Good morning all,
What a year it has been! My cancer was diagnosed in February and I had a lumpectomy in March(triple negative invasive ductal carcinoma, 1 cm, no node involvement, clear margins). Then, in April, I had mammosite radiation where they insert the balloon into the breast and the radiation is over and done with in five days. Began Carboplatin and Taxotere chemo the end of April and finished at the end of August. Had some very rough days - wound up getting four units of blood and six units of platelets - but worked as much as I possibly could throughout. Had a PET scan in late October and was told there was no evidence of disease as far as the breast cancer was concerned, but that my thyroid had lit up. I saw an endocrinologist who performed six biopsies of the nodule in my thyroid. The biopsies came back fine but now I have to go back to her to find out what's up with the thyroid - overactive? underactive?
Also developed lymphodema in the breast so will be seeing a new doctor about that, plus I have residual neuropathy in feet and fingers. There are a few other little lingering side effects but nothing I cannot deal with. Meanwhile, I feel pretty doggone great!!!!!

I am concerned, however, that I need to change oncologists if and when cancer returns. How do you find a new GOOD one - one that you are comfortable with and who has a caring support staff? I went all through chemo with this particular oncologist but have never been happy with him or his nurse. After a conversation with them yesterday, I feel that I absolutely HAVE to find a new doctor.
How would you handle this situation? Talking does no good (but I did learn to record all visits to the doctors in lieu of trying to rely on memory).
Thanks for any help you can send my way. By the way, I live near Richmond, VA. Thanks again!
JanB