regularly he shares his testimony with others, especially those who also suffer from brain tumors. What an encourager he is! Yesterday he helped me put our summer plants in the flower beds.
The excitement in our lives comes with learning to know little Tess, our four month old granddaughter in Philadelphia. Also, on April 16 we welcomed our daughter, Kris, home from Thailand for six months. She livens our household with her comings and goings. She is adapting to living with us in a 55 Plus Community!
We will be resurrecting an old tradition: Kris, Mark and I and our two grandchildren, Wesley (15) and Viola (13), will go to our condo in Florida in July for about eight days. Even though it will be very hot and humid, the Gulf water and pool will cool us off. For Kris, that weather is what she has been used to for four years.
Other events that we look forward to include picnics and reunions. We will drive to western New York next month for a get-together with the Haun side of the family (Nan's brothers and families). Kris will continue on to Canada. She is putting on a lot of miles . . . California, North Carolina, Wisconsin and places in between. Her sharing is always interesting.
I'll try to write again in the fall.
Nan

Reflecting on a Year of Blessings

2008-01-05T10:57:00.000-05:00

We celebrated Thanksgiving and Christmas with an increased enjoyment of family, friends and the presence of our loving Lord. As we enter the New Year, we've reflected back on a year of spiritual growth through trusting God with the unknown. We are thankful, beyond ability to express that depth, to God who has enabled Mark to sail through his chemo and injections with very minimal side effects. Now, over 19months since his malignant brain tumor, Mark has returned to activities which had somewhat decreased. He is the number one driver when we go anywhere. We've driven to western New York to visit Nan's family, and also to our condo in Florida.

Currently we are retreating from the cold northern winter by being "snow-birds" in Florida. We had left our car down here in November so that we would fly back to Pennsylvania for the holidays & then return by airplane to Sarasota on January 3. We thought that we would miss the birth of a new grandchild later in January, but unknown to us at the time, God had the oncologist change the routine appointment from January 3 to January 2. So when Sara, our daughter-in-law, went into labor 2 1/2 weeks prematurely, we were able to be there immediately after little Tess's birth on January 3. She arrived at 6:15 a.m.; we got off our train in Philadelphia on the way to the airport & were able to squeeze in an hour to visit Sara and Jeff and hold newborn Tess! Then Jeff took us from the hospital in time to catch the flight we had. PTL for God's best timing! We are so often amazed at the blessings we continue to receive!

Nan & Mark

Starting Cycle # 7

2007-09-29T20:33:00.000-04:00

Mark had another "clear" MRI yesterday at his usual appointment for that. He also gets blood tests and meets with his oncologist. She surprised us by encouraging us to go to Florida, even adjusting her schedule, at her sugggestion, so that we can leave a day earlier than our November 1 target date. The whole day went perfectly well. Appointments on time in the 3 different areas of the hospital, going to the pharmacy for the chemo pills & discovering that there was no line; also no line at the lab! PTL. (That never happened before). We had squeezed in a 10 minute stop for a sandwich at the cafeteria. Last of all, we caught a bus to take us to the train station, knowing it was very close timing & really expecting that we would need to wait 80 minutes for the next train home. We dashed through the station, up the stairs to the platform and discovered that we had 1 minute to spare! Still, it was a 7 hour trip. But my heart was singing the whole way home! At home we relaxed and watched the Phillies beat the Nationals. Three games to go yet . . . .

Good Health and New Ministry

2007-08-27T20:27:00.000-04:00

There continue to be the regular MRIs and check-ins with Marks' doctors at HUP, and all remains very good. We always look forward to the visits with the surgeon who shows us Mark's MRI on the computer, comparing the latest pictures with previous ones. With his neuro-oncologist 4 weeks ago, we discussed the latest 9 week cycle which will soon wrap up a whole year of his cycles of 5 days of chemo/7 weeks of POLY ICLC injections/one week of rest (no meds). Because he is doing well with this therapy and has minimal side effects, the decision was made that he will do this indefinitely.

