Hi Mark,

I found one of the hardest parts of dealing with things early on was the uncertainty. I too searched the web for as much information as I could find. Let me say to you what many said to me. You are not a statistic. I was heading for a depression when I came across the 50% stat. Someone here(sorry to the kind person who it was that I can't recall at the moment) pointed out that the statistic includes even those who don't do anything and those who don't follow through with things etc etc.

If it does turn out to be cancer you should know that things will get tough for awhile but it is something thatcan be beaten. I'm not a doctor (nor do I play one on tv ) but I do know that the way in which you approach it can have a major impact. You already mentioned a few good reasons to put up a good fight: your wife and kids.

If you haven't aleady gotten it done, I would strongly suggest getting the sore biopsied. That way you will know for sure if you are dealing with cancer. If it comes back that you don't have cancer great! If you do, well ok, then you'll know what you are dealing with and what options for treatment are available to you. Whatever the results we will be here for you.
My prayers are with you.

Peace,

Fr. Mike