Tom, my ENT couldn't agree with you more about being our own quarterback -- In my case, because there was just going to be radiation and most of the folks passing thru the RadOncCtr were getting both chemo and rad, there seemed to be times when I would get an answer like "well, what did your Medical Onc say?" and I would have to remind them that there was none!

My ENT is filling that role in terms of directing the overall strategy, but when it comes to tactics and setbacks, I had to be sure I let the nurses know -- Pester them with questions, write down the answers so you won't forget, and above all don't be embarrassed to pester them several times about the same thing until you have it straight (and they have it straight that a problem exists).

I am finding that the staff have lots of solutions and "tricks up their sleeves", but we have to help them recognize the need.

I recently went thru a bout of anxiety like I have never experienced before, but recognized it and asked for help -- I had taken some of my leftover diazepam (aka valium) which helped, plus more of my compazine (the anti-nausea for the amifostine) but they prescribed lorazepam which did as well without knocking me out so fast, plus it has an anti-nausea component.

Come to find out, BTW, that the lorazepam is what is often prescribed for use until the anti-depressent can kick in for folks being treated for stress in general.

Pete