Shape Of Things To Come?

Late Night Squeeze

On Monday, March 31st, I arrived at the Methuen Holy Family Breast Cancer Care Unit (BCCU) for my annual mammogram.  From my previous blog, I had mentioned that this was originally scheduled for March 17th then rescheduled for the 19th (at their request), but a the last minute cancelled to accommodate their switch over to a new computer system. Stewart Health sold their two Holy Family hospitals to Lawrence General.  So with new ownership comes new systems, etc. But, I was not rescheduled and time had been running out.  I had an appointment with my oncologist already scheduled to review the results. So my primary care doctor gave me referral paperwork and I called to book the mammogram.

Probably due to the late hour, traffic was light and the hospital seemed like a ghost town.  Having been to the  BCCU a few times, I knew the location and arrived with 5 minutes to spare.  There was no one in waiting room, and check-in was quick.  I was given some paperwork to complete and as I was filling in inforation, a medical professional said, "I'll be with you shortly".  A few minutes later she returned and told me her name (didn't really hear it).  She told me she was going to be the technician.  She asked me to follow her.

We walked down to the mammogram room and after asking me to remove my shirt and undershirt, she pulled up my record and reviewed my vitals and asked a few questions. Finally we were ready.

She was very clear on how I should stand; how to lean in; and where to place my arms.  Not having much meat on my breast, she managed to get me into a position for the big squeeze.  Uncomfortable is not a strong enough word.  Just when I thought I was done, she asked me to change positions and place my arm 'just so'.  Squeezed again, then she said, "We are done".

She instructed me to dress and indicated that the results would be reviewed and sent to the doctor.  I too would receive something in the mail.  [In hind sight, I should have asked which doctor the results would be going to.  My primary care gave me the referral, but my oncologist needed the results.] 

I left and stopped at the front desk to book next year's appointment.  The attendant said once I receive the 'letter' with the results, I can book the appointment.  [hmmm]

Dana Farber

Today (4/2/25), I had my annual follow-up with Dr Mehta at Dana Farber, Methuen.  Their protocol was to wear a mask and be screened for Covid.  So everyone was masked.  It's been a few years since I've been in this situation, but it is what it is.

After being cleared to proceed, I checked in and the attendant indicated that they hadn't received the mammogram results.  I told her I had the mammogram Monday at Holy Family.  She then called them and although I only heard one side of the conversation, apparently there's no record.  After the attendant hung up, she indicated that they (Holy Family) are having problems with their computer system but whomever she was talking to said that I was a no show. Around this time, my name was being called.  The attendant said she was going to ask the doctor for guidance.  She told the other nurse to hold off. A few minutes later, I was told to follow the nurse and the doctor would still see me. 

I was weighed, measured and had my vitals checked.  After-which, I was brought to an examination room and waited about 10 minutes for the doctor to arrive.

Dr Mehta arrived and reiterated that he didn't have the results, but physically examined my nodes and breasts for lumps.  When finished, he said everything looks good.  He added, "A mammogram is just a test if there was something, it would be useful in doing a hands-on exam.  But he said, "You've been 10 years, so when it does surface, I feel confident that you are clear.  So I'll see you in a year."

He also indicated that these types of things will happen more often as smaller hospitals struggle with funding and staffing.  He said, "It would be a shame if you had to go to Boston for a mammogram". I said, "It would be more than a pain.  Let's hope it doesn't get that far."

On the way home, I provided a urine specimen at North East Urologic in anticipation of next week's round one of BCG. Fun, fun, fun!

More to come! 

POST SCRIPT: My mammogram results appeared in my portal. Mammogram was routine/clear!  I contacted my oncologist who confirmed that they had access to my files.  I also sent the results (PDF) through their secured messaging system within the portal. I was told it would be added to my file.  I also received an appointment for my next mammogram for 2026.

A Look See

The day started out ominously.  

I had an appointment for my in-office cystoscopy with Dr Previte at Northeast Urological in North Andover.  I gave myself plenty of time for travel and check in.  Traffic was heavy, but moving.  At my exit to Merrimack/Sutton St, traffic was at a stand-still.  I could see further up the road that the signal lights were flashing for an oncoming train.  Generally this only takes a few minutes, but things didn't seem right.  Impatient people were making a U-turn, while some dangerously went through the gates.  Others decided to take a side street to get around the signals.  However, I noticed an approaching police cruiser with lights flashing.  The cruiser proceeded to the side street and blocked traffic so no others could go this route.  Traffic began to mount on both sides of this major intersection.  I had thought about taking an alternative route, but figured others had the same thought so I'd once again be in grid-lock.

