The Passing Of Marty Fitzhenry...update 1-2-2020

Thank you for the update, Dotty.  Marty, I'm one of your numerous fans, despite our never having met.  We are all hoping for a good outcome, and you can rely on being remembered daily in prayers for your healing.

Hi Marty,

I am at a loss for words to say to you. So from one survivor to another, beat this thing and get well soon. I am praying for you.

Tom McGriel posted:

Marty, As a stage 4 survivor, I can speak to the therapeutic and curative properties of "workin' on the railroad". St. Thomas Aquinas said "work is prayer" so I encourage you to invest both emotional and physical energy in your magnificent pike. During my recuperation it worked wonders. Having met you and Dotty at the Big E, several years ago, I know you have both the motivation and support to overcome this challenge. And besides, anybody who can build working catenary can do anything! Good luck to you both.

That is a truly great message, IMHO. I can’t say anything that would equal it. I only met you once Marty but I wish you and your family the best.

Hi Marty and Dotty:

Best wishes for a speedy and complete recovery, Marty. Chris and I will keep you both in our prayers. Keep getting better every day Marty; know that if we can do anything to help, we will.

With best wishes,

Bruce and Chris

Marty,

You don't know me.  But, as a result of all your fabulous posts and helpful advice, I feel like I know you. You're the real deal!  You will beat this thing  and be back stronger than ever!

God Bless.

Hal

Marty, 

Hang in there, we are all with you. Hope the treatment gives you positive results. Best of luck.

Andy

Prayers up to you Marty, from Nebraska for strength and healing.

Prayers up for you Dotty, for strength as well. 

I have never met either of you personally, but I feel comfortable in thinking based on the content in this thread that both of you are tough as nails, resilient, and a perseverant team.  I pray that you will be blessed with more time for one another, and I wish you all the very best as the summer progresses.

-Bob

Get well soon Marty👍

Here's hoping Marty has a good recovery and that he can be at York in October.

Marty - you are one of the best persons in the history of our hobby and have helped so many of us throughout the years. Thanks for that. More importantly, thanks for your friendship and know that all of your colleagues on the Forum and throughout our hobby are all pulling hard for you. On behalf of myself and my colleagues Rich, Stan and Geoff from East Coast Enterprises, our thoughts and prayers are with you for a total and complete recovery. Continue to be strong and we know you can beat this thing. God willing, we look forward to seeing you in October at the York Meet. 

Pat

We love you man!  Keep fighting the good fight! 

Marty, I put you in my prayer every night. I know that You are going to make it. Ed

Doty, Thanks for the update. You and Marty are in the prayers of many folks. I hope you can take some comfort in that. The best to both of you. I had to be cut on and it takes some time and determination to keep on going but Marty can do it. Hope to see the two of you at York in October.

I've read many of your posts, and appreciate all of the help that you have given to so many.

I can tell by your posts that you're a good man, and we all wish you well.

Alan

This caring community really appreciates the update, Dotty. You and Marty make a great team! I'm sure that's such an encouragement not just to Marty in this challenging hour, but to all of us.  I'm going to add my little voice to the choir wishing you and Marty every grace during this time.

Jim

Marty,

Never give up the fight. You can beat this. Listen to your doctors and do what they say. My prayers are with you. 

Oh, yes Marty. Lynley and I are looking forward to seeing you and Dotty in October. Because you WILL beat this. You WILL get better and you WILL get stronger to walk those aisles at the Fairgrounds. You WILL just do it!!

Besides, we want to join you both at Round the Clock Diner for some Wednesday night pie!  

I pray for you every time we drop by the forum. May every day be a little better than the last.

dottyperry posted:

Thank you all! (BTW: I'm fielding all questions and providing what answers I can. He hasn't felt like talking or texting on the phone, or getting online.)

 

Dotty. Thank you for taking the time to update us.   My prayers for you and Marty for a healthy outcome.

Also, being online or talking/texting should not even be a concern for Marty.  I'm sure he knows we all care.

Marty: let's beat this thing!!!

Dotty,

As someone else who is being and has been treated, second go round, I highly reccommend this site:

https://www.smartpatients.com/communities

If you find that you have questions or concerns that are not being addressed or answered you can get help here. When I was first diagnosed I made the mistake of contacting Dr. Google. Needless to say 99+% is garbage. Smartpatients participants is populated by  patients, caregivers, and medical personnel. Up to date information is generally readily available about clinical trials, etc. But equally if not more important is the support that is available, plus the support you find here is a tremendous asset.