Friends have referred men with GBM tumors to Mark and he has met others at a Brain Tumor Support Group. Mark is happy to encourage them, share his story of God's grace to him, give them literature and Bible selections and pray for their healing. We call this his new ministry.

We enjoy Skype, a computer web cam program that allows phoning to have "live visits" with Kris. There's not a time when we disconnect without Mark saying "I feel like I was just in Thailand with her!" It really is fun to see her, and for her to see us on our screens as we talk. The sound and the picture are very clear for us.

Again we thank you for your continued interest and sustaining prayers.

Mark & Nan

One Year Later

2007-05-26T15:26:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the "anniversary" of the day that Mark had his accident/seizure, leading to the brain tumor diagnosis and treatment. It has been quite an adventure in the past year! He has done amazingly well . . . thanks to God hearing the prayers of many of our supporters as well as His leading us to a very competent team of doctors at HUP.
On this Memorial Day weekend, we trekked back down to Philadelphia for another MRI, extensive lab tests & a consult with his oncologist. The report was again a VERY GOOD one! So we continue with the same rounds of 9- week treatment, reporting back to the neuro-oncologist every 4-5 weeks. What would have been "foreign" to us a year ago is now a very familiar & comfortable routine. With no changes, I hadn't updated his blog for 2 months . . . thanks for checking in! We love you!
Nan & Mark

Celebrating Life . . .

2007-03-29T22:31:00.000-04:00

Mark's 70th birthday party was truly a Grand Slam event! We enjoyed circulating among the almost 200 guests who turned out on Sunday afternoon to celebrate with us. This was March 25 . . . exactly 10 months since his auto accident that signaled a medical problem resulting in the diagnosis of Glioblastoma brain tumor. Mark said that he enjoyed this celebration more than both of his retirements together. : )
A week ago Mark was given clearance to resume driving. He is delighted to be the pilot again. His MRI on Friday, March 23 was very good. So he continues in the same round of treatment as previously prescribed. He tolerates his chemo (one week out of nine) very well and the seven weeks of injections of an Interferon type drug which always follow that. We are happy to be able to be involved in most of our normal activities.
"To God be the glory!"

Come to a Phillies Birthday Party for Mark!

2007-03-13T23:22:00.000-04:00

Wow! What a pile of cards in our mailbox here in Florida. Mark has received over 120 cards . . . for which we thank all of you who mailed him your wishes for his 70th birthday!
We will return to our Souderton home soon where we will host a Surprise Birthday Party at an Open House on Sunday, March 25, 4-6 p.m. at Souderton Brethren in Christ Church. You are ALL invited. If you know of anyone else who would like to come, please do invite them. The church address is: 494 Cherry Road. It's just south of Frederick's Flowers, off Bethlehem Pike. Theme: Baseball. It's certain to be a Grand Slam affair, so don your Phillies shirts, caps, etc. & join us for ballpark refreshments as we surprise Mark.
You can RSVP to Jeff (JSGaris@aol.com) or by cell phone: 215-694-4783.

Mark's 70th Birthday!

2007-02-15T20:14:00.000-05:00

We are enjoying our little condo in Sarasota. Although it is a much cooler winter in Florida, it sure beats the cold weather back in Pennsylvania. Mark continues to do well. FYI: Mark will turn 70 on March 6. Our family thinks it would be fun for him to receive cards from his friends and relatives. If you can, please send him a card at:

Mark Garis
Unit 409
845 Ben Franklin Drive
Sarasota, Florida 34236

Thanks!

Off to Sarasota!

2007-01-21T17:36:00.000-05:00

On January 19 we made another trek to Philly for an evaluation and new MRI. The results were called "very good!" Mark's oncologist spent a lot of time with us, evaluating him with various tasks, including an extra half hour in discussion about university funding and Mark's comments about Messiah and U of P. Of course, she is always checking his status in conversation too. She wished us well on our trip to Sarasota (this Wednesday for 4 weeks) and will see us on February 22. We came home with his new supply of chemo (for the next 5 days) and then 7 more weeks of injections of the clinical trial drug. This will be his third cycle.
We'll have our laptop with us in Florida and are available by cell or our Florida phone.