The police officer exited the cruiser and made their way to the crew assembled at the junction.  After a few minutes. traffic was allowed to cross through the lowered gates a few cars at a time.  Eventually I made it through only to get stuck at the next set of lights where cars were once again grid-locked because someone thought they were special and ended up blocking the road as they waited to move. I looked at the time and I had 5 minutes to spare.  So close but yet so far. 

Finally I was able to proceed.  I snagged a spot near the entrance and stood in line to check in. After my verifying information on file, I was asked for my insurance cards.  No problem.  I dug out my wallet and pulled out my secondary insurance card, but my Medicare Card was not where it was supposed to be.  I took everything out of my wallet (actually found a few gift cards that I had forgotten about), but no Medicare Card.  The attendant said, "Don't worry, I can find the number."  But I was discombobulated because I am very careful returning things like credit cads, license, etc to my wallet.  I even have an elastic band that I put on my hand until the items are replaced. I was running through my memories trying to determine when the last time I had it out.  Very disconcerting.

After I provided my specimen sample, I returned to the waiting room and once again started looking through my wallet.  However, my name was called.

After providing verbal verification of my vitals, I was brought to an all too familiar examination room and told, '"You know the drill.  Dr Previte will be right with you." So I dropped trow and assumed the position all the while trying to determine where I was last when the card was asked.

Dr Previte arrived and after some pleasantries and a run-down of prior procedures, he said let's take a look.

This time the monitor was working so I could see what he was seeing.  He moved the implement around (a bit uncomfortable).  He said things are looking good.  He pointed out the two diverticulum and once again I could see the ureter doing its thing. He said, "Things are looking good.  Let me look around once more to make sure I didn't miss anything."  Finally,  he exclaimed that I was clear.

He returned to his notes and started 'talking out' my treatment time table.  So, according to his notes, I am due for a next round of BCG in April, probably in-office cystoscopy in July, then ...another round of BCG in October and another cystoscopy in November.  According to his records that will bring me up to my 3 year treatment.  Provided all goes well, I'll be relegated on an annual 'look see'.

Now in my head, I thought this upcoming round of BCG would be my last.  Guess not.

While writing this I got a call indicating that my next round (of three) will begin April 9th with the next cystoscopy scheduled for July 31st.

I ordered a replacement Medicare card online.  We'll see how long it takes to arrive.

More to come!

 

 

It's The Time Of The Season

Happy Spring! 

Clocks have changed and we get glimpses of Spring weather every now and then.  However, today seems less Spring with a chill in the air and a Wintry mix.  Even a coating of snow is predicted before turning to all rain.

Not knowing what the weather would do to the commute, I got up a bit earlier and headed out to UMass, Worcester at 6:15AM to arrive at 8AM for my annual Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm ultra sound and follow up.  Having fasted since last night and not allowed to have coffee, my brain was just as cloudy and dark as the early morning.  Although the weather held off, the traffic was heavy, but moving with no issues.  I made good time and arrived at the parking garage at 7:15.  I took my sweet time and walked up three flights to the waiting area of the Ambulatory Unit/Vascular Surgery.

Being early, the normally bustling medical center was pretty much a ghost town with a few staff members rushing to get to their respective stations.  By the time I arrived at check in, I seemed to be the first patient to arrive.  Check in was uneventful and I was directed to wait to be called.  It didn't take too long before Caitlyn called my name.  After grilling me for my personal information, I was directed to lift my shirt and lay on the examination table.  She was quick.  (I was really appreciating the warmed gel used to guide the implement for the ultrasound).  With no audible gasps or sudden stopping (that translates to an 'Oh oh, found something), she exclaimed that we were done.  I was directed back to the waiting area.

It didn't take too long before another medical professional (didn't get the name) called me in for weighing, measuring and taking my vitals.  I must have had the white coat syndrome because my blood pressure was elevated. She said it was 147.  Yes that is high, since my daily readings are in the vicinity of 103-110.  She didn't seem too concerned.  She finished up and reviewed some information in my chart, then said Shauneen will be right in.

The Nurse Practitioner, Shauneen did arrive within minutes.  She said, "Things look good, but..."  She searched for a piece of paper and began sketching  an Aorta.  She drew in the stint and just below (she referred to as the ileus), she said there was some enlarging (both legs).  She said this was observed last year and it doesn't appear to have gotten larger, so "It's OK for now, but we will have to monitor it", she said.

Now I Googled ileus and didn't go down the rabbit hole.  But some of the things listed (as far as symptoms) I don't have.  So she said it's OK for now.  So I guess it's just something else to keep an eye on.  She said she'll see me in a year.  So there's no urgency, apparently.

So I have an appointment for next March.

Other Things In The Works

Last week I had my 6 month check in with my primary care doctor.  My cholesterol numbers are stellar and other health things appear in good order.  He did want me to have my booster for Tdap (Diphtheria, Tetanus and Whooping Cough) which I scheduled for today at Walgreens.

