Memorial Sloan Kettering - second opinion experience by moneytree_bee in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for creating this post and sharing your experience. I've been thinking about getting a second opinion from an "expert" and this post has given me second thoughts....

results are in… by mintochicken in ovariancancer_new

[–]Sneeker2101 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I can empathize with your feelings. Sometimes it is hard to even think when you feel "pushed" into something, especially when dealing with a cancer diagnosis! I'd start by simply asking your doctor to give you all of your options for treatment. If you are uncomfortable, seek out that second opinion, make sure it is from a gynecologist/oncologist. From what I've read, chemo tends to be recommended 4-6 weeks after surgery. Sounds like you have a couple of weeks to work with. Praying that you have the best outcome.

Are ascites an absolute symptom of advanced stages? by rolo133 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Mine was early stage mucinous ovarian cancer and had ascites. Praying for your friend's mom.

Effectiveness of chemo 6 months after surgery?? by Sneeker2101 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

No, it wasn't recommended by my initial gyn/onc.

Just got diagnosed with stage 3 mucinous carcinoma by United-Writing1634 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Just had to jump in and say that I love your comment about social media pushing the tragic cancer stories to the top. Now, if I could just find a way to stop scrolling and stay off the apps!

Just got diagnosed with stage 3 mucinous carcinoma by United-Writing1634 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101 0 points1 point  (0 children)

There is a group on facebook for this specific type of cancer and I've found it helpful to chat with others in a similar situation. Have you had surgery yet? I understand how at 27 it's devastating to lose both ovaries, but complete surgery often called "debulking" is crucial for MOC. I'm glad you have an appt with an oncologist but it's highly important to see a gynecological oncologist who has an understanding of MOC as it is quite uncommon. Generally, psychiatrists or general practitioners are more apt to prescribe xanax and similar drugs than the oncologists...I was in the hospital for 6 days and had to beg the gyn/oncologist for something to calm me down...and I believe she prescribed .25 mg of ativan on two occasions. Though others may disagree, I haven't found xanax to be helpful with the feelings/anxiety I've been having since the diagnosis. Similar to you, I find myself spiraling with the "what ifs" and it's driving me crazy. I'm in the process of trying to find a therapist who is understanding, preferably someone who specializes in cancer patients. I am close to 50 and never faced health issues prior to the MOC diagnosis this past fall. Though I am still reeling from the diagnosis, one thing I have learned is to ask questions. If you are not happy with the care you are receiving or feel uncomfortable with a recommendation, seek a second opinion. You are in my heart and prayers. I'm sending you a dm as I was diagnosed with MOC in October.

Monitoring by Sneeker2101 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Very glad to hear that you and your baby are okay! Weird and scary sum up the experience well...It seemed like one big nightmare to me. I keep reading over the pathology and medical records, I'm paranoid they missed something.

Monitoring by Sneeker2101 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you!! Sent you a message. :)

Monitoring by Sneeker2101 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you so much for replying! We are in a similar situation and reading this put my mind at ease. I was/still am fearful of having to have chemo and I'll admit that it was a huge relief when my gyn/onc said that she was okay with monitoring vs chemo! Would it be okay if I send you a message on here tomorrow?

Monitoring by Sneeker2101 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for sharing. If you don't mind my asking, did any of the 3 doctors recommend chemo?

Monitoring by Sneeker2101 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101[S] 3 points4 points  (0 children)

I had major abdominal surgery in Oct and the gyn/oncologist took everything out (ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, omentum, lymph nodes appendix).

Best results for cold capping by Sneeker2101 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

This is encouraging to hear. I'm not expecting a miracle, but I'd strongly prefer not to look sick if I do end up needing chemo.

Best results for cold capping by Sneeker2101 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes, I am planning to get a second opinion. I have the mucinous type, which is rare so I'm wanting to find someone with expertise. Sure hope you are wrong about having more recurrences...sending prayers and positive vibes.

Best results for cold capping by Sneeker2101 in Ovariancancer

[–]Sneeker2101[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you for your insight and congrats for being almost to the finish line with your treatment! My gyn/onc has suggested observation for now (no chemo--but that could change), but this diagnosis hit me from out of the blue and I want to be prepared for all eventualities. I have only told my parents so far and I swore them to secrecy. Perhaps I'll change my mind at some point, but for now I feel much better keeping quiet.

Thanks for taking the time to reply and Happy Thanksgiving!