Three Heads are Better than One

The oncology doctor from whom I sought a second opinion has obtained all of my records and discussed my case with her associates – and we all know 3 heads are better than one! She has assured me there is no immediate rush for treatment and since she is leaving on vacation, she will see me again the middle of September. While she is gone my pathology reports will be reviewed again by someone (I’m not sure who, at this point), to try to confirm the initial diagnosis of nonsecretory myeloma and if not that, to try to determine what exactly is going on in my bone marrow. Knowing exactly what type of cancer is critical for determining treatment. I will also have lab work done to monitor my blood counts. I like her very much and have decided to change my care to someone who is more compassionate and more thorough in assessing my total health. Also, we are more comfortable with the fact that she is part of a group and there will always be someone available even when she is not.

One item that was not even mentioned by my original oncologist, are the cysts that were discovered in my left kidney on the CT scan. She has addressed the issue and is referring me to a nephrologist (a kidney specialist). This is something that she would like to have assessed prior to my next appointment in September.

There is some good news today. The orthopedist was pleased how my fracture is healing and I can now begin to put full weight on my left foot and use the crutches less. He said there will be some pain – tenderness and aching – but not to let that stop me from getting more weight bearing on my foot. I will see him again in two weeks and if all continues to go well, he will put me in a brace and I can lose this big boot-cast. This is a much improved report from what I was told initially by the first orthopedist.

So, today we can praise Him for the healing in my foot! And soon, I am hopeful that we can all praise Him for the healing in my bone marrow!