I'm optimistically hopeful that Monday's reconstruction surgery was my last. Oddly enough, the point of pain was not my breast, but the incision on my lower abdomen where skin was harvested. Of course this is part of the body that was designed for bending, but having a nine inch sutured wound right at waste level is not conducive to any type of bending.
The Orchard Surgical was easy to find and very efficient. The sign on the building says they are affiliated with Holy Family. I was well attended by many staff members. My last memory prior to the surgery was the anesthesiologist saying, "You'll feel a little weird as the anesthesia kicks in".
Waking up in recovery was all too familiar. The nurse was pushing the pain meds, but I needed to become more alert to assess my pain tolerance. I did give in eventually and took a Percocet. The nurse indicated that it would take about 15 minutes until I felt the effects. By that time they had returned my belongings and helped me sit up and dress. Yes, I was very sore.
My ride arrived and I was able to get into the front seat of the low-to-the-ground car very slowly and with much wincing. Every bump and pot hole hit resonated within my body bringing much discomfort. Getting home I just wanted to sit still and hopefully doze off. Having fasted from the previous night, I was famished and decided to have a muffin. I was quickly reminded that anesthesia has its own set of side effects: sore throat (from the breathing tubes). It felt like I was swallowing chunks of cement even with the help of fluids.
I watched a number of programs I had on my DVR and took a few cat naps. When I decided it was time for bed, I was contemplating if I should take another Percocet. I did, and I'm glad. I ended up taking another around 3 AM. I just couldn't get comfortable and watched the clock hourly.
On Tuesday, I was in rough shape. Extremely sore and really uncomfortable. I was still having discomfort swallowing, but I could tolerate certain foods. I was wearing a compression bandage around my waist and it was digging into my skin. I was able to remove it and reapply over my tee shirt. So most of the day, I just sat and watched TV. Once seated, I seemed to get into a painless position, so I stayed there. I slept a bit better Tuesday night as I was able to turn on to my right side. Of course there was no place to rest my left arm, so I needed to shift that throughout the night because the circulation was cut off and pins and needle ensued.
Wednesday was better. After my coffee, I was able to get things moving. I was able to take a short walk (two miles), before my follow-up appointment with Dr. Chatson. At the doctor's office, the physicians attendant removed my bandages and prepared me for viewing. At this time I saw the results of the surgery and the cause for my discomfort. I took some 'selfies' for the archives and later review. The abdomen surgical site was gruesome. The breast (nipple/aureola) still had bandages which appeared to be sutured to me. Weird.
Dr. Chatson arrived and quickly looked at the results. He was pleased and also explained that bandages (that were sutured to me) cannot get wet. So, no showers for me in the near future. He did say that I can get every other part of my body wet. [This will still be a challenge if I'm to keep the bandages dry.] So I'll be soaking my bottom in the tub and carefully try to wash the parts allowed. Where there's a will (or a foul smell), there's a way.
I have two follow-up appointments scheduled with the next one having the bandage removed and approval for a shower. He wants me to keep the compression bandage on until Monday and remove only when too uncomfortable. I did take it off last night before bed and it seemed to help.
More to come.
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Upcoming surgeries
Happy Easter!
I can say it now that Winter has past: We made it through OK. Of course, Mother Nature had to remind us on the first day of Spring that she still 'has it', by dumping nearly six inches of heavy wet snow on us. Amazingly, most of it melted by that afternoon and over the next few days there was nearly a trace to be seen. Good riddance, I say!
These past few weeks have been busy medically speaking. Apparently the trend is to utilize surgical centers for my upcoming procedures. This may be/could be easier for the medical staff to perform their miracles at these locations versus a hospital, but I'm finding it does have its drawbacks. Each surgical center requires a round of 'healthiness tests' and a sign off/approval to proceed from my primary care physician. Of course the clincher is that these tests must be done within a 30 days window of the procedure. You know, neither the reconstruction surgery nor the cataract surgery is scheduled within 30 days of each other. [For good reason - I need to recuperate enough to withstand the next cutting.] So I'm becoming a regular at my primary care and my co-pays continue to mount.
It is what it is.
