Dr. Christensen reports that Henrik's surgery this morning lasted three
hours. Dr. John Marsh talked with the family and the news is
concerning. The tumor has been diagnosed as malignant and fast
growing. The name of the tumor is glioblastoma multiforme and is a tumor that
only occurs in the brain. The doctor is further concerned because it is
fast growing and typically reoccurs. The doctor will plan a regiment of
chemotherapy and radiation which is yet to be prescribed. They will
know more about motor and mental functions over the next 24-72 hours.
The family is positive and hopeful. Henrik has been able to communicate
when asked questions. He is able to move his right foot and leg and
wiggle his toes. He is also able to raise his right arm and move his
right hand. When his father asked him to wiggle his fingers on his
right hand, he could not. When his father asked if he could move the
fingers on his left hand he responded with "the finger". When asked to
name the current president of the United States his response was "I do
not want to talk about him." When pushed further Dr. Christensen said
his democratic son quietly said Bush. Further pathology reports will be
known over the weekend and further correspondence will follow. Dr.
Christensen and Sandra are staying at the Courtyard by Marriott and the
address is 161 13th Ave. Rochester, MN 55902 if you would like to send a
card.

Jeanine

Henrik's parents report that Henrik is schedule for surgery this
morning, January 20th. Dr. John Marsh, Mayo neurosurgeon, will perform
the surgery. They are very confident he is in excellent hands. He is
in St. Mary's Hospital and will be there for several days. Your prayers
and thoughts will be appreciated.

Jeanine

A Message from Henrik Christensen:

Hello-

I'm writing to let you know about some recent developments with
my health. This week, I learned I have 2 masses in my brain (a 2 and one
half inch in the left parietal and a three quarter inch in the right
frontal). A full body CT scan showed no other growths which is promising
news, but we will not know the nature of the masses until more tests are done.

The preliminary examinations were done by physicians in Lawrence, but we
have decided to pursue further medical care at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

My family and I will be meeting with an oncologist on Wednesday and a
neurosurgeon on Thursday. I look forward to getting some results and
answers to my questions.

At present, I do not have any pain. My symptoms include some numbness
in my right hand and foot. I am having trouble verbalizing what I am
thinking. And, my handwriting is worse than ever.

We will keep in contact through e-mail as we learn more. My parents will
send updates through Dad's secretary, Jeanine Van Becelaere at Pittsburg
State. jvanbece@pittstate.edu

My parents will be checking my email.

My family and friends have been very supportive.

As ever,

Henrik