I had had two appointments scheduled and canceled for my annual mammogram due to the reorganization/change from Stewart to Lawrence General.  I called today and got an appointment for 3/31 in the evening.  I had been concerned because my oncologist wanted to have the results ready for review for my next appointment 4/2.  So that's in motion.

While I was at my 6 month, when asked if I had any question, I asked for guidance on a bump on my neck.  My dermatologist said it wasn't cancerous and thought it might be a cyst.  Dr Reese looked at it and said he could have it removed if it bothered me.  Actually there's no pain and it was only during scarf season that I even noticed it.  He said since there's no pain, you can leave it alone or make an appointment to have it removed.  "I think I'll wait", I said.

I also mentioned that my toe nails are too thick to cut and are now ingrown. He referred me to a podiatrist, Dr Greenblott.  So I have an appointment next week. 

More to come!

No Coal In My Stocking This Year

Great News!

Had a scheduled cystoscopy today.  Uneventful commute and relatively easy check in.  The wait wasn't too long.  After the obligatory specimen sample, I was called, grilled and lead to a familiar examination room.  After housekeeping issues, I prepared myself for Dr Previte.

I didn't wait too long before he arrived and reviewed his notes (as a recap).  He said my Cat Scan showed no surprises (normal), my specimen was free of blood cells and all things were looking up.  As he prepared his instruments we chatted about the Reading Symphony Orchestra's New World Symphony performance I attended early in November.  Dr Previte, who is second chair violinist, indicated that he will be on musical sabbatical during the Winter, but will return in the Spring.

During this conversation, there was some discomfort as I sensed intrusion and movement of his scope.  He proclaimed, "Your bladder is clear'.  He reiterated that he needed to keep an eye on my diverticulum (original spot of cancer).  A few moments later he said, "That's clear.  The BCG worked".

He removed the apparatus and went back to his notes.  He did say that I had another round of BCG to bring me up to 3 years of treatment.  He said it will be in April and a follow up cystoscopy probably in June.

In my mind I thought that this was the last round, but it is what it is. Unfortunately it will put a damper on my plans to visit the U.K. in the Spring.

As Dr Previte finished up, he extended his hand and shook it while saying Merry Christmas. I returned the seasonal dialogue and readied myself.

Sunny day with relatively mild temps greeted me as I returned to my car.  No coal in my stocking.

More to come!

Another Graduation (of sorts)

There was frost on the windshield this morning.  I guess it's time to take the snow brush and ice scraper from the cellar and place in the car.  I guess snow shovels will be next, but left's not rush things.

I had an early appointment at the urologist today to get my final dose of BCG.  According to Dr Previte, this should be my last round.  I'll be having an in-office cystoscopy in about a month.  If my bladder is clear (and free of cancer), I'll be relegated to an annual check up.

I had an earlier appointment today.  Not knowing what the traffic situation would be like, I gave myself 40 minutes for a normal 10-15 minute drive.  The office opens at 8AM, so being one of the first patients has its advantages: plenty of parking. 

I arrived at 7:45 and was worried that I might have to wait until they officially opened, but thankfully the door was unlocked and my check in was immediate.  After providing the obligatory urine sample, it wasn't too long before I was called. Upon hearing my name, I responded, "Here", and approached the medical professional.  After exchanging pleasantries, she grilled me for my personal info as we walked to an all too familiar examination room, I dubbed the meat locker.  Luckily today, it wasn't cold.

Getting prepared for the instillation, I was all set waiting for Morgan to arrive.  It didn't seem too long when she did arrive.  Looking at my folder/notes, she said, "This is your last one".  Gleefully, I responded, "Yes".  Morgan asked if I already had my in office cystoscopy scheduled, to which I said, 'Yes".

Morgan struck up a conversation (as a distraction) and shared that she and her husband are looking to buy a house.  She has a two year old now and they no longer want to rent.  We chatted about paying down the principle to reduce the time-frame of the loan.  And before you knew it, she was done. She is getting to be quite the pro.  We wished each other Happy Holidays.  And I jokingly said, "I hope I don't have to see you again..at least not under these circumstances". 

I arrived home in about 10 minutes and began my marination.  Those last 10 minutes are the toughest.  I tried, but I couldn't stand the discomfort and was shy of my 2 hour marination.

Since the side effects of BCG are cumulative, today's recovery was rough.  It seemed that I needed to 'go' every 5 minutes with very little output.  I was hoping the pyridium would kick in (which it did by 5PM).   I felt blah, most of the day and needed to constantly visit the facilities.  I'm glad I had some depends to use, otherwise I'd be changing my clothes a number of times. I didn't plan on leaving the house so I decided to change my guitar strings.  With each string I replaced, I needed to rush to the toilet.  Even though I had an extra layer of protection, the urge was so strong and the burning so intense, the little I produced was not satisfying.  But I've been through this.  It's just a commitment. 

