I was scheduled for another MRI with dye this time, since they didn't get the correct one last time. I drive down there and they tell me they are not going to do it now, because the dye would be too dangerous to the fetus. I don't know what stage my cancer is or anything and I am just so frustrated because it seems I am just sitting around knowing I have cancer just not how bad with no way of knowing a treatment plan. Is sitting here doing nothing going to make it worse?? Has anyone else been diagnosed while pregnant? I also can't get into MD Anderson without scans... I am just ahhhhh beyond frustrated. Also no insurance puts an even bigger dent in my frustration.

Oh Jessica, I hear you! Getting a diagnosis and then hitting delays in getting to the next step is beyond frustrating. Of course you desperately want to get a plan moving!

I would call MDA and explain that you do have one scan (the 5 mm version) and have a definitive diagnosis but can't obtain another contrast scan due to pregnancy. You aren't the first person in this situation and if we can get you past the screener folks there will know how to proceed while protecting your baby.

I know it's thin reassurance, but look at peoples' timelines and you'll see that there's almost always a delay before treatment starts, sometimes several months. These aren't cancers that should be ignored, but on the other hand they're not usually a disease that has to be treated as soon as it's discovered.

<<<HUGS>>>

Mama

There have been several women who were pregnant while they had cancer. I put my friend in touch with you. I believe Elizabeth was one of those women. She is a great source for help so please make sure you reach out to her.

Yes thank you, I am very glad to be able to talk to with her. Thanks for the reassurance :):) Hormones make things worse lol

I also have no insurance and was very worried about getting the care I needed. I also live outside of San Antonio. Cancer Care Centers of South Texas have been very helpful in reducing the costs of my treatments
(they helped me to qualify for free Chemo drugs from the manufacturer).
I had an MRI scan done at American Health Imaging that was half the price of anyone else in town. They are close to the medical center area.
Hang on and don't give up.
Steve

Thanks Steve, I am working on the Insurance, I am hopefully able to get assistance due to pregnancy. Right now I am going to the Univeristy Health System of San Antonio, I have not seen an Oncologist or have I seen the ENT since he sent me to the Oral Surgeon. I think that's what makes me nervous, this is all going through the Oral Surgeon. I am scheduled for surgery in a couple weeks, freeze box margin and another MRI a couple days before it. I guess I will find out more about my cancer after that.

Hi Jessica,
The CTRC (part of the University System I think) is where I went for my second opinion (in the MARC building). I was able to get 25% off the doctor visit for paying right away. I used a credit card to pay for it. ($450 doctor consult I had my MRIs for them to look at as well and I had a complete exam with scope)
I would get a second opinion from the CTRC ENTs. Send a copy of your MRI to them before the visit if you do decide to get a second opinion.
Dr. Miller is one of the two ENT surgical oncologists at the CTRC. They are also a recognized National Cancer Institute (NCI). They are able to use the newer Trans Orbital Robotic surgery which is less invasive. It may be that your oral surgeon uses the Trans Orbital Robotic surgery. But a second opinion is always good. I dropped my first ENT oncologist because he did not communicate with my medical oncologist at the Cancer Care Centers of South Texas.
You have to be your own advocate or else you may fall thru the cracks. Ask questions, find out about choices.
If you have a place to stay in Houston, I would recommend MD Anderson for treatment.
take care,
Steve

Thank you for all the information, I found the CTRC and have an appointment for next Tuesday, they had access to my medical records which made it much simpler. My appointment is with Dr. Argiris. Just happy to have an actual Oncologist to see Thanks again!

How are you doing? Hope all is well. Just wanted to let you know I was thinking of you.
Best wishes,
Steve