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Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

@LeslieA  Hello and thank you for your update.  Basically, you are sitting in limbo for now.  That is ok.  Sounds like you are healing well and getting those walks in really helps as well.  I think seeing your Onc in person is a fantastic idea and hope you get to do that.  So different from province to province in their models. Glad you found out they don't use a team based approach so that you are prepared for that. Glad you are in good spirits too.  Keep up the good work and we will chat soon.

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

@LeslieA I'm sorry the request was denied. It does seem odd. Too busy? Not a great way to position it.
Can you request a video appointment? That shouldn't take any more time than a call. Perhaps you share your feeling of disconnection with the nurse? 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

The oncologist's secretary explained that the doctor sometimes works from home doing her phone calls, so in-person meetings must be planned ahead of time with her pre-approval. I will discuss my preference for an in-person meeting with her on May 28th. And on the theme of medical disconnection, I didn't meet the surgeon until the day of my surgery, and didn't know who was operating on me until about a week before. Maybe that is the regular protocol these days? 

@LeslieA I'm sorry the request was denied. It does seem odd. Too busy? Not a great way to position it.
Can you request a video appointment? That shouldn't take any more time than a call. Perhaps you share your feeling of disconnection with the nurse? 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

The oncologist's secretary explained that the doctor sometimes works from home doing her phone calls, so in-person meetings must be planned ahead of time with her pre-approval. I will discuss my preference for an in-person meeting with her on May 28th. And on the theme of medical disconnection, I didn't meet the surgeon until the day of my surgery, and didn't know who was operating on me until about a week before. Maybe that is the regular protocol these days? 

@LeslieA I'm sorry the request was denied. It does seem odd. Too busy? Not a great way to position it.
Can you request a video appointment? That shouldn't take any more time than a call. Perhaps you share your feeling of disconnection with the nurse? 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Hi @LeslieA

I sure hope that is NOT the protocol - this is definitely not patient-focused care and a horrible "trend".  I would file a complaint, but I don't know how things work in BC.  In Alberta there is an online patient feedback form that I've used a few times now - sometimes with good results, other times, not so much, but that's OK, as long as I have the opportunity to voice my concerns or make suggestions on how they could improve, I'm happy to have a way to register these things and they do keep the statistics for it (the Patient Coordinator told me over the phone), so it does matter.
I don't see why the admin person wouldn't just book you an in-person appointment if she manages the Onc's schedule?  That is so bizarre to me.
I sure hope they improve how they manage patients!  All the best at your May 28 appointment :) 

The oncologist's secretary explained that the doctor sometimes works from home doing her phone calls, so in-person meetings must be planned ahead of time with her pre-approval. I will discuss my preference for an in-person meeting with her on May 28th. And on the theme of medical disconnection, I didn't meet the surgeon until the day of my surgery, and didn't know who was operating on me until about a week before. Maybe that is the regular protocol these days? 

@LeslieA I'm sorry the request was denied. It does seem odd. Too busy? Not a great way to position it.
Can you request a video appointment? That shouldn't take any more time than a call. Perhaps you share your feeling of disconnection with the nurse? 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

What a great idea. Alwayslearning! You always feel so appreciative of their skills, but also their care and friendliness.  I have yet, since the fall of 2019 when I became an unwilling member of the club who visits the Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre in St. John's (NL), come across anyone who has been anything but warm and kind and patient, with my questions and concerns.  I consider them all angels at every level of responsibility.  I know the Covid pandemic set health systems back globally and they have yet to catch up, but so far I've managed not to fall between the cracks with ours. 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Good afternoon Sisters!  I'm calling today "Thankful Teal Thursday". One year ago today I had my last (fingers crossed) round of chemotherapy!  Like@LeslieA and@Alwayslearning I also took gifts and cards that I had made to my care providers.  For the kind chemo nurses I had a sign made for them.  May 8/2024 I banged the gong and gave the nurses the sign.  

What a great idea. Alwayslearning! You always feel so appreciative of their skills, but also their care and friendliness.  I have yet, since the fall of 2019 when I became an unwilling member of the club who visits the Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre in St. John's (NL), come across anyone who has been anything but warm and kind and patient, with my questions and concerns.  I consider them all angels at every level of responsibility.  I know the Covid pandemic set health systems back globally and they have yet to catch up, but so far I've managed not to fall between the cracks with ours. 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Congratulations@JoanEG. Great pics and love the quote. May your health do nothing but continue in a positive trajectory!!

