I went to the oncologist yesterday for my (every three month) check up.  Everything is fine.  I did tell him that I had a change of heart and I wanted to talk with him.  I told him that I want to have regular scans.  He agreed and made sure that I was aware of the risks and benefits.  So now every six months I will have a bone scan, CAT scan of my abdomen and a chest x-ray.   With the CAT scan they are mainly interested in checking my liver and the chest x-ray my lungs.  Over the last 1 1/2 years, I had discussed regular scans with Dr. Kahn.  He feels the risks outweigh the benefits and therefore does not regularly order them.  However, for me, I need the peace of mind that a scan can bring.  When I was first diagnosed, I had chemo, surgery, radiation and various scans.  I felt that my cancer was actively being treated.  While I still have regular mammograns and see the oncologist regularly, there is a fear that comes over me when I have an ache, pain, or another symptom that could indicate reoccurrence. I am told this is normal and I was warned that I may feel this way once the active part of treatment was finished.  However, a reoccurrence is a realistic possibility.  Last night, I learned about two tumor marker tests (CA 15/3 and CA 27/29) that I could be getting, but haven't. Why?  This is a simple blood test that can be done at the same time that my labs are drawn.  My labs are drawn every six months before my Zometa treatments.  I will be requesting these also.    Thank you Rose for the info regarding the tumor marker tests.  I trust my doctors completely, however I feel that they could be more proactive.  Why wait til symptoms appear?

My change of heart has also stemmed from knowing four people that lost their lives to cancer since December 2008.   They lived their lives to the fullest and fought like hell to live.  I am my strongest advocate and must fight for what I believe in and feel is the right treatment for me.  When the doctor is in the exam room with me, I am his number one priority, but at the end of the day the doctors job is done, he goes home and does not think twice about me! Each person must fight for themselves.

I know that I have rambled, but I needed to get these thoughts out.  This journal serves as a source of accurate and up to date information for all of you as well as a release for me.

With blessings and love to all--Anice