On Wednesday I had my pre-op with Dr. Chatson. He reviewed my test results. [I passed.] He once again reviewed what he set out to accomplish during this (hopefully) last surgery. All is ready for early next week. He gave me more meds to take post-op and a list of 'don't do's', which includes not bathing for a few days. Needless to say my social calendar is empty next week. I don't have the 'luxury' of having a baldie this time so I'm sure I'll be fiddling with oily hair in a few days. If that's my only worry, I'm golden.
On Friday I had a pre-op with Dr. Song. This time it was in Waltham. Because I'm getting the Premier Package (cataract and astigmatism correction), I needed additional tests to measure my lens 'capsule' and determine the 'health' of my cornea and other structures. I was deemed to be a good candidate for this procedure. However, since the insurance only covers the cataract surgery and not the elective (astigmatism correction), I will be having a 'yuge' out of pocket expense. Once again - it is what it is. Plus, I'm worth it ;-)
Like Dr. Chatson, Dr. Song gave me a number of prescriptions to take before, during and after the procedure. I also have two follow-up appointments at the Waltham location. I was quickly reminded how much I hate commuting and especially driving 128. It took me 2 hours to get home last night. Horrible.
More to come.
I can say it now that Winter has past: We made it through OK. Of course, Mother Nature had to remind us on the first day of Spring that she still 'has it', by dumping nearly six inches of heavy wet snow on us. Amazingly, most of it melted by that afternoon and over the next few days there was nearly a trace to be seen. Good riddance, I say!
These past few weeks have been busy medically speaking. Apparently the trend is to utilize surgical centers for my upcoming procedures. This may be/could be easier for the medical staff to perform their miracles at these locations versus a hospital, but I'm finding it does have its drawbacks. Each surgical center requires a round of 'healthiness tests' and a sign off/approval to proceed from my primary care physician. Of course the clincher is that these tests must be done within a 30 days window of the procedure. You know, neither the reconstruction surgery nor the cataract surgery is scheduled within 30 days of each other. [For good reason - I need to recuperate enough to withstand the next cutting.] So I'm becoming a regular at my primary care and my co-pays continue to mount.
It is what it is.
On Wednesday I had my pre-op with Dr. Chatson. He reviewed my test results. [I passed.] He once again reviewed what he set out to accomplish during this (hopefully) last surgery. All is ready for early next week. He gave me more meds to take post-op and a list of 'don't do's', which includes not bathing for a few days. Needless to say my social calendar is empty next week. I don't have the 'luxury' of having a baldie this time so I'm sure I'll be fiddling with oily hair in a few days. If that's my only worry, I'm golden.
On Friday I had a pre-op with Dr. Song. This time it was in Waltham. Because I'm getting the Premier Package (cataract and astigmatism correction), I needed additional tests to measure my lens 'capsule' and determine the 'health' of my cornea and other structures. I was deemed to be a good candidate for this procedure. However, since the insurance only covers the cataract surgery and not the elective (astigmatism correction), I will be having a 'yuge' out of pocket expense. Once again - it is what it is. Plus, I'm worth it ;-)
Like Dr. Chatson, Dr. Song gave me a number of prescriptions to take before, during and after the procedure. I also have two follow-up appointments at the Waltham location. I was quickly reminded how much I hate commuting and especially driving 128. It took me 2 hours to get home last night. Horrible.
More to come.
Sunday, March 6, 2016
March 2016 - Updates
It's March and my least favorite season is winding down. Although we could still be hit with an abundance of that white stuff, I'm thankful that the past few months have yielded manageable amounts. As I write this post I'm cognizant of various anniversaries of my challenge. I've already hit the year milestone of when I was diagnosed and soon will be reminded of the various procedures leading to my numerous surgeries. But that is in the past [YAY].
Since my last post there has been somewhat of a lull. Later this month, more information will be forthcoming as I will be undergoing the knife for hopefully my last reconstructive surgery. Until that transpires here are some updates on a variety of topics.
I've been playing pick-up gigs and have found enjoyment in that. I've been approached a few times by former band members to re-join them since my leaving last year. I'm still pondering that decision since I'm not out the woods just yet (medically speaking).
More to come!
Since my last post there has been somewhat of a lull. Later this month, more information will be forthcoming as I will be undergoing the knife for hopefully my last reconstructive surgery. Until that transpires here are some updates on a variety of topics.
