Would recommend a second opinion, even if you stay with your local docs.

Each doctor brings up things that haven't been discussed previously...just gives you more information to make a decision. In our case, our ENT was a poor communicator...we got a better idea of the scope of things at our second opinion at a Comprehensive Cancer Center (H. Lee Moffitt in Tampa, FL.) They were familiar with our docs (MO and RO) and gave us assurance that we could be treated locally successfully.

I know you are on overwhelm, and the thought of another set of doctors in just too much, but put your head down, look for a Comprehensive Cancer Center, Head and Neck Clinic, and call for a quick appt. Our insurance allows for a second opinion. We were able to be seen within just couple of days....don't let it drag on.

My thoughts are with you during this most stressfull time. Do you have someone that can help you...go with you...be a second set of ears?? You need that right now...lots coming at you.

Good luck, Deb


Deb..caregiver to husband, age 63 at diagnosis, former smoker who quit in 1997.
DIAGNOSIS: 6/26/07 SCC right tonsil/BOT T4N0M0
TREATMENT START: 8/9/07 cisplatin/taxol X 7..IMRT twice daily X 31.5.
TREATMENT END: 10/1/07
PEG OUT: 1/08
PORT OUT: 4/09
FOLLOWUP: Now only annual exams. ALL CLEAR!

Passed away 1/7/17 RIP Bill