[kristen]

Hi Chelee,

I like your name, or user name. I don't think I can give you any better advice then what the other ladeis did, I just wanted to tell you of my experience with neurologists.
I was under the care of a neuro, when dx'd. So getting MRI every 6 months was a breeze. But when you sit down and talk to a general neuro, they don't know much about cancer. I think once you get dx'd. the onc. wants complete control over you and your medical attention so they don't want you going to outside sources unless they order it. When I asked my nuero about brain mets she told me all I remember from med school with BC is lung, bone, liver and brain. Therefore I got my MRI's. She is very pro in getting patients in to have them tested, unlike other mets, she feels that the earlier you catch brain mets the more options you have to fight. I know this is off the subject of what you asked, but what I am trying to get to, is they are right and that the BC is your top priority, but I would probably consult with a neuro anyway just so you have one that knows your history and can keep an eye on you.
Becky and I both had cysts on our ovaries and can tell you they are not pleasant. 2 things you can have done. Ask you onc to order a ultrasound or your ob to keep an eye on them and you can ask to have a CA-125 run, they are incredibly unrelialbe, so if you get a postitive, I would have them rerun it again before any surgical or other measures are taken, but remember your getting chemo, so even if you have some cancer in your ovaries, hopefully the chemo is effecting them too? Something to ask your ob. There are always options. You are not being unreasonable, just proactive and that is something this board taught me. If your onc, won't do what you ask them to, me personally, I changed oncs once and then just made my own apts with the docs in there perspective fields so they could keep an eye on me. I don't think they can do much while on chemo, but at least they will have your history because in fact when your done with chemo, your onc will send you to these other doctors anyway. Mind did. Chelee have you done research on how many BC's actually met to the ovaries? I don't think many if at all. Could it be OVCA, I don't know, I have never heard of the two together but that doesn't mean it doesn't happen, that is why I suggested the u/s or TM. Could the chemo your on, help out with the swelling in your neck? Something maybe to ask your PA or onc? Way to keep asking questions and staying informed. .

And Chelee, it is so tough right now the place your in. This is just the begining of a long haul and it does get easier. You don't have to get your reports from your doctors. Go to the hospital or center where you had them done, feel out a release sheet and they have to give them to you. Good luck and my best to you.