Posted by Peg h (post) on 5/13/2008, 2:58 pm, in reply to "new to board"
24.121.87.50
Hi Rebecca,
Welcome to our support "network". Sorry that we had to meet this way. I found this site when i was midway through chemo almost two years ago. What a great discovery it was for me....gals so very understanding and supportive. We reach out to find the "fix" to so many of the speedbumps along the way. It is so comforting (if that is the right word) to find others experiencing similar situations. I finished all treatments...lumpectomy..chemo...rads last year for IBC stage 2.
In the beginning it almost seemed overwhelming....so much to learn....so very many treatment and lifestyle decisions to make.....and it seemed like so little time to devote to the task. A good friend in Houston...a bc survivor herself referred me to "Dr. Susan Love's Breast Book". It is one of the best resources...gives a complete picture of bc from diagnosis to treatment choices and beyond. It is a clear and easy read.
A few really important things..as you meet with oncologist.......Bring someone with you who will take notes. It is a lot to tuck into memory and those notes (or tape) will generate lots of questions and help in decisions that will be made. Your choice of an oncologist who sees you as an individual is soooo important. Your relationship with that onc and the ability to easily communicate will span over many months with ongoing follow-up visits. My first onc unfortunately was not a "connect" as far as communication was concerned. I did not change oncs until I was in the 3rd A/C treatment. The decision was not made until I had interviewed another oncologist and felt that it was "right". What a difference the change made! Follow your instincts about your choices...that works most often I have found.
I am sure the gals here will have lots of other information for you....please feel free to ask...vent....laugh...and...share your feelings. We're here 24/7...the light is always on
Hugs,
Peg
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