May God bless.

P.S._If you ever feel that you may be in need of a second opinion you can get reccommendations for a specialist, not necessarily a general oncologist.

marty I havent been on the forum much lately and just saw this. my prayers and best wishes go out to you and dotty. you were always there for me with tech help when I needed it. so its only right that I will be there for you as a prayer warrior in this moment. may gods will for your life be done. may he give you a full and healthy recovery from this. 

GET WELL MARTY....

Marty, we met at the NJ Hi Railers Trainstock. I am sorry to hear of your health problems. I will pray that you make a full and complete recovery. 

Modern oncology, and medicine in general, has made tremendous progress in the last several years. I have been on ambulatory life support (hemodialysis) for the last 14 years. Surviving with renal failure for that length of time is a testament to modern medicine. Hang in there, Marty!

Dearest Marty and Dottie,

Our Church members are praying for you and we imagine you are on many a prayer list across this nation and the world. My friend an I have been to your house many times. He has since passed.  I just hope and pray that Marty gets better so that some day we can meet again and put the past behind us. We all make mistakes and have to pay for it with the loss and closeness that we once shared. I have to say that when I had you and Dottie as dear friends, it meant the world to me. I hope and pray that we can make amends before it is too late. Again Marty, you are in our prayers. 

ICRRE8

Marty our friend, you are in Ruth's and my prayers.

Dotty, thank you for taking care of Marty in his time of need.  That's true friendship.

Bob & Ruth

And LOVE!  ☺

Gotta keep the Old Guard on the roster, so hang in there. It's been a rough road, but you haven't driven off it, and it seems the roughest stretch is behind you now. Just keep looking ahead. Best to you and your wife. 

Marty we may have never met I always enjoyed reading your posts on this forum. always straight and to the point. You'll be in my prayers and I know you will beat this.

Hello, Marty & Dottie. I am sending morning and evening prayers to the Almighty that he will heal you and you will recover from your Cancer. You are a Great Man, and Dottie is a Great Lady to have at your side.

May God Bless you and Dottie, and from myself, and the rest of the Forum, I wish you a Speedy Recovery and I hope to see you again, whether it is October 2019 York, or in the future.

Michael 'Santa Fe Mike' Sudlow

Dotty and Marty,  My prayers are for you both.  

Marty, My hopes and prayers are with you. It was always a learning experience, and welcome  pleasure when you shared your knowledge with me making small repairs on locos at Vince's booth at York. Hang in there, and beat this thing. We'll all get together at York again soon!

Marty,

We always happen to cross paths randomly in York in the Orange Hall. It's always great to see you and Dotty smiling  and covorting (is that the right word?) with everyone. It makes York, York. You have a lot more signatures to collect for that wall of yours so get well and God bless you and Dotty.  Your in my thoughts and prayers and I hope to see you in October. BigRail

Prayers to you and yours........get well.

Wishing you all the best for a complete recovery.

Marty and Dotty,   I haven't been here on the forum much since I finally returned to work in April.   My thoughts and prayers are with you both.  Dotty,  I drive by the East St. Exit on Rt. 128 everyday on my to Watertown from Middleboro.   If there is anything I can do to help you guys out, please reach out and let me know.  Can be as mundane as stopping at a local store to pick something up to save you a trip.   Chris A.  

Marty is an institution in O-gauge. I have magazines featuring his layout from the early 90s, maybe late 80s. Hang in there, fellow train man.

Marty and Dotty,

I’m sending my best prayers and positive thoughts your way for good news on the treatment. I’m a cancer survivor myself so I understand the challenges. You two sure seem like an amazing duo!! Keep aiming for the October York!

We are deeply touched and amazed at the outpouring of prayers, good wishes and offers to help from our fellow forum members. I read every post to Marty, and we both appreciate you all...more than we can say. Treatment is ongoing, of course, and there's little change at this stage, other than he's lost some weight and is still tired all the time. His next chemo treatment is July 5, and radiation is still 5 days a week. I will continue to follow this thread and keep you all in the loop.  Thank you all.

