Dear Audrey, I have a couple of reactions to your above post that I'd like to share. #1. Is there another person [your daughter perhaps?] that can go with you and your husband to these initial appointments? 3 sets of ears and NOTES are better than 2 in a stressful situation. The diagnosis of cancer and the "jargon" about what is to happen next can indeed be very overwhelming! In fact, it makes most of us feel like we have just landed on a distant planet and have no clue of the language spoken there. #2. I hope you do not intend to try to conceal your diagnosis from your family for very long. I truly believe that is a mistake and and additional stress that you don't need. You can be upbeat and reassuring when you tell them and explain your treatment plan-Then you ask for everyone's help! #3. Try hard to stop speculating and use your energy instead to get a grasp on the nomenclature you will be hearing in the next few weeks. That will make you a better patient.
#4. Good for you for recognizing that work is secondary to health- keep that attitude going. Hope to hear from you soon about what's next. Amy