Welcome


Welcome.

When I wrote that banner above, I was just days into this adventure. I'm a pretty analytical guy, and the simple act of writing every day helped me wrap my head around the fact that I had just introduced the word "cancer" into my vocabulary, and it helped me rationalize my treatment options. It also helped keep friends and family informed on my status.

Those daily updates tapered off to weekly updates and eventually to monthly updates (which I continue to do on the 11th of every month, the anniversary date of being told I have cancer).

I've kept this blog going because I remember how helpful it was for me to hear first-hand experiences of other prostate cancer patients. I wanted to return the favor by sharing my own journey in order to educate others and increase prostate cancer awareness.

But I wanted it to be a truthful sharing of details, so you will quickly see that I didn't sugar-coat much of anything. That means that you'll find some pretty graphic descriptions of the male anatomy and biological functions in this blog.

Finally, if you're reading this as a fellow prostate cancer patient, please understand that I am not a medical professional, and you should not construe any of the content of this blog as medical advice. Each case is unique, so please solicit the advice of your own medical team.

I wish you all the best as you go through your own journey.

-- Dan

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Day 20 - Forms

Steamrolled.  That’s a good word to describe me right now.
Last night was another with me staring at the clock from about 3:15 AM on.  Of course, the first thing that pops into my head is questions that I need to be asking the surgeons.  Good thing I keep a pen and pad on the nightstand.
The rest of the day went pretty well, but when I got home, I was drained of energy and had a headache the size of Montana.  After a quick dinner, I crawled into bed for about 45 minutes, being careful to just relax and not fall completely asleep.  If I did, I’d be up at 2 AM tonight.
I did contact the insurance company to make sure that I’m covered to see both surgeons, and I am.  That was a good thing to hear.
I also spent half an hour filling out forms for the surgeon’s office in Cincinnati.  Interestingly, the papers are identical to the ones that I completed for the biopsy procedure (both doctors operate out of the same office).  Hello left hand.  Meet right hand.  I’m supposed to get another pile of paperwork from the second surgeon in the mail.  Yippee.
Last night, I took a serious look at the instructions for the colonoscopy on Monday.  There are some serious dietary restraints for the last few days before the procedure, including no solid food for 24 hours before the procedure.  Ugh.  If you think I’m a grump now…. Steer clear on Sunday!!
So I’m out of energy for tonight.
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