One more again

After 5 years of no cancer present, stupid beast showed up in urethra...this time it's only 4+4. Because of complications from paranormal hernia and kidney removal last year, radiation oncologist is concerned about going forward due to possible side effects of diarrhea. We saw new gastroenterologist who is pretty confident that she can help with nonstop bloating and severe diarrhea. Colonoscopy and endoscopy will tell us more on Wed.

After moving at a snail's pace for almost a month, it looks like we might finally be getting a plan. This has been a long, hard trip to Houston, but we are thankful that we can he here. We feel so very blessed that it's taken 5 years for it to show up again, and extra blessed that it's only in one place.

Radiation will be new to us, so not sure what to expect for the 6 weeks they say it's gonna take....don't have a plan since they're waiting for gastro's official opinion. We are also trying to decide if we want to stay here or have it done closer to home. I feel like we've fought so hard to get where we are now, is taking the easy way out and going home for radiation really the right choice? Would it really make a difference? I guess we'll get to a decision after Wed.

The RT just might work. Could be worth it..

Mostly the six weeks of RT will be boring. Very boring. Bring a book or install a nice game on your phone. The SEs are normally manageable. Bowel issues happen, but there's things they can do to control that.

Likely you could have the RT closer to home - something to check into at least.

Will it work, is it worth it? Beyond my pay grade to answer, but it's worth seriously considering.

Andrew

P34, thank you for the prayers. That is what we can use the most of. We truly do believe that the power of prayer is a gotten us this far.

InTheShop and RobLee, the diarrhea and bloating he has now is what's concerning RO. They don't want to add any more hardships to him. We are really excited about the new gastro who thinks she can help him. This has been a serious months long problem, with no solutions. We are from a small town, and not really thrilled with the RO there who would be doing it. We could drive about an hour to a bigger city, or stay at MD Anderson. The RO here sorta specialised in GU cancers; whereas, the ones closer to home do all types of cancer. It's been a rough journey at times, and initially, we didn't think we'd be cancer free 5 years later...or that he would even still be with us. I'm just wondering why go home because it is way more convenient...and lot less expensive...we've come this far, do we really want to "shortcut" this part? We've already been in Houston a month. Yes we are ready to get home, but should convenience be considered?

No answers here. What I can tell you is I had my surgery 2 miles from home. This...after consulting with numerous high profile surgeons. If I'd stayed with NYC.....I believe the surgeon would not have left a positive margin. But it's impossible and unproductive to second guess.

I honestly do not know what I'll do if I ever find myself in your all's situation. Travel or try again here. From what I understand....SRT is more critical than it is as a first line treatment. Less room for error with no prostate.

In a perfect world....I believe I'd want to be where the people are that's seen the most of what you all are dealing with.


(I say that, not knowing what I'd do).


Thoughts and prayers to you both

As Island Time said I believe, looking back as only a Monday Morning Quarter back can do, I probably should have gone back to the clinic where they had all my information. Oh well, easy to second guess yourself. Must have been the threats of snow.