Margaret, David, Bill, Colleen and Gary,

Thank you all for your kind replies and excellent suggestions. After a few days reflection, I have come to realize that I need to relax, reduce stress and try to get my mind-set focused. I am normally a very organized person, who works through everything using lists and notes. Since this diagnosis, I have not been able to concentrate in a logical way. I agree with you, David, that a lot of this is mental, and Gary, anti-anxiety meds may well be a needed aid for me to adequately cope. In fact I should have posted this topic in the �Coping Forum�!

Margaret and Bill, I agree with you that I need to receive satisfactory answers from the doctors as well as have the appropriate tests. I will try to be more persistent in my requests, as well as more specific. When I have my annual physical with my Primary Care Doc, I always type up any changes I have experienced since my last visit, as well as a list of requested tests, and a list of questions. I make two copies of this and hand one copy to him as he enters the room. He (jokingly) says I make it too easy for HIM, and I tell him I do this because it makes it easier for ME not to forget anything! I did not do this with the ENT; I was so scared that a didn�t even ask the handwritten questions I had for him. I will have two copies of my typed list ready next time (and maybe a tape recorder) and will go to the appointment prepared to do battle (at least be more aggressive)!! And Bill, I love your plumber analogy!

Colleen, I do need to feel confident that I have been thoroughly examined, and I also did not like the answers the ENT gave me. I have begun to look at options for a second opinion.

Gary, thank you for your clarifications re: the typical treatment of early stage cancers, the usefulness and limitations of the scanning tests, and your explanation of the usual timeline for testing and treatment. I feel that I am better informed, and better able comprehend the big picture.

David, we were at W&M 1969-73. Craig wrestled there, and also played rugby with the law school team. Our paths may have crossed?

Once again, you all have demonstrated what a caring community OCF is. I cannot express how valuable your advice has been for me!

Thank you kindly,
Catherine