Gary, It's simply logistics since I'm back in Mendocino for a few days before returning to NY.

The local hospital won't accept Drs orders from an out-of-state Dr, (oh, yeah, you can bet I exploded all over them for that one!!) By law, you don't even HAVE to have a Dr's order to get your own blood drawn!!! It's just most labs have that policy in place to limit liability (read = Spread the Blame)... And of course, the insurance companies! (Don't get me started)

Either way, the local GP is such a goof ball, but at least he responds to my requests...

I WON'T be seeing him long term! Just every once in a while for things like this, and the EKG I'm getting this week, prior to the PEG tube surgery.

So, to answer your post, yes, the team is basically what you stated, although I haven't met a nutritionist yet, (most likely it will be surrouding the G Tube).

I'll ask for the HEP test, just to rule it out...Ouch! Sorry to hear about yours...must have been a shock, huh?

Do you take anything, or just watch your Liver profile?

Helen, as always, your insight and wishes are warmly received!! I'll get the Thyroid panel done too, what the heck?! It's going on a credit card anyway :-P


Michael | 53 | SCC | Right Tonsil | Dx'd: 06-10-05 | STAGE IV, T3N2bM0 | 3 Nodes R Side | MRND & Tonsillectomy 06/29/05 Dr Fee/Stanford | 8 wks Rad/Chemo startd August 15th @ MSKCC, NY | Tx Ended: 09-27-05 | Cancer free at 16+ Yrs | After-Effects of Tx: Thyroid function is 0, ok salivary function, tinnitus, some scars, neck/face asymmetry, gastric reflux. 2017 dysphagia, L Carotid stent / 2019, R Carotid occluded not eligible for stent.2022 dental issues, possible ORN, memory/recall challenges.