This afternoon Bonnie met with Dr. Vincent L. Hansen at McKay Dee Hospital. The appointment included blood tests, a physical exam, and some well deserved comfort.
The doctor prescribed more thorough testing for Oct. 16th, where a PET/CT Scan and a bone marrow biopsy will be performed. The physical exam did not reveal any other swollen lymph nodes, although it did reveal a lump on her thyroid. This will be examined with the PET scan. These thorough tests will help the Dr. determine the stage of the Lymphoma.
So today's blood counts came back great. Additional samples are being sent to the lab. The Dr. seemed optimistic from the physical exam that the lymphoma could be in early stages, and Chemo may not be required. So from here it is hopeful waiting. Bonnie is pleased with Dr. Hansen, feeling that he is thorough and she is in good hands.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Choosing an Oncologist
Today's task: Selecting an Oncologist.
Choice 1, the only Oncologist in town. We've heard we are lucky to have ONE, and that he is good, but patients are not always satisfied with his bedside manner. They say they are sometimes unclear what is happening or why, contributed to by his lack of explanation and/or his heavy accent. As of tonight, Bonnie has an appointment with him for tomorrow. (Wednesday)
Choice 2, the popular Ogden Oncologist. It turns out he is a relative (Cousin twice removed? I have never been sure how to calculate that.) We have also heard good things about him from friends of patients, and glowing reviews from his receptionist to boot. Things to the effect of: "People have gone to the Mayo clinic and they sent them back, saying "Why come here when you have a fabulous Dr right at home?" So he gets good reviews and seems more welcoming being in the family and of the same religion. Bonnie has an appointment with him for Thursday.
Once a Dr. is chosen, the plans should begin to fall into place and more posts will follow.
Choice 1, the only Oncologist in town. We've heard we are lucky to have ONE, and that he is good, but patients are not always satisfied with his bedside manner. They say they are sometimes unclear what is happening or why, contributed to by his lack of explanation and/or his heavy accent. As of tonight, Bonnie has an appointment with him for tomorrow. (Wednesday)
Choice 2, the popular Ogden Oncologist. It turns out he is a relative (Cousin twice removed? I have never been sure how to calculate that.) We have also heard good things about him from friends of patients, and glowing reviews from his receptionist to boot. Things to the effect of: "People have gone to the Mayo clinic and they sent them back, saying "Why come here when you have a fabulous Dr right at home?" So he gets good reviews and seems more welcoming being in the family and of the same religion. Bonnie has an appointment with him for Thursday.
Once a Dr. is chosen, the plans should begin to fall into place and more posts will follow.
The beginning
It began with swollen lymph nodes, which led to physical exams, mammograms, ultrasounds, and finally biopsy. The initial report was promising, the lab result contained the diagnosis. Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma.
Then came the outpouring of love through phone calls, visits, and gifts; as well as the need for repeated, tearful explanations.
And so this blog was born, to fill the need for information and spare the need for repetition. Calls are still appreciated, but now you can call a bit more prepared. Comments to these posts are also encouraged.
Then came the outpouring of love through phone calls, visits, and gifts; as well as the need for repeated, tearful explanations.
And so this blog was born, to fill the need for information and spare the need for repetition. Calls are still appreciated, but now you can call a bit more prepared. Comments to these posts are also encouraged.
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