Welcome to OCF, Ed! Im sorry you have a need to join our family. Dont worry, you found the very best place to get correct, up to date medical info and support.
You are not alone anymore! With us in your corner, you can become a better advocate for yourself.

I see you have already learned why second opinions and comprehensive cancer centers (CCC) are so important! A team based approach at CCCs will help eliminate doctors who advise their specialty is the best way to go. CCCs tumor boards are where all the specialists meet to discuss each individual case so all are on the same page with the best possible recommendation, patients are able to attend too. When dealing with smaller regional facilities, you can run into what you have... all the doctors claim their treatment plan is what you need to go with. Surgeons cut and will tell you thats the best choice then radiation docs say their way is best, etc... No wonder your head is spinning. Read both here and on the main OCF site to learn and educate yourself so you can make the best decisions. Bedside manner is very important to ensure an open conversation and trust is established, but remember; having a "nice" doc doesnt make them more competent! I know, its definitely not easy to wade thru a confusing time to get the best possible medical care you can.

Theres a million and one little tips and things you will learn along the way. Right now you can help yourself by starting to focus on your daily intake. No matter what treatment plan you get your sense of taste, appetite, and ability to eat will likely be temporarily disrupted. For now do your very best to seek out all your favorite foods and eat the best you can. If you're on the average or slim side, gaining a few pounds would be a great idea as most patients will lose weight during treatments and recovery even if they up their calories. Fighting cancer and healing the damage done burns up calories at an incredible rate so pay close attention to your intake now so it becomes second hand down the road when it plays a huge role in getting thru this. I can be a bit of a nag about intake as Ive suffered much more than I would have if I was better at pushing myself with my own intake.