← Return to Seeking Support: First Mayo Appointment for Husband's Cancer

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@luvnsunshine

Wow, thank you so much for all this incredibly helpful advice, and for sharing your blog! Recording the sessions is such a wonderful idea – I honestly hadn't even thought of that, and while it feels a little daunting to ask, it makes so much sense considering how much information we'll be bombarded with. I'll definitely come prepared with a list of questions. Your blog looks like an amazing resource, and I'm really looking forward to checking it out, especially the post by your wife. Thanks again for your support and for sharing your experience so openly. It means so much, and I'm truly grateful for your kindness.

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Replies to "Wow, thank you so much for all this incredibly helpful advice, and for sharing your blog!..."

I had my care at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Clinic in WI and there were two things during my cancer journey that helped me keep track of everything from diagnosis/treatment options to my medications or pain meds.

One, I bought a Philips VoiceTracer DVT1160 ($42 on Amazon) to record every appointment with every person I was in contact with so I could always go back and play it so nothing was missed. Never had any of my doctors or others and I have seen many over the years not allow it and some actually were glad, so important information was not missed. I have done this in 2008 with tonsil cancer and in 2024 for my tongue cancer with included a Modified Neck Dissection.

Second, for meds I used this attached pdf to help keep track. Sounds like Mayo does this already, but it doesn't hurt to have it.

Also, I would ask them about getting a speech/swallowing therapist for best results for long-term effects of swallowing and speech. I actually would try to get one now so you can build up those functions before it gets traumatized from all the treatments.

Hope this helps ease some of the anxiety and best of luck with the journey.

Shared files

Medication_Log sheet (Medication_Log-sheet.pdf)