I want to share the experience we have had at the Center and maybe shed some light on a wonderful option if anyone finds themselves in a similar circumstance.
My dad was diagnosed with colon cancer in 2011. He received surgery to remove the tumors in his colon in September but eventually the cancer spread to his liver and most recently his lungs. While I was at college my dad met with countless doctors and over three different medical facilities to find the answer. At one point his doctor told him that he only had 5-10 years to live and that he should start getting his paperwork in order.
I can't even imagine what was going through his head at this moment. I do remember the night when he told me this news and we both just sat and cried together.
Since then he has sought other medical opinions and even switched chemotherapy treatment to another hospital in the area. Although the oncologist was kind and intelligent- him nor his team of nurses had the time or the energy to invest in my father. He was definitely cared for but not as the "whole person" as I would have preferred. In my opinion, health involves more than physical symptoms. Health involves a patient's physical needs, diet, sleep cycle, mind, spirit, emotional well-being, and more. My dad was only being treated for the tumors and wasn't ever told what to eat, what supplements to take, or how to treat his insomnia.
That all changed when he called Cancer Centers of America this summer.
After spending three weeks in the hospital my dad wanted to seek yet another opinion about his treatment options. They flew my dad and I to the center completely free. There was a limo to pick us up at the airport (as there is every time). They brought us back to the hotel and gave us a "patient binder". It contained everything we needed for the initial meetings with the team of doctors.
When we arrived at the Center we were immediately greeted by the smiling faces in the lobby. To be honest, I was a little surprised at how happy all of the patients and caregivers appeared. After all, they were here because they have one of the most feared diseases-cancer.
The center offers many accommodations to the patients and caregivers including free massages and sight seeing tours around the city.Each time my dad is flown into Pennsylvania for free and receives a decreased rate at the hotel near by.
My dad met with an entire team of professionals including his oncologist, nutritionist, naturopathic doctor, and nurse (and even more!). Each team member communicates and they often meet to speak about each patient.
My dad chose to receive treatment at the center, despite the traveling. Fortunately he was able to receive chemo in Maine. Every 3 weeks or so he travels down for various scans and follow up appointments. Recently, the treatment for his liver has not been working as the doctors would like. So the logical next step? Try something new. One of the reasons I feel comfortable at the center is because they are constantly trying new treatments. They don't give up and throw in the towel as others might.
My reason for writing this blog is not to advertise for this company. I just wanted to share my family's story and perhaps shed light on an option that exists for Maine residents who are diagnosed with this devastating disease. I encourage anyone affected by cancer to be an advocate for yourself and your loved one. Take health into your own hands. Chose fitness. Chose a healthy lifestyle. We are given one body and we need to take care of it. Don't wait until you're sitting in the doctor's office and talking about MRI results and chemotherapy. Don't wait until you're sitting in the infusion chair waiting for your chemo drugs. Don't wait until you think you have time, or energy, or resources. Make it happen. Chose fit. Chose family. Chose Maine. Love Kendra :)
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