Continuing and [possibly] new side effects
Neuropathy
- Listed as a side effect for both chemo and Tamoxifen, my oncologist still insists neuropathy is 'generally' manifested on both sides of the body. I still experience flare-ups of numbness in my forefinger and thumb on my left hand. Most of the time I can work through these episodes, but there have been times, when playing guitar, that I have had to stop and 'shake my hands' to promote circulation to my 'sleeping' thumb. For now this appears to work and I'm grateful that the right hand doesn't exhibit the same symptoms, since I would no longer be able to hold a guitar pick. The numbness for the forefinger is situated in a spot that doesn't interfere with my fingering [for the most part].
- I still experience nuisance neuropathy in the balls of both feet and middle toes. It's not debilitating and doesn't impede my ability to stand/walk. However, I'm bothered by this as I begin to fall asleep. It seems like my feet have fallen asleep and I begin to move them around. This is probably because I can't sense/feel the sheets against my feet and this causes my brain to send warning signals to 'move those feet' before the pins and needles kick in. I never get pins and needles regardless.
Chemo brain
I'm thankful that I have most of my faculties when it comes to remembering songs/music I've played/learned decades ago. I'm not quite certain if the fingers are the ones remembering (muscle memory). But I'm thankful nonetheless. I can also remember lyrics and arrangements with very little delay or problem. However, I do have 'moments' still where I get stuck on the right word to use while conversing or writing. This causes me pause as I quickly find a replacement word and simultaneously wonder why I'm having the difficulty. Some would call this a senior moment, but I certainly feel it's related to the chemotherapy.Cataracts
I will be undergoing cataract surgery in mid April at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary.I've been told by so many that this is a piece of cake. However, given my luck, I'm cautiously optimistic. Dr Song tells me that 'sometimes' the inserted lens 'moves' and/or becomes clouded with gas. If this happens, he will need to 'go in' again. So you can see my concern.Cracking teeth
I find it odd that I've had three cracked teeth. Each has happened at different times and apparently for different reasons, but one developed and abscess resulting in an abstraction. One was cracked to the root, but the dentist is trying to save it, so it's just a matter of time for that. A few weeks ago, I cracked a front tooth (bottom row). I will be getting that fixed in April. I can't help to think this too is related to chemo.Muscle spasms
Despite the daily walking and vitamin intake, I'm still bothered by charlie horses in my calves. This happens while sleeping and is/can be very painful. I researched and found that quinine (tonic water) is listed as a homeopathic remedy. I'll keep you posted.On the bright side...
Creativity spell continues
I've been pleasantly surprised by this continuance of musical creativity. Since September, I've written 25 songs. I've practiced and performed 20 thus far and I continue to craft the remaining. I have a glut of random musical ideas and snippets of lyrics. I've been fortunate to have found a few outlets to 'try these out' on listeners. I've been frequenting open mic sessions and have been pleased by the feedback I have received on my original compositions. I've also been drumming up business (and followers) by playing at intimate gatherings (house parties). I've worked on three 'sets' consisting of both my originals and cover tunes [to break it up]. I'm still dedicated to improving my piano chops and regaining some of my 'lost' soprano vocal notes that have been missing for decades. I've regained three semi-tones on my top end. Two more to go ;-)I've been playing pick-up gigs and have found enjoyment in that. I've been approached a few times by former band members to re-join them since my leaving last year. I'm still pondering that decision since I'm not out the woods just yet (medically speaking).
More to come!
Tuesday, February 9, 2016
February 2016 - Updates
Well Winter has arrived.
We've been fortunate by not having anything major prior to the Groundhog's appearance. Punxsutawney Phil's prediction of 'Spring: Right around the corner' seems a bit hollow after four rounds of shoveling today's Nor'Easter. At least the snow is fluffier than last Friday's storm that claimed about a half dozen limbs from my pine tree. Ya, I hate Winter.
I have two health updates to report. I'll speak to today's visit with Dr Christian Song at Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary, Stoneham.
Scheduling an appointment in February during rush hour traffic caused some angst. Weather reports were saying snow in the morning and getting heavier as the day progressed. I kept waking last night wondering (and worrying) how I would get there on time and in one piece. I woke up earlier than I wanted, but looking out the window I saw no snow. I had heard that the Governor directed non-essential employees to stay home. So, no snow and less traffic were conducive to a fairly stress-free ride to Stoneham.
