It may seem like it's been awhile since I've written – and yes, you would be correct. It seems that I have been concentrating my energy on my Facebook page (http://tinyurl.com/qcnccc) updating it on a regular basis.
I was scheduled to have my six-month checkup with my oncologist this past November. I called back in July to try and set up an appointment, only to have been told I would receive a letter in the mail.
I waited. And I waited. And I waited some more… every day I would check the mail for this infamous letter that would never arrive. Finally on December 7th I was fed up and gave them yet another call to find out what had happened and why I did not receive my letter for my November appointment.
The receptionist who answered my call stated that my oncologist had been running behind in his appointments and that I would be placed on a list. I took a deep breath and responded with "what is your name please?" Upon her reply, she then asked me if I had complications or if something was wrong. I was quick to answer "I was diagnosed with cancer, and I want to know if I am still in remission or if there are any other remaining or new traces. Is that enough of a complication?"
She said I would have to wait until January, but would see what she could do. Funny how once I asked for her name, things changed; and two days later I received the letter in the mail, dated nonetheless December 7. How ironic is that.
My appointment was scheduled for January as she had mentioned.
On Friday, January 8, 2010 was my six-month appointment (a few months late, but better than no appointment at all) with my oncologist.
Chad was home on Thursday that week, and took me to my appointment. We arrived early, just in case he was ahead of schedule – no luck, we had to wait. There were a few people ahead of me, including one older gentleman who was furious that he had not seen the doctor already.
When it came my turn – I was greeted by a student intern who was quite kind, and asked me my history, and how I was feeling. I answered him that I was still very tired with a low energy level and he said he would go thru my file and also mention it to my oncologist prior to my examination.
A few more minutes pass, and my oncologist entered the room with his student intern – a few questions, then up onto the cold but lovely white paper covered black examination table. The nurse then entered the room. And yes, you know the routine… ugh. Not the best of times, or the nicest of positions, but something that you can not go without.
After a few pokes, jabs, and conversation, the examination was over.
My oncologist said that it was normal for me to be tired on account of everything my body went thru in such a short amount of time. He said it takes time for the body to heal. He also told me to go about at my own pace, and rest when I felt the need.
Upon his exiting the room, he said "I will see you again in June or July."
When I was getting dressed, I made a mental note to myself, call in April to make sure I give the receptionist enough time to get me on the June or July list!
One must take care of oneself.
Two days later, after this visit to the medical center, I came down with a very bad cold – and had to resort to codeine. I don't get it. I am so anal about using the hand sanitizers, not touching anything, and I still get sick. Thank goodness for codeine.
Karen Eryou
January 18, 2010
Note: Codeine based cough syrup and pain reliver is available OTC in Canada.
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