So I was supposed to fly to Oahu tomorrow to see my medical oncologist. Last visit 1 year ago had a discussion regarding my concerns about my cumulative radiation exposure (at least 9 PET/CT, 5 or more chest CTs, multiple chest x-rays – lost count etc.). At what point do we drop scans?
In my case I had indolent disease. 8 years after stage IIA became stage IV with a small lung met and even smaller muscle met. Removed lung tumor and underwent IL-2. Complete responder with a durable remission……. Based on recent follow ups of past IL-2 complete responders both my surgical & medical onc. have finally accepted I will probably continue with my durable remission.
Only now what to do…..
I called yesterday and since no scans were ordered asked what was the point of taking an entire day, flying to Oahu, spending over $300 on airfare, another $100 or so to catch a cab, to basically say I am still doing well…..
I just had several blood tests & chest x-ray as part of my pre-op stuff for ACL surgery, all good.
With my Dr.'s blessing, he agreed I could be followed by my surgical oncologist who flies to the Big Island 2-4 times a year to see patients. My surgical oncologist said I should still be seen by someone, but as to what testing, lab work and for how long, neither of them had an answer. They are going to talk to each other about it.
The funny part is both feel I will never hear from mel again, but neither wants to discharge me forever – LOL. I am at peace not doing any more scans at this point. Perhaps it is worth it just to give those guys hope that some of us set the curve rather than live by it……
It feels good to have graduated from seeing them. I think now it will only be annual visits +/- blood work with my surgical onc. I can stay at home to get that done which also helps a great deal.
Just updating for whoever was interested. Glad the day finally came 🙂
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