Good afternoon Sisters!  I'm calling today "Thankful Teal Thursday". One year ago today I had my last (fingers crossed) round of chemotherapy!  Like@LeslieA and@Alwayslearning I also took gifts and cards that I had made to my care providers.  For the kind chemo nurses I had a sign made for them.  May 8/2024 I banged the gong and gave the nurses the sign.  

What a great idea. Alwayslearning! You always feel so appreciative of their skills, but also their care and friendliness.  I have yet, since the fall of 2019 when I became an unwilling member of the club who visits the Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre in St. John's (NL), come across anyone who has been anything but warm and kind and patient, with my questions and concerns.  I consider them all angels at every level of responsibility.  I know the Covid pandemic set health systems back globally and they have yet to catch up, but so far I've managed not to fall between the cracks with ours. 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Good afternoon Sisters!  I'm calling today "Thankful Teal Thursday". One year ago today I had my last (fingers crossed) round of chemotherapy!  Like@LeslieA and@Alwayslearning I also took gifts and cards that I had made to my care providers.  For the kind chemo nurses I had a sign made for them.  May 8/2024 I banged the gong and gave the nurses the sign.  

What a great idea. Alwayslearning! You always feel so appreciative of their skills, but also their care and friendliness.  I have yet, since the fall of 2019 when I became an unwilling member of the club who visits the Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre in St. John's (NL), come across anyone who has been anything but warm and kind and patient, with my questions and concerns.  I consider them all angels at every level of responsibility.  I know the Covid pandemic set health systems back globally and they have yet to catch up, but so far I've managed not to fall between the cracks with ours. 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

@JoanEG   So happy for you celebrating one year from ringing that gong!  What a day to celebrate indeed.  You have been feeling great by your posts and all you have been doing inside and out for work. Keep it up!  You are amazing!

Good afternoon Sisters!  I'm calling today "Thankful Teal Thursday". One year ago today I had my last (fingers crossed) round of chemotherapy!  Like@LeslieA and@Alwayslearning I also took gifts and cards that I had made to my care providers.  For the kind chemo nurses I had a sign made for them.  May 8/2024 I banged the gong and gave the nurses the sign.  

What a great idea. Alwayslearning! You always feel so appreciative of their skills, but also their care and friendliness.  I have yet, since the fall of 2019 when I became an unwilling member of the club who visits the Bliss Murphy Cancer Centre in St. John's (NL), come across anyone who has been anything but warm and kind and patient, with my questions and concerns.  I consider them all angels at every level of responsibility.  I know the Covid pandemic set health systems back globally and they have yet to catch up, but so far I've managed not to fall between the cracks with ours. 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Yes a videoconference could work for me if that's the only option. I met with my GP and a locum doctor IN PERSON this week & they gave me some reasonable time to chat about my health. What pleased me was seeing this particular locum doctor who saw me last October when I was sick with cancer symptoms but not yet diagnosed. It was a full circle moment to have both doctors see me now, feeling & looking much better! 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

That's good to hear@LeslieA .  I'm glad you got to have a good chat with your GP and the locum you saw previously!  I am so fortunate that my relationship with my GP includes her just popping in for tea or answering questions that I text her.  She actually complains that I avoid in person office visits, lol.  I had a telephone appointment with my oncologist this morning but everything is so routine now, thank goodness, that it only lasted about 5 minutes.  I will have my next telephone appointment with her in 2 months unless something changes.  I will also have my 6 month CT scan in July.

Yes a videoconference could work for me if that's the only option. I met with my GP and a locum doctor IN PERSON this week & they gave me some reasonable time to chat about my health. What pleased me was seeing this particular locum doctor who saw me last October when I was sick with cancer symptoms but not yet diagnosed. It was a full circle moment to have both doctors see me now, feeling & looking much better! 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

That's good to hear@LeslieA .  I'm glad you got to have a good chat with your GP and the locum you saw previously!  I am so fortunate that my relationship with my GP includes her just popping in for tea or answering questions that I text her.  She actually complains that I avoid in person office visits, lol.  I had a telephone appointment with my oncologist this morning but everything is so routine now, thank goodness, that it only lasted about 5 minutes.  I will have my next telephone appointment with her in 2 months unless something changes.  I will also have my 6 month CT scan in July.

