I'm baaaack.

[mxz600]

I'll bet that no one even knew I was gone.

Well Spyder friends, it has been a long four months. It is with a heavy heart that I come to you with very sad news.

My beautiful wife of 38 years is losing her battle with cancer. We returned from CTCA in Zion, IL about three weeks ago with a prognosis of six months to two years. She has a rare and incurable form of cancer called pseudomyxoma peritonei (PMP). She has been in a fight for her life for five years, and she was winning the battle until just recently. Since March of 2009 she has endured 5 major debulking surgeries and suffered from 2 years of chemo and she kept WORKING THROUGH IT ALL. She is an amazing woman.

I am telling you this today for a couple of reasons.

• Please, if you feel anything abnormal, go see a doctor.

• Go to this website and read about this type of cancer. Not only is early detection important, it is very important that if any surgery is to be done, the doctors know what they are dealing with or you are doomed. http://www.pmpawareness.org/

• Never assume your doctor knows what he/she is doing. Chances are they don't. Do your own research.

• Give your wife a hug and kiss every day like it's your last, it just might be.

• Never put down people that trailer their Spyders to events, even if it makes you feel like the big man on campus. Maybe there are reasons and they just cannot physically do it.

• I have a newfound respect for people that carry the title of caregiver.

As of late last year we thought (rather the doctors told us) that the chemo was keeping the cancer in check. I had no idea that when we had our year end ride that would be the last time she would ever ride the Spyder again. I am so glad we made Spyderfest last year because if we hadn't, it would never have happened for the two of us.

[BikerDoc]

So sorry to hear of your trauma. You share some excellent insight and I hope you get everyday possible together.

[spydaman60]

our blessings go out to both you and your wife. it is just the two year anniversary of my wifes cancer detection and one year anniversary of the final chemo treatment. there is no way that even i can imagine the amount of pain and anquish that you both have braved! may the good lord look upon you both with peace and comfort and may your life always be filled with great memories of each other! god bless you both!

[ARtraveler]

Thank you for posting. Many things to ponder in your message.
Our thoughts and go with you and your family.

[PW2013STL]

Sorry to hear this! May every moment you both have together be great ones, and my thoughts and 's be with you.

[Jeriatric]

Bless you both.

[feetprints]

I do not know you, But I am sending prayers your way. Cancer hit here 4 years ago. Had all the chemo, radiation and surgeries recommended.. and now doing well..during that time we bought a Spyder as well. It gives one such a feeling of freedom. We had a special lift built to place the trike on our truck to be able to take it where ever. Sometimes the long days on the Trike aretoo much. You are right about tragedy giving you a new perspective and appreciation for Life, for Loved ones and for Caregivers. Blessings from My Wife and I to You and Your Wife.

[Chupaca]

All the best to you both.. Thanks for the wise information..

[PrairieSpyder]

I'm praying for your wife. And for you.

[Highwayman2013]

[SpyderSteve]

So sorry my friend!!

[Netminder]

Being a cancer survivor myself, that is some very sound advice! My wife was a rock during my treatments! My prayers go out to you both I hope you both enjoy every moment together. My wife and I send our blessing.

[revjvegas]

I cannot even begin to imagine what you and your love are going through, but thank you for sharing and reminding all of us that each day we spend with our soul mate is a precious one that we should not take for granted.

Our thoughts and wishes to both of you.

[SpyderAnn01]

Mark, I am so sorry to hear this news. I know you will treasure the time you have left with Connie.

[wyliec]

May you both continue to enjoy each other each and every day.

Thanks for the link. I've read it and book marked it.

By the way, I did notice your absence.

[Bob Denman]

You guys are in our thoughts and prayers
(And I'm pretty ashamed to admit that I thought you were just too busy enjoying the snowmobiles... )

[Raknid]

My prayers go out to you and your wife...

[eagleeye299]

God Bless. I will keep you and your wife in my thoughts and prayers.

[DunaJ]

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your wife. Thank You for sharing!!!!!

[maliamd]

I am so very sorry to hear your news. Life is so precious and we should live everyday to the fullest as you just don't know what is around the corner. My thoughts and prayers go out to the both of you. God bless.

[SPYD1]

Mark,
We are so sorry to hear this news. You guys have been in our thoughts and prayers since we found out a few months ago that things weren't going well. You both are very special people. Let us know if you need anything. We will be in touch!
love yas, Kevin and Jeanette

[Flanker]

I'm very sorry to hear of your ordeal! Sounds like both of you have worked very hard to overcome very long odds....................I know you'll both continue to take the path that's right and best for you in this issue. Kindest regards...........and you may be sure I'll keep both of you in my thoughts!

[bruiser]

Not much more to say. Prayers for both of you.

[Topshotta]

[otter28169]

I assumed the winter had been too good to avoid riding. We will be praying for you.