I arrived and checked in. I didn't have to wait too long before Amy called me in for some initial tests. I ended up getting the whole barrage of eye tests/charts/lenses. I was given eye drops to dilate my eyes and was also tested for glaucoma. Very efficient.
Dr Song called me in and he reviewed my test results and also examined my eyes. He confirmed that I had 'a significant' cataract in my right eye and said I would 'benefit' from the corrective surgery. He did say that I also had an astigmatism in that eye and I would probably need glasses. I asked if this could be corrected with the cataract surgery. He said, "Yes, but the insurance won't pay for that portion." [Odd that insurance will cover eye doctors and corrective lenses, but not the 'fix']
At this point I told the doctor that I would prefer to have both taken care of at the same time and that I'll pay for the out-of-pocket costs. He said that he preferred to do that portion of the procedure with a laser. However, that would need to be be done in Waltham (versus Boston). [I'd prefer to drive to Waltham anyway.]
Dr Song said that he would want to see me once again, in Waltham for some 'measurements' for my new 'torque' lens. The surgery probably won't happen until June. I expressed concern that the cataract in my left eye may worsen by that time. I was happy to learn that my left eye has a 'slow' forming cataract unlike my right. [Never knew there were different types.]
So, I'll be hearing from his assistant Alyce soon.
I had a call from Dr Chatson's office confirming my next reconstruction surgery. The next procedure (nipple reconstruction and lipo on some areas to eliminate concavity) will take place at the end of March at Orchard Surgical Center in Salem NH. It should take a few hours.
I've been instructed to see my primary care physician some pre-op tests which have been scheduled a few weeks before the procedure.
It's been a year since I told Dr Rees about the lump in my breast. Hard to believe. So much has happened - and will continue. "What a long strange trip it's been."
More to come.
We've been fortunate by not having anything major prior to the Groundhog's appearance. Punxsutawney Phil's prediction of 'Spring: Right around the corner' seems a bit hollow after four rounds of shoveling today's Nor'Easter. At least the snow is fluffier than last Friday's storm that claimed about a half dozen limbs from my pine tree. Ya, I hate Winter.
I have two health updates to report. I'll speak to today's visit with Dr Christian Song at Mass Eye and Ear Infirmary, Stoneham.
Scheduling an appointment in February during rush hour traffic caused some angst. Weather reports were saying snow in the morning and getting heavier as the day progressed. I kept waking last night wondering (and worrying) how I would get there on time and in one piece. I woke up earlier than I wanted, but looking out the window I saw no snow. I had heard that the Governor directed non-essential employees to stay home. So, no snow and less traffic were conducive to a fairly stress-free ride to Stoneham.
I arrived and checked in. I didn't have to wait too long before Amy called me in for some initial tests. I ended up getting the whole barrage of eye tests/charts/lenses. I was given eye drops to dilate my eyes and was also tested for glaucoma. Very efficient.
Dr Song called me in and he reviewed my test results and also examined my eyes. He confirmed that I had 'a significant' cataract in my right eye and said I would 'benefit' from the corrective surgery. He did say that I also had an astigmatism in that eye and I would probably need glasses. I asked if this could be corrected with the cataract surgery. He said, "Yes, but the insurance won't pay for that portion." [Odd that insurance will cover eye doctors and corrective lenses, but not the 'fix']
At this point I told the doctor that I would prefer to have both taken care of at the same time and that I'll pay for the out-of-pocket costs. He said that he preferred to do that portion of the procedure with a laser. However, that would need to be be done in Waltham (versus Boston). [I'd prefer to drive to Waltham anyway.]
Dr Song said that he would want to see me once again, in Waltham for some 'measurements' for my new 'torque' lens. The surgery probably won't happen until June. I expressed concern that the cataract in my left eye may worsen by that time. I was happy to learn that my left eye has a 'slow' forming cataract unlike my right. [Never knew there were different types.]
So, I'll be hearing from his assistant Alyce soon.
I had a call from Dr Chatson's office confirming my next reconstruction surgery. The next procedure (nipple reconstruction and lipo on some areas to eliminate concavity) will take place at the end of March at Orchard Surgical Center in Salem NH. It should take a few hours.
I've been instructed to see my primary care physician some pre-op tests which have been scheduled a few weeks before the procedure.