A Happy New Year

2006-12-28T22:12:00.000-05:00

We had a very nice Christmas with family and enjoyed many of the traditional church and social events of the season. It was good to see and hear Mark singing in the choir at Christmastime. We got our Christmas cards out, barely before December 25. It was inspiring to read all the cards and letters we received.
Last week we had routine check-ups with the radiologist and oncologist. Both were pleased and pronounced Mark "stable."
On January 19 there will be more lab tests and another MRI. We were so encouraged by this last medical visit that we made plans to go to Sarasota for 4 weeks, beginning January 24. We look forward to warmer weather there and reconnecting with our Florida friends!

THANKS-giving

2006-11-20T15:02:00.000-05:00

We've just returned from HUP (Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania) where Mark had his every-nine-week MRI. In meeting with his oncologist, she gave him a very favorable report. Nothing has changed on the MRI and his blood cells and platelets have returned to normal. We are very encouraged! This will be such a special Thanksgiving for our family. "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy."(Psalm 126:3) We wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Great Vacation

2006-11-14T21:21:00.000-05:00

Mark and I had a wonderful time in Sarasota! The weather was beautiful! We enjoyed reconnecting with good friends there. Because of his hearty appetite, we enjoyed restaurant meals almost every evening. He was tapered off of his Megace (medication to increase his appetite) and now continues to eat well and need no meds for that. Praise God! He has regained about 7 of the 30 lost pounds. (Soon I'll be putting him on a diet . . .just kidding.) This return to good eating has also given him new energy.
The only glitch he had was that we got a phone call from HUP that his previous blood test had shown a decrease in white blood cell count and platelets. So we made 4 trips in 2 weeks to a Quest Lab in Sarasota and had the results faxed to HUP. The counts have come back up, so that he did not need those tests when we got home to PA.

We had a planned appointment on Monday, November 13, with the oncologist who needed to see him at the end of his 7 weeks of the experimental injection study. Also, next Monday, November 20, there will be another MRI to determine if there is any new tumor growth. If not, he will resume 5 days of oral chemo; and 7 weeks of the injections (at home). We want to continue with this program, if the Lord wills it.

Messiah College and Sarasota, Florida

2006-10-22T20:24:00.000-04:00

At his visit with the neuro-oncologist last Monday, Mark was removed from his weekly blood labs and referred for monthly testing. His appetite has returned with some resulting weight gain and, happily, an enjoyment of eating! We drove out to Messiah College mid-week for his two days of Trustee board meetings. On Thursday he was one of three alumni who were recipients of Messiah College Alumni Achievement awards. Our family: Jeff & Sara, Verna, and Dick and Dottie took the day off to be at chapel, a reception and a luncheon in his honor. Although Mark had been reluctant before these events, it turned out to be a day of celebration and enjoyment. We had opportunities to meet many friends during the two days there. Since he is not having any appointments soon, and with his doctor's blessing, we've made airline plans to go to our condo in Sarasota for two weeks, October 24-November 7. Florida sunshine and reconnecting with friends down there will be good for us now. We praise God for his goodness to us and for your prayers.

Appetite Stimulant

2006-10-10T22:50:00.000-04:00

We've addressed Mark's extreme lack of appetite and resulting loss of energy. He is now taking medication (megace) to increase his appetite. After just 4 days, he is able to eat with a modest amount of satisfaction. This should stop his weight loss and restore some energy. I am so grateful to Shelly (Maxwell) Book, a nutritionist and dear friend, for her helpful knowledge and advice. We are in the third week of Poly ICLC injections which are part of a trial in which interferon may increase the body's natural immunity. Mark chose me . . . the reluctant needle pusher for these 3-day weekly injections.

