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Dear Chelee,
It sounds like you have been through the mill and feel more like just another number passing through; rather than a member of your treatment team. It also sounds like you are second guessing yourself and the contribution you can make as an equal member of your treatment team (ie, "I really need to know what is going on....I don't want to make waves....")
My suggestion is that you start right now having more confidence in yourself and what you have to offer your doctors....and you have a lot to offer! You know your medical history, your idiosyncrasies..(like missing ribs) and your surgeon is right! A gap or an anomaly in your rib cage can be a significant factor to consider when setting up radiation oncology treatment parameters. YOu are a vital member of your team.
Forget the literature, remember your important role as an equal team member. Politely but assertively inform the staff (perhaps the scheduling secretary) than you cannot procede with the treatments until you have had a conference with your radiation oncologist. Ask for his first available appointment and then go armed with a written list of all of your questions.
Finally, remember at the end of the day, the doctors are just regular "joes" like you and me. They work long hours, see patients non stop and deal with crisis on a daily basis. They know the treatment routines; but may be so flat out with patients that they get behind on reviewing research results. That is where you come in. Educate yourself so well that you are asking current and up to date questions. In the end, you are the only one who will be the best advocate for you, so get on your computer and get learning! Above all else, do not consent to any treatment until you have educated yourself and you have asked all the questions that you have.
You will do fine. You are ready for this next step. Meet with your doctor and let us know how it went!
Love Kim from CT
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