Yes a videoconference could work for me if that's the only option. I met with my GP and a locum doctor IN PERSON this week & they gave me some reasonable time to chat about my health. What pleased me was seeing this particular locum doctor who saw me last October when I was sick with cancer symptoms but not yet diagnosed. It was a full circle moment to have both doctors see me now, feeling & looking much better! 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Happy World Ovarian Cancer Day to everybody! I hope that the next drug that cures us all is just around the corner. Never give up!

That's good to hear@LeslieA .  I'm glad you got to have a good chat with your GP and the locum you saw previously!  I am so fortunate that my relationship with my GP includes her just popping in for tea or answering questions that I text her.  She actually complains that I avoid in person office visits, lol.  I had a telephone appointment with my oncologist this morning but everything is so routine now, thank goodness, that it only lasted about 5 minutes.  I will have my next telephone appointment with her in 2 months unless something changes.  I will also have my 6 month CT scan in July.

Yes a videoconference could work for me if that's the only option. I met with my GP and a locum doctor IN PERSON this week & they gave me some reasonable time to chat about my health. What pleased me was seeing this particular locum doctor who saw me last October when I was sick with cancer symptoms but not yet diagnosed. It was a full circle moment to have both doctors see me now, feeling & looking much better! 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

Happy World Ovarian Cancer Day to everybody! I hope that the next drug that cures us all is just around the corner. Never give up!

That's good to hear@LeslieA .  I'm glad you got to have a good chat with your GP and the locum you saw previously!  I am so fortunate that my relationship with my GP includes her just popping in for tea or answering questions that I text her.  She actually complains that I avoid in person office visits, lol.  I had a telephone appointment with my oncologist this morning but everything is so routine now, thank goodness, that it only lasted about 5 minutes.  I will have my next telephone appointment with her in 2 months unless something changes.  I will also have my 6 month CT scan in July.

Yes a videoconference could work for me if that's the only option. I met with my GP and a locum doctor IN PERSON this week & they gave me some reasonable time to chat about my health. What pleased me was seeing this particular locum doctor who saw me last October when I was sick with cancer symptoms but not yet diagnosed. It was a full circle moment to have both doctors see me now, feeling & looking much better! 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

That's good to hear@LeslieA .  I'm glad you got to have a good chat with your GP and the locum you saw previously!  I am so fortunate that my relationship with my GP includes her just popping in for tea or answering questions that I text her.  She actually complains that I avoid in person office visits, lol.  I had a telephone appointment with my oncologist this morning but everything is so routine now, thank goodness, that it only lasted about 5 minutes.  I will have my next telephone appointment with her in 2 months unless something changes.  I will also have my 6 month CT scan in July.

Yes a videoconference could work for me if that's the only option. I met with my GP and a locum doctor IN PERSON this week & they gave me some reasonable time to chat about my health. What pleased me was seeing this particular locum doctor who saw me last October when I was sick with cancer symptoms but not yet diagnosed. It was a full circle moment to have both doctors see me now, feeling & looking much better! 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!

That's good to hear@LeslieA .  I'm glad you got to have a good chat with your GP and the locum you saw previously!  I am so fortunate that my relationship with my GP includes her just popping in for tea or answering questions that I text her.  She actually complains that I avoid in person office visits, lol.  I had a telephone appointment with my oncologist this morning but everything is so routine now, thank goodness, that it only lasted about 5 minutes.  I will have my next telephone appointment with her in 2 months unless something changes.  I will also have my 6 month CT scan in July.

Yes a videoconference could work for me if that's the only option. I met with my GP and a locum doctor IN PERSON this week & they gave me some reasonable time to chat about my health. What pleased me was seeing this particular locum doctor who saw me last October when I was sick with cancer symptoms but not yet diagnosed. It was a full circle moment to have both doctors see me now, feeling & looking much better! 

