Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
The years appear to fly by faster and faster with each coming new year. It's already Winter and we've had a few storms already. A Nor' Easter is predicted for Christmas Day. Let's hope it's not as bad as they say....ya right.
December had three visits to doctors. The first, with Dr. Moore coincided with my yearly mammogram at the Holy Family Breast Cancer Care Unit. Seems like just yesterday I was there, fortunately for me this time I knew what to do, and not to do, so my discomfort level was manageable. Luckily for me the doctor arranged to be on premise for my follow-up. The wait for the imaging wasn't too long and Dr. Moore saw me prior to the mammogram and 'copped a feel'. After his sign of approval he said he would come in and discuss the results of the imaging.
The mammogram went quickly. This time there was no mechanical malfunctions or computer issues. The technician indicated that things appeared normal, but the doctor would discuss the results. I waited for a longer period of time and watched many woman brought into the imaging room and eventually walk out. I was concerned that I may have been forgotten. The nurse noticed I was still waiting and I overheard her mention my name to the doctor. He soon came in and said the results were normal and provided some paperwork for the front office to schedule next year's mammogram and follow. I thanked him and proceeded to the front office. Unfortunately, I was told that I had to contact Dr. Moore's office to schedule that. Odd!
On the way out I decided to update my insurance information at the Dana Farber Unit while I was there. I then drove to Dr. Moore's office in North Andover and was able to make the appointment for next December. I was also able to update my insurance information now that I'm Medicare.
The next week I had my 6 month check up with Dr. Mehta at the Dana Farber Community Cancer Care Unit at Holy Family. As usual it was quite busy, but there wasn't a very long wait. After having my vitals taken and recorded, the medical professional reviewed my chart for changes and updates. After completion, she said the doctor will be with you shortly.
After about ten minutes, Dr. Mehta arrived and seemed quite pleased with my overall health. He commented how I looked well and rested. I asked, "Now how much money did you say you wanted to borrow?" Then added, "retirement agrees with me and I highly recommend it." He said that he has too many years to go before thinking about retirement.
Dr. Mehta could see that I had a mammogram the previous week. He requested that I remove my shirt and he performed a very thorough examination of both breasts and arm pits. I'm talking deep tissue examination. He exclaimed, "Great." Then asked that I re-dress. He gave me a prescription of Tamoxifen for another year and asked that I come see him in June. I'll be back for the Summer Solstice.
Last week I had a follow-up visit with my primary care physician, Dr. Rees. He wanted to ensure that things continue to be stable following my endo-vascular repair (EVAR) of my aneurysm as well as my general health and well-being. While there I received my (second booster) shot for pneumonia. He indicated that I will receive another at our next visit. He looked at my chart and said I had a physical scheduled for January, but because Medicare doesn't cover that cost he advised that I cancel it. [Not liking Medicare.] He said he would see me next year.
A few days later I received a written confirmation that my mammogram was normal.
I'm hopeful that there will be no more issues worth reporting so I will conclude this blog at year's end.
Thanks to all for reading and for your continued support!
