Jan 01, 2021 at 03:40 am

New Year's Eve Hope and Light

Update posted by Petronel Nieuwoudt

A New Year and massive steps forward for Mark and his family.

Whilst on Sunday morning, updates from the hospital revealed that Mark was struggling with his breathing, by the afternoon, he had been taken off the ventilator and remained just on oxygen. The swelling around his neck and leg were still extremely painful but he continued to fight through.

On Monday fantastic news arrived as the doctors decided to move Mark from ICU and into the high care ward. On Tuesday morning, the doctors removed Mark's trachea pipe and he remained only on oxygen.

By Wednesday morning another update daw Mark working with the physio and speach therapist as the exciting decision was made to move him from the high care ward and onto a normal ward!

News Year's Eve brought the news that the plastic surgeon had examined Mark and was very pleased with the healing progress of his mouth and jaw as well as the skin graft on his leg. Bone muscle tissue from Mark's leg was used to replace the cancerous piece of his jaw. How incredible!

The most exciting and emotional part of New Year's Eve was the video message sent from Mark himself. The medical equipment and swollen face, hoarse voice and slight dribble, did nothing to deter from the immense wave of joy at hearing our much loved Mark beginning to speak again.

Although there is still a long road ahead, there is no doubt as to the courage and bravery of this man and his family. To Mark, Marelize, Shannon and Logan, we all hope and wish for a bright, happy and positive 2021 for you all. You are not alone on this journey. Happy New Year, here's to an awesome 2021!

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