[quote=bjlral]

Take some time, to read and be encouraged and glean hope.

[/quote]

Love it.

bjlral,

OCF University is fitting. With the education that I've received from Brian, Charm (RIP), Christine, David, etc...I've been asked to teach at one of the top 5 dental schools in the country, and will be added to their curriculum in the next year.

That's a testament to Brian's commitment to peer reviewed science and getting the latest information out there with the OCF website, the RSS Newsfeed, and these forums.

The only thing I can take credit for really is an incredible memory and amazing communication skills...because I'm humble like that.

Connie, we have several OCF members in your state and a great relationship with MDAAC in Houston, the best advice when dealing with cancer, is to get the absolute best medical advice available to you, the rest is up to how your body responds to treatment.

Keep your chin up, and plug in for support often...and keep eating and hydrating!!!

E

Hi Connie,
Just going to add my hello and welcome you to the gang. It stinks that you have to be here, but we've all been where you are so completely understand the deer in the headlights look right now. Once you have a diagnosis and a treatment plan it really does get easier because you are fighting instead of waiting.
Stay with us.
Kathy

Connie, sorry you have to join our family, but welcome! There is a lot of good advice for you already as I can see, so I would just say that it helps sometimes when the going gets rough, to learn to take things one day at a time.

Hi Connie, Welcome!

My cancer treatment center in Pensacola is affiliated with MD Anderson, and I can add my assurances that you are in good hands with them!

I'd like to reinforce what others have said, read the forums, starting with this one. Why, because each intro thread introduces new elements and elicits new suggestions from members who've BTDT and have a bunch of nifty shirts to prove it!

Be pro-active, and no NOT assume that you don't need to be involved. Even the best medico's are still human and forget minor details from time to time, such as scheduling events. Things fall through cracks, be on top of things and speak up if you aren't getting a clear picture of who, what, when, where and how regarding any part of your treatment/condition.

Good luck, and please keep us informed as to your dx!

Hi Connie, sorry you're facing this but welcome to the best bunch of folks you could have on your side!

To all the great advice so far, I'd add try to get copies of everything -- pathology reports, operative reports, even bloodwork. The detailed info will help you sort out questions that come up as you go forward on this journey.

Hugs,

Mamacita

Thank you I enjoy reading what others post. Got my mask started today and get pet scan tomorrow.

Hi Connie,

I see you've gotten a lot of great advice and encouragement already so I'll just say welcome, add my encouragement and tell you to hang on for the ride. It's a rough one but you'll make it through.

You didn't mention where you're seeking care but MD Anderson in Houston is the #1 rated CCC in the country. As others have mentioned being treated at or getting a 2nd opinion at a CCC is advisable.

Good luck, positive thoughts and prayers

"T"

Connie,

One other thing that would help all of us that want to respond to your future posts and that is to add a Signature Line like mine and others. Go to My Stuff and Edit Profile.

Connie, I sent you a private message (PM) a few days ago. Take a look towards to top middle of the page, next to the My Stuff tab. You should see a tiny envelope blinking. Click on that to get your PM. Please take a few minutes to review it. There is a link which gives detailed instructions on how to add a signature. It really is very important to have a signature, it helps us to help you.

Thanks!