Update!!! (With Lots of Exclamation Points!!!)

I talked to Dad on the phone this morning. He sounded happy and cheerful and better than I've heard him in a long time.

Here are some updates that deserve all the exclamation points I am going to give them:

He has gained over 30 pounds!

He no longer needs the feeding tube!

He has been riding a recumbent stationary bike every day (sometimes twice a day) for the past thirty days! He started out riding 15 minutes at a time and now he's up to 33 minutes!

Way to go Dad!

He has his appetite back!

He feels better than he did thirty days ago!

He enjoys spending time each day with his sweetheart and several grandchildren!

He still has pain in his hands and feet so he sees a doctor for the pain about twice a month. Because of this pain, it is hard for him to write emails or make phone calls. But please know that he would if he could! He really appreciates all your comments, prayers and concern. So please keep it up!

I asked about the Bone Marrow Transplant. He will be seeing his oncologist on September 20 so they will discuss his options at that time. Technically, he is in remission right now; but as we've mentioned before, he needs the transplant to beat the cancer completely. We'll update the blog as soon as we hear what the oncologist wants to do.

He still can't get around without the walker; with its help he can get around the house but doesn't get to make it outside very often. Although once a week he does leave the house completely to have dinner at Earl and Tifiny's!

Dad has beaten so many odds already and has come SO far. This has been a tough and trying year for the Roses but above all, we are so grateful for this man. His courage, strength, fortitude and attitude have been inspirational. Please continue to remember him (and Mom) in your prayers.

And we will continue to update you.

Please leave a comment to let Dad know you are checking in on him; your support is invaluable.