Nothing but positive thoughts for Marty’s fight and recovery...and for you as well, Dotty, for being there every step of the way!

dottyperry posted:

We are deeply touched and amazed at the outpouring of prayers, good wishes and offers to help from our fellow forum members. I read every post to Marty, and we both appreciate you all...more than we can say. Treatment is ongoing, of course, and there's little change at this stage, other than he's lost some weight and is still tired all the time. His next chemo treatment is July 5, and radiation is still 5 days a week. I will continue to follow this thread and keep you all in the loop.  Thank you all.

Dotty, Thank you for the update. Like most of us here, Marty is in my thoughts everyday. All I can say is that i'm hoping for the best.

Marty and Dotti

You are both in my prayers.  Well wishes to you my friend.  As you can see you are not alone.  The testimonials of those posting here speak volumes.  Dotti take care of yourself through all of this as well.  

Thanks Dotty for the update. Just a little hint when I was going threw Chemo and Radiation I lost 45 Lbs, the doctor suggest ensure drinks with coconut oil in them to help retain and gain weight back. It worked but is slow. You and Marty are in my family's prayers and I know you have been offered this already, but if you need someone to bounce questions off of feel free to ask away!

May God bless both of you and your family.

Dotty,

Thank you for the update.  You speak of being touched by our response to Marty's illness, however, this is no one way street.  You are touched because Marty has touched so many lives, here at the Forum and elsewhere, in so many ways.  His comments, advice and humor are sorely missed and we want him back!

God is the ultimate physician and we are always in His care.  Prayers continue for you both.

Dotty I am thinking of Marty at this time he is going through his treatments  and hope he gets better. Praying for him.

Dottie, my prayers for you both.

Marty and Dotty you are in my prayers, I do believe in miracles and Lord is  going to send you his Blessings and you will be OK

Marty and Dotty,

I haven't been on the forum lately, between work and coaching baseball I barely have time to check emails. I am so sorry to hear that you are going through this. I'm sure the prayers of all of the wonderful people on this forum and in the model railroading community will be heard, you will turn this around one battle at a time, and win the war. We will continue to pray for both of you and look forward to seeing you at York in October.

Modern medical practice has much to offer, and hopefully will prevail for Marty! I have been alive for the past 14 years because of hemodialysis, and also multiple heart stent placements. At 76, I am very thankful for my excellent health care and state of the art medicine! Best of luck to Marty!

Linda and I think of you both and wish you the best.  Our prayers are with you.  Phil

Hi Marty & Dotty,

Keeping a good thought for you guys and hope the last treatment went as well as can be!!  

Best wishes,

This evening I had the good fortune of speaking with Marty.  He said he is halfway thru his chemo and radiation.  He said thanks for all the prayers and well wishes.

Lou  N

(this is my personal opinion - he sounded better than last week  We even talked about trains for a few minutes.  Please keep in mind that Dottie is the final word on how Marty is doing)

Thanks for the news, my prayers for him and his wife

Thanks for the update Lou, Its been a while since Dotti has been able to comment.

The prayers keep flowing heavenward!  Marty, keep on keeping on!

Thanks Lou! 

Good to hear. Marty needs to get better so he can tell me where I should sit for the OGR dinner at Quaker Steak & Lube like he did last year.

Good to hear something positive, I hope that it turns out to be more than opinion!

Fight it Marty, good folks like you are hard to find these days.

John

Dotty & Marty

My thoughts and prayers are with you both as you both fight your own medical battles. It's not easy and everyone either knows someone has gone through this or is going through healthcare issues themselves. Your positive attitude is key to winning this battle.

We're all looking forward to seeing you both at York again. This outpouring of love and concern shows how much Marty has meant to this hobby. So best wishes for a complete and speedy recovery!

Steve Tapper 

Prayers and Praise to God for all he is doing and going to do. Keeping you both in my prayers.

Curtis

Get well soon!  Best wishes for a speedy recovery!

Marty & Dotty,

Prayers continue, hope abounds, Providence prevails!

Dotty and Marty,

We're still thinking about and praying for you guys. Stay strong.

thanks Dottie for the updates and sending many prayers your way and asking for a miracle cure.

