Hi all,
sorry if any of you were or have been worried about me. As you note here, just lots on my mind and really, REALLy trying to weigh things out.
UPDATE:Had my hearing test done yesterday (my 6-month follow up from my baseline done last Sept). AN (left) ear hearing is diminishing again, losing another 2 decibels. Has now dropped below the bottom of the "normal" level. Oh, well. Also starting to experience more symptoms, especially the "vertigo"... mild/tolerable but noticeable.
Well, I did meet with Brigham Woman's Radio-Oncology dept yesterday. It was, shall I say, an interesting appt. I commend them over there for the care that they provide and they're genuine concern with their patients. I was VERY impressed with who they are and what they do and what they provide. What left me feeling weird was the conversation with the Director of Radio-Oncology. A wonderful man, truly knows his stuff. He was trying to convince me that "conventional radio-therapy", and that the 27-day treatments would be good to save my hearing. Needless to say, I had to share with him my lifestyle issues/concerns. He then said he could do a 5-day course of treatment on me. He did say that micro-surgery should not be done on me (as did my primary physican, my *OMG!* neurosurgeon, 2 radio-oncologists and my gut). I admire what they have done in the world of LINAC treatments (as it originated with them), we discussed "accuracy" of the Novalis vs. other radio-surgery treatments, etc. A good 2 hrs spent there with interesting discussion.
After my appt, I then stopped upstairs at my neurosurgeon's office. Left a message to have her call me (haven't heard anything yet but I know she's been busy). Also put in a call to my primary care physician who has referred me to the best of the best in Boston. Did speak to her tonight and she let me bounce a few things off of her. She's VERY supportive and understands my concerns. She certainly did help me with this final decision.
Everyone I have met with has confirmed, also, it's time to treat. No more wait and hold.
So, as I shared with one or 2 of you here, when I have these kind of stresses or decisions in my life to make, I get quiet. So, thanks for understanding during this "quiet" time for me.
DECISION:Yes, the final decision has been made. So, do I tell you now or let you all continue to place your bets? Option #6 is a given, as well as 7, 8 and 9.  Hmmmmmmmmmmm....
ooops, time to walk the dog.....
