I am so sorry that you are feeling like you are dismissed as far as the medical professionals in your area. Be sure to tell the Dr. on your next visit these concerns. It seems like you were brushed off so many times when this disease should have been detected. It just goes to show that you were right all along and knew that something was wrong...Don't let them push you around anymore...if the answers you are getting don't add up, get another opinion. I think it is always important to have someone else review the reports and give their opinion.
Just because someone is a Dr. doesn't mean that they were "A" students...some could have gotten a "D" and still received the necessary Certifications.
If you are not comfortable with any Dr. my suggestion is to get a new one. They are your first line of defense in this fight, and if you are not 100% behind them, or they behind you, it just makes this fight more frustrating than it already is. With stage 4 cancer your Dr. or their team should:
1. Be available 24/7 for you.
2. Pain and bleeding should be addressed immediately, and never wait for an appt.
for more than a day at the most.
3. If you have to go to the emergency room for any reason make sure they know you
are coming and why, so they can have a bed ready, and the correct people are available too.
4. Don't leave a Dr's office with un answered questions, and never let them rush you.
5. Keep copies of all your records, scans, pathology reports,and bills. I actually have my husbands in a briefcase that is for cancer only. I file things only when they are completely addressed & paid for.
I know when you feel like you are not being heard it is so very frustrating! Don't take no for an answer, and never let them see you sweat! I can tell by your posts that you are a fighter and a survivor. You can do this. Don't take it sitting down, and take no prisoners! Fight the Fight! and don't let them take the fight out of you!
Karen