Sometimes Cancer Surveillance is Satisfactory

Yesterday, I was scheduled for my annual visit at the cancer treatment center. Since my last visit, the center had been bought by another company. I was nervous about the visit, not only because it had been a while since I’d been there, but also because I would be seeing a new oncologist.

Since being diagnosed with breast cancer, I’ve seen several oncologists. For one reason or another, I hadn’t been with one for more than two years. I always found it difficult to see a new doctor but learned to develop a “nutshell” version of my medical history to present at each visit.

When I arrived at the cancer center, I lucked out and found a parking space close to the front door. The parking lot was packed, and I was grateful, especially since I’d been having a lot of knee problems and walking was difficult.

As I entered the building, I wasn’t prepared for the anxious feelings that suddenly overwhelmed me. Standing in the lobby, I looked around. Some things were familiar, but many things had changed.

At the registration desk, I received a schedule of my appointments for the day. It was going to be a long day. I would start the day with a visit to the lab, then I’d see a nurse for assessment before seeing the oncologist. After the oncologist, I’d see a naturopath and finally, I’d end the day in the physical therapy department as I was re-evaluated for lymphedema treatment.

The lab visit was quick, and a skilled nurse found the vein in my hand quickly. It would be an hour before my next appointment, so I found an empty chair in a quiet hallway and sat down to read. As I waited, I watched patients come and go.

I felt uncomfortable. I didn’t look like the other breast cancer patients. I looked healthy and strong while they were evidently in various stages of treatment. Pushing down my feelings of survivor’s guilt, I continued to vacillate between reading my book and looking at my watch.

When the time came for me to head toward the oncology department, my anxiety eased a bit as I saw a familiar face. One of the administrative staff greeted me with a big smile and said, “I remember you!” Instantly, her kindness put my heart at ease.

Soon I was called back to meet with the new nurse. After a brief visit with her, I was placed in an exam room to await my new oncologist.

When the oncologist entered, she briefly introduced herself and then turned to introduce me to her scribe and a nurse. I was surprised to have three people attending me.

The doctor pulled up my medical records on her computer screen and began to read about my case. As she recanted the information to me, I was surprised when she said, “So I see here you underwent reconstruction…” Immediately, I interrupted her and said, “No. I did not.” She looked shocked that she’d received incorrect information. Though I was hesitant to correct her, I wanted to make sure my record accurately reflected my cancer journey.

After getting familiar with my case, the doctor asked about my current symptoms and whether I was having any problems. I mentioned a growth I’d found on my left clavicle. She quickly palpated it and ordered an ultrasound. I was glad she was concerned and proactive.

Next, I was sent to the naturopath. He met with me for about 20 minutes and gave me ideas on how to combat my chronic insomnia. I enjoyed talking with him and left with a sheet of paper listing several companies that provided CBD products he thought would be helpful.

One thing I like about the cancer treatment center was its integrative and holistic approach to treatment.

The next stop was the physical therapy department. A new therapist asked about my lymphedema and went over treatment options. As she talked, I smiled and told her I’d been dealing with this for nine years and I was very familiar with manual lymphatic drainage, dry brushing and the use of compression garments. She laughed and said, “So this is really old hat to you?” I nodded and she told me to keep on doing what I was doing, and I wouldn’t need to see her again unless something changed.

I left the facility feeling conflicted. While I understood the importance of an annual visit, I still hadn’t gotten used to being under surveillance care.

When I first began treatment, I was seeing someone every few months or so. As time went on, my appointments were moved out to about every six months, and now, every year.

It was comforting to know someone was keeping a close watch on me, but I would also have to keep a close watch on myself. That’s one reason I’ve learned, over the years, to pay particular attention to my body. Aches and pains are normal parts of aging but there are things that I need to watch like lumps that randomly appear or an increase in lymphatic issues.

The good thing about being under surveillance is knowing I’m only a phone call away from medical care. Though I won’t see the oncologist every few months, I’ll always see my primary care physician multiple times a year. If there’s something I’m not sure about, I can always ask his opinion first and if he thinks it’s something cancer-related, he’ll refer me back to the oncologist.

Being under surveillance takes some getting used to. I like the freedom of knowing I don’t have to report in for treatment constantly, but I’m not quite used to returning to my post-cancer life. I guess all good things come in time, but I still don’t understand why the oncologist won’t say I’m completely cured. In my heart, I don’t believe cancer will ever be a part of my life again even if cancer care continues to be.

It’s such a blessing to know I can finally live my life without the constant fear of recurrence. It’s taken me nine years to get to this point but boy, it sure feels good.

For more news on cancer updates, research and education, don’t forget to subscribe to CURE®’s newsletters here.