My trip to see Dr. Daneshman went well. It was a tiring day for sure, but I accomplished what I needed to. I talked to the nurse and P.A. first and answered all the same medical questions I've answered in the past. The PA had a hard time understanding why there was so much time between my first biopsy (which was inconclusive) and the second biopsy (which came back stage 2b cancer). I tried to explain, but finally said that I wonder the same.
When I finally met with Dr. Daneshman, I felt he seemed rushed. He was probably running behind. But to his credit, he stayed with me until all my questions were answered and discussions completed. He started by explaining his method of surgery and what I could expect. He told me that I would need to stay in the area for about 4 weeks if everything went well. My hospital stay would be 4 days average. He sighted various statistics and studies that they had did to help improve patient outcomes. He also stated that according to published figures, he had constructed more neo bladders last year then any other surgeon in the US. We talked about if the experience of the surgeon had a difference in the patient's outcome. Of course he thought it had a big difference.
The bottom line is do I feel comfortable with this Dr. doing my procedure? And the answer is yes. I felt he was competent, confident, and caring. We discussed at length my concerns about going back to Utah and having complications. We discussed Dr. Myers. He assured me that if I was unable to make it back to him that he would do all he could to consult with doctors in Utah. If I can get all the pieces together, I would be comfortable know I went to the most experienced doctor for this procedure that I could find.
Right now the biggest roadblock into getting my surgery done there is finding an affordable place to stay for a month or so. With my sister, Barb, and I, we would need 2 bedrooms. Hotels would run us over $9,000.00. I talked to the hospital concierge and she said that most out of town patients look for houses to rent. She slyly suggested that I would want to look in certain areas for a place to rent. Of course she is right, I don't think I would be comfortable in east LA. Anyway, I have started looking and there are house rentals that cost $9,000.00/ month. But there are some that are affordable.
Anyway, Monday is still my deadline for making this decision. Prayers appreciated. Good night.