Alan

Update on Marty: We saw the radiology oncologist yesterday . Marty completed the 25 radiation treatments to his leg tumor, but the doctors weren’t happy with the results. Fortunately, the additional  super- blast 8 additional radiation treatments he just finished worked. The tumor has shrunk, no surgery needed and the next appointment with radiation oncology is in 3 months. Marty has an MRI on his leg and CT on chest scheduled for  August 21, to compare with the original scans. He's got 1 more chemo on August 26. We will know by then if the chemo is knocking down the secondary lung tumors. This coming Monday he's got to go back to vascular surgery. The tumor had caused artery and vein constrictions which caused blood clots, which in turn led to the discovery of the tumor in the first place. They're going to do a vein map on his right leg in case they have to do a vein replacement after all the treatments are done. There is still decreased blood flow to the leg even though the tumor has shrunk. It could resolve by itself, but they’re preparing in case surgical intervention is necessary. He’s in good spirits and sends all fellow Forum members a big thank you for all your concern, prayers and support. As do I. All together- GREAT news.

Thank-you for update Dotty. Glad it seems things are working, Prayers are with you all. 

Dottie, I'm happy to hear positive news from you and Marty. Best wishes.

MELGAR

That is really great to hear! We will continue the prayers for more good news!

Thanks Dottie, for sharing the good news about Marty!

John W

Fantastic news Dotty! Hope Marty continues to improve and can get back to trains downstairs! We know you guys have fantastic medical care there. We think about you and send you continued prayers and best wishes!

Bruce and Chris

Praise the Lord glad to hear the great news. Continuing on with prayer for Marty and you.

So glad to hear it.    Keep up the fight!

Glad to hear Marty’s situation is improved, prayers for you both.

It's great to hear that there is some positive news Dotty, please extend my warmest wishes for continued recovery to Marty.  I really hope he's soon able to get back to the trains and have some fun to take his mind off all of this.  If there's ever anything I could do for you guys, you just have to ask.

I thank God that Marty is improving and I continue to pray for wins in Marty's battles with cancer.

CurtisH posted:

Praise the Lord glad to hear the great news. Continuing on with prayer for Marty and you.

Same here!

Continued prayers for MARTY!!!!  We’re on the prayer train. Get well!!!!

Dotty, thanks for keeping us updated.  That is great news.  Our prayers for you both as you continue this battle.

Art

Dotty I pray everyday for you guys!!!

Dotty,

Thank you for the encouraging news!  Your strength and support are high among God's greatest gifts to Marty.

I hope you will be sure to take good care of yourself!  Yours is an incredibly taxing job, physically and spiritually.  Please find a way to get sufficient rest AND have at least a little fun.  God commands that we rest and that we do so on a regular basis, not just when we remember to do it or when we think we can get away with it.  This from a reformed workaholic...

Blessings!

Praise be to God! This is outstanding news! Thanks so much Dotty for your update. You just made my day.

Marty:

All the best to you on your journey to complete recovery. Great to hear about your progress and that you are in good spirits. All of your friends and colleagues continue to pray for you and we hope to see Dotty and you at York. 

Pat

https://www.chevrolet.com/upco...-generation-corvette

Dotty, thanks for the update;  I am very glad to hear that the doctor's visit gave news that enables us to have some optimism...   Sheila and I will keep both of you in mind over the next few weeks...  Let's hope things proceed on good path...  

JimQ posted:

Dotty, thanks for the update;  I am very glad to hear that the doctor's visit gave news that enables us to have some optimism....  

Ditto, Dottie. God bless you both and keep strong and positive.

Thanks for the update Dottie and bless you for your excellent caregiver role. 

I don't believe that there is  better care anywhere then Marty is getting in Boston. Marty,  I have you in my prayers every night.

Keep fighting Marty!

Thanks for the update.  We are thinking of you two.

Dotty, thank you for the update on Marty. You are both in my daily prayers, and I believe in my heart that Marty will pull through this and all will be well by him.

My God Bless You Both And May Marty Recover From This Sickness.

Dotty, 

Thank-you for the update. Like many others, I continue to keep you both in my prayers.  

-Greg

Made my weekend.  Good news is at a premium and we could all use as much as possible.

Manny

Thanks for the update Dottie. Marty, you keep fighting and we'll all keep praying!!!

That is great news! Thank you for the update and our prayers and thoughts still go out to you both! I know its a long road, but there is light at the end of the tunnel! God bless you both!

Great news, Dottie.......thanks for the update.....

Peter

Hi Dottie 

Thanks for the update , I’m glad he’s doing better and going in the right direction. I always text him to keep in touch, he’s also in my prayers everyday. 

