I am somewhat of a process oriented guy so I put together a flow chart of the Bladder Cancer Journey.
This is not intended to be the be-all-end-all but is only a draft of a guide to the path for treatment that I feel has the highest statistical probably of the best outcomes.
There are lots of details that are not included as I tried to keep this at a higher level but I am hoping that it will be helpful to those with bladder cancer.
For example, I don't mention things such as <strong><em>"do as much research as you can as soon as you are diagnosed", nor do I specify every possible test your doctor may order, etc.</em></strong>
I've tried to stick with generally accepted "gold standards" of treatment but of course there will be a little bit of my own personal opinion mixed in. I'm of the general philosophy of "better safe than sorry" and that may be reflected in the diagram.
Edited this post to include the link to the latest version:
<strong>Here is a link to the map:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bladder_Cancer_Treatment_Guide_v4.png
You can print it out and use it for discussions with your doctor(s) about your treatment.
In addition to the map, ASK QUESTIONS. This Forum (American Bladder Cancer Society) is a discussion/support forum of people who have "been there, done that". We are here to help others who are dealing with (or helping someone else to deal with) bladder cancer.
Mike
Here is a doc file of the flowchart:
<strong>PS: As always, I am not a doctor and this should not be construed as medical advice. It is my personal opinion based on my experience as a bladder cancer patient and survivor, the opinions of other bladder cancer survivors and caregivers, and research I have done.
<em>You are your own best advocate and have the obligation to question anyone who gives you advice, including your doctors</em>.</strong>