It's been a year since I told Dr Rees about the lump in my breast. Hard to believe. So much has happened - and will continue. "What a long strange trip it's been."
More to come.
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
January 2016 follow-up with Dr. Chatson.
It's hard to believe how fast the holidays flew by. Here it is Little Christmas (The Epiphany) already. The primary purpose of today's appointment with Dr. Chatson was to ensure my healing was going according to plans.
I am healing properly, but to be expected (and explained in an earlier appointment), there were 'areas' requiring additional attention. Specifically, there was a slight bulge near the reconstruction and an even slighter concavity on the reduction side. Both could not be seen after the surgery due to the swelling, but since 99% of the swelling had dissipated, these areas were obvious to the trained eye.
Dr. Chatson said that he would address both areas during my next surgery (tentatively mid March) by using liposuction for the excess and grafting for the concavity. He had mentioned that he may want to use a surgical center n Salem NH if it is available. During this procedure he would also complete the reconstruction by grafting a 'divot' (for the new nipple) that will be harvested from my stomach area (near the waist line). He was pleased with the overall progress.
I did have a few questions. The first was about an area of my scar (at my waist line). There was a stubborn area that wasn't healing properly. I had noticed that it appeared to be some suture material that didn't dissolve properly. He looked at it and said, "That may be the case" and he would take care of this today.
The other question had to do with my ongoing self examination. Prior to my surgeries, I knew my body well. However, there are new scars, grafts, etc., that have a different 'feel'. I asked how could I tell if I have developed any new lumps. Shortly after my surgery (when things were healing), I felt masses beneath my skin. I was wondering if that will ever change and how I would ensure that I did proper monitoring.
I pointed out the areas in question. He said that the masses were normal (as a result of the procedures), and they would not go away. But he did say that I raised valid point. "Because of your type of cancer, you may need to have a yearly follow-up for the checking of any new lumps", he said.
He directed me to the examination table. After applying some topical Novocaine I could sense his 'digging'. He said that he did remove some 'debris' and it should heal properly.
He wants to check on availability of the surgical center and hospital for the next surgery. Once confirmed, I will be contacted for a pre-op appointment. I did ask if I was going to have a drain, to which he said, no. [Thank heavens.]
More to come
I am healing properly, but to be expected (and explained in an earlier appointment), there were 'areas' requiring additional attention. Specifically, there was a slight bulge near the reconstruction and an even slighter concavity on the reduction side. Both could not be seen after the surgery due to the swelling, but since 99% of the swelling had dissipated, these areas were obvious to the trained eye.
Dr. Chatson said that he would address both areas during my next surgery (tentatively mid March) by using liposuction for the excess and grafting for the concavity. He had mentioned that he may want to use a surgical center n Salem NH if it is available. During this procedure he would also complete the reconstruction by grafting a 'divot' (for the new nipple) that will be harvested from my stomach area (near the waist line). He was pleased with the overall progress.
I did have a few questions. The first was about an area of my scar (at my waist line). There was a stubborn area that wasn't healing properly. I had noticed that it appeared to be some suture material that didn't dissolve properly. He looked at it and said, "That may be the case" and he would take care of this today.
The other question had to do with my ongoing self examination. Prior to my surgeries, I knew my body well. However, there are new scars, grafts, etc., that have a different 'feel'. I asked how could I tell if I have developed any new lumps. Shortly after my surgery (when things were healing), I felt masses beneath my skin. I was wondering if that will ever change and how I would ensure that I did proper monitoring.
I pointed out the areas in question. He said that the masses were normal (as a result of the procedures), and they would not go away. But he did say that I raised valid point. "Because of your type of cancer, you may need to have a yearly follow-up for the checking of any new lumps", he said.
He directed me to the examination table. After applying some topical Novocaine I could sense his 'digging'. He said that he did remove some 'debris' and it should heal properly.
He wants to check on availability of the surgical center and hospital for the next surgery. Once confirmed, I will be contacted for a pre-op appointment. I did ask if I was going to have a drain, to which he said, no. [Thank heavens.]
More to come
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
A few mid - December updates
While I wait for my follow-up appointment with Dr. Chatson right after the new year, my focus turned to other 'issues' that needed some attention; decline in vision due to my progressing cataract(s); and, my abdominal aeortic aneurysm.
