IT'S A NATE UPDATE...

[Judy Hayden]

Nathan met with the Oncologist on Monday to go over the results of the CT, MRI and Ultrasounds of the past couple of weeks. According to the findings of the MRI, the brain tumor continues to shrink, the CT scan and Ultrasound reveal nothing of significance. Apparently, the chemo continues to do it's work.... The count remains below 5.

His energy level is increasing slowly. He is back to work, but is working a short day, so as not to get over tired and run down. He's back to the gym more and more, and getting back into living life. His hair is beginning to grow back. He even has a beard. He said this morning that he was looking a little "scruffy." At this point, scruffy is good!

The next MRI/CT scans are scheduled for September 10th. Once these scans are completed the Brain, Back, Gammaknife and Head Radiation Specialists will all get together along with the Oncologist to come up with a plan of attack. Dr. Sardar explained to Nathan that the brain surgery will probably happen first and then radiation. They will radiate the spine as well, just to ensure that that tumor is completely taken care of. In Nathan's words, "I get to keep my nuts!" For obvious reasons, he is extremely excited about this.... All in all, GREAT news!

So, bottom line -- Sometime at the end of September things will get rolling. Brain surgery to remove the tumor. Full brain radiation to follow. Then, radiation to the spine for the T12 tumor. NO removal of the testicle. Yippee... Hope all is well with everyone out there... :)

[Dean Diebel]

Let's keep be positive and praying that thing's continue to go good. Hope to hear from you guys someday.
DEAN

[Sheri Dunham-Noss]

Hi Nathan~

I saw the article in the Sac Bee. It's been a long, long, time. The pic is my daughter, Sarah, age 8. I also have a son, Erik, age 7. I want you to know I'm fighting your battle along with you in my thoughts and prayers. Last time I saw Cody he was an infant. You had "great dad" written all over you, so I'm not surprised at how wonderful Cody and Daniel turned out to be as young men. You must be so proud. If there's anything I can do, let me know. I'm living in Orangevale now too, on Elm Avenue. Love you, Sheri Dunham-Noss. [e-mail]

[Nathan Boek]

so nice to hear from you = i'm going to contact you both asap.
love ya
nathan

[Sheri Dunham-Noss]

Hi Nate - I'm keeping positive thoughts for you as today is the day I read you're having another CT scan. Love, Sheri