1. Pray without Ceasing
“Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and find grace to help in our time of need.” Hebrews 4:16
Scientific studies have shown that prayer improves outcomes in patients. It is the unmeasurable variable in Mark’s treatment plan. Since Mark’s diagnosis, hundreds of people, some of whom have never even met Mark, are praying, and that is a constant encouragement and effective source of power for Mark’s healing. We believe Mark’s healing will come, not immediately, but “in due time”. Pray for Mark’s continued healing, for Julie, and for the children.
There are pictures on this web site to help you see who you are praying for. Mark’s desire is that God will be glorified even in these difficult circumstances.
2. Humor
If you know Mark and his family at all, you will know that humor is a part of joy of their everyday life. Even in the face of difficulties, it is good to laugh. Scientific studies have shown that humor contributes to healing. Feel free to send humorous cards, VCR’s, DVD’s for Mark and the family to enjoy.
3. Nourishment
Since Mark’s surgery, many people in the Prestonsburg United Methodist Church and others have provided food for the family, which has been a great help.
4. Financial Support
For those who want to show their love and support for Mark and Julie financially, there are two funds established at the Pikeville United Methodist Church for them. These contributions will be tax-deductible for the giver. You can send them to Pikeville United Methodist Church, PO Box 311, Pikeville, KY 41502
a. One is a general fund for unexpected expenses created by the cancer and need for treatment. – mark your check “Mark Walz Expenses”
b. The second is a longer term plan designed to help cover the educational needs of the family, a concern for any parent. Contributions will be used to cover both short-term needs such as tuition for public school for the children, and longer term to cover the costs of college, either thru pre-paid tuition plans or educational IRA’s. Mark your check “Walz Family Education Fund”
Other suggestions for financial support would be gas cards, phone cards (TracPhone and pre-paid long distance cards), gift certificates, coupons for eating places.
5. Messages of Encouragement
If you would like to encourage Mark and Julie and let them know you are praying for them, the best way to do that is to send cards or emails. (Tasteful humor is always welcome)
Send cards to : 244 South Arnold Ave. Prestonsburg, KY 41653
Email addresses: Mark:
Julie: juliewalz@hotmail.com
Mark Jr.:
Katie:
6. Limit Phone Calls
Mark and Julie appreciate people’s calls but already have had to take the phone off the hook in order to get their rest. Mark is extremely tired after chemo, and sometimes sleeps most of the day. They have set up an answering machine for you to leave messages, but you may not get to talk directly to them.
7. No Visits Please
Like anyone under significant stress, Mark and Julie have limited reserves and do not have the energy to entertain visitors right now. More than 15-30 minutes of visiting and they are both exhausted. Both of them need to rest and conserve their energy to fight the mental and physical battles at hand. Also, as Mark progresses in his chemo and radiation, his blood counts will drop, leaving him with no functioning immune system. At that point, visitors would only unnecessarily increase his risk of developing a life-threatening infection. Please help us to
do everything we can to maximize Mark’s chances for healing.