Sarah,

I'm sorry that my post took over your thread. That was not my intention. I will be starting another thread (later tonight)in the Activism forum and hope that August, Petey, Anne-Marie and the rest of you pick up my suggestions in that thread. I will title it, "Helping Your Dentist Get With The Program"


Being in the situation of going to a free clinic certainly makes things more difficult. I'm sure that they are very busy. I am assuming that you called for an appointment. Perhaps you can go to the clinic and go up to the desk and explain your situation to the receptionist.

I would would tell them that you know that you have many dental problemns and have put off treatment for a long time. However, the reason you are there now is that you are very concerned that you may have oral cancer. Ask if there is a way that you could wait until one of the dentists has a break and perhaps he/she could take a look, to help put your mind at ease. Go at a time when you can spend some time waiting. Explain that you have an appointment in July which you will keep for your routine care, but that you are very anxious to find out what is going on with the lumps in your mouth.

I hope this can work for you. Please let me know.

Jerry


Jerry

Retired Dentist, 59 years old at diagnosis. SCC of the left lateral border of the tongue (Stage I). Partial glossectomy and 30 nodes removed, 4/6/05. Nodes all clear. No chemo no radiation 18 year survivor.

"Whatever doesn't kill me, makes me stronger"