Another visit to HUP today (Oct 10) for a review of the MRI from September, this time with the surgeon. He showed us the actual pictures, describing what we were looking at in each photo. He was pleased with the results of his surgery and quite chatty. We have the next appointment with him in 3 months. We're living one day at a time with God's faithful help and the support of friends and neighbors.

Nan

Another Round of Tests & Doctors

2006-09-15T20:20:00.000-04:00

After a long day of shuttling between four departments in the hospital, the results are:
- all blood tests continue to be excellent
- MRI shows no changes
- weight loss due to poor appetite will be monitored

Since this kind of tumor usually has leftover tumor cells, the standard treatment is to take 5 days of higher dose chemo in pill form. That will begin this coming week.
Then, the experimental phase of an immunity booster (interferon), "Poly ICLC", will follow for 7 weeks. Mark will learn to give himself these injections every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Subsequent blood tests and MRIs will be repeated before each continuing cycle of chemo/Poly ICLC thereafter. We are very impressed with the specialists on the Tumor Team at HUP.
We cannot thank you enough for your prayers, e-mails, cards, phone calls, visits and other demonstrations of love and support. May God bless you in a special way!
Love, Mark & Nan

Upcoming appointment

2006-09-09T21:38:00.000-04:00

On Friday, September 15, Mark will have a routine MRI and appointments with his radiologist and neuro-oncologist at HUP (Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania), where he recently completed radiation in combination with chemo pills. As this will be his first feedback after those therapies, he is feeling rather anxious about this appointment. We would ask you to join us in prayer again . . . for peace and healing. Thanks! We plan to add an update to this blog after that appointment.

Nan

Radiation Treatments Ended

2006-08-16T20:33:00.000-04:00

Mark Garis

When six weeks of radiation and chemotherapy ended today, Mark danced (okay, he strode and smiled) his way out of the hospital Oncology Department! What a relief! Thanks fo God's mercy, he experienced no side effects except recent loss of appetite. The doctor told him to keep his weight up by eating high protein and high fat foods in small amounts, frequently. Peanut butter, eggs, full-cream ice cream and fruited milkshakes were some of the specifics. Mark chuckled and commented that it's the first time in his life that he's been told to eat like that!

There will be a four-week "no treatment" break before he begins the next phase in mid-September. At that point he will receive one week of chemo pills followed by seven weeks of immune-boosting injections (a clinical trial drug, Poly ICLC). Bi-monthly MRIs will determine continuing treatments after that. Thanks for hanging in there with us!

Nan

Halfway through radiation!

2006-07-26T20:18:00.000-04:00

Today's treatments marked the halfway point in radiation/chemo combination therapy for Mark. Fifteen out of thirty. And amazingly, he continues to still avoid expected side effects! Because of his strength and positive outlook, we have been able to enjoy social events, church and visiting his sister, Verna (who is making good progress also at Rockhill Mennonite Community).

A verse from Isaiah 41:10 that inspires Mark daily says: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."

Gratefully,
Nan (and Mark)

July 15,2006

2006-07-15T11:43:00.000-04:00

Mark has completed 10 days of his initial 6 week treatment plan. The daily trips to Philadelphia are a comfortable routine for us. We had a post-operative visit on Wednesday with his surgeon, Dr. Kevin Judy, at HUP. All is going very well. In fact, Mark has a very positive attitude and a renewed energy level, in spite of the treatments! He believes that the prayers of his friends are a strong factor in his well-being. We have a new concern for his sister, Verna, who was hospitalized a week ago for heart, pneumonia and blood disorders. She will enter nursing rehab locally at Rockhill Mennonite Community the beginning of this coming week.

