Hi Quinn,

Sorry to hear about the recurrence. Your right in wanting to seek a 2nd opinion at a CCC. If there's a way to seek treatment there then go that route as well.

I sought a 2nd opinion at Johns Hopkins and I ended up seeking treatment there. I'm convinced had I not, I may not be typing this response. While there are many that received excellent care outside of a CCC, I'm sure my case would have turned out much differently had I not done so.

From my first phone call, the response and attention I received has been above and beyond. They made all the arrangements, gathered all the previous records and test results and by the time I arrived for my appointment a "team" had been assembled. A MO, RO, ENT/Surgeon, Speech/Language Pathologist, Oncology Nurse/Manager, even the head of the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center was there to greet me. I was poked and prodded more in 25 minutes than I was the entire time locally. They all knew my case up until that point and were in agreement with their recommendations for treatment.

I went home that day and did a little research on the team that was assembled. All were some of the very best and brightest in their fields. They were extremely confident that they would eradicate this beast from my body.

I can't speak highly enough of Johns Hopkins. If there's any way you can get treated there then do so! My caregiver and I are from Virginia and were fortunate enough to be put up at Hope Lodge in Baltimore during treatment.

Concerning eating.... regardless of where you're at currently with your weight, enjoy your favorite foods now while you can. Gaining a another few pounds or so prior to treatment won't do any harm. Most likely, it will be a long time before you're able to enjoy them again.

Positive thoughts and prayers

"T"