Monica attended at the Cancer Agency for the first time today. Apart from the usual waiting which seems to be built into the medical system, we had a pretty good experience. Everyone was very pleasant and helpful.
We first met with a radiation oncologist. He took quite a bit of time with us to discuss the type of tumour which Monica has and to patiently answer our questions. We already knew that the tumour was malignant and fast-growing. However, the doctor seemed to strike a good balance between accurately describing the situation yet leaving in place the hope for a better outcome which could come from positively pursuing treatment. Overall, we liked the oncologist and think that he will be good to deal with as we go forward.
Monica will go back to the Cancer Agency next week for a CTscan, an MRI and to have a mask fitted for the radiation. Radiation will start about 10 days after that and will go 5 days a week for 6 weeks. She will be simultaneously taking chemotherapy during this period. Thereafter she will be taking scheduled chemotherapy for a further 6 months. We will meet a medical oncologist on June 8th to discuss the chemotherapy.
We were also introduced to a social worker who provided us with materials for Monica as the patient and for Greg and Marley as caregivers. He also informed us of the services which are available should we require them. Monica and Greg will likely, at least, attend the Brain Tumour support group which he coordinates.
We were pleased to note that both the oncologist and the social worker were familiar with Inspire Health and supported the idea of us participating in its program.
In some ways we were dreading the meeting today. However, it now seems to be a relief to see the medical team taking shape and the treatment program being organized.
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