My right eye (by itself) has deteriated so drastically, that I can see very few things clearly. Depending on the light, I can make out shapes and determine color, but can't read any sign - regardless of the font. Oddly, if I make a fist and look through a small crack (like a telescope) I'm able to see clearly. Albeit, just a small area. This makes sense. The cataract is beginning to form on the lens and by my making a smaller field of vision (looking through my fist), my pupil is dilating and allowing me to see 'around it'. The glasses I received in October provide no help, but I still where them. I'm sure it's providing some support to my good eye.
Wanting to initiate the process for cataract surgery, I began some (tedious) research for an approved provider. I won't expand on the catch 22 I was drawn into trying to get a referral, but I eventually gained approval to see a specialist at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. I have an appointment at their Stoneham location for early February. [I should have started this earlier apparently, given the two month wait.] With the next season on our heels, I am hopeful that we don't have any snow event that day (or before for that matter).
During this space between, I also wanted to revisit my Triple A condition. Late Spring, I had had two opinions, an MRI and two ultra sounds. Although each medical professional's estimates were slightly different on the actual size, each advised that the risk of treatment out-weighed the benefit. In addition, neither wanted to do anything until it got larger (5.5 cm). Depending on whom you talk to, my aneurysm was between 4.9 and 5.1 cm.
I made an appointment with a local vascular surgeon. I had seen Dr. Pare before and had to cancel a follow-up due to my chemotherapy. I figured that I was just looking for any growth and depending on that, and if needed, I would persue my options at St Elizabeth's.
Upon being brought into the examination room today, Dr. Pare was bought up to speed on my overall challenges. He instructed me to lie down and lift my shirt. After smearing on some goop, he started with the ultrasound. Surprisingly, the instrument was warm. I was ready for that initial shock of cold metal.
After a few minutes and some lengthy time spent over certain sections of my stomach, Dr. Pare said, "Well I have some good news for you today." Anxious to hear this, I said, "I could use some good news today." Dr. Pare said, "It hasn't gotten any bigger." He suggested a 6 month follow-up.
That was GREAT news. I thanked him. Wished him a Merry Christmas and scheduled an appointment for June 21st, which will be here before you know it.
Yes, this news is very welcomed.
My right eye (by itself) has deteriated so drastically, that I can see very few things clearly. Depending on the light, I can make out shapes and determine color, but can't read any sign - regardless of the font. Oddly, if I make a fist and look through a small crack (like a telescope) I'm able to see clearly. Albeit, just a small area. This makes sense. The cataract is beginning to form on the lens and by my making a smaller field of vision (looking through my fist), my pupil is dilating and allowing me to see 'around it'. The glasses I received in October provide no help, but I still where them. I'm sure it's providing some support to my good eye.
Wanting to initiate the process for cataract surgery, I began some (tedious) research for an approved provider. I won't expand on the catch 22 I was drawn into trying to get a referral, but I eventually gained approval to see a specialist at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. I have an appointment at their Stoneham location for early February. [I should have started this earlier apparently, given the two month wait.] With the next season on our heels, I am hopeful that we don't have any snow event that day (or before for that matter).
During this space between, I also wanted to revisit my Triple A condition. Late Spring, I had had two opinions, an MRI and two ultra sounds. Although each medical professional's estimates were slightly different on the actual size, each advised that the risk of treatment out-weighed the benefit. In addition, neither wanted to do anything until it got larger (5.5 cm). Depending on whom you talk to, my aneurysm was between 4.9 and 5.1 cm.
I made an appointment with a local vascular surgeon. I had seen Dr. Pare before and had to cancel a follow-up due to my chemotherapy. I figured that I was just looking for any growth and depending on that, and if needed, I would persue my options at St Elizabeth's.
Upon being brought into the examination room today, Dr. Pare was bought up to speed on my overall challenges. He instructed me to lie down and lift my shirt. After smearing on some goop, he started with the ultrasound. Surprisingly, the instrument was warm. I was ready for that initial shock of cold metal.
After a few minutes and some lengthy time spent over certain sections of my stomach, Dr. Pare said, "Well I have some good news for you today." Anxious to hear this, I said, "I could use some good news today." Dr. Pare said, "It hasn't gotten any bigger." He suggested a 6 month follow-up.
That was GREAT news. I thanked him. Wished him a Merry Christmas and scheduled an appointment for June 21st, which will be here before you know it.
