Dear Eileen,
When I was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer, it seemed that every doctor I spoke to felt obligated to tell me how horribly bleak the prognosis was. The oncologist I have does not have the best bedside manner and it was upsetting. I asked him nicely, not to put me into the statistic pool..this is my canoe and I prefer to paddle in my own direction. Since that conversation, our relationship has gotten much better, He has lightened up and now we talk more positively. This week I found out my tumor markers are down into normal range and he is just as ecstatic as I am. Sometimes the doctors need to be reminded that we deserve to be treated the way they would want their family treated. If you cannot break this ice with your oncologist, do your best to switch, but remember...you can control your attitude toward the cancer and get the support from other places and support group,if you have no way to switch. I will keep you in my prayers..and send my thoughts and prayers to all of us waging this war.
Pat