Alex 

Dottie;

Tell Marty to keep punching.  York isn't the same without you guys.

GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!!  GOD bless you Dottie and Marty  " impossibilities are nothing more than a half heart effort of a quitter " and a quitter you are not !!!!!!!! RON down in New Bedford 

Encouraging news and may Marty prevail! ☺

Thank you for the latest update, Dotty!  Please tell Marty I am praying for you both!!

Thank you Dottie for the good news, you  and Marty are in my Prayers.

Dotty, as you can see he has a lot of folks pulling for him. Looking forward to more good news.

Modern medicine has made great strides, and thankfully the Boston area has excellent facilities! Couple that with Marty's tenacity and will to thrive, and he should recover! Our collective well wishes hopefully should also help!

Marty is a tough old bird, so I have high hopes he'll be back at the trains soon.  You can't keep a good man down, and he's certainly one of the good guys!

Dotty and Marty,

Thanks for the upbeat update. Good to hear good news. Now for the more important news. FOOTBALL SEASON STARTS NEXT WEEKEND!

Ready to battle. J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets. And where is that Wolf guy? Lol! 

Hope there is some more good news now that we're in September. Hope all is well Marty & Dotty. Prayers 🙏

Marty/Dotty though we have never met I still pray for you guys. Thanks for the update. Marty's "overhead wire brother" Don

thanks Dottie n Marty for the update, glad to hear some positive news, been praying for you both and finalyy prayers are helping! were all hear for both>

God Bless you both. keep in touch your friends forever 

Alan!

Marty has earned all of our support, prayers and accolades.  He is my closest friend and is one of those very rare human beings who gives more than he ever receives (as with Dotty).  He is my definition of the "Lone Survivor" but, as in the movie, he will NEVER  be alone and will always be in the fight.  God Bless Dotty and Marty who will forever remain a shining example of what makes this country so great!!

I miss you more than ever my friend!!

Jim

Friends,

As many of you know, Marty and I have been friends for many years. I spoke with him last night for about an hour. He continues to undergo chemotherapy for the tumors in his lungs. As is normal with chemotherapy, he has his good and bad days. I believe he is maintaining a positive outlook through all of the treatment he has undergone to date, as he is a fighter. Importantly, Marty is happy with the way the Patriots have been playing so far this season.

Erol

Please keep us posted Dotty and let Marty know that we are all thinking of and prying for him and you both.

locolawyer posted:

Friends,

As many of you know, Marty and I have been friends for many years. I spoke with him last night for about an hour. He continues to undergo chemotherapy for the tumors in his lungs. As is normal with chemotherapy, he has his good and bad days. I believe he is maintaining a positive outlook through all of the treatment he has undergone to date, as he is a fighter. Importantly, Marty is happy with the way the Patriots have been playing so far this season.

Erol

 

Thank you for the news - many are praying for him. 

locolawyer posted:

Friends,

As many of you know, Marty and I have been friends for many years. I spoke with him last night for about an hour. He continues to undergo chemotherapy for the tumors in his lungs. As is normal with chemotherapy, he has his good and bad days. I believe he is maintaining a positive outlook through all of the treatment he has undergone to date, as he is a fighter. Importantly, Marty is happy with the way the Patriots have been playing so far this season.

Erol

 

Thank you for keeping us updated

locolawyer posted:

 Importantly, Marty is happy with the way the Patriots have been playing so far this season.

 

I'll bet he is!   They sure took Miami to task!

locolawyer posted:

Friends,

As many of you know, Marty and I have been friends for many years. I spoke with him last night for about an hour. He continues to undergo chemotherapy for the tumors in his lungs. As is normal with chemotherapy, he has his good and bad days. I believe he is maintaining a positive outlook through all of the treatment he has undergone to date, as he is a fighter. Importantly, Marty is happy with the way the Patriots have been playing so far this season.

Erol

 

Thanks for the update Erol. When I talk to Marty I keep the conversation short as he is naturally tired from his treatments.  He is a fighter. 

If the Patriots winning helps with healing Marty, then I hope they crush all of their opponents. (Even the Eagles). Go Pats!!

I'd have to agree with you Brian, I'd sacrifice the home team if it helps.

Hey Marty, I'm not only prying for you but for the Patriots to rain Supreme!

Thanks for the update! Prayers are still going his way! Be Strong!

