Losing my med onc - bummed!!!

StephN · 06-18-2006, 07:37 PM

On top of my other problem lately, I am losing my wonderful Medical Oncologist. He is pulling up stakes and leaving the misty woods here. This is SO upsetting, as I have been with him since 2000, and have every confidence in his ability to work with my body to keep my cancer at bay. Now, I am faced with the problem of accepting another doctor that I do not know at all. He is the top of the scale here, and there is no one else like him.
I think my plan of action is to set up a consultation or meeting with one that has been recommended before my July appt with the regular doc. This way I can let him know if I am feeling good about that change, or have time to try an alternative before he leaves here.

If I was in active treatment, it would be worse, as it is for some of my friends who are. Some of us are sticking together and sharing information on the other docs who would be available.
Funny that I had a premonition about this earlier this year - that my med onc was thinking about a change. He is also a professor here, as are all my docs.

karenann · 06-18-2006, 09:48 PM

Steph,

My med onc is leaving, too. I have only been with him for 18 months, but I just love him and I am very sad to see him go.

Karen

Lolly · 06-18-2006, 10:28 PM

Steph, I really sympathize with you. I know I'd feel really lost if I had to change oncs as I consider myself very lucky that our small burg has someone of his caliber here. I hope you find an onc you trust and have a smooth transition.

<3 Lolly

RhondaH · 06-19-2006, 02:18 AM

I TOO have wondered this as my onc is now head of the cancer center for the largest hospital on this side of the state ( I often talk to my onc nurse that I'm afraid he is spreading himself too think and will give up his practice, but she reassures me NO). Once a good relationship is established, this person is just like family and is IRREPLACABLE (especially when I hear what others have). Take care and Good luck.

Rhonda

pattyz · 06-19-2006, 05:58 AM

Yikes! This would be just devastating to me... My onc who supports all of my feelings and KNOWS what I'm about. My onc who 'designs' treatment protocals just for me...because I ask him to...

oh Steph. Your plan does sound like the best idea when having to deal with this. But sure wish you were not in the position to begin with...

xoxoxoxpattyz

Monique M · 06-19-2006, 08:12 AM

We moved approximately 1 year after my diagnosis. I trust my onc so much that I travel 8 hours round trip to stay under his care. So I can really sympathize with you.

Peace and Blessings,
Monique

Sandy H · 06-19-2006, 10:12 AM

I know this is a very difficult time for you but I am sure you will find someone who will take good care of you as you know what to look for. I am loosing my surgeon who is retiring, and doing outdoor guiding!! She is loved by all here and have yet to hear of any complaints of her not being liked. She lives for the outdoors and who knows may end up in your area as she is a pilot, registered guide, and all the rest that goes along with the outdoors!! Good luck in your search for an oncologist but remember you are in an area, as I understand, has some of the best not like in Maine! If that was me I would have to take what they gave me, move or travel for miles. Good luck sometimes the best is yet to come, hugs, Sandy

AlaskaAngel · 06-19-2006, 10:29 AM

Ow, ow, ow.... I'm glad you got through your most recent challenge, Steph, and am sorry you have had to. As usual, you have a game plan already in the works to try to find the best possible replacement even though it is not always simple. I agree with Sandy; close access is one of the best things you have going for you and I know you will make the most of it. Will your current onc be available to you for a second opinion if at some point you feel you really need one?

A.A.

juanita · 06-19-2006, 12:25 PM

My onc isn't leaving, but my nurse is. she's reaaly good at hitting veins and has always sat down and talked to us when it's slower in the office.