Meeting with the Oncologist

On Wednesday Feb. 8, Joe and Vicki met with the Oncologist at the James Wilmot Cancer Center (the University of Rochester Strong Memorial Hospital). He presented an overview of Joe's case since his symptoms began in late December and proceeded to carefully and completely explain all of Joe's options for treating his illness. Maureen and Joe's sister Roselyn took copious notes. We quickly found that many of the questions that had been prepared in advance were already answered. Each of the questions that we did pose to the doctor were answered with all of the authority and confidence that you want from someone helping you make one of the most important decisions of your life.

The doctor gave us good direction for Joe's fight. Once the surgery is complete and the pathologist has examined the tumors, we will have much more information. Maureen's superior at the Rochester General Hospital Pathology Department has offered to personally oversee Joe's case herself. She is a highly skilled Pathologist who is a cancer survivor herself.
(Maureen has been a Cytotechnologist at RGH for 25 years. Her job for all of these years has been to diagnose cancerous and pre-cancerous conditions in cellular specimens.)

The day ended with some great Italian food and relaxation for Joe and Paul while Vicki and Maureen went to watch Tommy's JV basketball game.

Joe's job on Thursday was to get some blood work done and relax. Friday morning Joe will go to Rochester General for surgery preparation which is scheduled for 1PM.