Hi @LeslieA. I understand the importance of recognition for folks that sometimes are just 'doing their jobs' however, their job can have such an impact on us. I took my GP flowers the first time I saw her post my surgery as she was the one who helped me get into PMH so quickly. Her smile of appreciation said it all. I also gave each one of my chemo nurses a Tim's Gift Card. It was for $25 so a small amount however, they treated me for 6-8 hours and for that, I was truly appreciative as they word hard.

I hope your doctor will appreciate your need for an in-person meeting when you speak with her (I still think she can videoconference even if she's at home...for goodness sake, the technology exists). Regardless, how and what you desire as your care is what's most important in the end. Here's a quote I heard from yesterday which I think applies, "A good decision is one that feels right for me." So regardless of what the healthcare provider says, what you want is what is the most important thing. Keep the strong will going!

Also, I hope you are continue to heal more and more each day! 

Thank you for your thoughts Graciebelle. I must admit that I "have a bee in my bonnet" (such an old term!) about the impersonal side of medicine, so I have decided to do a couple of things. I made an appointment to see my GP next week, because I want to talk to her in person so she can "see" me in this state of reasonable health. I have some questions to ask, but nothing urgent about my health for a change. She has been a disembodied voice on the phone over the last 6 months, so enough of that. I also intend to give her a handmade card to thank her for diagnosing me so quickly & activating the system to save my life. I am very grateful.

I will also be seeing the local gynaecologist for a 6 week surgery checkup and I also intend to thank him for his encouragement during a very dark time last November when the tumour was taking me down. That bit of encouragement sparked hope in me and gave me the courage to keep going. 
I want these doctors to know the important role they play in their connection with me, even if it's one office visit. I have also made a point of sincerely thanking every tech person, every nurse and every doctor for helping me so far, and that is a long list! 

Hi@LeslieA. You are doing great if you can easily walk 3km at 4 weeks post surgery. 👏 I don't think I got there until 8+ weeks and I was quite fit beforehand. 
I drive 3 hours to see my oncologist so totally understand that need. Good for you for requesting that. 
It is strange that we don't have consistency across the provinces but I think that even occurs in province too. 
I hope you continue to progress so positively!! That's for continuing to share with us all. 

Hello Everyone,

   If springtime has arrived in your area, I can imagine that you are out enjoying the weather, or doing springtime activities. Spring has definitely arrived here on the west coast. We are enjoying blue skies and warm sunshine (17 - 20 c), with more in the forecast. 

   My update is that I am in my 4th week of recovery from the hysterectomy/debulking surgery. My stitches are itchy as can be, but healing well. I am walking daily and can easily do 3 km, but it is a guessing game in terms of how to stay within the recommended limits. I will go for a 6 week check-up with a local gynecologist in my town and hopefully will get the green light to do more movement and activity. 

   I have a telephone appointment booked with my oncologist at the end of May, presumably to go over the pathology report and discuss further treatment. As I mentioned previously, the surgeon took out the remains of the tumour, but said he didn't find anything else to remove, so I am wondering how she will interpret that in terms of my health trajectory? I understand that things can change on a dime, but I am hoping that she will take into account my previous good health, no complications in chemo and no complications from surgery, instead of quoting broad, possibly outdated survivorship stats. (I mention outdated stats because I read an article on the "My Ovarian Cancer" site which stated how rapidly things are changing with more effective treatments and longer survivorship than in past years). 

   I have decided that I want to see this doctor in person, rather than a telephone call. It feels too impersonal to talk on the phone about my health. I am willing to travel to Victoria (3.5 hours drive), as I have a strong need to be "seen" and have a direct, interactive discussion. I called this morning to change the appointment, and I hope it goes through. I am in the process of assembling some questions to ask her.  

   I also learned this week that BC doesn't use a team-based approach model for ovarian cancer patients, therefore explains why I feel disconnected from this type of medical support. There is an oncology team for breast cancer, so I wonder if it relates to the fact that breast cancer research/ support is well-funded? 

   These are my musings for today!  Sending you all warm wishes and hoping all is well!

Leslie 

Can anyone else not believe that it is May already?! It feels like 2025 just started but here we are 5 months in! 

Looking forward to having you join the Teal Thursday chats for May by posting below. If you have any questions please let me know. 

All the best!