Marty and Dotty our prayers are with you.  Stay strong!

locolawyer posted:

Friends,

As many of you know, Marty and I have been friends for many years. I spoke with him last night for about an hour. He continues to undergo chemotherapy for the tumors in his lungs. As is normal with chemotherapy, he has his good and bad days. I believe he is maintaining a positive outlook through all of the treatment he has undergone to date, as he is a fighter. Importantly, Marty is happy with the way the Patriots have been playing so far this season.

Erol

 

 My mother was a nurse. She helped numerous patients as they underwent treatment. She never talked about what she went thru. I could tell whenever someone in her care, passed on. When she got cancer, she refused treatment. She didn't wish to go thru what she saw so many times with others.

 I can't possibly imagine how bad the treatment can be. Later on a family friend underwent treatment, recovered, and said he won't go thru that ever again.

I do see a lot of good recoveries with others.

I don't post this to be negative here. I cherish Marty for all his values. I pray for comfort for him and God's blessings. I have to try and imagine what he's going thru. It breaks my heart and sometimes I get selfish.

 Let's pray for his strength and comfort during this treatment. If your not into religion, just say something positive out loud. I look forward to his positive outcome and recovery. I can't help but feel the pain right now.

( moderator, if this is too negative or gets criticism, please delete this without waiting. I hate to elaborate, & off train topic so far. Thank you for keeping this topic & posts)

Marty, all I can do is pray! You deserve better!

Marty,

Prayers continue for you and Dotty.  God bless you both.

To engineer joe,

Heartfelt and compelling thoughts, I am 100% sure the moderator sees this too. All the best to Marty!

Continue Prayers for Marty and Dotty

God Bless Dotty and Marty,  you are in my prayers.

Update: December 2, 2019. A few weeks ago, Marty had an MRI of the leg tumor and a CT scan of his chest. The leg tumor is still shrinking. The secondary tumors in his lungs, unfortunately, are starting to grow. A different chemo drug was ordered, he had 2 treatments in 2 weeks. A week ago, he woke up very disoriented and his speech was slurred. Took him to the hospital, his brain had swelled from the chemo. They released him from the hospital on Wednesday, his birthday, he spent Thanksgiving with us (I had called his family, and his grandson flew down from Newfoundland the 22nd, his daughter flew down the 27th). Friday morning the disorientation and speech problem were back,  the ulcer on his toe was infected, and the increased pain could not be controlled with the medication that he's been taking since June. Took him back to the hospital, he had NOT had a stroke, TIA, blood infection, or anything else that would have caused this. They did a CT and an MRI on his brain and found 2 cancerous lesions 3 mm and 8 mm. We are waiting to see what our options are, since he can't be released from the hospital if he still has the toe infection - which he does and is having IV antibiotics, the pain is only controlled with IV medication, radiation to the tumors will temporarily shrink them - hopefully, and the confusion and disorientation doesn't ever go completely away. The doctor told us to start thinking proactively about hospice. We've known from the beginning that this will be necessary eventually. I have been reading him posts from the forum, and Erol Gurcan's thread wishing him a Happy Birthday. He is appreciative and touched by the response. He's tired, doesn't usually answer his phone, doesn't want visitors, and we're just trying to keep him pain free and comfortable. Thank you all for keeping him in your thoughts and prayers. By the way - his grandson is downstairs running the trains.

Prayers for Marty, Dotty, and family.

Thank you DOTTIE for the update.  Continued prayers for MARTY.

I am so very sorry to hear this news; my thoughts are with both of you. May he be kept as pain free as possible. Cancer is an insidious disease. It took both my father when he was only 54 and my wife when she was just 40. Remember there is always hope and miracles do happen. Stay strong.

I am very Disheartened by this news, but still praying for the whole family.

I will keep his Steeple Cab kit at the ready when ever he wants it. Love to you both. Don

Really sorry to hear this. John

Dotty:  Thanks for the update, I am sure it was difficult to write that up for us.   I will keep you, Marty and your entire family in my prayers.   Hoping that they at least find a way to manage the severe pain and discomfort.  Chris A. 

God bless!!❤❤❤❤❤

Dotty, I am praying for Marty, You, and the family!  Thank you for the update which I'm sure was difficult to write.  I'm glad Marty's grandson is running the trains right now!

So sorry. So sad. God bless.

