Today was the first visit to the oncologist....

The discussion was pretty much as expected:

  • diagnosis confirmed
  • disease progression
  • timeframes
  • palliative treatment options
  • possible side effects
  • pain relief and wellbeing
  • statistics and 'odds'

While not overwhelmed, we wanted time to think, talk and pray so took a whole lot if information away. It is a rather confronting thing to be asked to balance options that may improve quality of life for a period, but could also have side effects that do the exact opposite. It feels a little like 'extreme gambling' and the oncologist is the bookie.

We have another appointment next week.....