We were all shocked and saddened to find out this week that Mark has been diagnosed with Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML).  AML is a form of leukemia that affects the white blood cells (WBC) and inhibits the bodies immune system.   The term "acute" means that it can attack rapidly, so early treatment to stop the spread is critical.  

Mark started treatment immediately once the diagnosis was clear.  He is currently at Roswell Park Cancer Institute receiving chemotherapy and the initial signs are that he is responding as planned.  His WBC counts are improving and our initial hopes and prayers are focused on keeping the cancer from spreading to his bones.

This is a situation that no family wants to go through, and it just tears at my heart.  Just recently, we've had two young people in our family cirlce that have died from cancer and it is just so hard to go through.  I know during this treatment and healing process there will be a large financial burden.  Medical insurance will not cover everything and there will be a huge loss of income for Mark and the family as they provide care and help Mark on his road to recovery.

Our goal is to raise enough money to bridge the gap on family expenses for the next 6 months.  The stress of knowing a loved one has cancer is more than any family should have to bare and my hope is that all of Mark's friends and family will pitch in and help ease the financial burden that the family will be going through.

THANK YOU to everyone who loves Marky and is holding him up in prayer.  Prayer is ourSTRONGEST weapon and we need everyone praying for the medical staff at Roswell, the success of his treatment plan and strength for Mark and his family.  Your donations will be a huge help as they walk this difficult road.  Let's not let the Rougeaux family walk alone.  Please donate what you can to help Mark's battle with Leukemia.