July 5, 2006

2006-07-05T21:54:00.000-04:00

We returned from our Miami Church Conference feeling uplifted by the many conversations and acts of encouragement from other delegates! The sessions, worship/prayer times and socializing were very encouraging to Mark. Admittedly we're physically tired, yet we feel energized in our spirits for what lies ahead. Today was a trial run in radiology; tomorrow the real thing begins at noon, preceeded by the oral chemo pill (and other pills) before we leave from Lansdale by train for Philly. This will be a very intense six weeks.
We have spoken with Kris several times since her return to Thailand. She is back to her rigorous teaching schedule. We like to stay connected with our son Jeff's family. This summer is different however, in that we will not have our grandchildren, Wesley and Viola, at our home very often. They will soon be off for a week of camp.
Again we all want to thank you for your sustaining prayers that keep us going!
Nan

2006-06-27T22:07:00.000-04:00

Mark had all of his pre-radiation & chemotherapy tests and set-ups today. He will begin both on Thursday, July 6. This initial round of treatments will last 6 weeks at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. We will communte daily. Mark is doing well. We even went out to dinner tonight with Kris, as she will be heading back to Thailand early tomorrow morning. Mark and I will leave Friday morning to fly to Miami for our denomination's General Conference meeting which we had planned to attend. We will return on July 4.
Your encouragement has meant a lot to all of us.
Nan

2006-06-20T16:15:00.000-04:00

Once again, thanks for your prayers. We had another good day meeting with the doctors at HUP, both the radiation specialist and the neuro-oncologist. My dad really feels that God has led us to the right doctors.

Next Tuesday, June 27, my dad will go back to get everything set up for his radiation and chemotherapy (MRI, CAT-scan, lab work). Treatments will then begin on Wednesday, July 5. He will go to HUP 5 days a week for 6 weeks to receive radiation. At the same time, he will be taking oral chemo at home. After the 6 weeks of treatment followed by a 4 week rest period, he will begin a series of oral chemo and a clinical trial drug, spread out over a year.

Thank you for your ongoing prayers. We are dependent upon them.
Blessings,
Kris

2006-06-19T18:01:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone. Thank you for your ongoing prayers, especially for your prayers today as we met with the neuro-oncologist at HUP. Our whole family (Mark, Nan, Jeff, Kris) was able to be at the meeting, and all of us felt very comfortable with the doctor. We believe that, once again, God has led us to the right person for this next leg of the journey.

We talked with the doctor about the plan for treatments, and tomorrow we will go back to HUP to meet with the radiation specialist and another meeting with the neuro-oncologist to set up the start date for treatments.

My dad will have 6 weeks (5 days per week) of radiation (at HUP) in combination with oral chemotherapy. After that is completed, he will begin receiving a clinical trial drug in combination with bi-monthly oral chemo for a year.

We are glad for a concrete plan of treatments. Pray with us as we go back tomorrow to meet with the doctors again.

This was a day that we felt could have been discouraging, but we all came out of it feeling encouraged. Your prayers are making a difference.
Thanks,
Kris

Happy 45th Wedding Anniversary!

2006-06-17T10:23:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone and thanks for your ongoing love, concern and prayers for my dad and our family. We appreciate them so much.

Today I invite you to thank God with us for blessing my parents with 45 years of marriage. In this age, this is a remarkable accomplishment, and we are all thankful for the testimony of their lives and marriage. They will celebrate by going *out* for dinner ... my dad got permission from the home nurse for this special occasion, so this is his first time out!

My dad continues his remarkable recovery from the surgery. He had the staples removed on Wednesday, and you can hardly see the incision scar because his hair covers it (for those of you who don't know, they cut very little hair for the surgery). He enjoys going for 1-2 walks each day, and his stamina is good. A few cat naps a day help. He receives great encouargament from the many cards, phone calls and visitors he receives.

For those who want to visit, please continue to call first before coming (215-721-2695), as some days he gets many visitors and we need to spread them out a bit. If you come, the best thing to do is to be yourself and have normal conversations (i.e. talk about your life and your family, how terrible the Phillies are playing, etc.) rather than asking my dad (or us) to go back and relate all of the events that have happened in the past 3 weeks (this can get a bit tiring ... and these events are listed on this page). Certainly you can ask him how he is doing, how he is feeling ... and marvel with us at how God has been working in amazing ways these past 3 weeks. God is good, and he "is able to do immeasuarably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen." (Eph. 3:20-21) We have seen many miraculous things happen in these past 3 weeks, and we anticipate seeing more!

