Re: New member - has questions

[deemarie]

omg cancer came back after a year, herceptin stop working and arimidex. I had 3 scan found nodes then six months later they came back then they were gone now they are back. My dr knew what they were the first time,why she did not take action i dont know. I have appointment with her tommorow concerning a clinical trial. I want to change dr but dont want to hurt her feeling she really is wonderful. I am so alone in this fight no family or friend at all. I have somewhat been a solitary person all my life. can anyone give me any advice? pray fro me

[lk1]

Deena Marie,

I have skin Mets which my dodctors ignored,. I actually just changed doctors because of this, so definitely don't feel bad about hurting their feelings. I am now in with another doctor and will opefully start new treatment Wed. I'm ot even finished with Herceptin yet.
You need to do what's good for you...not for the doctor. I am very angry my doctors ignored my rash for 2 months. I could've been in treatment already..

Be well and good luck

Laura

[Becky]

There is absolutely nothing wrong with getting another opinion. Also, nice and wonderful is great as long as there in competence added in for good measure.

My motto on doctors is that they are an employee I am hiring to save my life. I am not hiring a personality - if they have one, all the better but it should not be your top priority. However, I do want someone who will take their time with me if I have questions - likewise, they are very busy people and I don't waste their time either. You do need someone who can do two way communication well. Remember, you are hiring someone to save your life.

[MJo]

I am also a solitary person and felt alone during my treatment. The people on this board helped me a lot. I don't know if you are in a small town or a large city, if you go to a big cancer center or a small practice. If you go to a cancer center or a large hospital, please ask whether a social worker is available to help you. I've worked in social services, and it taught me to ask for help. Keep coming to this board and posting.

[krisvell]

DeeMarie;
You are NOT alone. We care about all the members on the HER2 site. Having a nice Dr is good but I agree with Becky, I think you want a Dr who will give you the best care. A 2nd opinion may be a good idea.
Kris....

[Trish]

Sorry to hear that things are so difficult for you. You are doing the right thing by coming here and by informing yourself as much as possible. The more you understand about your condition the more confident you will be about asking questions and asking for a second opinion. I am hoping things get a little easier for you.
Trish

[ElaineM]

By all means get a second medical opinion. Even doctors with wonderful personalities have their shortcomings. Doctors are human beings like us after all. They are not perfect. If your hospital has a social worker make an appointment to see that person. There might also be non profit organizations nearby that have some of the services you might need. The American Cancer Society and some hospitals have support groups. The American Cancer Society might be able to introduce you to another person in your area who has the same kind of cancer you have. You have us. You are not alone. Feel free to drop by this website anytime. Take good care of yourself. You deserve the best !! I am keeping my fingers crossed for you too.