UPDATE Surgery Postponed

Thanks Lou
You're very perceptive....I do feel excited and a little relived...not yet relaxed but better than I was. The best part was when he looked me straight in the eye and said "Don't werry, you're going to be all right"
Also forgot to mention that his nurse said that he was well aware of this web site and forum and highly endorsed it.
Ray

Ray,

Lou hits the nail on the head. Just with the words your write your whole outlook has chnaged. You have discovered the importance of faith in your Doctor. I am so glad you found the one that has made you feel comfortable with your treatments. Makes all the difference in the world doesn't it!

For any newly diagnosed individuals out there... let this be a lesson. Read Ray's original posting and compare to this latest. Keep looking every day if you must to find the doctor that gives you the warm / fuzzies you need.

Keep us informed Ray... your story will help others.

Ray,

Reading the words you've just written I can tell how much more at ease you are about your situation, you actually sound excited.  I'm so glad you had the opportunity to get your second opinion from such a wonderful doctor and medical center, it's absolutely the best thing you've done for yourself.  Keep us updated once you start your treatments, we're interested in hearing how things go for you.

Lou Graham

HI All
My appointment this morning with Dr Mark Schoenberg at John Hopkins was a great sucess. After seeing the place and listening to what he had to say, I've decided to let him handle the case. He was that impressive. He answered all my questions and sort of put my mind at ease. His plan is to give me a few rounds of a new Chemo drug they are now using with good success...I was concerned at first because I keep reading about this 90 day window for surgery, but he let me know that these chemo treatments will extend that time period and there is even a slight chance that he might be able to spare the bladder. The operation will take place after the chemo treatments which will begin at the end of this month. In any case, I new have a new plan of action with a doctor that makes me feel very confident.
I'm thinking I made the right decision.
Ray