Please be praying for my dad and our family as we meet with the oncologist at HUP (Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania) this Monday at 1 pm. Pray that we will have a good meeting and feel comfortable with the doctor, that we will receive helpful information, and that we will be able to get answers to the questions we have to help us in the decision-making process. At this meeting, we anticipate finding out the plan and schedule for treatments (chemotherapy and radiation). This meeting should also be helpful in processing the appropriate time for my return to Thailand. (What a blessing it is to be able to be here to celebrate my parents' anniversary and Father's Day.)

Thanks again for all of your support and prayers. My dad is overwhelmed by your expressions of love, and he says, "I don't deserve all of this love." We keep reminding him that he *does*.

May God bless each of you as you have been a blessing to our family.
Kris

2006-06-12T14:07:00.001-04:00

This is a repost of the update from Thursday, June 8. For some reason, the posting disappeared. Also, many people have had difficulty getting on the page in the past several days. Kris

Hello everyone,

Grace and Peace. I wanted to update you on the report from the medical team after Mark's surgery. The results of the pathology report are that Mark's tumor was malignant. They have decided to proceed with agressive chemotherapy and radiation therapy in order to prevent the tumor from re-forming.

Mark will be going back to the University of Pennsylvania hospital on Monday, June 19th to meet with the oncologist there. Treatments should begin in three or four weeks, after the incision from his surgery has healed.

As you probably realize, this was not the news that the Garises anticipated, especially after the successful surgery and Mark's remarkable recovery. When I met with Mark today, he said that since the doctors are moving ahead with aggressive treatment, it's time for us to enter aggressively into prayer. I want to thank you for all of your prayers and loving expression of concern and support.

Now, I'd like to invite you to continue in a season of bold, persevering, intercessory prayer for Mark, Nan and the whole family.

God's Peace,
Pastor Tom Delk

He's home!

2006-06-05T17:32:00.000-04:00

Mark came home from the hospital late this afternoon. He is *very* excited to be home! We are happy, too.

He is doing very well, but tires easily. He would be happy for phone calls or visitors. If you want to visit, please call first (215-721-2695) and limit your visits to a short period of time. We have appointed ourselves as the "Visitor Police". We want to see his good progress continue. :)

Please continue to pray with us as we await the pathology results at the end of this week.

Thanks so much for your support and prayers,
Nan and Kris

June 3, 2006

2006-06-03T19:55:00.000-04:00

Another good day! The doctors are encouraged with the progress Mark is making. He had physical therapy this morning and walked several laps around the floor usassisted, and did the same this afternoon. He told Kris it was "a piece of cake." Kris suggested that next time he do it backwards. (Just kidding.) The doctor said he won't need any physical therapy when he comes home. We know what your next question is ... When will he come home? We're not sure yet, but most likely early in the week. Test results will be in at the end of the week. Before we left today, Mark said, "Tell everyone I said hi and thanks so much for your prayers." We all know that they are making a difference.
Thanks,
Nan, Jeff and Kris

June 2, 2006

2006-06-02T21:23:00.000-04:00

Mark made a lot of progress today. He had a physical therapy evaluation, demonstrating good strength and mobility considering that this is just 2 days after brain surgery. He has no vision loss. His memory is quite sharp. Drs. Kim and Kelly Phipps of Messiah College stopped by. He amazed us when he brought up a college Board of Trustees topic, giving his opinion and reasoning at length.

He had his first post-surgery MRI, and we are currently awaiting the results. These are long days for us at the hospital. We regret that it's late at night when updates get posted. Mark and our family appreciate your prayer support and messages of encouragement.