Yes, this news is very welcomed.
Monday, November 30, 2015
6 month follow-up with Dr. Moore
Clearly it was 'back to work' for those doing their 9 to 5 today. The parking lot for Dr. Moore's office was packed. There were a few cars circling for free spots. I made one trip through and was lucky enough to snag a spot, but it was on the far end. I can use the exercise.
It's hard to believe that my mastectomy (part two) was six months ago. When I made this appointment in May, it seemed so far away. Little did I know I would be having a quite interesting medical journey since that time. I was also questioning the relevance of this appointment since I was fresh from reconstructive surgery and the surgery performed by Dr. Moore was altered. How could he comment on my recuperation? I decided to keep the appointment anyway.
At the check in, it was a typical Monday with the 'system' not cooperating. Apparently in preparation for some Obamacare changes, there is a new coding system, but not all the bugs have been worked out. What would normally take 5 minutes, took a half hour. Even after that they had to 'fudge' the system to accept payment. I was told to, "Hold on to that receipt". [Hmmm, I see myself talking to a 'representative' of the billing department sometime in my near future.]
I was called into the examination room and Dr. Moore joined me almost immediately. He asked how I was doing. I bought him up to speed with what transpired since we last met. He did mention that he had conversations with both doctors, Mehta and Chatson. So he was more up to speed that I thought. I had mentioned that I thought this appointment didn't make sense given my recent reconstruction. He agreed, but said he wanted to take a look anyway.
I removed my shirt and undershirt and he had me lie on the examination table. I thought it was funny when he started examining my right breast. I had to remind him that he worked on the left. [Granted he sees many patients and it's probably hard to recall which side for each. But, I took this as validation that the reconstruction is coming along.]
Dr. Moore examined my lymph nodes/arm pit for lumps and said, "There are none." I had mentioned that I was concerned with a portion of my left breast (where the liposuction was performed). To me, it felt like a large mass. He assured me that it was normal swelling and possibly some fluid. "I'm not concerned with it. It's normal", he said. Hearing that made this appointment valuable.
He said, "I prefer to stagger some of these appointments. Since you are having a six month with Dr. Mehta in June, I want to see you next year. We can talk about our Thanksgiving."
So it's Dr. Moore on the Monday following Thanksgiving. I'm sure this time will also fly by.
More to come.
It's hard to believe that my mastectomy (part two) was six months ago. When I made this appointment in May, it seemed so far away. Little did I know I would be having a quite interesting medical journey since that time. I was also questioning the relevance of this appointment since I was fresh from reconstructive surgery and the surgery performed by Dr. Moore was altered. How could he comment on my recuperation? I decided to keep the appointment anyway.
At the check in, it was a typical Monday with the 'system' not cooperating. Apparently in preparation for some Obamacare changes, there is a new coding system, but not all the bugs have been worked out. What would normally take 5 minutes, took a half hour. Even after that they had to 'fudge' the system to accept payment. I was told to, "Hold on to that receipt". [Hmmm, I see myself talking to a 'representative' of the billing department sometime in my near future.]
I was called into the examination room and Dr. Moore joined me almost immediately. He asked how I was doing. I bought him up to speed with what transpired since we last met. He did mention that he had conversations with both doctors, Mehta and Chatson. So he was more up to speed that I thought. I had mentioned that I thought this appointment didn't make sense given my recent reconstruction. He agreed, but said he wanted to take a look anyway.
I removed my shirt and undershirt and he had me lie on the examination table. I thought it was funny when he started examining my right breast. I had to remind him that he worked on the left. [Granted he sees many patients and it's probably hard to recall which side for each. But, I took this as validation that the reconstruction is coming along.]
Dr. Moore examined my lymph nodes/arm pit for lumps and said, "There are none." I had mentioned that I was concerned with a portion of my left breast (where the liposuction was performed). To me, it felt like a large mass. He assured me that it was normal swelling and possibly some fluid. "I'm not concerned with it. It's normal", he said. Hearing that made this appointment valuable.
He said, "I prefer to stagger some of these appointments. Since you are having a six month with Dr. Mehta in June, I want to see you next year. We can talk about our Thanksgiving."
So it's Dr. Moore on the Monday following Thanksgiving. I'm sure this time will also fly by.
More to come.
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