Newly diagnosed & off to 2nd opinion

I cannot overstate the importance of a second opinion. Make the connection now. I waited over a year. It did not influence my diagnosis or treatment, but it helped me mentally. Also, by getting connected now, if things change, you can quickly bring the second opinion team up to date instead of starting at square one.

One other thing I recommend getting done now is to send biopsy material out for genetic testing. It may not always return an answer you can act on for treatment options, but if it does, it can get you specific information instead of the generic treatment options. That’s what I will be using it for. Currently on gemcitabine/gemzar but the time will come when that won’t work any more. The combination of a second team and genetic testing will help with “what’s next?”.

Plus, a connection to a major cancer center may help with selecting clinical trials if one comes up you can enter. It looks like you are only about an hour and a half from Boston so Dana-Farber is a good option. Mass General also has a good reputation.

It may seem strange to you that people on this site may be envious of you looking at the possibility of surgery. That mean your CCA was found early before it had grown and metastasized. Surgery is not an option for me or for many here. If nothing else, know one thing: all of us on this site and pulling for you and praying for you.

One last bit of business about this site – the search function can give you a lot of information fairly fast. Use it often. It can give you answers and also questions you should follow up on with your team. Other than that, just browse the various Boards and get to know us. You can send private e-mails to individuals.

Duke

Hi Christine, Welcome and sorry to meet under such negative circumstances, I have been to hell and back thanks to CC, and am excited to tell you I am 5 years cancer free, there is HOPE!! I have an amazing story to share and keep it posted on http://www.catherinedunnagan.com. I am alive today because of God, 2 strangers and Dr. William Chapman at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO.
Dr. Chapman is a world renown doctor and the kindest soul you will meet. I know of at least 4 CC patients that have contacted him after sharing my story, have all had there prognosis changed for the better. Dr. Chapman is phone friendly and knows time is not our friend and will act with in days if he can help.
Please call 618-567-3247 or email if you would like to talk or if I can help you
Lots of prayers-Cathy

Dear Christine, welcome to our family and the best place to be for CC support and a big thank you for verifying that in your post. Excellent move on your part to get that 2nd opinion. You will not look back then at would haves and could haves. Yes, we have a lot of reading here and you can make it easier by going to the Search engine at the top and type in a word and posts will appear on that subject. Reading as much as you can is the best as knowledge gives us power to fight this CC. When is your appointment at Dana Farber? Best of luck and please keep us updated on your progress.