Second Opinions....

Hi Jon,
If you have a good GP let him act as the intermediary and I think he can give you the referral. Do you have a nurse liaison at the Marsden? We had one at the Royal Free and she was excellent. She arranged for us to get all the scans and tests and advised on how to proceed when we wanted to have private treatment.
Don't be put off; you are entitled to a second opinion and your exisiting consultant (prof Cunningham??) may be miffed but there's not much he can do if you want to go ahead.
Good luck

jon,

please do not be put off seeking second opinions, most oncs are quite used to this when patients are faced with a cancer diagnosis.  My Dad (Geoff) sought a second opinion and we were referred to Peter Lodge, we live on the south coast, we have found that you do have to travel to find the right people.  Also, prof cunningham is an oncologist and not really able to advise concerning surgical options as it is not his field - how could he be offended?

good luck, Jules

Alison,

Great news about the scan.  Good luck on Weds, Peter Lodge has a lovely manner and is very down to earth and upbeat, Jon will be in very good hands.  The surgery went very smoothly for my Dad and the nursing post op care was superb at Bupa.  Even though my Dad has suffered a recurrance his tumour burden has been reduced and this has enabled him to be free of alot of possible complications/symptoms generally associated with a tumor in the liver.  It has also enabled us to be able to consider some treatments that might not otherwise be available.

We have been able to enjoy a great Summer together including a break in Cornwall and my Dad was able to enjoy some walking.  My Dad is doing ok and is focusing now largely on diet and alternative supplements to boost his immune system post chemo which he feels has now run its course. He is also researching treatment options as he waits for his blood results to improve.  On the whole my Dad is active and eating well and has a good quality of life.  At the weekend he was enjoying some gardening.

I will be thinking of you both on Wednesday, do let me know how you get on. 

Jules

alison and jon

that is fantastic news, Jon, you will be in excellent hands.  Any questions about the surgery - what to expect etc, just ask - my dad(geoff) is on this site often too.  Wishing you all the best for the op. 

Jules