Hi David -
I've been off the board for awhile - but wanted to jump in as a caregiver. I know exactly how your wife feels. The roller coaster ride, the fear, anger, etc. It's often more difficult on the caregiver - after all the treatments. So - here is one suggestion for her. Ask for a copy of the written path report PRIOR to your doctor appointment. Yes -- I know a lot of docs don't want to have this info in a patient's hand because it is really like reading greek. However, it gives her an opportunity to have the information in front of her -- and she can then ask ... but what about, or what does this mean. I hated waiting for someone else to give me filtered information. So I always call & request a written copy a day or so before the doctor visit (hint - it is your body, your test, your reports -- you are entitled to them). After nearly 2 years I have gotten very good at reading the reports. The terms, etc that I did not understand I looked up or asked -- and I learned.

Give your wife another kiss David -- you both have earned it!

Carol R.


Carol R - caregiver to hubby Ken. Stage 4, SCC, BOT. 6/05 dx, 9/25/05 last tx, 5/06 stroke. Four years cancer free! Still taking things 1 day at a time.