Mark Rundquist was given the diagnosis of cancer last Christmas Eve.  It started on the back of his tongue and a PET scan showed the cancer spread into a lymph node in his neck.  Mark went on to surgery #2 to remove that lymph node, but once the surgeon opened up Mark's neck, it was discovered the node was dangerously close to the carotid and jugular and could not be safely removed. 

Ultimately, Mark was sent to a microsurgeon at U of M.  On March 10 Mark had surgery there and the surgeon was able to remove the cancerous node.  During the process, the surgeon removed part of Mark's jugular vein, part of a muscle, as well as 19 other lymph nodes to send them for microscopic analysis.  The pathology report showed one of those 19 other nodes had cancer as well, which wasn't picked up on the PET scan. 

Now, two months later, and many doctors' appointments later, Mark will be starting radiation 5 days a week for 6 weeks.  

Mark has had 3 surgeries since December 8 and the reality of the financial burden is starting to hit home.  We hoped not to have to ask friends and loved ones for help, but two of the three surgeries were in excess of $35,000 each.  We do have health insurance but it only covers so much.  I (his wife) will need to continue to take time off work to support and care for Mark and I will soon have to start using FMLA which does not pay you, it merely protects your job.

Even if you cannot afford to help, we ask that you please keep Mark in your thoughts and prayers.  We appreciate everyone's support over the past few months and thank you in advance to any help you can provide! ❤