The Plot Thickens

Danny found a video of a panel of doctors who attended a symposium held by the Carcinoid Foundation.  We watched the videos of two doctors who specialize in carcinoid, and the actual panel discussion, and were really enlightened.  It seems that the primary carcinoid tumor could be as small as a pin point or as large as a grain of rice.  With that being said, the tumor located in my mezentery is apparently NOT my primary tumor as my oncologist has been telling me.  (This leads us to wonder exactly how much my oncologist really knows about carcinoid, especially since she asked me if I wanted a general surgeon to operate on my mezentery.)

We were extremely impressed with the two doctors, one of whom practices in New Orleans, and has had much success in locating and removing primary tumors, thus extending the lifespan of the patients.  I had an appointment with Dr. Chohan this past Thursday, and I asked her if she had/has other carcinoid patients whose tumor is located in the mezentery.  She assured me she does/has, and I asked her where she sends those patients.  She told me New Orleans (to the clinic where the video doctor practices).  She was quite ready to get the ball rolling to refer me to the New Orleans clinic and get me scheduled for mid-June.  I put her off because I have to check with my insurance about coverage, and because I have an appointment with an oncologist from the Integrist Cancer Institute this Friday afternoon.  However, after having watched the videos, Danny and I are convinced that New Orleans is the way to go.  It will take a lot to convince me otherwise.

I am feeling really good these days, except for tummy and back issues, but I am able to work all day and have enough energy to do things around the house.  I am so very thankful for that!  A month ago, I didn't know if I'd ever have the energy to function normally again.

I am very grateful for all the prayers, thoughts and cards throughout this journey.  They lift me up more than I could have ever imagined!