When I first joined this Forum, I had a problem with a MTH locomotive....Marty put up a picture of the problem area and I was able to repair it myself.....thanks to him, I’ve learned how to make this repair myself, save a lot of time, money, and aggravation.....and for that, I’m grateful!...get well Marty, and thank you Dottie for reading these to him!........prayers sent!..........Pat

Dotty; I believe in miracles, and will keep praying God grants you and Marty one

 Franky-Ogee

I'm sure Dottie it was very hard for you and Marty to deal with this all but  always remember hope n pray you can both be strong God knows it not easy, and if there is anything I can do to help please feel free to call or write and I'll do what ever I can for you both ! I'm still praying for healing miracles and hope and pray God intervenes n cures him completely.

Your friend always and forever Alan tell Marty hang in there as best he can!

Alan Mancus 

So sorry to hear this news. May God bless you and your family. Praying for a miracle 

Yes this is bad news, but there is a higher power in control of our lives. Marty has many prayers going his way, and is in good hands. He has a great support system with his family and many friends all over the country.

Grace and peace to you both.

God's speed.

Dottie, God's blessings on you as Marty's caregiver and our link to our friends in need.  Prayers for you and Marty and his healers--praying for miracles.

Note:  Dottie's update on Marty's health is approx. 17 or so posts above mine.

Dotty has been keeping me (and others) informed through texts and so much of this news I already knew....and have frankly been very upset about.  Marty called me a little over a week ago and was very positive about his upcoming new chemo.  We didn't talk long because he is very weak but the time we had together on the phone was very special. 

Marty has been a close friend for years and is an ambassador for not only our hobby but for OGR!  We all are praying for the best outcome....and I can tell you that Marty has the most devoted and loving partner in Dotty....  We love them both!!

Dotty you, Marty, and the family, are in our prayers.

God has a plan for each one of us. God bless.

Dotty,

Thank you for the update. We will continue to pray for you and Marty. Stay strong. Anything is possible with the Good Lord Almighty. 

Don't usually post on here. Marty I hope everything goes in your favor.

Dotty, it's difficult to read this news, I was so praying for something quite different.  I still hold out hope that Marty can turn this around.  Please give Marty my best wishes, and try to stay strong.  You know we're all pulling for him.

God Bless You Marty! We're all pulling for you.

John

Dotty, I have followed Marty's solutions on the forum; when I needed some small screws for my Big Boy smoke unit, Marty sent me some immediately; will never forget his kindness; you and Marty are in my prayers.

Not as encouraging news as we have all been hoping for but but Marty is strong willed and your even stronger Dotty hang in there.

Sorry to hear the news about Marty. He's in our prayers. Stay strong man!

Prayers  galore Marty and Dotty.  

That’s it Marty! Fight like a Warrior. No, one knows what miracles or cures are coming tomorrow. 

Thank you Dotty for keeping the forum informed.  It's amazing the kinship I feel with other forumites who I have never met in person.  Marty is a pillar for our hobby and so many of think of him as a friend.  Many prays for him, you, and your family

Dotty,

thank you for the update, certainly challenging news. Marty, you and the family are In our thoughts, and praying he can get more comfortable.

Dotty, thanks for the update. I am so sorry to hear about this unfortunate turn in events for Marty. My wife and I will continue to pray for Marty and you. 

Pat 

My wife and I continue to pray for Marty, you and your family. Paul 2

Praying for Marty and you. As a caretaker, I know that this has really been hard on you Dottie. Just know that Marty is in God's hands and is the great physician.  Praying for the doctors, nurses, and everyone else that has contact with Marty to get him healed. We all know that you have taken great care of him. May you rest tonight and be refreshed in the morning.

I am praying that things can yet make a turn for the better. 🙏

Dottie, I am very sorry to hear this news. I will be praying for both you and Marty. I sincerely hope he can make a recovery. I only met Marty one time and it was at the NJ Hi-Railers but if there is anything, anything at all you I can do in central NJ please do not hesitate to ask. It would be an honor. Please tell Marty I said, “Go Patriots!” 

I’m so sorry things are this rough. Whatever the very best course is, whatever the greatest blessings may be, whatever help can come or good can be, may it be yours in abundance. 

Marty. You have my prays tonight. Stay as strong as you can and know if it is too much that you are in the hands of our Lord. Peace to you and to all you have touched. Looking at the responses here on the forum one can see that that is many. God Bless.

