Arnie's Army

Individuals are often faced with difficult situations and complicated decisions that must be made in a relatively short frame of time.  My parents were among these ranks again this week.   They have been coping with extreme levels of stress since Dad's diagnosis; they continue to amaze me more and more each day with their faith in God, inner strength and determination.

They met with the oncologist to discuss a new plan of treatment since the first round of chemotherapy had to be stopped prematurely when a complication occurred.  Mom went equipped with a well-prepared list of questions my sister and I had developed and the determination to get answers.  Dr Lori, the oncologist took the long list of questions from my Mother’s hands and wrote the answers to each query.  She also gave them in-depth written information describing the qualifications of the surgeon she was referring them to in Cleveland.  Several days later, they met with the specialist at the Cleveland Clinic to discuss surgical choices and outcomes.  He spent time with them; discussing options, risks, complications and prognoses.  The same list of questions was answered.  His explanations were presented in terms my parents could easily grasp and they were comfortable with the information they received during the meeting.  Despite collecting an overwhelming amount of medical data, they had a great sense of confidence in the doctor who would perform the surgery.

At this time, I can only thank both of these doctors from a distance.  They have demonstrated respect, honesty and understanding towards my parents and the situation they were facing.  Dad has made his decision and he will have surgery as chemo alone will not destroy the cancer.  Our team of support has grown again and we know that every additional reinforcement makes our ranks stronger.