It's 6:30 now, and although I had many calls to nature, they seem to be less frequent and my output has increased.  I'm sure I will be having disrupted sleep tonight.

So, the healing begins and the next 'look see' will be December 19th.  Hoping for good results.

More to come!

Eye Doctor and Round Two

Mass Eye And Ear

Had an early morning appointment with Dr Song at Mass Eye And Ear.  Previously in Waltham, this is my second time at their new facility in Lexington.  Although it's closer (exit wise), the new building is really out in the sticks (end of Hartwell Rd).

Luckily, Monday was a holiday and traffic was manageable.  I made decent time. I arrived about a half hour early and checked in.  I didn't wait too long before being called to another waiting room. I guess moving around makes one forget about how long you actually wait.

I had my first test of the day, which took just a few minutes.  After completing those, I was asked to follow the medical professional to another examination room on the opposite side of the building.  Once seated I was given the Snelling Card test then asked to look through the machine so they could flip filters/lenses until I could see perfectly.  I'm assuming that this is used to determine if I need an eye glass prescription.  The result indicated that I might benefit from some corrective lenses or use 'cheaters' reading (the kind you get retail), but I have no problems reading.  I have mono vision (two implanted lenses: one for distance and one for reading).  The only time I notice that things are not clear is when I take a sip of coffee while reading and the cup covers my line of sight (on my reading eye). Barring that, I don't need glasses.

I was finally given the dilation drops and was asked to wait until the drops kicked in. I seemed to take about 20 minutes before the doctor arrived.

Upon arrival and after pleasantries, Dr Song stated that my test results were good.  He then took out his bag of tricks and began examining my eyes at all angles.  I'm generally keen to picking up utterances, but either there was nothing to grunt about ,or he's a good poker player. Luckily for me, he was pleased with everything and told me to return in a year.  YAY!

Round Two BCG

Today, I had an early appointment for my second dose of BCG.  Traffic was heavy, but it moved and I arrived right on time.  After checking in and providing my specimen sample, I didn't have to wait too long to be called.

I was quizzed on my vitals as we walked to a familiar examination room. I had just removed my coat when Morgan arrived.  Jokingly I said, "I'm not ready yet". She said, "I can come back".  I indicated that I'd be quick and I was.

Morgan set up her implements and quickly went to work.  Very little discomfort and before I knew it I was done.  She said, "See you next week".  I returned my paperwork to the front desk and went home to marinate. 

I was able to do the full two hours.  So I voided, then had some coffee and took my pyridium (Azo). I then waited.

I recall from my previous rodeos that each subsequent dose was cumulative for the side effects. Today was no different.  For the next six hours, I stayed near the bathroom and made visits with very little output.  The burning seemed to go through my whole body.  I could feel/hear my lymph nodes screaming.  Eventually, the Azo kicked in and it was less uncomfortable to go.  Like other times, I did see some blood and passed a few clots (normal and expected).  This cleared up as the day progressed.  I felt BLAH and just chilled out.  No chores or walk today.

I expect to be back at it tomorrow and healing up for my next (and hopefully last) round.

More to come!

The Fun Starts Again

Well I had my blood work and CT scan completed.  I got notification that my urine sample was routine (meaning normal- no blood).  I heard nothing about the CT Scan nor my blood test, so I'm hoping that is a good sign.

Today was extremely warm for November.  Traffic was bordering on horrific.  My appointment was 8:20, so I'm assuming it was regular commuting traffic.  However, there was some construction going on at my exit.  Of course getting off the highway at the exit I was greeted with signs that said the exit was closed.  Would have like to have know this prior to my taking the exit.  I meandered through and took some back roads and got back on track.  I made it there with one minute to spare.  I lucked out and got a parking spot near the entrance.

Upon entering the medical office, it was like a ghost town.  So it was a quick check in.  The ride was stressful thus I had a good supply for the urine sample.  I returned to the waiting room and was quickly called.

After answering my personal information questions, I was brought to a familiar examination room.  The medical professional took some vitals and asked me to prepare for the BCG instillation.  I dropped trow and covered with their extra large napkin.  Not long after, Morgan arrived and reviewed a few things.  She had me sign a document indicating what I was getting and the risks involved.  (Every new round requires this).

Morgan is a pro.  She made short work of the procedure with very little discomfort.  After completing, she said, "See you next week."

I got home and did my marination and was only 5 minutes shy of the two hours.

Today was a do nothing day.  Given current events, I listened to classical music and watched some you tube videos I subscribe to.  I had a pretty typical reaction to the BCG.  I had some Azo to help with the burning, discomfort and frequency. When I checked the mail today, my supply of Azo arrived from my eBay purchase.  Good timing.

More to come!