I had a follow up visit with Dr. Beth DuPree on November 27th. The first thing she did upon walking into the exam room was express her regret and apology for the difficult catheter removal. My post-op visit was uneventful, and I was released with flying colors. I was also given permission to return to my water aerobics, which I did the very next day.
However, it’s not over. . . I was directed to set up an appointment with a medical oncologist, Dr. Pallav Mehta, at Holy Redeemer Hospital to discuss whether I need to go on medication to suppress estrogen and progesterone since my tumor was hormone driven. I’m hoping if I need to take this route that we can find an effective natural, plant-based supplement as opposed to a drug.
I was also directed to set up a mammogram in 3 months and return to see Dr. DuPree in 6 months. I walked out wondering if this will ever be over? Will I always be under close scrutiny?
. . . and so it is
Oh I think scrutiny is a very very good thing. Scrutiny is a path that stops you from falling off the bridge. Happy Holidays my friend:)
You will be under close scrutiny for at least 5 years. I took Tamoxifin for 5 years then Aromisin for another 5. No side effects at all.
My surgeon, oncologist and radiation dr. each saw me every three months for the first year, then every 6 months. My radiation Dr. released me after 5 years, but the other two see me every year. A small price to pay to be cancer free, so far.
Peggy
Yes Debbie, yes you will always be under scrutiny. However it is a good thing! After 31 radiation tx and 5yrs of Tamoxifen, I am a 15 yr survivor. a litle sunsensitive, but no graaveside effects Yet, every little change, a cough, an unusual bruise, I still wonder…
A New Year is around the corner! May it be a Healthy and Happy one!
Take care,
Margot
Folliw-up appointments are a very good thing. Not only does it give you peace-of-mind but an avenue to follow for any questions or concerns you may have in the future. Keep smiling and love those follow-ups.
Best to you as always,
Loretta