victoria@best.com wrote:
>
> Marty,
> Thank you for this piece of advice. I'm new to the list and new to the
> journey (recently diagnosed)..this sounds like an excellent suggestion.
>
> Torie.
>
> >> I wanted to share this with you, because it is vital and important that
> >> you journalize all your medical reports, lab tests and radiology reports
> >> to chart your progress so that the comparison you make in your wellness
> >> journey is one of understanding and clarity in your progress. The
> >> medical community, even the best, tend to make mistakes or to misinform
> >> when they are inundated with so many patients and reports. I know that
> >> is no excuse on their part and that is why it is important in the
> >> ability to "take charge" of your own program and understanding of
> >> medical jargon and terminology and the capability to understand reports.
> >>
> >> I will keep you informed about the readings of the cat scans from a
> >> second opinion once we receive the results after the first of the year.
> >>
> >> God Bless YOu all and hope this information sheds some light.
> >>
> >> Marty Auslander
>
>
When Barb, my wife was diagnosed, something told me to keep all records
that were taken as a result of all the many tests, blood and radiology,
that she underwent during her initial stay in the hospital and
subsequent consultation with oncologist after biopsy results. Over the
next 3 years, I have two complete three ring binders categorized by the
specific tests she has taken which include, cbc's (complete blood
counts), radiology reports (which is essential to track as they become
confusing in time especially when two or more radiologists prepare the
reports), lfts (liver function tests) bun and creatinine (kidney
function tests) and the smac 24 tests (which are the various blood tests
to monitor other vital functions). The purpose for categorizing and
accumulating these reports are multifold. To track the progress of the
survivor, to understand why or how a doctor or medical team reasons the
treatments and to also have copies for second opinions and also as a
double check on the medical team as from time to time we have noticed
errors in their advice or confusion in patient to patient. It happens.
So Torrie, one of the ways a survivor or caregiver helps take charge is
understanding their diagnosis and ability to educate themselves. One way
is to initially collect and categorize all these reports. Believe me
they do come in handy.
Take care and God Bless YOu
Marty and Barb Auslander
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