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

Discussion
Comment receiving replies
@roblem

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.

Jump to this post


Replies to "I had my care at Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Clinic in WI..."

Thank you so much for your thoughtful message and wonderful ideas! I really appreciate you sharing your experiences and these helpful tips. It means a lot.

Thanks for the reminder about recording appointments – it's something I'm going to ask his team about. A little nervous asking about it but it seems so useful especially for moments when they surprise us with something that feels scary. The medication tracking sheet is great too, thanks so much for sharing!

Your advice about the speech/swallowing therapist was spot on; my husband has a consult set up.

Thanks again for your support!

@roblem
Thanks for sharing the medication log sheet. It would be helpful, especially when on meds that need to be taken multi times during day. I am thinking of times when had specific drugs to take at certain times pre and post surgery. Would also be helpful if having caretaker administer drugs. In column with drug info, it might be helpful to include why your taking that med or any special instructions or restrictions.