Oncology in the bush.
so I have completed the axillary clearence and hopefully will get the drain out tomorrow. The oncology dept just rang and I have my first appointment at Orange base with Dr Lauren Bradbury on the 5/03...
Forum Discussion
From what I remember of my first appointment - we chatted about my surgery, scans and treatment options (including whether I wanted to take part in any clinical trials that were available) and was given the 'percentages' that my treatment was going to give me to prevent a recurrence.
I am not so much in the 'bush' @jan61 - more 'regional, up the NSW mid coast'.
The closest radiation available to me was at Port Macquarie (1.5hr trip each way.) Port Macquarie Base Hospital has a fully kitted out 'Rotary Lodge motel' attached to the hospital for 'out of towners' like us. For a very nominal fee, I was able to stay there with my husband for the full 4 weeks of radiation - so I didn't have to do the driving (as I am the driver in the family.)
We could duck home on the weekends (or stay if I chose to) and altho the radiation was daily - it was still a bit of a holiday (sort of!)
The Cancer Institute is just a 2 minute walk from the Rotary Lodge - which makes is SO easy to 'do'. The manager of the Lodge is just superb. A really special lady.
There are some lovely Rad Oncs at the Cancer Institute (mine was Dr Carmen Hansen) - if you could get your referral to THEM - you wouldn't have to do the daily travel, and have a bit of a break with the family, which should make it that little bit easier to endure.
All the best for your appt with your surgeon and ongoing treatment xxx