Back in 2009, I had very early stage colorectal cancer discovered on a routine colonoscopy. My GI wanted to send me to local oncologists. Told him I was going to COH & he didn’t understand why. After he saw the op report (min. invasive), he understood. Back there again now for a new flavor.
I was Stage IV colorectal w/liver mets and my local oncologist was administering chemo but planning for my demise. To his credit he insisted I get a second opinion and City of Hope's approach was "Let's fix this!" After surgery, I've been NED status for 28 months now. A much rosier outlook!
I just transferred my care for endometrial cancer to COH after a second recurrence. Dx, surgery & pelvic radiation in 2020, NED until early 2023, then chemo & Keytruda & back to NED. Until August. I had really great care, but COH has an entire dept just for my cancer. And COH is closer to me.
I got 4 opinions before settling on my team. The ability to shop around and be 100% certain, intellectually and emotionally, of my choice remains a gift.
Signed,
Third generation cancer survivor 💪🏽
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OTOH, I made the decision to get a second opinion from City of Hope and it saved my life. So I'll take a tiny bit of credit.
Stealing this line, Rev. Was my approach too.
Just tell me where and when to show up, Doc... I'll smoke a jay and let you do your thing.
Worth it.
Signed,
Third generation cancer survivor 💪🏽
#cansky