First onco appointment...PET scan?

  Hi smokie08...my initial consult with the oncologist was very good.  He was patient, kind, listened to me, armed with tissues, explained everything and I really felt comfortable with him.  The consult went for one hour!  Don't ask what it cost!

He explained that after the pathology of the tumour, my cancer was dividing quickly and aggressively.  Thankfully the tumour was removed with an infected node on 1st March... further surgery on my lymph nodes showed no other infections.....so in my mind, my cancer has been removed back on 1st March.  Due to the aggressive nature of the cancer, and the possibility of stray cells lurking around, my oncologist said he was going to 'hit me with chemo'....so his plan is for AC fortnightly (4 doses), then a combination of taxotere/carbo/platinum (I think that's right) every third week after AC. 

I am still debating the DMX, although my surgeon doesn't feel it's medically warranted.  However, my surgeon has said he will operate if it helps ease my mind.  He said to consider it all during the time of chemo. 

I'm hoping for genetic testing at some stage, to ascertain if I have the BRAC 1 & 2 gene....but at this time, my oncologist indicated I didn't meet medicare point system to qualify for rebates  - apparently I scored 10 points, but need 14 points to be able to claim rebates....so that's also something I will look into further as the months go by. 

So that's where I am at the moment....still off work, and plan to take Income Protection Insurance during my treatment to give it all my best shot.  Hope you are doing well also.....:)