False Start

I did not start chemo today as planned. It's kind of a long story......I'll try to condense it. I've been pursuing a second opinion on chemo treatment from a prominent doctor at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York. It's required lots of patience & persistence to determine how to get this from a distance. I celebrated a big victory in this process when my oncologist here in Phoenix spoke on the phone to the oncologist at MSKCC in New York about my case. My oncologist tried to phone me twice on Friday evening to share his conversation, but unfortunately I was not home. So, we arrived at the office today hoping their recommendations would concur. This was not the case. MSKCC doctor is recommending a different protocol from my oncologist here. They are both proven effective, but have different side effects. These two treatments are highly debated and doctors find themselves in one camp or the other. My doctor is willing to administer either treatment. It is our choice. Since we arrived back home earlier today, we have poured over trial data & opinions on-line. It's overwhelming and we have not come to a decision, yet. I rescheduled my chemo start date to Thursday, April 30. If you want to know more about the two treatment plans, this site has a nice summary: http://www.webmd.com/treating-her2-breast-cancer/benefits-start-adjuvant-treatment

Today may seem like a disappointment, but I don't feel that way. I'm thankful to know the approach MSKCC would take....they are one of the best cancer centers in the nation. I feel empowered to make an informed decision. I need to balance the pros & cons of each, make a choice and never look back to second guess. I'll get there....after a little more reading & praying.

Good day! Love, srb