Friday, March 2, 2007

What we heard from Dr. Bergman...

...was the 'by the book' treatment path for moderate grade DCIS - lumpectomy followed by radiation followed by 5 years of tamoxifen. He took a lot of time to explain and clarified some things for us. We walked through the decision tree published for lay people by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. He said he used the professional version of this same guide.

Though I appreciated the time he spent with us and the understanding I gained about my particular cancer, I didn't find the appointment that satisfactory. It could be because I didn't hear what I wanted to: namely, that not having radiation treatments is a reasonable alternative. But I think it had more to do with the loud and clear assumption that I would just hop on the treatment train, no questions asked.

My next appointment is next Friday with the radiation oncologist (Dr. Bergman is a medical oconologist) and I'm scheduled to consult with Dr. Nash on the 14th. Until then, I'll be reading and considering and praying. And, blogging too.

1 comment:

LorraineA said...

Hi, sis, don't be downhearted about this, it is typical of what docs expect of us "mortals". DO keep on educating yourself so that you can make your own choices based not on just the opinion of a couple of people who don't know you, but on your own knowledge and intuition of what will work for you. You will be glad to be fully informed, whatever your decision. There is nothing wrong with your thinking processes, and this is a great chance to use them.