Saturday, November 13, 2010

Final Sunset 11/11/10

This photograph was taken at sunset in Crystal Beach, our home and one of Mark's favorite locations to take pictures. The day was 8/23/06, and he had just been diagnosed with a brain tumor. Our smiling faces are deceptive because there was an air of fear and uncertainty of what the future held. He didn't know how much time we had left together as a couple. I am so grateful that he was given an additional 4 years, 2 months and 19 days to live after this moment was captured.

Although Mark's life post-diagnosis was filled with surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation treatments and countless side effects, he was able to have some enjoyable experiences as well. One of his favorite outdoor pastimes was riding his trusty "hog" as he called it - a shiny red recumbent tricycle.

Besides having me as his caregiver and wife to keep his spirits up, Mark had his beloved cat "son" Karl as a constant and loyal companion. They were kindred spirits. Both battled disease with strength and dignity at such an early age. Sadly, Karl could not bear to witness his Dad's decline, and he preceded Mark in death by just 13 days. Now the two of them have reunited and crossed the Rainbow Bridge. The sunset is behind them, and better things are to come. We mortals that are left questioning why can find some solace in the belief that my two precious boys are watching over us. They patiently wait until the day we will all be together again.

22 Comments:

Anonymous fred said...

Thank you Laura. I've been to this site 1/2 dozen times the last couple of days. Not real sure why.

Thank you for sharing the pictures with us.

11/13/2010 4:46 PM  
Blogger Big Monkey said...

I understand why Fred. I am hoping to share some of Mark's experiences between the "hog" malfunction and the end. GOOD times like his trip to Pittsburgh in mid-September. I was just going through his photos from that visit. I hadn't even seen them yet.

11/13/2010 5:00 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

My deepest sympathies, Laura. As a 'blog buddy', we've never met - so I hope this isn't an intrusion!

Your husband was and is a great guy. He shared so much information and bravery through his blog, he is an inspiration.

My family and I are so sorry for your loss.

Sincerely,

Marilyn F, Regina, Sk. Canada

11/14/2010 1:13 AM  
Anonymous fred said...

I'm all eyes.

11/14/2010 10:57 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Yes, it's very hard for me to believe that I won't be following Mark's exploits anymore. He'll be missed.

Carson

11/14/2010 12:27 PM  
Blogger Tricia said...

Laura, Thank you for updating this site, You are very strong person, prayers are being sent everyday.

11/15/2010 9:45 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Dearest Laura, What a joy you have been to Mark. He was blessed to have you as a friend and wife. Mark transitioned bravely from his temporary home here on earth to his glorious pain-free home in eternity where we will all meet together at sunset. For now, sunrise is our only hope and promise that life will go on. Protect Marks Melon. It's his legacy and one heck of medical diary.

11/15/2010 11:31 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Laura, My deepest sympathies.

You and Mark have been an incredible inspiration to my wife and me during our cancer journey. Thank you for your transparency and example.

The Mark's Melon blog is a great legacy, thank you!

Warmest regards and press on, Rich

12/02/2010 12:11 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Laura,

I still come to Mark's Blog page at least once a week. I wait for the "continuation" of your additional remarks to come. There is still so much to write about with Mark's adventure, and I think his trip back to Pittsburgh in August is going to be a beautiful segment.

Know you are busy with work and trying to catch up on things, but please know we keep you in our prayers. We know that Mark is smiling at you and waving to all his family in the meantime....God bless you, sweetie, and be sure keep in touch when you are able.

Much love,
Mary & Bill Gregory & ALL The GregorySchindehete Clan

1/29/2011 3:01 PM  
Blogger Colleen said...

Nice photos especially the cat..

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1/29/2011 11:02 PM  
Blogger EmpowerOnline said...

Have gone through your writing ,heart touching,excellent,inspiring dont know how to explain.
Empower

2/04/2011 4:50 AM  
Anonymous Andrea said...

Laura, how are you doing? Please update us after all you have been through it would be great to hear of you on the mend. The life after a loss. That would be an inspiration for many. Let the legacy continue.

I am touched and am sorry for your loss and hope this finds you well....

3/20/2011 11:29 PM  
Anonymous pinnacle security said...

I can see a new dawn. The representation is well done.

8/24/2011 7:12 AM  
Anonymous phoenix dental implants said...

Im very sorry to hear that. Hope you could cope up very soon.

11/02/2011 9:05 AM  
Blogger BubbleExpert said...

Beautiful story. Just a random blogger passing through.

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3/31/2012 2:57 AM  
Blogger sakamoto said...

i'd like your pic , but i dont like your cat

5/20/2012 7:15 PM  
Anonymous uçak bileti said...

nice sharing. thank you

7/05/2012 7:42 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Laura, I came across Mark's blog a short time ago when I was researching the Ommaya Reservoir as a friend of mine just recently had one placed to treat a cancer in his spine. I just finished reading Mark's blog and wanted to say how sorry I am for Mark's illness and for your losses. I realize I am writing almost 2 years after Mark's passing, and don't know if you will get this message, but wanted to send my sympathy to you. Mickala

11/03/2012 9:20 PM  
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Anonymous Roofers Wesley Chapel said...

I recently lost my dad. He was my hero. He raised 4 girls on his own after my mother took off and left him. Only to find out many, many years later that only 1 of us was his biological daughter. Maybe he knew, maybe he didn't, either way he was a great man, and I miss him more than words could ever say. I love you Georgie. I want to raise the roof in honor of my hero.....my dad.

11/23/2019 8:24 AM  

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