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A family update on Mark Thomas

Valley forum

Have you ever read a piece in a newspaper, or heard an item on radio, and never again heard anything about the person, event, or plan? I find it frustrating to not know how something turns out.

  I was cleaning out a desk drawer and found an article from the Index-Tribune in 1995 about our grandson, Mark O. Thomas. I thought some of you might like to know where we are now.

  Mark had a rare syndrome, Opsoclonus Myoclonus, and Ataxia. In 1995, he was two years old and we were having a yard sale at our church to raise money for a treatment not covered by insurance. Hundreds of people came by and bought stuff, many just stopped and made a donation. We were amazed at the generosity of the people in Sonoma.

  Mark turned 18 this year. He will probably never walk, but he gets around well with a wheel chair. He is friendly, lovable, and has the best attitude of any kid we know. He won’t be able to work (in all probability) but he does all he can to help.

  He is in a special-ed class at Montgomery High in Santa Rosa and can be there until he is 21. He has just moved to a new foster home in Sebastopol, after living for 11 years with a wonderful family who have a disabled son. He alternates weekends with us, his dad and mom. He loves music, video games, and food! He is a great joy to us and to his whole family.

  None of the doctors have been able to change his condition but, in spite of his disabilities, he is enjoying life. His many friends and family enjoy him.

For those of you who remember, thank you for your interest and monetary contributions. We appreciate all you did to help. Sonoma is full of wonderful people!