Choose your Dr. and facility wisely.

Ribbons

I just feel like I have to comment on this. Especially since reading about lack of compassion and a Dr who was not a good match. After my diagnosis, I researched treatment facilities and Drs. I didn’t want to go to our nearest large town, Salem, OR. (I try to avoid Salem whenever possible. Lol) I knew I wanted a female Dr. Who was an ONC/GYN surgeon, and I wanted a cancer specific facility. That quickly narrowed it down and even though it was a 45 minute drive from home, depending on traffic, I know I made the right choice. I go to the same clinic as the one Harmanygroves started with, and I think I had the best care possible, but I have a different Dr. I don’t think it is fair to dismiss the whole facility because of one Dr. It was the right choice for her to go somewhere else though. I guess my point is to do your research and remember this will be a long term relationship. Hopefully you end up in good hands, if not, don’t be afraid to shop around.

cmb

I've been sorry to read about women who have struggled with their medical support, either in the initial diagnosis, through surgery, chemo and/or radiation. Until I started reading this site after I had concluded treatment, I had assumed that most women shared my experience. I was very satisfied with my pre-diagnosis experiences, the doctors I used, the oncology nurses, the treatment process, post treatment exams, etc. I didn't realize that I was just lucky.

My oncology nurse who delivered the first four chemo cycles was very kind and efficient. Since I don't like to recline in a chair, but do like my feet up, she would even bring out a supplies box from the back so I could prop my feet up and work on my laptop during the infusions. And she continued to provide support to me after my last four chemo cycles that were given in the hospital – when I really needed her extra help the week after treatment.

The hospital oncology nurses weren't the same each time I was in for treatment, but there was really only one that I can recall who was rather disorganized, specifically when it came to release time. Otherwise, I found them very attentive. The radiology technicians and staff were also easy to work with.

My gynecological oncologist is very capable (and always has a nurse in the room while doing exams). But I can see where some women might find him off-putting. In my first meeting with him, he told me that they would be recommending an aggressive treatment plan because if my cancer came back, it would be a "life ender." Now, being a pragmatic person and having already researched the survival statistics associated with carcinosarcoma, I wasn't upset by this comment and appreciated his frankness. But I can understand that this comment could have really bothered someone else.

I know now that I was fortunate, not just in the timing of my treatment (pre-COVID) but in the quality of the support I received. It's very important to feel comfortable with who's providing the care, as well as the treatments themselves. So I agree with Ribbons and others who have advocated changing facilities or doctors when things aren't working out with your original choices. 

Lyn70

Ribbons,

I first went to my Primary with my symptom of post menopausal bleeding. My primary recommended a CT which reported fibroids. My Primary insisted I see a gynecologist for an exam. My insurance provider guided me through the process of finding a gynecologist within network. The gynecologist did a vaginal ultrasound and then a biopsy. The same gynecologist recommended her father in law who is a GO. I had my hysterectomy at a hospital associated with the practice. I have been very pleased with my GO and my treatment plan. I live within 3 miles of the facility for both chemo,radiation and pelvic therapy. I was truly blessed. I was totally unprepared for the consequence of what I deemed a minor issue. It never occurred to me to research where I received treatment and frankly thought that was not an option.

Now here I am Stage IIIA, extensive lymph vascular space invasion and high risk for a reoccurrence. I have already decided that should I have a reoccurrence, I will seek a second opinion if I am not satisfied with my GO's approach. Siteman Cancer Center is in my city.

I have learned the importance of being my own advocate and of the many available treatments from wise women on this board like you. Thank You.