Forest

Thank you Dotty. Praying for Marty, you and the family. I will keep all of you in my prayers. Fight like heck Marty, we are with you. Bless you.

Andy

Bless you, Dottie for being the kind person you are, and a match for a kind person such as Marty. As GRJ said...not the news I wanted to hear...but hear us Forumites root for you, Marty.

So your grandson is playing with trains? Well done sir!  I hope for you only the best ....

Keep fighting Marty!  Miracles DO happen and Jen and I are praying for one.  We add ours to the chorus of prayer on your behalf.

As GRJ said not what any of us wanted or expected to hear. Marty, Dotty, and family, keep hope alive. Don't let any of this lock you away from the ones you love and enjoy. Sometimes being sick(whatever it is) can make us lock ourselves away from those we interact with and love. Don't let this do that to you. Some days you don't have a choice, so do the best you can.

Know this, we all have you in our prayers. From those that have know you for years and years, to those that have met you once or those that have just read your articles.

Keeping you in my prayers and hoping.

Dottie - thank you for being so strong for Marty.  Please also take care of yourself at this very difficult time.  I've never met you or Marty but from reading posts by Marty over the years, I feel that I do somehow know you both.  My prayers and meditations are with you both.  May somehow some way Marty pull through.  

Roger Wasson posted:

Praying for Marty and you. As a caretaker, I know that this has really been hard on you Dottie. Just know that Marty is in God's hands and is the great physician.  Praying for the doctors, nurses, and everyone else that has contact with Marty to get him healed. We all know that you have taken great care of him. May you rest tonight and be refreshed in the morning.

I can only humbly add "Amen."

So sorry to hear things are not going well, please know our prayers are with you and the family, get well Marty,..Phil

Dottie, thinking of you and Marty....

John W

Dotty,

Thanks for the update. Our prayers are with you during this difficult time. I will continue to pray for Marty to recover.  God bless you both.

I will continue to pray for Marty everyday. May God Bless and Heal him. 

Alex 

Dottie,'

Thank you for the update. Continued prayers for you and Marty.

Chris

LVHR

Dotty,

My prayers are with Marty, You and family. 

While I only met Marty in passing at York a few years back, the conversation was wonderful. His posts here always gave me something to look forward to reading.

God Bless!

Dotty,

Thank-you for the latest update on Marty.  You're both in our thoughts and prayers as you fight to get through this.

-Greg

God bless the both of you. Praying for a Christmas miracle for you! 

We are all with you, Dotty and Marty.

Back in the 1990s, I was a teenager who bought an OGR video on VHS. Featured was a wonderful layout built by Marty Fitzhenry.  That layout with its tremendous service yard and vibrant backdrops burned into my young mind. I was inspired! The builder, Marty, seemed like a straightforward and friendly guy. Like most productions, though, creative editing and rehearsing can make the most curmudgeonly sort come across like the pied piper. 

A few years later the OGR Forum went live. Guess what? Online, Marty Fitzhenry was the same straightforward and friendly guy I watched on that VHS tape. I also found him to be encouraging and unselfish with his knowledge of this unique and tight-knit hobby.

For over 25 years whenever I think of OGR I think of Marty. He’s been a positive influence on me from my youth to about middle age. And he’ll continue to be exactly that for the rest of my natural born days.  

Thank you, Marty, for being the human being you are and all that you have done for this hobby and our community here. We are all better for it.

The Marty Fitzhenry story hasn’t been written yet. With much optimism and prayer, may there be a few more chapters yet to write.

So sorry to hear this. May God be with both of you.

Dotty,

Thank you for the update, and for keeping Marty strong. There aren't sufficient words for a dedicated caregiver like you've been; I'm sure there's a special place for folks like you on the other side. Sorry to hear the news is not good. I continue to keep you and Marty in my prayers and hope for a miracle at this point. They do happen!

God bless you both.

Chris

Prayers for both of you.

Continue prayers for Marty, continue prayers for all of you,having to deal with this, as it is hard on you all. 

Lynley and I continue our prayers Dottie for both you and Marty. Thank God that he has an Angel like you to care for him. We always love spending time with you both at Train gatherings and we look forward to more. Believe in the power of prayer!

As I’ve said before, Don’t give up!  Don’t ever, ever, ever give up!!

Lots of love to you both.