Sue, I live in a small town with a small hospital and a new cancer treatment center. The chief RO in this little town is straight from MD Anderson and the second in command has similarly impressive credentials. It might be the climate, but is most likely the world class windsurfing that is the draw, but if they had been here when I needed treatment, I would not have driven to the Big City. Mark is right that small town docs can know their stuff.

As far as pain control, speak right up. It is your dad's right to be given drugs to control the pain. Even severe treatment can be accomplished with little pain, and I can testify to that.

I wish you and your dad the best possible remaining treatment and recovery.