(08-02-2017, 12:01 PM)UCF Knight Wrote: I had a tumor removed a few years back.  I asked for the best surgeon as opposed to the closest.  That would be my best advice.  I would rather make sure things go right and drive a bit further than take a risk.

(08-02-2017, 02:30 PM)Dakota Wrote:

(08-02-2017, 03:49 AM)Jags02 Wrote: Thanks for the support.

I still hadn't heard a peep since being told the news, so I finally made some calls and got a hold of the office for the surgeon. It looks like he's set to review referrals in the morning, and will decide his upcoming schedule which has me thinking I should have a call soon to schedule the surgery. Someone told me that because it's so big... one doctor measured it at 11cm across... they might want me to go on chemo to shrink it before even trying to remove it. I've also been told to insist on the local oncology center as opposed to having them assign me some oncologist who would require me to travel.

Just as a reference, I have had a 9cm tumor, a 7cm tumor, and a 13 cm tumor removed from my shoulder. (all at different times.) I am no doctor, but if I were you, I would find an orthopedic oncologist and get it removed ASAP. Once it's removed, you'll likely undergo radiation, which I've been through twice. Finally, you may have other options than chemo, such as targeted medications. I have learned a ton about cancer over the past 3 years. What my doctors have always said is that removing the tumor via surgery should be first and foremost. That is the breeding ground. You want that out of your body before it metastasizes. Have they told you what stage you are yet?

If you have any questions, or just need to talk to someone who is also going through it, PM me, and we can talk. I will give you my phone number if you want, and we can talk anytime you want. Don't be afraid to lean on me a bit. I've been through just about it all. I'm here if you need a shoulder.