[Mary Jo]

Hi Bonnie,

I see my oncologist as far as all my "cancer" care goes so I'm really not sure what to tell you. I've had both breasts removed so mammograms are not a part of my life and the axillary mammogram isn't something I am familiar with.

As far as follow up tests go for me, it's a "wait and see" kind of thing. Symptoms warrant tests is how I've proceded. For the first 2 years I saw my onc. every 3 months. Routine blood tests were run and liver checks also periodically. Also a physical exam. Now that I have passed the 2 year mark I see my onc. every 6 months. Same type of things are done still - physical exam and routine blood tests. That's it.

I remember when I went to see my gyn. doc for the first time since he diagnosed me. I was so nervous to see and talk to him. I even cried I remember. I was a wreck. Something about seeing the man who told me over the phone that I had breast cancer stirred all kinds of things in me. I remember thanking him for "taking the bull by the horns" in my case and setting up 2nd opinion appointments for me in Milwaukee (where I now go) and just doing "all the work" for me. I was an emotional wreck and had not a clue how to proceed. He thanked me for sharing that with him and I told him I wanted him to know so he could be of benefit to other women in that way bccause it was a Godsend to me.

Anyway, I hope the appointment goes well and you get answered all you want answered.

Love to you Bonnie....

Mary Jo