Thank you so very much.
Nan, Jeff and Kris

2006-06-01T23:07:00.000-04:00

Mark continues the process of recovering from major and sensitive surgery.Thanks for your continued prayers. At this point, his family requests that you not visit unless you have checked with Nan first. Please pray for stamina forNan, Jeff and Kris as they walk through these long days and for Kris andNan in their daily sojourn from Souderton to the hospital in Philadelphia.I also want to remind you to take the opportunity to add your words ofencouragement to the blog. That's a great way to keep their spirits up.Thanks again, everyone, for your continued support and prayers.
God's Peace,
Pastor Tom Delk

2006-05-31T19:20:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone,
First of all, thanks for your prayers and for all the loving ways you have shown concern for Mark and for Nan and their family. Mark had surgery to remove a brain tumor today and I'm glad to report that it was very successful. Mark is now recovering in the surgical ICU and is expected to move to a regular room tomorrow. It's possible that Mark could be home by the weekend. We will keep you posted as things develop.
The pathology report will not be ready until next Thursday. However, they did find that the tumor originated in the brain and had not metastacized from somewhere else in his body. When the report is in, they will begin to make decisions about any follow up.
Kris, Mark's daughter, made it in safely to the hospital from Thailand at about 11:30 this morning. She was able to have a good visit with Mark before he was taken into surgery.
This morning, before surgery, Mark said that he had peace--and he knew it was because of all the prayer from his friends. Thank you for your ministry to the Garises during these days.

Pastor Tom Delk
7:29 p.m., May 31

2006-05-30T10:35:00.000-04:00

May 30, 2006

Dear Friends,

Please pray for my father, Mark Garis, who has been diagnosed with a brain tumor. He will be having surgery tomorrow, Wednesday, at University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia. He had no symptoms until a seizure led to a car accident last Thursday in which he was miraculously not injured. I had a wonderful time last month when he, my mom, and my nephew and niece came to visit me in Thailand.

I am traveling home and will arrive in New York city at 6:30 Wednesday morning. A friend will then drive me directly to the hospital in Philadelphia. We do not know the time of the surgery. Please pray that I will be able to get to the hospital with time to visit with my dad before he goes in for surgery. Pray for the doctors as they operate and then determine next steps to take.

God is good even in the midst of our trials. I have many things to be thankful for over these past few days, and God's hand has so clearly at work. Most of those details will need to wait for another email, but I just want to give you one. John and Becky Winger just arrived here in Ubon yesterday for a 3-week exploratory trip. We had various plans made for what they would do during their time here. Becky is a teacher, and we wanted to give them some opportunities to teach English. Do you see where this is going? Becky will be stepping in for me and teaching at Benchama school starting tomorrow. God is good.

Thank you so much for your prayers.
Kris

2006-05-30T10:34:00.000-04:00

May 29, 2006

You may have heard that Mark suffered his first seizure while driving home alone from a Missions meeting near Harrisburg on May 25. After being air-lifted to Reading Hospital, he suffered another. Further tests have identified a tumor on the right side of his brain. He has been transferred to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital in Philadelphia. A highly regarded surgeon there plans to perform surgery on Wednesday, May 31. There are some risks involved, of course. Mark is very alert and cooperative. All of his vital signs, heart readings, etc. remain very good also. Would you please join our family in praying for the surgery and his recovery? Kris will be flying home from Thailand, hoping to get here mid-day of the surgery before he goes to the ER. It's very close timing, but the fastest it can possibly happen. We appreciate your concern and prayers.
Nan

2006-05-30T10:33:00.000-04:00

Thur, 25 May 2006

To all-
Mark Garis was in a car accident, while returning from Grantham this afternoon. He is in the ICU at Reading Hospital awaiting test results. Please pray for Mark--for his recovery and for discernment for the doctors. Pray also for Nan, Jeff and Kris and the whole family. We will keep you informed as things develop. Thanks for joining Jesus in the work of intercessory prayer.

God's Peace,
Pastor Tom