The map of the journey--Andy

A good appointment with Dr. Hafez at UM. Cancer is back in the bladder (CIS also now) but all tests indicate it hasn't spread anywhere else. Not to the muscle, not to the lymph node blood supply. So no chemo!! I'm very releived as I think I'll have a much easier time recovering from the RC surgery not having to go through a chemo regime first. The doc is usually booked about three weeks out, so hopefuuly the surgery will be before the end of the month. All your kinds words of encouragement are appreciated - Onward and Upward!!

Andy in Michigan

Andy, I just started following your thread. I was in a somewhat similar situation (decision wise) as you last October, my URO was a great guy and I liked him a lot. But, Mike and others suggested seeing a good specialist. I did and I'm glad I spent the time researching it. I decided on the RC and it worked out great for me. My wife and I had many discussions about the course of action beforehand.

I wish you the best and believe your in good hands now.

Rudy

Andy
Mike is SOOOOO Correct! I have just gotten used to the MAP that Mike put out for us. He should send this to every uro DR. in the country. It makes the process soo understandable.

Good Luck with the procedure. You ARE in the right hands now. Keep us in the loop. As you already know, we are here for you.

We'll be waiting for any news


George

Andy,

So glad that you went to UM!!!!!

Sorry to hear of the situation but it sure is better knowing the true situation and the right answer!

Be sure to circle back to your original uro so she knows not to say that part about "surprised even considering RC" to other patients. She should refer them to UM!

Hopefully, others who read this will realize that we're not trying to be pains in the butt when we HIGHLY recommend getting to a major bladder cancer!

This very well could be the decision that saved your life!

Keep us informed and ask any all questions. There is a lot of information here about the diversions, the surgery, and recovery. You might want to browse through that for a while.

We are here for you Andy!

Mike

An update from my re-staging surgery at UM. Cancer is back in the bladder, possibly in the protate also. We are so glad we went ot UM to have this procedure, I'm sure my outcome will be much better. I go back on Friday to get the path results and discuss the scheduling of the RC. My doc said if I was 75 he'd try the BCG, but being 52 the bladder removal is the way to go. Hopefully the path results will be positive so I won't need to do a course of chemo first. Oh well, anything to take of those nasty little mutant cells. Thanks for everyone's support and kind words.

Andy in Michigan

Thanks Mike -

Yup - I've got a great wife. Also a cancer survivor, it's been a rough couple of years. We figure we'll write a book "Cancer from Both Sides". At least we're going to volunteer with local support groups once everyting settles down. We've had some tough times but still are very fortunate in the big picture. Life is good! I appreciate your help and I'll post again when there's some new info.

Take care - Andy